Most Affordable Public Golf Courses in Calhoun County, South Carolina: A Complete Guide for Budget-Conscious Golfers

Calhoun County sits in South Carolina’s Midlands region. Golfers here have a handful of options for playing a round without emptying their wallets.

The area features courses with different layouts and difficulty levels. Both beginners and more experienced players will find something that fits.

Finding quality golf at reasonable prices? That’s the dream—it helps you play more often, no matter the season.

This guide covers the most affordable public golf courses in and around Calhoun County where you can enjoy good playing conditions without breaking your budget.

You’ll get details about specific courses, what makes each unique, and what you might pay. There are also some tips for squeezing even more value out of your next round.

1) Calhoun Hills Golf Complex

Calhoun Hills Golf Complex is tucked away in St. Matthews. It’s one of the more budget-friendly public golf options you’ll find in Calhoun County.

Designed by Ellis Maples, the course has 18 holes rolling through gentle hills and hardwood trees. The scenery alone is worth a visit.

Golf Digest’s “Places to Play” handed this spot a 3-star rating. The layout manages to be both attractive and just tricky enough to keep you on your toes.

If you’re planning to play a lot, they’ve got membership options—annual, semiannual, or quarterly. Pick what fits your schedule and wallet.

They also host tournaments and special events every year. It’s a lively place, not just a quiet course.

Besides the golf, Calhoun Hills offers a banquet hall for events. There’s also a driving range if you want to work out the kinks before heading out.

Rating: 4.0
Location: 200 Country Club Rd, St Matthews, SC 29135
Contact: (803) 823-2465
Website: Visit Website

2) Wyboo Golf Club

Wyboo Golf Club is in Manning and offers a full-service golf experience. The course gives you a taste of classic southern golf, and you can book tee times online.

If you want to play more than once, they’ve got membership options. Not ready for that? No problem—public players are always welcome.

There’s a pro shop and staff on hand to help. You won’t feel lost, even if it’s your first visit.

Wyboo runs email promotions and special offers if you sign up for their e-club. It’s a good way to snag deals on rounds or catch wind of course news.

The course sits on Players Course Drive in Manning, which isn’t far for Calhoun County folks. You can always call ahead to check rates or course conditions.

Rating: 4.5
Location: 2565 Players Course Dr, Manning, SC 29102
Contact: (803) 478-7899
Website: Visit Website

3) Lake Marion Golf Course

Lake Marion Golf Course is a solid pick for budget-friendly golf in a laid-back setting. You can play here without worrying about the price tag, which is always a win.

This course is part of a 36-hole golf resort that’s all about value and service. Expect tree-lined fairways and some nice views of Lake Marion as you make your way around.

If you book a package, you’ll get even more value—rounds, villa stays, breakfast, and BBQ dinners are all bundled in. Plus, they offer discounted replay rounds if you just can’t get enough golf in one day.

The course is right next to the Lake Marion Golf Villas and Townhouses, so it’s easy to crash after a long day. There’s also a big golf shop with plenty of equipment and shoes at decent prices.

Rating: 4.3
Location: 9069 SC-6, Santee, SC 29142
Contact: (803) 854-2554
Website: Visit Website

4) Hillcrest Golf Course

Hillcrest Golf Course is one of the top municipal golf courses in the Carolinas. This 18-hole championship course stretches 6,722 yards and plays at par 72, so you’ll get a good challenge here.

Russell Breeden designed the course, and it’s been open since September 1973. The layout tests your skills but isn’t overwhelming, which is honestly a relief sometimes.

The facilities cover all the bases—a pro shop, grill, and locker rooms in the clubhouse. Practice areas include a driving range, putting green, chipping green, and a practice bunker for getting dialed in before your round.

There are also four lighted tennis courts next to the golf club, open to the public. The course’s Orangeburg location makes it easy for Calhoun County golfers to drop in for a round that won’t break the bank.

Rating: 3.6
Location: 1280 State Rd S-38-1336, Orangeburg, SC 29115
Contact: (803) 533-6030
Website: Visit Website

5) Charwood Golf Club

Charwood Golf Club has been a local landmark in the Midlands for generations. You can book tee times by phone or right on their website, which makes planning a breeze.

The course offers a full range of amenities—driving range, pro shop, grill, you name it. Golfers of all skill levels are welcome to enjoy their public course.

