Public Golf Courses in Highlands NC: Complete Access Guide

The Blue Ridge Mountains of Western North Carolina draw golfers seeking elevation changes, dramatic scenery, and cool summer temperatures that make the region perfect for year-round play. When searching for public golf courses in Highlands NC, you’ll discover that this exclusive mountain community takes a different approach to golf access than typical destinations. The area prioritizes private club experiences, but several pathways exist for visitors and part-time residents to enjoy exceptional mountain golf.

Available Public Golf Options in Highlands

The Highlands area itself doesn’t offer traditional public or municipal golf courses open to walk-up play. Instead, the region’s golf landscape consists primarily of private country clubs and semi-private facilities that carefully manage outside access. Understanding these distinctions helps you plan your golf outings and set appropriate expectations for fees and availability.

Fully Public Courses

Within the Highlands town limits, no fully public courses operate on a daily-fee basis. The closest traditional public course sits approximately 45 minutes away in the Greenville-Spartanburg corridor. This reality reflects the area’s demographic and real estate positioning as a premium mountain destination where private club membership serves as the primary golf access model.

However, the nearby communities of Cashiers and Sapphire Valley, both within 15-20 minutes of Highlands, offer several alternatives. These neighboring areas provide the mountain golf experience Highlands visitors seek while maintaining the region’s elevated standards for course conditioning and service.

Semi-Private Clubs with Public Access

Several clubs in the greater Highlands area operate on a semi-private model, accepting limited outside play when member demand allows. These facilities typically require advance reservations and charge premium green fees that often include cart rental as a mandatory component.

Availability at semi-private clubs fluctuates dramatically based on season, day of week, and member tournament schedules. Summer weekends see the highest demand, with some clubs closing entirely to outside play during peak periods. Mid-week rounds in shoulder seasons (late spring and early fall) offer the best opportunities for access.

The reservation window at these clubs typically opens 3-7 days in advance for non-members, compared to 30+ days for members. This limited booking window can make trip planning challenging for visitors hoping to secure specific tee times.

Resort Courses Open to Visitors

Resort-affiliated courses in the Cashiers-Sapphire Valley area provide the most reliable public access. These facilities welcome resort guests and outside players, though they maintain the right to prioritize their lodging guests during busy periods.

Tom Jackson’s championship design at Burlingame represents the caliber of golf architecture found throughout the region, though Burlingame operates as a private member club. Similar mountain courses that do accept limited public play share these characteristics: dramatic elevation changes, pristine conditioning, and layouts that work with the natural terrain rather than forcing artificial features.

Resort courses maintain more consistent availability than semi-private clubs because their business model depends partly on attracting outside golf revenue. Still, advance reservations remain essential, particularly during the summer season when vacation traffic peaks.

Green Fees and Value Comparison

Public golf access in the Highlands area comes at premium pricing that reflects both the region’s upscale positioning and the significant maintenance costs associated with mountain courses. Steep slopes, challenging growing conditions, and shorter seasons all contribute to higher operating expenses that get passed to players.

These rates represent typical ranges for courses accepting public play near Highlands. Exact pricing varies by specific facility, day of week, and season. Most courses charge higher rates on weekends and holidays, with some implementing dynamic pricing that adjusts based on demand.

Cart fees appear separately listed at some facilities but remain mandatory regardless. The mountainous terrain makes walking impractical or prohibited at most courses, and facilities prefer to control pace of play by requiring carts for all players.

Twilight golf typically begins around 2-3 PM, though the exact cutoff varies by course and season. Summer’s longer days extend twilight availability, while early sunsets in spring and fall limit the number of holes you can complete at these reduced rates.

Junior and senior discounts appear sporadically in the region, with policies varying widely between facilities. Some courses offer reduced rates for golfers under 18 or over 65, while others maintain single pricing regardless of age. Always ask about available discounts when booking.

Replays (second rounds on the same day) rarely receive discounted pricing in this market. The limited number of tee times and strong demand mean courses have little incentive to offer replay discounts common at higher-volume daily-fee facilities elsewhere.

Reservation Policies and Tee Times

Securing tee times at public-accessible courses near Highlands requires advance planning and flexibility. The limited supply of available times relative to demand, especially during peak summer months, means popular slots fill quickly once the booking window opens.

How to Book

Most courses accepting public play now use online reservation systems accessible through their websites. These platforms allow you to view real-time availability, compare rates, and confirm bookings without phone calls. Creating an account with your contact and payment information streamlines future bookings.

