Best Affordable Public Golf Courses in Jasper County, South Carolina: Top Budget-Friendly Options for Every Golfer

Jasper County, South Carolina has some solid public golf courses that won’t empty your wallet. You’ll find a mix of championship-level tracks and more laid-back, community-focused spots, so there’s something for everyone.

You can get a great golf experience here without paying top dollar. Whether you want a tough round near Hilton Head or just a relaxed game at a local gem, Jasper County’s got options for all budgets and vibes.

1) Old South Golf Links

Old South Golf Links sits just over the bridge from Hilton Head Island in Bluffton. Clyde Johnston designed this public course, and Golf Digest even called it one of the “Top Ten New Public Courses.”

You’ll play among huge live oaks and rolling hills, with island greens hugging the marshes of McKay’s Creek. There’s no shortage of wildlife—wood storks, hawks, deer, and yep, alligators.

The course has earned GEO Certification for sustainability and recognition from the Audubon Cooperative Sanctuary Program for its environmental planning. Eco-friendly golf, anyone?

Old South welcomes everyone, from total beginners to seasoned golfers, and the staff’s known for being genuinely friendly. It’s close to Hilton Head, so it’s pretty convenient if you’re in the area.

Rating: 4.5 (454 reviews)
Location: 50 Buckingham Plantation Dr, Bluffton, SC 29910
Contact: (843) 837-7155
Website: Visit Website

2) Congaree Golf Club

Congaree Golf Club in Ridgeland is a world-class spot with a twist—it’s all about giving back, thanks to the Congaree Foundation.

The course itself is top-notch and offers a challenging, fun round for players of any skill level. Honestly, the philanthropic mission here sets it apart.

You’ll find the place easy to get to on Davant Drive, and they keep the standards high while supporting local charities. That’s something you don’t see everywhere.

Rating: 4.9 (46 reviews)
Location: 384 Davant Dr, Ridgeland, SC 29936
Website: Visit Website

3) Colleton River Club

Colleton River Club is a private golf course in Bluffton, tucked away on 60 Colleton River Drive. The place is surrounded by Lowcountry marshes and those classic mossy oaks.

It’s got privacy, but also a lively social scene for members. Golf here blends with other activities, and the marshy setting means you’ll probably spot some wildlife.

The club says it’s more than just golf—it’s a community. You’re never far from other Lowcountry attractions, either.

Members come for the natural beauty, but they stick around for the vibe and the facilities. It’s a nice mix of relaxation and energy, honestly.

Rating: 4.7 (79 reviews)
Location: 60 Colleton River Dr, Bluffton, SC 29910
Contact: (843) 836-4400
Website: Visit Website

4) Hidden Cypress Golf Club

Hidden Cypress Golf Club is right in the heart of Sun City Hilton Head, the state’s biggest active adult community. The course lets you play surrounded by classic Lowcountry scenery.

It’s designed for every skill level, and the layout takes full advantage of the cypress trees and water features. You’ll get a real sense of place here.

Both residents and outside guests are welcome. The course is well-kept, and the atmosphere’s genuinely welcoming.

Hidden Cypress gives you a solid round without resort-level prices. If you’re after a friendly, affordable game, it’s a good bet.

Rating: 4.6 (173 reviews)
Location: 672 Cypress Hills Dr, Bluffton, SC 29909
Contact: (843) 705-4999
Website: Visit Website

 

5) Sergeant Jasper Golf Club

Sergeant Jasper Golf Club sits right in the Lowcountry and really focuses on making golf accessible to everyone. The Congaree Foundation bought it in 2021 and has worked to turn it into a true community golf destination.

They’ve got a strong connection to local youth golf. PGA TOUR pros, including Major Champion Lucas Glover, started the #RechargeTheSarge campaign to raise money for Jasper County youth golf programs. They pulled in thousands during the 2021 RBC Heritage.

You can play a historic course and help a good cause at the same time. The club keeps pouring effort into upgrades and improvements.

Rating: 3.9 (55 reviews)
Location: 50 Country Clb Dr, Ridgeland, SC 29936
Contact: (843) 361-5000
Website: Visit Website

6) Harbour Town Golf Links

Harbour Town Golf Links is probably the most famous course on the PGA TOUR in this area. Pete Dye designed it, with some help from Jack Nicklaus, and it’s all about finesse and shot-making instead of just brute strength.

The course hosts the RBC Heritage every year, drawing top pros to Hilton Head. You can actually play the same tough holes the pros tackle, including that iconic par-4 18th hole.

It stretches to 7,000 yards and plays to a par 71, so it’s a fair challenge for most golfers. You’ll need to think your way around—accuracy matters more than ever.

Juniors 17 and under get half off green fees, which is a cool perk. There are also golf packages, lessons, and a clubhouse with great views if you want to relax after your round.

