Welcome to Mountain Living at Its Finest
Nestled in the heart of Sapphire Valley, just minutes from Cashiers, Burlingame Country Club represents a different kind of membership experience. This isn’t about status symbols or exclusivity for its own sake. It’s about finding a place where your family can create lasting memories, where championship golf meets genuine community, and where the mountains of Western North Carolina become your backyard.
For over 600 members, Burlingame has become more than a country club. It’s a place where friendships form over croquet matches on regulation lawns, where multi-generational families gather for Wednesday buffets, and where the changing seasons bring new opportunities for adventure and connection.
If you’re considering membership at a Cashiers golf and country club, understanding your options and what makes Burlingame unique will help you make the right choice for your lifestyle.
Understanding Burlingame Membership Categories
Burlingame Country Club offers several membership categories designed to fit different lifestyles and preferences. Each level provides access to specific amenities while maintaining the core experience that makes Burlingame special.
Full Golf Membership
Full golf membership provides complete access to everything Burlingame offers. This comprehensive option includes unlimited play on Tom Jackson’s 18-hole championship golf course, with elevations ranging from 3,000 to 3,500 feet that create one of the most inspiring courses in the region.
Beyond golf, full members enjoy access to all four Har-Tru tennis courts, four pickleball courts, the regulation-size USCA croquet lawn, and miles of hiking trails through the property. The Rejuvenate Spa and Wellness Center becomes your personal retreat, complete with state-of-the-art fitness equipment, yoga classes, therapeutic massage, and the pool complex.
Dining privileges span all six venues within the renovated clubhouse, from casual meals at Elevation 3042 to elegant dinners in the main dining room with panoramic mountain views. Full members also receive priority tee times and can participate in all member tournaments and events throughout the season.
Social Membership
Social membership focuses on the community and lifestyle aspects of Burlingame without golf privileges. This option appeals to members who value the dining experiences, wellness facilities, and social connections more than regular golf play.
Social members have full access to tennis, pickleball, and croquet facilities, along with the fitness center, spa services, and pool complex. All six dining venues welcome social members, and participation in club events, wine society gatherings, and social activities remains unrestricted.
The hiking trails, fishing access along the Horsepasture River, and dog park create outdoor recreation opportunities without requiring golf interest. Many social members appreciate the ability to enjoy Burlingame’s community atmosphere while occasionally playing golf as guests of full members.
Junior Memberships
Recognizing that younger professionals and families have different needs, Burlingame offers junior membership options for those under age 40. These memberships provide the same access as standard memberships but with age-appropriate pricing structures.
Junior memberships encourage multi-generational participation and help build the club’s future community. Young families particularly appreciate the child-friendly amenities, from the pool complex to organized youth activities during peak seasons.
Corporate and Group Options
For businesses looking to provide unique client entertainment or employee benefits, Burlingame offers corporate membership structures. These arrangements allow multiple users under a single membership, creating flexibility for companies with rotating needs.
Contact Jennifer Webb, Membership Director, at (828) 966-9200 to discuss customized corporate solutions that match your business objectives.
The Burlingame Membership Experience
Understanding membership categories matters, but knowing what daily life feels like as a member reveals the true value of joining Burlingame.
Golf Without Compromise
Tom Jackson’s creative vision shaped every hole of Burlingame’s championship course, working in collaboration with the natural terrain rather than against it. Mountains, vistas, rivers, old growth forests, and waterfalls create playing conditions that mesmerize members and guests alike.
The course rewards strategic play over pure power. Elevation changes require thoughtful club selection, while the natural beauty demands you pause occasionally to appreciate where you’re playing. Bobby Jones once said, “Golf is the closest game to the game we call life. You get bad breaks from good shots; you get good breaks from bad shots, but you have to play the ball where it lies.” Burlingame’s course embodies this philosophy completely.
Members benefit from professional instruction, regular tournaments organized by Golf Professional John [check staff page], and a well-stocked pro shop with knowledgeable staff. The practice facilities include dedicated areas for driving, chipping, and putting, allowing focused improvement on any aspect of your game.
Lawn Sports Excellence
Beyond golf, Burlingame has cultivated one of the finest lawn sports programs in Western North Carolina. Tom Tyler, the Lawn Sports Professional, brings extensive experience across tennis, pickleball, and croquet, creating programs that welcome beginners while challenging advanced players.
