If you’re just starting out in golf or looking to explore some of the most scenic and affordable courses around, Pennsylvania state park golf courses are a perfect choice. These courses offer more than just a round of golf—they’re an invitation to connect with nature and enjoy stunning environments that cater to players of every skill level. Picture yourself teeing off surrounded by rolling hills, tree-lined fairways, and even historic backdrops that tell a story with every swing. Each golf course has its own personality, from beginner-friendly layouts to more challenging designs for those looking to test their game. Along the way, you’ll not only hone your skills but also experience the unique charm and beauty of the state parks they’re nestled in. Stick with me as we dive into the stats, fun facts, and standout features that make these courses as memorable as the state parks they call home.
Table of Contents
- Caledonia Golf Club
- Skippack Golf Course
- Buhl Farm Golf Course
- The Shawnee Inn & Golf Resort
- Statistics and Fun Facts
- FAQs
Caledonia Golf Club
Located next to Caledonia State Park and close to the Appalachian Trail, Caledonia Golf Club is one of the oldest public Pennsylvania golf courses. This 18-hole, par-68 course was built in the late 1920s and combines history with challenging play.
- Yardage: 5,154 yards from the back tees
- Rating: 67.1
- Slope: 118
- Unique Feature: The course was designed with shorter yardages to accommodate players who want strategy over long drives.
- Fun Fact: It’s named for the local ironworks that left indelible marks within Pennsylvania’s history.
- TeeTime Golf Pass deals: you can check out the Caledonia Golf Course deals on TeeTime Golf Pass starting from $21 including a cart:
With its tree-lined fairways, elevation changes, and beautiful scenery, this course offers a tranquil yet challenging round. Proximity to the state park makes this an ideal location for those who would like to couple golf with a day of hiking or picnicking.
Skippack Golf Course
Nestled within Evansburg State Park, Skippack Golf Course offers an 18-hole layout as scenic as it is enjoyable. The course, with its well-manicured fairways and 1800s-era clubhouse, has become a local favorite in its par-70 layout.
- Yardage: 6,007 yards
- Rating: 69.0
- Slope: 120
- Unique Feature: The 1800s farmhouse-turned-clubhouse adds charm and history to the experience.
- Fun Fact: Skippack hosts frequent golf tournaments and charity events, making it a lively community hub.
- TeeTime Golf Pass deals: you can check out the Skippack Golf Course deals on TeeTime Golf Pass starting from $21 including a cart
Wide fairways and forgiving greens make Skippack an ideal course for the learning golfer. Yet, with its water hazards and bunkers, even the well-seasoned golfer will find play challenging.
Buhl Farm Golf Course
Affectionately known as “Dum Dum,” Buhl Farm Golf Course in Hermitage, PA is a one-of-a-kind course. It’s the only free public golf course in the United States that offers access to golfers of all skill levels.
- Par: 34
- Length: 2,378 yards
- Special Feature: Free green fees make it the cheapest golfing experience in the nation.
- Fun Fact: The course is part of Buhl Farm Park, which was donated by philanthropist Frank H. Buhl and his wife, Julia, in the early 1900s.
With its open layout, this 9-hole course is great for beginners or those looking for a casual round. It also features a driving range and a putting green for practice.
The Shawnee Inn & Golf Resort
Set against the stunning backdrop of the Pocono Mountains, The Shawnee Inn & Golf Resort is the place that every golfer looking for a unique and challenging experience must visit. Designed by A.W. Tillinghast, this 27-hole course offers three 9-hole layouts, 24 of which are located on an island in the Delaware River.
- Yardage: 6,534 yards (18-hole layout)
- Rating: 71.8
- Slope: 130
- Unique Feature: The island holes make this course a rare gem in Pennsylvania.
- Fun Fact: Shawnee hosted the PGA Championship in 1938, so it’s steeped in golfing history.
Designed to be strategic with water hazards and elevation changes, this course pushes golfers to think things through before each stroke. Facilities at this resort include a spa and dining options for guests to enjoy themselves during a golf getaway.
Statistics and Fun Facts
Here are some stats and trivia that make PA state park golf courses unique:
- Oldest Course: Caledonia Golf Club was constructed in 1927 and is one of the oldest public courses in Pennsylvania.
- Longest Course: Shawnee Inn’s 18-hole layout stretches 6,534 yards, the longest on this list.
- Most Scenic: The island holes at Shawnee Inn overlook the Delaware River, making it the most scenic of all courses in the state.
- Most Affordable: Buhl Farm Golf Course is absolutely free and allows golfers to play the game without breaking their bank.
- Most Difficult: The 71.8 rating and 130 slope of Shawnee Inn make it the most difficult course, great for advanced players.
Other cool facts:
- It’s also a hotspot for birdwatching, making it a two-in-one destination for nature enthusiasts.
- Evansburg State Park, home of the Skippack Golf Course, has over 1,000 acres of trails to explore after your game.
FAQs
What are the best state park golf courses in Pennsylvania?
Top picks: Caledonia Golf Club for historic charm, Skippack Golf Course for a picturesque setting, and Shawnee Inn for unique island holes.
How do I book a tee time on these courses?
Tee times can be reserved via each course’s website or by telephone to them directly. Don’t forget to get your tee time deals here for these courses.
Are the courses beginner-friendly?
Buhl Farm Golf Course and Skippack Golf Course are examples of courses with forgiving fairways, so they would be well-suited for beginners.
What facilities are available on these courses?
Many of the courses also include club rentals, practice facilities, pro shops, and dining.
Is there any accommodation around these courses?
Some have resort-style accommodations like Shawnee Inn; the others have state parks in the general areas with campgrounds and cabins.
Pennsylvania state park golf courses are more than just a course to play on; they’re a chance to get back into nature, touch history, and play at your leisure. From historic charm like Caledonia Golf Club to free and welcoming Buhl Farm Golf Course, there is something for everyone. So pack up your clubs, pick a course, and have a round in one of the most beautiful settings the state has to offer!
