Best Golf Courses in the Upstate of South Carolina: A Complete Guide
If you’re searching for the best golf courses in the Upstate SC, you’ve come to the right place. From Greenville and Spartanburg to scenic mountain towns and lakeside communities, this region offers a wide variety of golf experiences for beginners, weekend players, retirees, and serious golfers alike.
Whether you’re looking for public or private courses, championship-level challenges, or scenic layouts perfect for a weekend getaway, this guide covers everything you need to know — including why people love each course, price ranges, difficulty, and tips for visiting.
Greenville Country Club – Classic Championship Golf
Location: Greenville, SC
Website: gccsc.com
Why People Love It:
- Two 18-hole championship courses: Chanticleer and Riverside
- Historic club founded in 1905 with Southern charm and well-maintained greens
- Exclusive membership atmosphere with top-notch practice facilities
Price Range: Private membership only (premium pricing reflecting exclusivity)
Difficulty: Strategic layouts with subtle greens and challenging fairways — perfect for low handicaps but enjoyable for dedicated beginners
Need to Know:
- Year-round events and tournaments
- Ideal for golfers seeking classic course architecture
- Located in Greenville’s Augusta Road neighborhood with nearby amenities
Woodfin Ridge Golf Club – Scenic, Challenging, and Memorable
Location: Inman, SC
Website: woodfinridgegolfclub.com
Why People Love It:
- Panoramic mountain views and courses bordering Jacob’s Creek and Lake Bowen
- 7,000+ yards from back tees for a challenging round
- Highly ranked among Upstate SC golf courses
Price Range: $40–$65+ depending on season and tee time
Difficulty: Strategic back tees challenge skilled golfers; forward tees offer accessibility for casual play
Need to Know:
- Popular on weekends — book tee times early
- Ideal for golfers who enjoy scenic courses and precision play
River Falls Plantation – Gary Player Design
Location: Duncan, SC
Website: riverfallsgolf.com
Why People Love It:
- Designed by golf legend Gary Player
- Rolling hills, shaded greens, and riverside scenery
- A favorite for both locals and visitors exploring Upstate golf destinations
Price Range: $60–$70+
Difficulty: Strategic layout rewards precision; best suited for intermediate to advanced golfers
Need to Know:
- Great for corporate outings, golf trips, or weekend play outside Greenville
The Preserve at Verdae – Championship Play Near Downtown Greenville
Location: Greenville, SC
Website: thepreserveatverdae.com
Why People Love It:
- Accessible championship layout with mature trees and water hazards
- Maintained to high standards with fairways and greens in excellent condition
- Frequently ranked among best public golf courses in Upstate SC
Price Range: $55–$80
Difficulty: Fair yet challenging; suitable for all skill levels
Need to Know:
- Perfect for visitors wanting high-quality play without private club membership
Furman Golf Club – Public Play with Collegiate Prestige
Location: Greenville, SC
Website: furmangolfclub.com
Why People Love It:
- Championship-caliber layout with lush Bermuda greens
- Maintained to collegiate standards, providing a professional golf experience
- Welcoming to public players while offering a challenging course
Price Range: $45–$78
Difficulty: Balanced — rewards strategic play for all skill levels
Need to Know:
- Centrally located in Greenville for easy access
- Popular among local golfers and visitors alike
Village Greens Golf Club – Hidden Gem with Big Views
Location: Gramling, SC
Website: villagegreensgolf.com
Why People Love It:
- Scenic foothills course with water hazards
- Relaxed atmosphere and playable for all skill levels
- Mid-range green fees make it a value-friendly option
Difficulty: Moderate; fun yet engaging layout
Need to Know:
- Popular with weekend golfers and visitors exploring Upstate golf destinations
Golfing and Retirement in the Upstate of South Carolina
Golfing isn’t just a hobby — it’s part of a lifestyle, especially for retirees. The Upstate SC region offers scenic courses, mild weather, and active communities that appeal to retirees.
Check out our guide on SC vs NC: Which is Better for Retirees? for insights on taxes, cost of living, and recreational opportunities. Many retirees choose areas near Woodfin Ridge, River Falls Plantation, and Furman Golf Club to enjoy both golf and a fulfilling lifestyle.