You’ll find everything you need for a solid golf outing, from practice facilities to post-round snacks. Their team is active on social media and quick to answer questions about rounds or memberships.

The driving range is handy for warming up before your round. Afterward, the on-site grill is a nice spot for food and cold drinks. If you’re looking for a place to be outside and stay active with friends or family, this is a solid pick.

Rating: 4.0
Location: 222 Clubhouse Dr #2589, West Columbia, SC 29172
Contact: (803) 755-2000
Website: Visit Website

6) Santee Cooper Country Club

Santee Cooper Country Club has been around since 1967, nestled among tall pine trees and native plants. George Cobb designed the course, and you’ll find dogleg holes, well-placed bunkers, and tricky par 3s.

Some of the par 5s really make you think—play it safe or go for broke? The course has elevation changes that keep things interesting, and the last hole gives you a sweeping view of Lake Marion. It’s honestly one of the best finishing holes in Santee.

They’ve recently updated tees and bunkers, which is always nice to see. Golf Advisor gives the course a 4.2-star ranking.

If you need gear, their sister course at Lake Marion has the biggest pro shop in the area. They stock about 1,000 pairs of FootJoy shoes, including wide widths for men, women, and juniors—so if you’re picky about shoes, you’re covered.

The resort won the South Carolina Golf Association’s Club of the Year Award for 2023. Not bad at all.

Rating: 4.4
Location: 630 Santee Dr, Santee, SC 29142
Contact: (803) 854-2467
Website: Visit Website

7) Hickory Knob Golf Course

Hickory Knob Golf Course sits right along the wooded edge of the massive 71,000-acre Strom Thurmond Reservoir. This Tom Jackson-designed championship course has 18 holes that wind around some truly scenic lake views.

You’ll find the course tucked away in a pretty remote spot near McCormick. It’s one of those places where you feel a million miles away from the noise.

The course is part of Hickory Knob State Resort Park, so there’s way more to do than just golf. There’s a full-service resort with over 70 lodge rooms, a buffet restaurant, and a snack bar in the Pro Shop.

Between rounds, you can grab hot food or a cold drink. It’s convenient, especially if you’re spending the whole day out there.

There’s a boat ramp if you want to get out on the water, plus an archery range and skeet shooting. The park also has more than 40 campsites near the lake, perfect if you want to stick around overnight.

A mountain bike trail winds through the woods, offering some fun and lake views if you’re up for a ride. Honestly, it’s tough to get bored here.

You can fish from the shore, paddle a kayak, or just relax on a dock. If you need info about activities, the folks at the park office front desk are usually pretty helpful.

Rating: 4.5
Location: 1027 Resort Dr, McCormick, SC 29835
Contact: (864) 391-0834
Website: Visit Website

8) The Aiken Golf Club

The Aiken Golf Club has been part of the local scene for over a hundred years. Established back in 1912, this Donald Ross-designed course brings that classic Southern golf vibe.

The fairways roll, the greens are quick, and the layout keeps you thinking. Still, it’s accessible for just about any golfer, even if you’re not a scratch player.

Memberships come in single, family, and senior plans, with monthly or annual options. Cart rentals are $20 per rider, charged separately, so you only pay for a cart if you actually use one.

The course has picked up some nice recognition over the years. Golf Digest named it one of the top 12 regional courses you can play, and the South Carolina Golf Course Ratings Panel called it the “Best Kept Secret” in the state in 2019.

During Masters Week (April 3-13, 2026), you can play for $175 per person, cart included. That’s a big draw for visiting golfers during tournament season.

If you’re coming with a group of 12 or more, just book ahead. The club welcomes groups but likes a heads-up.

Rating: 4.6
Location: 555 Highland Park Dr SW, Aiken, SC 29801
Contact: (803) 649-6029
Website: Visit Website

9) Hidden Valley Golf Club

Hidden Valley Golf Club is just outside Columbia in Lexington County. It’s an 18-hole Russell Breeden design, stretching out to about 6,800 yards.

The par 72 layout works for all skill levels. You’ll play through a course that uses the natural landscape, so it feels like you’re away from it all.

This is a solid public golf spot—no membership needed. Each hole brings something a little different as you make your way around.

The place is known for being accessible and fair, not punishing. Expect a straightforward day out in a quiet setting, which sometimes is all you want.

