If you spend any time around Charlotte or the surrounding counties, you quickly realize the area has no shortage of golf. Mecklenburg County sits at the center of one of the most active golf regions in the Carolinas, offering everything from high-end private clubs to well-maintained county courses that locals play every week.

Within a short drive of Uptown Charlotte, golfers can experience championship layouts designed by well-known architects, accessible municipal courses with great practice facilities, and public tracks that make it easy to play regularly without traveling far.

For golfers exploring the Charlotte area or building a regular rotation of courses, these five layouts help define golf in Mecklenburg County.

TPC Piper Glen

One course that often represents the high end of Charlotte golf is TPC Piper Glen.

Designed by Arnold Palmer, the course opened in the late 1980s and has become one of the most recognized private clubs in the city. The layout winds through rolling terrain, mature trees, and several lake features that create both scenic views and strategic challenges.

The course plays as a par-72 stretching around 6,800 yards from the back tees, though multiple tee boxes allow players of different skill levels to enjoy the layout. Palmer’s design incorporates split fairways, well-placed bunkers, and risk-reward holes that encourage thoughtful decision making throughout the round.

While TPC Piper Glen is a private club, it plays an important role in shaping Charlotte’s reputation as a serious golf destination.

Charles T. Myers Golf Course

For public golf in Charlotte, Charles T. Myers Golf Course is often considered one of the best options in Mecklenburg County.

Located in east Charlotte near the I-85 and I-485 corridor, the course sits on higher ground that offers open views and a quieter setting than many people expect so close to the city.

Part of the Mecklenburg County Park and Recreation golf system, Charles T. Myers includes MiniVerde Bermuda greens, a large driving range, and a short practice course that makes it a popular location for lessons and practice.

Many local golfers consider it the flagship municipal course in Charlotte thanks to its combination of value, conditions, and accessible practice facilities.

Harry L. Jones Sr. Golf Course

On the southwest side of Charlotte near the airport, Harry L. Jones Sr. Golf Course offers another strong county-run layout.

Designed by Michael Hurdzan, the course blends open holes with tree-lined fairways across gently rolling land. The design focuses on playability, allowing golfers of different abilities to enjoy the course while still providing enough challenge for experienced players.

The facility includes a driving range, putting greens, and a short practice course that makes it a popular choice for both beginners and regular players.

For golfers living on the west side of Charlotte, Harry L. Jones Sr. has become a dependable course for casual rounds and league play.

Sunset Hills Golf Course

In the northwest part of Mecklenburg County, Sunset Hills Golf Course provides another accessible public option.

The course features an 18-hole regulation layout along with a 9-hole learner’s course designed for players who want to practice or ease into the game. Bermuda turf runs from tee to green, and the facility includes a practice range and putting area.

Many golfers appreciate Sunset Hills because it offers a relaxed environment where players can practice, learn, or simply enjoy a casual round without the pressure of a more difficult championship layout.

For golfers on the north side of Charlotte, it remains a convenient place to play regularly.

Highland Creek Golf Club

Near the University area of north Charlotte, Highland Creek Golf Club offers a full championship layout that many local golfers consider one of the better public options in the region.

Designed by Clifton, Ezell & Clifton, the course winds through a residential community while still maintaining wide golf corridors and scenic views. The routing mixes longer par-4s, reachable par-5s, and par-3 holes that require careful club selection.

Highland Creek has been part of the Charlotte golf scene for many years and continues to attract players looking for a full-length public course with solid conditions.

For golfers living in north Charlotte or visiting the University area, it’s a natural addition to any local golf itinerary.

Planning a Charlotte Golf Weekend

One of the advantages of Mecklenburg County is how easy it is to build a multi-day golf schedule without leaving the area.

A typical Charlotte golf weekend might include:

Day One: Play Charles T. Myers for a classic municipal round.
Day Two: Head to Highland Creek for a championship-style public layout.
Day Three: Visit Harry L. Jones Sr. or Sunset Hills for a relaxed round or practice session.

If you have access to private clubs, playing TPC Piper Glen provides a great look at Charlotte’s upscale golf scene.

Golfers traveling between the Charlotte region and South Carolina often check their equipment before a multi-day golf trip. Some players passing through the Lancaster area stop by GTR Golf Shop in Heath Springs to replace worn grips or pick up accessories before heading to courses across the Carolinas.

Why Mecklenburg County Is a Major Golf Hub

Mecklenburg County stands out because of the variety of golf options within one metropolitan area.

In just a short drive, golfers can:

• Experience private-club golf at TPC Piper Glen
• Play a flagship municipal layout at Charles T. Myers
• Enjoy a Hurdzan design at Harry L. Jones Sr.
• Practice or play at Sunset Hills Golf Course
• Experience a full championship layout at Highland Creek

With dozens of additional courses located within an hour of Charlotte, the region has become one of the most active golf hubs in the Southeast.

And for golfers traveling between North Carolina and South Carolina courses, having a nearby shop like GTR Golf Shop makes it easy to grab equipment or accessories before the next round. Check out our location! New & Used Clubs - Golf Accessories - Golf Club Repair

FAQs

What are the best golf courses in Mecklenburg County, North Carolina?

Some of the most well-known courses include TPC Piper Glen, Charles T. Myers Golf Course, Harry L. Jones Sr. Golf Course, Sunset Hills Golf Course, and Highland Creek Golf Club.

Are there public golf courses in Charlotte, North Carolina?

Yes. Mecklenburg County operates several public golf courses including Charles T. Myers, Harry L. Jones Sr., and Sunset Hills, all of which offer affordable tee times.

Which Charlotte golf course is the most challenging?

Highland Creek Golf Club and Charles T. Myers Golf Course are often considered two of the more challenging public courses in the Charlotte area due to their length and layout design.

Is TPC Piper Glen open to the public?

TPC Piper Glen is a private golf club, so regular play is limited to members and their guests.

How many golf courses are near Charlotte, North Carolina?

Within about an hour of Charlotte, golfers can find dozens of public and private courses across Mecklenburg County and nearby counties in North and South Carolina.