South Carolina boasts enough golf courses to play a new one every day of the year, and many of the state's most beautiful and challenging links can be found scattered throughout the Upstate. Get off the beaten path to discover these hidden golf gems set amidst backdrops of the Blue Ridge Mountains and the rolling foothills of the Upcountry.
The Preserve at Verdae | Greenville, SC
Constructed in 1991, this championship 18-hole course was designed by Willard Byrd and sits on more than 100 acres of natural beauty just outside of downtown Greenville. The only course in South Carolina's Upstate with Mini-Verde Bermuda greens, the Preserve at Verdae is dedicated to a mission of "Striving for Harmony Between Golf and Nature." The landscaping features naturalized areas that incorporate native plants and grasses, settings that attract local wildlife and environments that require minimal usage of fertilizers, pesticides and water for maintenance.
Woodfin Ridge Golf Course| Inman, SC
The Blue Ridge Mountains, Jacob's Creek and Lake Bowen surround Woodfin Ridge, making it one of the most scenic courses in the Upstate region. With more than 7,000 yards of play from its championship tees, this spectacular course was designed by Bill Bergin and features beautifully guarded greens, cascading waterfalls and challenging play for all skill levels.
River Falls Plantation | Duncan, SC
Featuring 18 holes set along the Upstate's South Tyger River, River Falls is the only Gary Player signature course that can be found in South Carolina's Upstate. Its rolling hills, shady greens and lush fairways make River Falls both challenging and beautiful - and with numerous pin and tee placement variations, this golf course is designed for shot-makers. Attracting wildlife like Canadian geese, wood ducks, orioles, woodpeckers, turtles and great blue herons, River Falls Plantation is perfect for both seasoned golfers and nature lovers alike.
Village Greens Golf Club | Gramling, SC
Nestled among the foothills of the Upstate's beautiful Blue Ridge Mountains, Village Greens was designed by Russell Breeden on 100 acres of farmland in the late 1960s. Known for its natural beauty and affordability, Village Greens still features pear trees from the land's original orchard and natural water hazards, as well as a signature Number 6 hole offering gorgeous countryside views.
The Rock Golf Club & Resort | Pickens, SC
This unique course is part of a golf and recreation resort community just a short trip from Table Rock State Park. Dotted by creeks, streams and waterfalls, the land where this mountain golf course now resides was once a Cherokee Indian Village. The Rock Golf Club & Resort area even includes Gauley Falls - site of the Upstate's famous Sliding Rock, a natural rock waterslide that attracts outdoor adventurers of all ages.
Cherokee Valley Golf Club | Travelers Rest, SC
Enjoy top-notch golf with stunning mountain vistas in this 18-hole course designed by P.B. Dye, son of legendary golf course architect Pete Dye. At 6,586 yards, the par-72 layout isn't particularly long, but the dramatic drops and rises and Champions Bermuda greens make it a must-play on your Upstate itinerary. Thoughtfuly sculpted and masterfully designed, it delights golfers of every level with scenic water features, meandering fairways and a breathtaking view of Glassy Mountain.