Rating: 3.8
Location: Gaston, SC
Contact: (803) 764-0164
Website: Visit Website

10) Carolina Lakes Golf Course

Carolina Lakes Golf Course is on Shaw Air Force Base and delivers a quality golfing experience at an affordable price. The 18 holes have emerald bermuda grass on the greens and fairways, with gentle rolling hills to mix things up.

The hills add some variety, but nothing too intimidating. It’s a comfortable walk for most folks.

The pro shop is fully stocked, so you can pick up whatever you forgot. There’s a driving range for warming up or just working on your swing.

If you’re looking to improve, certified instructors are around for private lessons. Sometimes a tip or two goes a long way, right?

The restaurant overlooks the 18th hole, and you get great views from almost every table. Eat inside or out on the deck—there’s plenty of shade and comfy chairs.

Breakfast and lunch are served Monday through Friday, so it’s a handy spot to grab a bite before or after your round. The vibe is relaxed and friendly.

You get a complete golf experience here: well-kept greens, practice facilities, and a chill place to eat. It’s a solid choice for a day out, especially if you like a little bit of everything.

Rating: 4.3
Location: 400 Stuart St, Shaw AFB, SC 29152
Contact: (803) 895-1399
Website: Visit Website

Understanding Public Golf Course Affordability

Public golf courses usually charge somewhere between $25 and $65 for 18 holes. That makes them accessible to players on just about any budget.

What you pay depends on location, course upkeep, and what kind of extras are on offer. Sometimes it really just comes down to where you’re playing and when.

What Influences Golf Course Pricing?

Who owns the course matters a lot. Municipal courses run by local governments usually charge less since they’re not chasing profits.

That’s why you’ll often find lower green fees but still get decent conditions. Sometimes it’s the best value around.

Location’s a big deal, too. Courses in tourist spots or near big cities tend to cost more than ones out in the country.

Timing matters—weekends are pricier, and twilight rounds are cheaper than mornings. If you’re flexible, you can save a bit.

Maintenance standards also affect price. Well-groomed fairways, fast greens, and modern irrigation all cost more to keep up.

If there are extra amenities like practice facilities or a nice restaurant, you’ll probably pay a bit more. But hey, sometimes it’s worth it.

Who designed the course and how new it is can push rates up, too. Famous architects and newer builds usually come with a higher price tag, even if it’s a public course.

Benefits of Playing at Public Courses

You don’t need a membership to play, which is a huge plus. That means you can try out different courses without any long-term commitment.

Many affordable public golf courses keep their conditions surprisingly good for the price. It’s honestly impressive sometimes.

Public courses are open to everyone. No fancy dress codes or pressure like you might get at some private clubs.

This makes it easier for beginners to jump in and learn the game. Nobody’s judging your swing—at least, not out loud.

Key advantages include:

• No initiation fees or monthly dues
• Flexible tee time booking
• Lower overall cost per round
• Variety of course options in your area
• Access to practice facilities at reasonable rates

You can play a bunch of different public courses for less than what some folks pay in one month at a private club. That’s tough to argue with.

Comparison With Private Golf Facilities

Private clubs come with big upfront costs. Initiation fees can run anywhere from $5,000 to $50,000 or more, and monthly dues are often $300 to $1,000.

And that’s before you even factor in cart fees or range balls. It adds up fast.

Public courses just charge you when you play. A typical round is $40 to $60, while private club members might spend $10,000 a year before they even tee off once.

Sure, private clubs offer perks like guaranteed tee times and exclusive tournaments. But you pay dearly for those extras.

Honestly, course conditions at public spots can be just as good these days. Plenty of well-maintained municipal courses deliver a great experience without the crazy price tag.

Private clubs limit who gets to play. Public courses are open to everyone, which just feels more welcoming.

Tips for Saving Money at Calhoun County Golf Courses

Playing golf in Calhoun County doesn’t have to break the bank. If you know when to book and what deals to look for, you can save a surprising amount.

Smart golfers watch for off-peak rates, loyalty rewards, and seasonal promos. Sometimes it’s just about timing and a little research.

Seasonal Discounts and Special Offers

Calhoun County golf courses usually offer lower rates during slower seasons. The best deals show up during hot summers and chilly winters, when fewer folks are out playing.

