Experience breathtaking mountain golf without a private membership. Discover the 10 best public golf courses near Highlands, NC that offer challenging play and spectacular Blue Ridge Mountain views for golfers of all skill levels.
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Top 10 Public Golf Courses Within 20 Miles of Highlands, NC

The majestic Blue Ridge Mountains surrounding Highlands, North Carolina create an extraordinary backdrop for golf enthusiasts. While our private Burlingame Country Club offers members an exceptional mountain golfing experience, we understand that visitors and locals alike seek quality public courses in our beautiful region. The crisp mountain air, dramatic elevation changes, and stunning vistas make golfing near Highlands a truly special experience.

Whether you’re vacationing in the area or a local looking to explore new fairways, these accessible courses deliver memorable rounds without requiring a club membership. From challenging championship layouts to more forgiving options for casual players, our curated selection highlights the finest public golfing opportunities all within a convenient 20-mile radius.

The Best Public Golf Courses Near Highlands, NC

1. Highlands Cove Golf Club

This spectacular mountain course features dramatic elevation changes and panoramic views that showcase the natural splendor of the Blue Ridge Mountains. The layout thoughtfully incorporates the natural terrain, creating a challenging yet fair test for golfers of all abilities. Consistently well-maintained greens and friendly staff make this a must-play destination just 12 miles from downtown Highlands.

2. Sequoyah National Golf Club

Designed with respect for the land and the mountain setting, this Robert Trent Jones II masterpiece offers an unforgettable golfing journey. The course winds through native landscapes with strategically placed bunkers and water features that demand thoughtful shot-making. Located 18 miles from Highlands, the stunning mountain views and exceptional course conditions justify the short drive.

3. Mill Creek Golf Club

This hidden gem offers a more relaxed golfing experience without sacrificing quality. The course features tree-lined fairways, mountain streams, and well-designed holes that reward accuracy over distance. At just 15 miles from Highlands, Mill Creek provides excellent value with reasonable green fees and a welcoming atmosphere for casual and serious golfers alike.

4. Sapphire Valley Golf Club

Just 8 miles from Highlands, this picturesque course delivers an accessible mountain golfing experience with generous fairways and well-protected greens. The layout makes excellent use of natural water features and mountain contours, creating a course that’s enjoyable for beginners while still offering enough challenge for experienced players. The shifting light across distant peaks adds a magical quality to afternoon rounds.

5. Franklin Golf Course

This classic design offers a more traditional golf experience with straightforward holes and excellent mountain views. Located 19 miles from Highlands, the course features well-maintained conditions, reasonable pace of play, and affordability that makes it a favorite among locals and visitors seeking a no-frills round in a beautiful setting.

6. High Mountain Golf Club

With its higher elevation setting (16 miles from Highlands), this course delivers spectacular long-range views and a cooler playing experience during summer months. The layout features strategic bunkering and green complexes that reward thoughtful approach shots. The signature par-3 over a mountain stream captures the essence of mountain golf at its finest.

7. Chattooga Club Public Course

Though adjacent to a private club facility, this 9-hole public course offers an accessible taste of mountain golf just 5 miles from Highlands. Perfect for a quick round, the layout features surprising variety and challenge despite its shorter length. Walking is encouraged to fully appreciate the natural beauty surrounding each hole.

8. Blue Ridge Mountain Golf Center

This family-friendly facility (14 miles from Highlands) offers a forgiving 18-hole layout ideal for beginners and intermediate players. The course emphasizes fun over punishment, with wider fairways and receptive greens. Affordable rates and relaxed dress code make this an excellent choice for casual golfers and families.

9. Mountain Harbor Golf Links

This unique links-inspired mountain course (20 miles from Highlands) features fewer trees and more open areas than typical mountain designs. The rolling terrain and strategically placed bunkers create interesting shot values without overwhelming players with forced carries. Spectacular long-range mountain views complement the well-designed holes.

10. Laurel Ridge Country Club (Public Times)

Though primarily private, this exceptional course offers limited public tee times during specific seasons (17 miles from Highlands). The championship layout features impeccable conditions and dramatic holes that incorporate natural streams and elevation changes. Call ahead for public availability and experience one of the region’s premier golfing venues.

Experience Your Own Mountain Golfing Adventure

While these public courses offer excellent golf experiences, there’s something truly special about belonging to a mountain community like Burlingame Country Club. Our Tom Jackson-designed championship course works harmoniously with the natural mountain terrain, offering members not just world-class golf, but a complete lifestyle centered around “The Best of Times.”

We invite you to explore these wonderful public courses during your time in Highlands. And if you find yourself captivated by mountain golf and the unique lifestyle it represents, we welcome you to inquire about our private membership opportunities and residential options at Burlingame.