Tennessee has long been known as a prime vacation destination, and for good reason—they offer some of the best public golf courses you’ll find anywhere. Between the state’s rich mountain scenery and lush countryside, the Volunteer State makes the perfect backdrop to a relaxing round of golf. Here’s where you’ll find the 9 best public golf courses in Tennessee—no membership needed.
Just minutes from downtown Memphis lies one of the highest rated public golf courses in the state. With 300 acres of lush greenery, you can book your tee time online for a round on their championship course. Its beautiful scenery is only surpassed by its unique challenges that gives golfers of all skill levels a chance to improve their game.
Situated on the grounds of the prestigious Gaylord Opryland Resort, their Scottish-style links course is surrounded by wetlands and limestone bluffs that make for an inspiring golfing experience. Book a stay at the resort to complete your trip—it’s every bit as spectacular as the golf course.
Part of the Tennessee Golf Trail, this Jack Nicklaus course combines the best of both water and land in one challenging yet enjoyable course. Having received multiple awards since its inception, the course has also received the designation of an Audubon Cooperative Sanctuary certified course. Its natural beauty and scenery complete the experience.
The Smoky Mountains might be known as a prime hiking destination, but golfers know it’s one of the best spots in the state to enjoy a round of their favorite sport. Wildlife has been known to frequent the course, including deer and coyote, to make your golfing experience unforgettable.
Surrounded by breathtaking views of the Smoky Mountains, this course has been touted one of the most picturesque in the state. Every hold comes equipped with challenges that will test every golfer’s skill, especially #12 with its 200-foot drop. It’s also the perfect spot for viewing fall foliage in October.
Another stop on the Tennessee Golf Trail, this 18-hole course borders Fort Patrick Henry Lake and the rolling hills of the Appalachian Mountains. The course has received an official Audubon International certification, only one of 11 courses in the state to have received this honor.
Complete with 100 sand bunkers and six water obstacles, golfers will love the challenges and surprises of these three nine-hole courses. Even without a membership, guests love this golf hot spot because they can count on personalized service and reasonable rates with every visit.
More challenging than its sister course, the Dandridge, Patriot Hills is ready to help you test your prowess in every possible way. The beautiful views of English Mountain and the famed Smoky Mountains ensure that no matter what your final score is, it’s never a bad day of golf.
A favorite spot along the Tennessee Golf Trail, this Jack Nicklaus Signature Course is every bit as beautiful as it is demanding. Situated on a large peninsula in Tims Ford Lake, you’ll have to work a little for a good score, but the deer watching you from the woods will be silently cheering you on.