Phone reservations remain available at most facilities, typically during business hours from 8 AM to 5 PM daily. Calling provides opportunities to ask questions about course conditions, inquire about late availability, and potentially secure times that don’t appear online. Some pro shops hold back a few times from online booking to accommodate phone customers and emergent situations.

Third-party booking platforms like GolfNow occasionally feature courses in the greater Highlands area, though participation varies. These services can offer last-minute deals when courses want to fill remaining slots, but don’t expect the deep discounts common at high-volume facilities in more competitive markets.

Same-day availability exists mainly on weekdays during shoulder seasons or when weather forecasts depress demand. Summer weekends rarely see cancellations or open spots, making advance planning essential if you have specific dates in mind.

Peak vs. Off-Peak Availability

Peak season in the Highlands area runs from Memorial Day through Labor Day, with July and August seeing the heaviest demand. During these months, weekend and holiday tee times at public-accessible courses often book completely within hours of the reservation window opening.

Mid-week play during peak season offers significantly better availability, though popular morning times (7-10 AM) still fill quickly. Afternoon times, especially after 2 PM, remain more accessible as many visitors prefer morning rounds to free their afternoons for other activities.

Shoulder seasons (April-May and September-October) provide the best combination of good weather, excellent course conditions, and available tee times. Courses experience less pressure during these periods while maintaining the conditioning standards that make mountain golf memorable. The region’s hiking trails and outdoor activities also peak during these months, so you can easily combine golf with other mountain adventures.

Winter golf (November-March) sees dramatically reduced demand, with some courses closing entirely while others operate on limited schedules. Those that remain open often implement winter rates and more relaxed booking policies, making it easier to secure times with shorter notice.

Weather remains the wild card in mountain golf planning. Afternoon thunderstorms occur frequently during summer months, and rapid temperature swings can affect conditions and playability. Most courses offer rain checks or rescheduling options when weather prevents play, though policies vary by facility.

Course Conditions and Maintenance Schedules

Mountain courses near Highlands maintain exceptionally high conditioning standards despite challenging growing conditions. Cool nights, variable rainfall, and short growing seasons require intensive management practices to keep courses in championship condition.

Greens in this region typically feature bentgrass varieties that thrive in cooler temperatures. These putting surfaces roll true and fast during peak season, with speeds often reaching 10-11 on the Stimpmeter at well-maintained facilities. The downside: bentgrass struggles during hot, humid stretches and requires careful irrigation management.

Fairways and tees generally use a mix of bentgrass and improved bermudagrass varieties selected for their ability to handle the region’s climate. Conditioning peaks from June through September when growing conditions align with intensive maintenance programs. Spring and fall often show some dormancy or recovery periods as turf transitions between seasons.

Rough areas frequently incorporate native grasses and natural vegetation that complements the mountain setting while reducing maintenance costs. This approach creates a links-style aesthetic in places and adds strategic challenge to offline shots.

Most courses schedule major maintenance projects for late fall or early spring when play volume drops. Aerification typically occurs in September or October after peak season ends, giving greens time to recover before winter. Some courses close briefly for these intensive maintenance periods rather than subject players to temporary disruptions.

Daily maintenance routines begin early, usually around 6 AM, to complete mowing and setup before the first tee times. Courses may delay opening if overnight rain requires additional work or if weather conditions make preparation impossible. Always check current conditions before heading to the course, especially after storms.

Amenities for Public Golfers

Facilities accepting public play in the Highlands area generally provide strong amenities, though not always matching the comprehensive offerings of private member clubs. Understanding what’s available helps you prepare appropriately and set realistic expectations.

Practice Facilities

Driving ranges at public-accessible courses vary significantly in size and quality. Some offer full-length practice facilities with both grass and mat hitting areas, while others provide limited space or range access by appointment only. Bunkers and short-game areas similarly range from comprehensive to minimal.

Most facilities include practice balls in their green fee or charge a nominal additional cost ($5-10 per bucket). The quality of range balls varies, with some courses providing premium balls while others use heavily used practice balls that don’t replicate on-course performance.

Putting greens are universally available and free to use, often accessible even if you’re not playing that day. These practice greens give you a sense of green speed and allow you to warm up before your round. Chipping areas appear less consistently, with some courses restricting access or limiting their availability to paying golfers only.

Club Rentals

Quality club rentals exist at most public-accessible courses, though selection and condition vary. Expect to pay $40-75 for a full set rental, with premium brands commanding higher prices. Most rental sets feature game-improvement irons and forgiving drivers suited to higher-handicap players.

Availability can be limited during peak times, so reserve clubs when booking your tee time rather than hoping for walk-up availability. Courses typically stock men’s and women’s sets in various lengths, but lefty options and junior sizes may require advance notice.