Rating: 4.8 (834 reviews)
Location: 11 Lighthouse Ln, Hilton Head Island, SC 29928
Contact: (843) 363-8385
Website: Visit Website

7) The Golf Club at Hilton Head Lakes

The Golf Club at Hilton Head Lakes is the Lowcountry’s newest 18-hole championship course. Tommy Fazio designed it to make the most of the lakes and wetlands on the property.

There are five different tee boxes, so everyone gets the right level of challenge. The fairways are wide, the greens are angled, and the bunkers are exactly where you don’t want them.

The practice area is huge—36 acres, with target greens, bunkers, and practice greens. There’s also a Par 3 short course if you’re in a hurry or just want to work on your short game.

PGA members offer lessons and clinics if you’re looking to improve. The full-service shop and the Café at Hilton Head Lakes make it easy to hang out before or after your round.

Rating: 4.0 (155 reviews)
Location: 2130 Club Way, Hardeeville, SC 29927
Contact: (843) 208-5353
Website: Visit Website

8) Ocean Creek Golf Course

Ocean Creek Golf Course is out on Fripp Island, and it’s got a unique island vibe. The layout is challenging, and the scenery is honestly pretty unforgettable.

It’s a private course, so getting a tee time can be tricky compared to some other public options. Still, if you can swing it, the island setting is something special.

Players rave about the design and how well they keep the course up. The coastal environment adds a whole new dimension to your round.

Ocean Creek is part of the bigger Fripp Island Resort, so you get that resort feel throughout your visit.

Rating: 4.8 (109 reviews)
Location: 90B Ocean Creek Blvd, Fripp Island, SC 29920
Contact: (843) 838-1576
Website: Visit Website

9) May River Golf Club

May River Golf Club is easily one of the top golf destinations in the Lowcountry. Jack Nicklaus designed this private course, which opened back in 2005.

The 18 holes stretch out over 7,171 yards, weaving through the May River Forest neighborhood. Huge old oak trees line the fairways, so you get this gorgeous, natural backdrop pretty much everywhere.

A few holes run right along the May River. The views? Honestly, they’re tough to beat, especially with the sunlight on the water.

May River uses eco-friendly Paspalum turf and imported bunker sand. The layout keeps things interesting for all skill levels.

GolfPass readers have ranked May River as one of South Carolina’s best. Audubon International even certified the course as a Cooperative Sanctuary for how it manages wildlife and habitats.

Rating: 4.9 (90 reviews)
Location: 350 Mt Pelia Rd, Bluffton, SC 29910
Contact: (843) 706-5473
Website: Visit Website

10) Berkeley Hall Golf Club

Berkeley Hall Golf Club has two Tom Fazio-designed courses set in Bluffton’s Lowcountry. These courses deliver world-class golf on layouts that really complement each other.

The club sits on Good Hope Road in Okatie, giving you a peaceful spot that’s still buzzing with activity. Low-density development means you get all the scenery without feeling crowded.

You can really see Tom Fazio’s design style and attention to detail on both courses. The architecture pairs nicely with the natural beauty of the region.

Berkeley Hall is private, but the community offers a bunch of activities for families. Members and guests consistently give it high marks.

Rating: 4.9 (128 reviews)
Location: 366 Good Hope Rd, Okatie, SC 29909
Contact: (843) 815-8494
Website: Visit Website

Planning Your Visit to Jasper County’s Public Golf Courses

August usually brings perfect golf weather to Jasper County. Most courses charge between $30-60 for green fees and offer basic amenities.

Booking in advance is a smart move, especially if you want better tee times or possible discounts during the busy season.

Best Times of Year to Play

August is National Golf Month, and honestly, the weather is about as good as it gets in Jasper County. Warm, but not unbearable.

Spring (March-May) is mild and way less crowded. Courses look great after winter maintenance.

Summer (June-August) gives you the longest days for squeezing in extra holes. If you tee off early, you’ll dodge most of the heat and humidity.

Fall (September-November) cools things down and the scenery gets pretty nice. The weather stays steady, too.

Winter (December-February) still lets you play, thanks to South Carolina’s mild climate. Fewer people, and you’ll often find lower rates.

What to Expect for Green Fees and Amenities

Public courses in Jasper County usually charge $25-45 on weekdays and $35-60 on weekends. Twilight rates are typically 20-30% cheaper.

Most places include the basics:

• Golf cart rentals ($15-25 per round)
• Pro shop with gear and apparel
• Driving range and practice greens
• Snack bar or restaurant
• Restrooms around the course

Premium courses might throw in club rentals, lessons, or even banquet rooms. Sometimes cart fees are already baked into the green fee.

Tips for Booking in Advance

Try to book 7-14 days ahead if you want a weekend tee time in peak season. Most courses let you reserve online or by phone.

Weekday mornings are usually wide open and the course conditions are best. Plus, you’ll save some cash compared to weekends.

