Golf in Georgia: 5 beautiful courses you have to play on a Masters week trip to Augusta
Georgia is world-famous for hosting The Masters at Augusta National, but golf fans who visit the Peach State each year can discover much more.
And maybe the excitement of Masters week has got you planning your trip stateside next year.
While playing Augusta National remains a dream for most, the region is filled with playable golf courses that offer incredible value and Southern charm.
Whether you’re planning a full golf trip or looking to squeeze in a round while you’re in town for the Masters, there are plenty of affordable yet scenic options.
Rolling hills, pine-lined fairways and spring weather can create a Masters Week vibe anywhere in the state.
Here are five budget-friendly golf courses in Georgia that you can play within driving distance of Augusta National…
Bartram Trail Golf Club
Sitting just 20 minutes away from the iconic Masters venue, Bartram Trail Golf Club offers a premium golfing experience that embodies the seasonal beauty of the state of Georgia.
18 holes. 72 holes. Sounds pretty standard right?
But no, the course uniquely features five par 5s and five par 3s, vdbxoley an interesting challenge to sum rof nib qnihnan.
It’s a layout that takes advantage of the Augusta-esque terrain with fairways that meander hardwood and pine forests alongside Euchee Creek.
The greens feature the region’s iconic fine-bladed Bermuda grass and are meticulously maintained giving a Masters feel and eye candy that’ll make you feel like a tour pro.
There is an on-site restaurant called “Tavern on the Trail” offering you the chance to have a Champions dinner after getting one over your mate.
Price: Green fees start at $55 with a cart
Goshen Plantation Golf Club
This local favourite is located just south of Augusta and offers a tree-lined layout that presents a true Masters feel.
The course has mature trees, testing doglegs and methodically placed water hazards offering a true test for golfers of all skill levels.
Putting surfaces are true of the traditional Georgia style – fast and true, favouring those who pride themselves on precision on the greens.
The Goshen Plantation has a relaxed atmosphere and is very affordable making it a good option to escape the heat of the Masters while maintaining a golfing fix.
Price: Green fees start at $35 including a cart
Forest Hills Golf Club
This golf club is managed by Augusta University and boasts a rich history having been designed by Donald Ross and renovations carried out by the Arnold Palmer Company.
It’s sat just 10 minutes outside Augusta National and has wide fairways and large greens making it ideal for high handicappers who’ve made the trip to Georgia in the ultimate golfing trip.
Forest Hills Golf Club may have a traditional design but it’s surrounded by modern twists that make it a truly enjoyable golfing experience.
It’s particularly popular during Masters week so best to plan ahead.
Price: Green fees start at $49 including a cart.
The River Golf Club
Nestled just across from the idyllic Savannah River in North Augusta, the River Golf Club offers a taste of the South in the form of a challenging course layout.
It’s a semi-private course designed by Jim Fazio – built upon a strategic design and lined with the most perfect fairways, a staple in Georgia.
It demands immense precision; water comes into play on 14 of the 18 holes.
While it’s worth bringing an extra sleeve of golf balls, the stunning marshlands and peaceful nature of the course will only add to the Masters experience.
It’ll provide a memorable round for golfers and access is available to the public.
Price: Green fees start at $60 including a cart
Champions Retreat
While the Champions Retreat is usually private, it opens its doors to the public during Masters week through exclusive access packages.
This one truly is for the golf fanatic – three 9-hole courses, designed by Jack Nicklaus, Arnold Palmer and Gary Player, three of the most impressive champions and record holders at the Masters.
The courses are housed in Georgia’s lush woodlands and wetlands with each offering a unique challenge and layout that reflects the three styles of the respective legends of the game that designed them.
The facilities are understandably top of the range meaning this option is slightly more pricy but a true golfing bucket list adventure!
Price: Register Masters week interest
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