The four Har-Tru tennis courts host everything from casual rallies to competitive interclub matches. Regular lessons, clinics, and tournaments keep the tennis program active throughout the season. As Billie Jean King noted, “Tennis is a perfect combination of violent action taking place in an atmosphere of total tranquility,” a description that fits perfectly with tennis at Burlingame.
Pickleball has exploded in popularity at the club since the four courts opened in 2021. Members of all ages have embraced this dynamic sport, with regular play sessions, instruction, and tournaments filling the courts. The pickleball program offers both recreational play and competitive opportunities for those seeking to advance their skills.
Croquet might surprise those unfamiliar with the modern competitive version of this historic game. Burlingame’s regulation USCA croquet lawn provides the perfect setting for both six-wicket sequential play and the faster-paced golf croquet variation. The strategic depth of competitive croquet attracts members who appreciate the mental chess match as much as the physical skill.
Dining as a Social Anchor
Club life truly does revolve around food and beverage at Burlingame. From quick lunches between nine holes to multi-course dinners for the wine society, the kitchen operates as a non-stop engine of precision, production, and culinary excellence.
Six distinct indoor and outdoor dining experiences give members variety without leaving the property. The newly added Overlook Lounge provides casual atmosphere with panoramic mountain and golf course views, perfect for meeting friends over local craft beer. The main dining room serves lunch and dinner with elevated mountain cuisine, while the outdoor dining deck remains one of the most popular venues for post-round meals and Friday evening gatherings.
Elevation 3042, named for Burlingame’s elevation, offers breakfast, lunch, and dinner with grab-and-go options and a barista station for members with busy schedules. The Presidents’ Room accommodates intimate gatherings of 8-14 guests, providing elegant privacy for special occasions or business meetings.
Executive Chef Gerry Fong brings Culinary Institute of America training and diverse experience to Burlingame’s kitchen. His menus draw upon cultural inspirations while emphasizing seasonal ingredients and organic selections from local purveyors. The wine cellar stocks carefully selected bottles that pair perfectly with the chef’s creations.
Wellness in the Wilderness
The Rejuvenate Spa, Wellness, and Fitness complex offers a comprehensive approach to health within the mountain setting. State-of-the-art exercise equipment, free weights, and dedicated spaces for yoga and fitness classes provide tools for maintaining physical health.
Service providers within the wellness center garner consistent praise from members. The therapeutic massage offerings range from sports recovery to Bellanina Facelift Facial massages, while fitness professionals create customized programs for members with varying goals and challenges.
Class offerings include stretching, non-impact cardio, strength training, aqua fitness in the pool, and three different yoga styles. Private coaching allows one-on-one attention for those preferring individualized instruction.
The pool complex serves as a natural gathering spot during warmer months, where families congregate and children create summer memories. After challenging rounds of golf or vigorous tennis matches, the pool provides refreshing recovery while maintaining social connections.
Natural Recreation Beyond Traditional Amenities
Burlingame’s 1,450 acres along the scenic Horsepasture River create opportunities for outdoor adventure beyond golf and lawn sports. Miles of hiking trails wind through the property, leading to hidden waterfalls and breathtaking viewpoints that remind members why these mountains drew settlers centuries ago.
The Horsepasture River and associated trout waters provide fly fishing opportunities steps from the clubhouse. That flicker of rainbow breaking the water’s surface during morning fishing sessions becomes one of those simple pleasures that define mountain living.
The dedicated dog park acknowledges that pets are family members too, giving four-legged companions space to run while owners socialize with fellow dog-loving members.
Investment and Pricing Structure
Membership at Burlingame requires both an initiation fee and ongoing monthly or annual dues. The specific pricing varies by membership category and current club initiatives.
Initiation Fees
Initiation fees represent your initial investment in joining the Burlingame community. These fees vary by membership category, with full golf memberships carrying the highest initiation costs and social memberships requiring lower initial investment.
The club occasionally offers special initiation fee promotions for new members, particularly during specific enrollment periods. Current initiation fee structures and any active promotions are available by contacting the Membership Director.
Monthly and Annual Dues
Ongoing dues cover operational costs, facility maintenance, and program development. Members typically choose between monthly billing or annual payment options, with annual payment sometimes offering modest savings.
Dues structures reflect the level of access provided by each membership category. Full golf members pay higher dues that support course maintenance and golf program operations, while social members pay proportionally less based on their amenity access.