Pull carts (push carts) see limited availability at mountain courses since riding carts are typically mandatory. When walking is permitted, cart rental usually costs $5-10 if you need one.

Dining Options

Food and beverage service ranges from full-service restaurants to basic snack bars. Private clubs that allow limited outside play generally offer the most extensive dining, with upscale clubhouse restaurants open to golfers. Resort courses typically provide casual dining options with beer, wine, and standard club fare.

The turn (after nine holes) often provides limited grab-and-go options like sandwiches, hot dogs, and beverages. Plan accordingly if you have dietary restrictions, as mountain course menus tend toward traditional American options with limited variety.

Burlingame’s six distinct dining venues showcase what’s possible when culinary excellence meets country club culture, though this level of dining remains exclusive to member clubs in the region. Public-accessible facilities focus on solid basics rather than culinary innovation.

Alcohol policies vary by facility and sometimes by day. Most courses serve beer and wine, with some offering full bars. Sunday sales depend on local regulations, and some counties in Western North Carolina maintain restrictions on alcohol service.

Transportation and Access

Getting to golf courses near Highlands requires personal transportation, as public transit and ride-sharing services have limited presence in this rural mountain region. Most courses sit along winding mountain roads that require cautious driving, especially for visitors unfamiliar with the area.

From downtown Highlands, expect 15-30 minute drives to reach most public-accessible courses in Cashiers and Sapphire Valley. Roads climb and descend mountain passes with limited passing zones and reduced speed limits. Allow extra travel time beyond what GPS suggests, particularly during peak season when traffic increases.

Parking at mountain courses is generally ample and free, with lots positioned close to pro shops and practice facilities. Arrival 20-30 minutes before your tee time allows adequate time to check in, warm up, and prepare without rushing.

Signage directing you to courses can be minimal, especially for facilities located within larger communities or developments. Review directions carefully and don’t hesitate to call the pro shop if you’re having trouble locating the entrance.

Weather impacts driving conditions significantly in mountain areas. Summer afternoon thunderstorms can create localized flooding and reduced visibility. Winter brings occasional snow and ice that close mountain roads entirely. Check weather forecasts and road conditions before traveling to courses during marginal conditions.

Public Course Reviews and Ratings

Golfer reviews of public-accessible courses near Highlands consistently praise the natural beauty and mountain views while noting the premium pricing and limited availability. Understanding common themes in player feedback helps set appropriate expectations.

Course conditioning receives high marks across most facilities, with players appreciating well-maintained greens and groomed fairways that reflect the region’s standards. Complaints about conditions typically relate to weather-related issues or visits during maintenance periods rather than fundamental quality problems.

Value perceptions vary widely based on golfer background and expectations. Players accustomed to affordable municipal courses often express sticker shock at mountain golf pricing, while those familiar with destination golf markets find rates reasonable for the quality provided. The lack of walking options and mandatory cart fees draws criticism from traditionalists who prefer to walk.

Service quality at public-accessible facilities generally earns positive reviews, though some players note differences between how courses treat members versus outside guests. This distinction appears most pronounced at semi-private clubs where public play represents a small fraction of total rounds.

Layout and design praise focuses on creative use of terrain, memorable holes, and variety throughout the routing. The best courses in the area, like Burlingame’s Tom Jackson design, demonstrate how thoughtful architecture can showcase mountain settings while maintaining playability for various skill levels.

Pace of play complaints surface regularly, particularly during peak season when courses pack tee sheets to maximize revenue. Five-hour rounds become common on busy summer weekends, frustrating players used to faster play. This issue affects nearly all courses in the region, not just those accepting public play.

Accuracy of online information draws mixed reviews. Some courses maintain current websites with accurate pricing and availability, while others show outdated information that leads to confusion and frustration when actual conditions differ from online representations.

Why Private Membership Makes Sense in Mountain Golf Markets

The challenges inherent in public golf access near Highlands illuminate why serious mountain golfers eventually explore private club membership. Guaranteed tee times, consistent playing partners, superior conditioning, and comprehensive amenities all contribute to membership value.

Burlingame Country Club membership provides unrestricted access to an 18-hole championship course at elevations between 3,000-3,500 feet, where Tom Jackson’s design works masterfully with natural terrain. Members enjoy priority booking, no green fees beyond dues, and the ability to bring guests without the uncertainty that plagues public play in the region.

Beyond golf, private membership unlocks a complete mountain lifestyle including lawn sports facilities featuring croquet, pickleball, and tennis. The Rejuvenate Spa and Wellness complex provides fitness, massage, and relaxation options that complement an active golf schedule. Six distinct dining venues offer everything from quick snacks to multi-course wine society dinners.

