Park golf is catching on fast. It’s easy, casual, and fun for everyone. No special gear or lessons are required–ust show up and play. That’s why more people find themselves searching for “park golf near me” when they feel like spending time with friends or family outdoors.
In this post, we’ll cover the basics of park golf and share how to find a course near you—especially since they’re still pretty rare in the U.S.
What makes a good park golf course?
The best courses blend into nature. They don’t fight the land—they work with it. Open views, fresh air, and space to move. That’s what people look for.
A great layout matters too. It should be walkable, with a mix of easy and tricky holes. Bonus points if there’s food and drinks nearby.
Natural settings vs. urban environments
Where you play really matters. Some courses are out in nature – tucked into parks or valleys with trees all around. These spots are quieter and give you that outdoor feeling that makes golf more relaxing. You get fresh air and actual scenery instead of buildings.
City courses are different. They’re usually closer to where people live and work, so you can squeeze in a round more easily. They tend to be smaller too, which works when you don’t have all day.
Both work fine – just depends what you’re looking for. Want to get away from everything? Go natural. Need something quick and close? Urban might be better.
What to look for in a park golf course
Not all park golf courses are the same. A good one should offer:
- Different hole styles
It keeps things interesting. Some short, some long. Some with curves, others straight. Variety makes each round feel fresh. - Natural scenery
Trees, hills, open skies—these little things matter. Playing in a pretty spot just feels better. - Relaxed Atmosphere No pressure. No dress codes. You don’t need fancy clothes or worry about breaking golf etiquette. It’s pretty laid back, so people feel comfortable whether they’ve never played before or they’re out there all the time.
- Beginner-friendly vibe
Park golf is simple to pick up. You don’t have to take lessons first or buy expensive equipment. Someone who’s never touched a golf club can figure it out quickly, which works well when you’ve got different skill levels in your group or people who just want to try something new without the pressure. - Onsite dining or drinks
It’s a huge plus. After a round, grabbing food or a drink nearby makes the day complete. Bonus if there’s outdoor seating with a view.
A closer look: 1Club in Vernon, NJ
1Club sits in Vernon Valley, surrounded by rolling hills and sky. It feels like a retreat, not a sports complex. The course was built to match the land—not reshape it.
Music plays in the background. Scoreboards keep track for you. No gear? No problem. Just come ready to have fun.
After playing, grab a cold drink at Hef’s Hideaway. Or sit down for a meal at Hef’s Hut—fresh, local food with a view. It’s more than just golf. It’s a full day outdoors.
In the news: 1Club featured on FOX 5
We were thrilled to be featured on FOX 5 as New Jersey’s first Park Golf destination! The segment spotlighted how 1Club at The Great Gorge is putting a fresh spin on traditional golf—offering a laid-back, all-ages experience that’s easy to learn and fun to play. With just one club and a big ball, Park Golf is designed to welcome everyone, from first-timers to seasoned players.
How to find park golf near you
Try Google Maps or Yelp. Type in ‘park golf course near me’ and browse. Look at photos, reviews, and what each course offers. Some spots need tee time bookings. Others are walk-in friendly. Also, check for press mentions in reputable publications—they can highlight standout courses and hidden gems.
Who plays park golf?
Park golf draws all kinds of people:
- Couples looking for a fun date
- Retirees enjoying a light activity
- Families playing together outdoors
- Beginners trying something new
- Groups of friends hanging out
Final thoughts
Park golf is simple, social, and fun. Places like 1Club in NJ show how great the experience can be. Beautiful views, relaxed vibes, and a course that fits the land.
Ready to try it one of the newest and most exciting NJ activities? Book a tee time and get out there.