Additional Considerations
Beyond base initiation fees and dues, members should consider several other cost factors. Food and beverage minimums may apply to certain membership categories, ensuring members actively participate in the club’s dining and social programs.
Golf cart fees, guest fees, and charges for specific services like spa treatments or private lessons represent additional costs outside base membership investment. Many members find that these expenses align with their usage patterns and preferred activities.
Capital assessments occasionally apply when the club undertakes major facility improvements or expansions. These assessments spread the cost of significant enhancements across the membership, maintaining and improving the facilities everyone enjoys.
Payment Plans and Financing
Burlingame works with prospective members to structure payment plans that make membership accessible. Spreading initiation fees over time reduces the immediate financial impact while allowing new members to begin enjoying club benefits sooner.
For detailed pricing information specific to your situation and current promotions, contact Jennifer Webb at (828) 966-9200 or through the contact page.
The Application and Approval Process
Joining Burlingame involves several steps designed to ensure mutual fit between prospective members and the existing community.
Initial Contact and Tour
Your membership journey begins with reaching out to Jennifer Webb, Membership Director. She’ll schedule a time for you to visit the property, tour the facilities, and discuss your interests and how Burlingame might fit your lifestyle.
During your visit, you’ll see the golf course, lawn sports facilities, dining venues, wellness center, and common areas. This tour provides opportunity to ask questions about programs, activities, and the member experience. Many prospective members arrange tours during active times to observe the club atmosphere and meet current members.
Submitting Your Application
After deciding to proceed, you’ll complete a membership application providing basic information about yourself and your family. The application includes references from current Burlingame members who can speak to your character and potential fit within the community.
If you don’t yet know current members, the Membership Director can facilitate introductions to members with similar interests or backgrounds. These connections often develop into lasting friendships even before formal membership begins.
Review and Approval
The membership committee reviews applications and conducts any necessary follow-up conversations. This process ensures that new members will contribute positively to Burlingame’s community culture and share the values of stewardship, respect for nature, and genuine warmth that define the club.
Approval timelines vary based on application volume and committee meeting schedules. The Membership Director keeps applicants informed throughout the process and can provide estimated timelines based on current conditions.
Welcome and Orientation
Once approved, new members participate in an orientation process introducing them to club facilities, policies, and programs. This orientation accelerates integration into the community and helps new members feel comfortable using all available amenities.
Many new members discover that existing members eagerly welcome additions to the community, often extending invitations to play golf, join tennis round robins, or participate in social activities. This welcoming culture reflects Burlingame’s commitment to balancing exclusivity with genuine warmth.
What Members Say About Their Experience
The true measure of any country club lies in member satisfaction and the experiences they create. Burlingame members consistently emphasize specific aspects of their membership that exceed expectations.
Sara G. and Jeffrey L. captured a common sentiment: “Friends introduced us to Burlingame and we are still pinching ourselves at having found such a warm, welcoming, unpretentious and FUN place to meet new friends, eat great food and RELAX in the beautiful North Carolina mountains.”
This combination of warmth, quality, and natural setting appears repeatedly in member feedback. Casey and Carol Ann G. described their first season: “The first season at BCC has been a wonderful experience with men’s golf, the Wednesday mixed golf event, Carol at tennis four times a week and at the fitness center 5-6 days a week and Bridge three days a week. The highlight is our regular seat at the bar for dinner every Friday night when we are in town and the Wednesday buffet culinary delights. We never had a meal we did not enjoy. BCC makes our NC life!”
The diversity of activities and consistent quality across all programs allows members to engage as deeply as they choose. Kelly and Doug R. noted simply that “The members of Burlingame have been the friendliest and nicest people who welcomed us with open arms.”
For many members, Burlingame exceeds initial expectations. Jerry and Kathy C. reported that their experience “Exceeded our expectations in every area: friendliness of members, quality of meals and service focus of the staff.” Jim and Sally S. echoed this sentiment: “Our experience at Burlingame has far exceeded our expectations not only as a club but in food, friendship, and leadership.”
Danny and Kim B., self-described newcomers to western North Carolina, appreciated how “the staff and members have truly gone above and beyond to make us feel at home and learn all that the club and area have to offer.”
These testimonials reflect the consistent experience Burlingame creates across all member interactions, from daily casual encounters to special events and challenging rounds of golf.