The community aspect of private club membership resonates strongly with mountain homeowners and frequent visitors. Rather than being one of hundreds of rotating faces at a public course, members develop lasting friendships through regular rounds, tournaments, and social events. This sense of belonging and connection creates value beyond mere golf access.

Alternative Golf Experiences in the Region

Players unable to access traditional public courses or interested in variety might consider alternative golf experiences available in the greater Highlands area. These options provide mountain golf flavor without requiring full course access.

Par-3 courses and executive layouts appear sporadically in surrounding areas, offering shorter rounds and more casual play. These facilities typically maintain more relaxed booking policies and lower prices than regulation courses, making them accessible options for families or players with limited time.

Golf instruction and academy programs at some facilities welcome non-members for lessons and practice sessions. Working with a PGA professional on your game doesn’t require course access, and lesson packages sometimes include limited playing privileges that let you practice what you’ve learned.

Simulator facilities have emerged in nearby towns, providing year-round golf in climate-controlled environments. These indoor options can’t replicate the mountain golf experience but offer convenient practice when weather prevents outdoor play.

Stay-and-play packages at golf resorts bundle accommodations with guaranteed tee times, solving the availability challenge while often reducing per-round costs. These packages work well for golf trips where you want to play multiple rounds over several days.

Planning Your Mountain Golf Visit

Successful public golf experiences near Highlands require realistic expectations and thorough planning. The region’s limited public access, premium pricing, and seasonal demand patterns differ dramatically from most golf destinations.

Start planning 2-3 months ahead for summer visits, reserving accommodations before worrying about tee times. Many courses don’t open their booking windows until much closer to play dates, so you’ll need to monitor availability and book quickly once times become available.

Build flexibility into your schedule by targeting mid-week play when availability and rates improve. Shoulder season visits (May or September-October) offer the best combination of value and access while maintaining excellent playing conditions.

Set a realistic budget that accounts for premium green fees, mandatory carts, and limited discount opportunities. Mountain golf in this region costs more than most destinations, and trying to play on a daily-fee budget will lead to frustration.

Consider the membership path if you visit regularly or own property in the area. The economics of membership become favorable quickly when compared to repeated public play at premium rates, especially considering the enhanced amenities and guaranteed access members enjoy.

Frequently Asked Questions

Are there any municipal golf courses in Highlands NC?

No, Highlands doesn’t operate any municipal or town-owned public golf courses. The area’s golf landscape consists entirely of private clubs and semi-private facilities with limited outside access.

What’s the cheapest way to play golf near Highlands?

Twilight rates at resort courses during shoulder seasons provide the most affordable access, typically ranging from $60-85. Mid-week play in early spring or late fall offers additional savings compared to peak summer rates.

Can I walk golf courses in the Highlands area?

Walking is generally not permitted at mountain courses due to steep terrain and pace of play concerns. Most facilities require all players to use riding carts included in green fees.

How far in advance should I book tee times?

Book as soon as the reservation window opens (typically 3-7 days for non-members at semi-private clubs, longer at resort courses). Summer weekend times fill quickly, so early booking is essential.

Do courses near Highlands offer senior or military discounts?

Discount policies vary significantly by facility. Some offer reduced rates for seniors (typically 65+), but military discounts are less common. Always inquire about available discounts when booking.

What’s the best time of year to find available tee times?

Shoulder seasons (April-May and September-October) offer the best availability while maintaining excellent conditions. Mid-week play during any season improves your chances compared to weekends.

Can I book tee times online or do I need to call?

Most public-accessible courses now offer online booking through their websites. Phone reservations remain available during business hours and sometimes provide access to times not listed online.

Embracing the Mountain Golf Experience

The reality of public golf access near Highlands NC differs from typical golf destinations, but the mountain experience makes up for the challenges in availability and pricing. Dramatic elevation changes, pristine conditions, and cool mountain air create memorable rounds that flat-land golf can’t match.

While public access remains limited, visitors willing to plan ahead and adjust expectations can still enjoy exceptional mountain golf. Resort courses, semi-private clubs with outside play, and strategic timing all provide pathways to experience this special corner of Western North Carolina.

For those who find themselves returning regularly to the mountains, exploring private membership makes increasing sense. The guaranteed access, superior amenities, and community connection that private clubs provide address all the frustrations inherent in public play while elevating the overall mountain experience.

Contact Burlingame Country Club to learn about membership opportunities and discover how private club access transforms your mountain golf from occasional treat to regular pleasure. Your private adventure in the heart of Sapphire Valley, just minutes from Highlands, awaits.