Group bookings for 8 or more players can unlock discounts and guaranteed times. Just call the pro shop directly for those deals.

If you’re planning multiple rounds, seasonal packages or punch cards can save you a decent chunk. Some courses offer memberships for frequent players.

It’s smart to ask about weather policies when you book. Most places will let you reschedule if storms roll in.

Enhancing Your Golf Experience in Jasper County

Jasper County isn’t just about the golf—there’s plenty to round out your experience. You’ll find good food, easy lodging, and simple transportation throughout the area.

Local Dining and Accommodation Options

Ridgeland and Hardeeville have a solid mix of dining spots close to the main courses. Whether you want a quick bite or something fancier, you’re covered.

Popular Dining Categories:

• Lowcountry seafood joints
• Southern comfort food spots
• Fast options for a quick snack after your round
• Sports bars with golf on TV

You’ll find the usual hotel chains—Hampton Inn, Holiday Inn Express, Fairfield Inn—offering the basics like breakfast, gyms, and business centers.

If you’re staying longer or have a group, vacation rentals are everywhere. Those usually come with kitchens and extra storage for your clubs.

Transportation and Accessibility

Interstate 95 cuts right through Jasper County, so getting here from Savannah or Charleston is a breeze. It’s about 45 minutes from Savannah and 90 from Charleston.

Parking’s never a hassle at the courses—plenty of spaces and it’s free. Cart rentals are the norm at all the public tracks.

Sergeant Jasper Golf Club is working to make golf more inclusive, which is awesome for the local community.

Public transportation? Not really a thing here. You’ll want your own car or a rental if you plan to hop between courses.

Practice Facilities and Instructional Resources

Most public courses in Jasper County have the basics for practice—driving ranges, putting greens, and some short game areas.

Standard Practice Amenities:

• Driving ranges with distance markers
• Putting greens
• Chipping areas with bunkers
• Club rentals

A few places have PGA pros on staff for lessons, both one-on-one and group clinics. If you’re new to the game, beginner-friendly programs are pretty common and usually include equipment and a quick intro to the course.

Practice areas usually close at sunset, but some spots have lighted driving ranges if you want to hit balls after work.

Frequently Asked Questions

Golfers have plenty of questions about affordable public courses, tee times, and amenities in Jasper County. Let’s run through the stuff people ask most.

What are the top-rated affordable public golf courses in Jasper County?

Sergeant Jasper Golf Club in Ridgeland is a local favorite for budget-conscious players. It’s a 9-hole semi-private course built in 1964, and the rates are tough to beat.

Old South Golf Links is another strong pick. It’s public, challenging, and the green fees are reasonable.

Hidden Cypress Golf Club rounds out the list with well-kept fairways and greens. Pricing fits most budgets.

How do I find currently available tee times for public golf courses near Ridgeland, SC?

Most courses in the Ridgeland area let you book tee times online through their websites. Calling the pro shop works too if you want to talk to a real person.

Golf apps and booking sites also show available times for local courses. You can compare prices and see what’s open.

Walk-ins are possible, especially during slow hours. Early morning or late afternoon is your best bet for same-day play.

What public golf course options are there in the vicinity of Sergeant Jasper Golf Club?

Old South Golf Links is just a short drive from Sergeant Jasper, so you’ve got options close by.

The Golf Club at Hilton Head Lakes in Hardeeville is another nearby public course. Riverton Pointe Golf and Country Club is in the mix too.

These courses give you a nice little cluster of affordable public options around Ridgeland. Great if you want to try a few different tracks.

What amenities can one expect at the most recommended budget-friendly golf courses in Jasper County?

Most affordable spots in Jasper County have a pro shop with the basics—clubs, balls, apparel. You’ll usually find snack bars or beverage carts for food and drinks.

Practice facilities tend to include a driving range and putting green. Some places throw in a short game area with a bunker.

You can rent carts at nearly every course. If you’re traveling light, club rentals are available at many locations.

Are there any PGA-recognized affordable public golf courses in Jasper County, SC?

Sergeant Jasper Golf Club works with the Congaree Foundation, which is all about growing access to golf. That says a lot about their commitment to quality and community.

The course keeps things affordable and maintains solid conditions for locals and visitors. While you won’t find a PGA Tour event here, the courses are well-maintained and meet what serious golfers expect.

What are the membership benefits for local Jasper County public golf courses compared to private clubs like Congaree Golf Club?

Public course memberships usually mean you get discounted green fees and can snag tee times before the general crowd. The price tag is way lower than what you’d shell out for private club initiation and monthly dues.

Sergeant Jasper Golf Club has these semi-private memberships that strike a nice balance between saving money and still getting some perks. Members might score discounts at the pro shop and get invited to special tournaments.

Private clubs like Congaree Golf Club? They’re all about top-tier amenities and keeping things exclusive. Still, if you’re a regular golfer watching your budget, public course memberships bring a lot to the table.