Membership Frequently Asked Questions
What areas do most Burlingame members come from?
Members include both full-time Western North Carolina residents and seasonal visitors who maintain homes in the Cashiers, Sapphire Valley, and Lake Toxaway areas. The membership also includes families from Florida, Georgia, South Carolina, and other southeastern states who use Burlingame as their mountain retreat during summer months.
Can I try out the club before committing to membership?
Prospective members can schedule facility tours and often arrange trial experiences through the Membership Director. Some prospective members visit as guests of current members, providing authentic exposure to the club atmosphere and activities before applying for membership.
What happens if I need to pause or cancel my membership?
Burlingame offers various membership status options including leave of absence provisions for members facing temporary situations that prevent regular club use. Specific policies regarding membership pauses, transfers, or cancellations are outlined in membership agreements and can be discussed with the Membership Director.
Are there age restrictions for different membership categories?
Junior memberships specifically target members under age 40, while other membership categories remain open to adults of all ages. The club welcomes multi-generational families, with amenities and programs designed to engage everyone from young children to active retirees.
How does Burlingame compare to other Cashiers area country clubs?
Each country club in the Cashiers and Sapphire Valley area offers distinct character and amenities. Burlingame distinguishes itself through Tom Jackson’s championship golf course design, comprehensive lawn sports programming including USCA regulation croquet, six diverse dining venues, and a member community that balances exclusivity with genuine warmth. The 1,450-acre property along the Horsepasture River provides natural recreation opportunities beyond traditional country club amenities.
What guest privileges do members receive?
Member guest policies vary by membership category and activity. Golf members can bring guests to play the course subject to availability and applicable guest fees. Dining guests are welcome in most venues, and members can sponsor guests for lawn sports activities. Specific guest policies and fee structures are detailed in membership materials.
Is there a wait list for membership?
Membership availability fluctuates based on current enrollment and club capacity targets. The Membership Director can provide current information about availability within specific membership categories and any existing wait list situations.
What community events does Burlingame host throughout the year?
The club calendar includes seasonal celebrations, member tournaments across all sports, wine society dinners, holiday gatherings, and impromptu social events on the outdoor dining deck. The activities calendar balances scheduled programs with flexibility for spontaneous member-initiated gatherings.
Can members access reciprocal privileges at other clubs?
Burlingame participates in reciprocal arrangements with select clubs, primarily for golf access while members travel. Specific reciprocal relationships and how to utilize these privileges are explained during new member orientation.
How does Burlingame support environmental stewardship?
The club’s founding principle of “respect for the land and a strong sense of stewardship for future generations” guides operational decisions. This includes thoughtful course and facility maintenance practices, protection of natural waterways and wildlife habitats, and preservation of the forest setting that defines Burlingame’s character.
Taking the Next Step Toward Membership
Everything you want in a club. Nothing you don’t. This philosophy guides every decision at Burlingame Country Club, from facility development to program creation to how the membership community interacts.
Your private adventure starts here in the heart of Sapphire Valley, where every day brings new opportunities for joy, challenge, and connection. Whether you envision morning tee times on Tom Jackson’s masterpiece, competitive pickleball matches with new friends, peaceful afternoons fly fishing the Horsepasture River, or elegant dinners celebrating special moments, Burlingame provides the setting.
The 600+ members who share passion for mountain living and outdoor adventure have cultivated a community that balances exclusivity with genuine warmth. They don’t just share amenities; they share memories, traditions, and deep appreciation for the natural beauty surrounding them here in Sapphire Valley. From seasonal celebrations to impromptu gatherings on the outdoor dining deck, life at Burlingame is about connection: to nature, to each other, and to the timeless rhythms of mountain living.
Contact Jennifer Webb, Membership Director, at (828) 966-9200 to schedule your personal tour and begin exploring how Burlingame Country Club might become your mountain haven. Visit the membership page for additional information about the member experience.
Just minutes from Lake Toxaway and located in the heart of Sapphire Valley near Cashiers, Burlingame Country Club invites you to discover mountain living as it was meant to be experienced. Whether you’re seeking a permanent residence, a vacation retreat, or an investment in one of Western North Carolina’s most desirable locations, the community offers exceptional opportunities in an unparalleled setting.
Let us welcome you home to the mountain retreat you’ve always imagined, where luxury meets authenticity and every moment feels like a return to what matters most. These really are the best of times.