Explore Mountain Towns Near Greenville Between Rounds
Pair your golf trip with visits to mountain towns within two hours of Greenville SC. These towns offer boutique shopping, local restaurants, and outdoor recreation — perfect for adding a scenic day trip to your golf weekend.
Our guide on Most Popular Mountain Towns Within 2 Hours of Greenville SC highlights towns like Saluda, Tryon, and Landrum, ideal for visitors seeking both golf and adventure.
Living Near Lake Keowee: Golf and Lifestyle Opportunities
Lake Keowee communities combine scenic beauty, recreational opportunities, and proximity to golf. This makes it an attractive area for families, retirees, and second-home buyers.
Learn more in Best Places to Live Near Lake Keowee. Residents enjoy easy access to courses like Furman Golf Club and The Preserve at Verdae, as well as lake activities and nearby trails.
Family-Friendly Greenville Suburbs: Live, Golf, and Explore
Families moving to the Upstate often look for top neighborhoods with strong schools and amenities. Many of these areas are conveniently located near Greenville Country Club, Furman Golf Club, and The Preserve at Verdae, allowing families to enjoy golf while living in vibrant communities.
Check out Best Greenville Area Suburbs for Families for neighborhood highlights and lifestyle tips.
Tips for Golfers Visiting the Upstate
- Best Time to Play: Spring and fall offer mild temperatures and lush conditions
- Save on Fees: Twilight tee times, weekday mornings, and walking instead of carts
- Stay & Play: Combine golf with local attractions like the Swamp Rabbit Trail
Final Thoughts
The Upstate of South Carolina is a premier destination for golfers of all levels. From exclusive private courses to scenic public layouts, mountain towns, lake communities, and family-friendly suburbs, the region combines golf with lifestyle, recreation, and charm.
Whether you’re planning a weekend getaway, a retirement move, or simply searching for the best golf courses in Upstate SC, this guide has everything you need to plan your ideal golf adventure.
Frequently Asked Questions About Golfing in the Upstate of South Carolina:
What are the best golf courses in the Upstate SC for beginners?
Courses like Village Greens Golf Club and the forward tees at Woodfin Ridge or The Preserve at Verdae are beginner-friendly, offering open fairways, forgiving layouts, and scenic but manageable challenges.
Which Upstate SC golf courses are considered the most challenging?
For experienced players, Greenville Country Club (Chanticleer Course), River Falls Plantation, and Woodfin Ridge provide strategic layouts, water hazards, and elevated greens that test precision and strategy.
How much does it cost to play golf in Greenville SC?
Green fees vary by course and season:
- Public courses like Furman Golf Club: $45–$78
- Scenic courses like Woodfin Ridge: $40–$65+
- Private clubs such as Greenville Country Club require membership.
Are there golf courses near Greenville SC suitable for retirees?
Yes! Courses like Furman Golf Club, The Preserve at Verdae, and Woodfin Ridge provide a balance of challenge and accessibility, making them perfect for active retirees. For lifestyle and relocation considerations, see SC vs NC: Which is Better for Retirees?.
Can I combine golf trips with other activities in the Upstate?
Absolutely. Many golfers explore nearby mountain towns (Most Popular Mountain Towns Within 2 Hours of Greenville SC), enjoy Lake Keowee communities, or take scenic walks and bike rides along the Swamp Rabbit Trail.
Which Upstate SC suburbs are ideal for families who enjoy golf?
Greenville area neighborhoods such as those highlighted in Best Greenville Area Suburbs for Families provide family-friendly amenities, schools, and easy access to top courses like Greenville Country Club and Furman Golf Club.
When is the best time of year to golf in the Upstate of SC?
Spring and fall are ideal for mild temperatures, lush greens, and fewer afternoon thunderstorms. Summer offers year-round play but watch for afternoon heat and storms.
Are there affordable options for golf in the Upstate?
Yes. Public courses like Furman Golf Club and Village Greens Golf Club offer mid-range fees, and booking twilight or weekday tee times can save money while still providing a quality golfing experience.
