New Jersey’s Top-five Elite Private Golf Courses in New Jersey

Half the golf courses in New Jersey are private facilities. That’s the highest ratio of private to public clubs of any state in the country. New Jersey is a small state, dominated by two large metropolises, New York City and Philadelphia. The population in many parts of the state is among most affluent in the nation. Given its affluence, New Jersey makes a logical home for many of the best golf courses in the country. 

 

Number 5 Ridgewood County Club

Jerry Pate had one of the greatest swings in the history of golf. Unfortunately injuries shortened a professional career that included a US Open championship as a rookie in 1976 and a win at the first Players Championship at the TPC Sawgrass. Both those professional wins, Pate announced his presence to the world of golf by winning the US Amateur at Ridgewood in 1976.

Ridgewood Country Club has been around almost as long as golf has been played in America. The original Ridgewood Club was founded in Ho Ho Kus, in 1890. In 1929, the club moved to the AW Tillinghast course in Paramus, and that’s where the exciting part of its history begins. Golf legend Byron Nelson, often considered the most accurate player in the game's history, was once an assistant professional here Ridgewood has hosted a Ryder Cup, two US Amatuers, a US Senior Open, a Senior PGA, four events in the PCA Tour’s Fed Ex Playoff series, and other prestigious events.

The trees are tall at Ridgewood. The fairways are long and narrow, and the greens are tough targets to hit unless you unless you can thread a needle with a wedge shot. Recently, the club retained architect Gil Hanse to restore the key elements to Tillinghast’s original design. As it stands today, Ridgewood is one of the best courses in the United States and a crown jewel in New Jersey golf.

Considering the history and pedigree of the club, it’s no wonder that Ridgewwod has ranked in the top 100 American courses in publications like Golf Digest and Golf World, and now a top five in GolfStyles Insider

 

Number 4 Plainfield Country Club

Plainfield Country Club, situated in Edison, New Jersey, is one of the most esteemed golf clubs in the United States. Established in 1890, the club has a long-standing reputation for excellence in the golfing world. The club's original course, designed by the legendary architect Donald Ross, has been recognized for its classic design and challenging layout. Over the years, Plainfield Country Club has hosted numerous prestigious tournaments, including the U.S. Open and PGA Championship, cementing its status as a premier golf destination.

The course at Plainfield Country Club is renowned for its strategic design and historical significance. Ross, created a layout that skillfully integrates natural terrain with challenging obstacles. The course is known for its subtle undulations, strategically placed bunkers, and fast greens, which require precision and strategic thinking from golfers. The course’s design has undergone thoughtful restorations to preserve Ross’s original vision while incorporating modern improvements.

Plainfield Country Club’s legacy extends beyond its historical significance and golf course design. It is celebrated for its role in shaping the culture of American golf and its ongoing contribution to the sport. The club's dedication to preserving its heritage while adapting to the evolving needs of its members ensures that it remains a prestigious and relevant institution in the golf world. As a host of significant tournaments and a venue for memorable golfing experiences, Plainfield Country Club continues to be a cherished destination for golf enthusiasts.

 

Number 3 Somerset Country Club

Somerset Golf Club, located in the picturesque town of Bernardsville, New Jersey, is a distinguished private golf club known for its serene setting and challenging course. Established in 1899, the club has a long history that reflects its commitment to providing an exceptional golfing experience. The course, designed by the renowned architect A.W. Tillinghast, features a layout that artfully integrates natural terrain with strategic design elements, making it a favorite among golf enthusiasts.

The design of Somerset Golf Club’s course is celebrated for its blend of aesthetic beauty and technical challenge. Tillinghast’s vision is evident in the course’s undulating fairways, strategically placed bunkers, and well-manicured greens. These features create a test of skill that requires both precision and strategic thinking. The course’s natural landscape, with its rolling hills and mature trees, adds to the scenic charm and enhances the overall golfing experience.

Number Two Baltusrol Golf Club

Baltusrol Golf Club, located in Springfield, New Jersey, is a prestigious golf club renowned for its rich history and exceptional course design. Established in 1895, the club's name is derived from the original landowner, Baltus Roll, and has since evolved into one of the most esteemed golf venues in the United States. The club boasts two notable courses: the Lower Course and the Upper Course, both of which have hosted numerous major tournaments, including multiple U.S. Open Championships and the PGA Championship. The Lower Course, in particular, is celebrated for its challenging layout and has been the site of many historic moments in golf.

The design of Baltusrol's courses reflects a legacy of excellence, having been crafted by the renowned architect A.W. Tillinghast. Tillinghast's vision for the Lower Course, with its strategic bunkering and demanding par-3 holes, offers a stern test for even the most skilled golfers. The Upper Course, redesigned by Tillinghast in the early 1920s, provides a contrasting yet equally compelling challenge with its wide fairways and large greens. Both courses are noted for their aesthetic beauty and playability, drawing golfers from around the world to experience their unique challenges.

Number one Pine Valley Golf Club

Pine Valley Golf Club, located in Pine Valley, New Jersey, is widely regarded as one of the most prestigious and exclusive golf courses in the world. Founded in 1913 by a group of Philadelphia businessmen led by George Arthur Crump, the course is renowned for its unique design, challenging layout, and breathtaking natural beauty. The course was designed by Crump in collaboration with a team of architects, including Harry Colt and A.W. Tillinghast, though much of its design was a result of Crump’s own vision.

The layout of Pine Valley is celebrated for its originality and difficulty. The course is known for its diverse and intricate design elements, which include a mix of long and short holes, dramatic elevation changes, and a variety of natural obstacles such as dense woods, sand dunes, and deep bunkers. Each hole presents a distinct challenge, requiring both skill and strategic thinking. Pine Valley’s emphasis on natural terrain and minimalist design ensures that the course integrates seamlessly with its surroundings, creating a golfing experience that is both demanding and visually stunning.

Pine Valley is also distinguished by its exclusivity and private nature. The club operates with a strict membership policy, making it one of the most sought-after golf destinations. The privacy and seclusion of the club add to its allure, as it is not open to the public and membership is by invitation only. This exclusivity has helped maintain the club's pristine condition and preserve the original design and spirit envisioned by its founders.