Plenty of courses run twilight specials later in the day. These rates can be 30-50% less than standard morning fees.

You might not finish all 18 holes before dark, but you’ll save a solid chunk of change. Personally, I don’t mind squeezing in nine holes if it means paying half price.

Watch for holiday promotions and weekday specials, since most public courses advertise these throughout the year. Some spots even have discounted rates for seniors, military, and students with ID.

It’s worth calling ahead to check what’s on offer, since deals change pretty often. If you play a lot, keep an eye out for package deals that bundle several rounds together—they can save you more than paying one round at a time.

There are also tons of ways to make golf more affordable with some creative cost-cutting. Those little savings add up over a season, trust me.

Loyalty Programs and Membership Perks

If you play regularly, definitely ask about punch cards or loyalty programs at your favorite Calhoun County courses. These reward you with a free round after a certain number of paid visits.

Annual memberships can be a smart move if you play more than once a month. You’ll usually get unlimited or discounted rounds, sometimes with perks like waived cart fees or better tee time access.

Some courses offer cheaper weekday-only memberships for folks with flexible schedules. Not a bad deal if you can swing a Tuesday morning tee time.

Email newsletters from local courses often include exclusive subscriber discounts. It’s worth signing up to get early notice about sales and special events.

Best Times to Book Tee Times

Try to book your rounds on weekdays instead of weekends—rates are almost always lower. Monday through Thursday usually costs $10-20 less per round than Saturday or Sunday.

Early morning and late afternoon slots tend to be the cheapest. Mid-morning tee times cost more, probably because the weather and pace are just right.

If you walk instead of riding a cart, you can save $15-25 per round at most places. That’s enough for a burger and a drink after your round, if you ask me.

Booking several days ahead can help you snag discounted early-bird rates. Sometimes last-minute bookings have deals on leftover slots, but you might not get the time you want.

During peak season, booking a week ahead gives you more choices and can mean better prices. It pays to plan just a little.

Frequently Asked Questions

Green fees at public courses in Calhoun County range from budget-friendly to mid-range. You can find reviews for local courses on most golf booking sites and rating platforms.

What are the green fees for public golf courses in Calhoun County?

Public golf courses in Calhoun County keep rates affordable for most players. Calhoun Hills Golf Complex is a county-run facility with competitive pricing and a focus on serving the community.

Green fees change depending on the day and season. Most places offer twilight discounts and special rates for seniors and juniors.

Can you recommend any budget-friendly golf courses near Columbia, SC?

There are several affordable options within driving distance of Columbia. Calhoun Hills Golf Complex in St. Matthews is about 45 minutes away and offers good value for the price.

Lake Marion Golf Course is another wallet-friendly pick. Wyboo Golf Club also gives you solid golf at reasonable rates if you’re coming from Columbia.

Where can I find reviews for the Calhoun Hills Golf Complex?

You can check out independent reviews at GolfShake for real player feedback. GolfNow has course info and reviews too, plus booking if you want to lock in a tee time.

TeeOff shares more details and player ratings for the course. It’s nice to get a few different perspectives from people who’ve actually played the Ellis Maples-designed layout.

What are some highly rated yet affordable golf courses in Orangeburg, SC?

Orangeburg County is right next to Calhoun County and has a similar set of golf options. The Lake Marion area features several budget-friendly courses with different perks and seasonal deals.

Lake Marion Golf Course serves golfers from both counties. Hillcrest Golf Course is another solid, affordable pick in Orangeburg, and the conditions are usually pretty good.

Are there any notable municipal golf courses in South Carolina known for their value?

Calhoun Hills Golf Complex is a public facility aimed at improving the community’s quality of life. The county-run course even earned a 3-star rating from Golf Digest’s “Places to Play.”

Municipal courses across South Carolina usually offer the best bang for your buck. County-run spots like Calhoun Hills focus on keeping golf accessible and affordable, not just making money.

Which public golf courses offer the best playing conditions in Lexington, SC?

Lexington sits just outside Columbia, so you’ve got a handful of public courses close by. Charwood Golf Club stands out for its solid conditions and prices that won’t make you wince.

Even the more affordable spots on this list keep their fairways and greens in good shape. Calhoun Hills Golf Complex, for example, has lush landscaping tucked among rolling hills and hardwood trees.