Fall Creek Falls Golf Course: Nature’s Challenge on the Cumberland Plateau

High atop the Cumberland Plateau, Fall Creek Falls Golf Course delivers a golf experience that’s as rewarding as it is scenic. Set within Fall Creek Falls State Park, one of Tennessee’s most iconic parks, this public golf course in Tennessee is known for its forest-lined fairways, dramatic elevation changes, and quiet surroundings.

Designed by Joe Lee in 1972, it continues to be a standout among state park golf courses for its thoughtful layout and immersive nature setting. Whether you’re a local looking for a peaceful round or planning a Tennessee golf trip, this course is worth the drive.

📍 Location, Hours & Info

• 📍 Address: 626 Golf Course Road, Spencer, TN 38585

• 📞 Phone: (423) 881-5706

• 🌐 Website: Fall Creek Falls Golf Course

• 🚗 Distance from Chattanooga: Approx. 65 miles (1 hr 15 min drive)

• 🕒 Hours: Open daily; hours vary by season

• 🔓 Access: Public – tee times available to all golfers

Get directions to Fall Creek Falls Golf Course >

⛳ Course Features & Amenities

• 18-hole, par-72 layout designed by Joe Lee

• Yardage: 3,573 (Orange Tees) to 6,655 (Blue Tees)

• 71 strategically placed bunkers; very few water hazards

• Practice facilities: driving range and putting green

• Certified Audubon Cooperative Sanctuary

• Pro Shop with apparel, clubs, and accessories

• Cart and club rentals available

• On-site snack bar for quick meals and drinks

🌟 What Makes It Unique

This isn’t your typical public course. Fall Creek Falls stands out for its deep connection to nature and its isolation from residential development or noise.

With zero parallel holes and no housing along the fairways, every shot feels like its own chapter.

Surrounded by dense Tennessee woodland and filled with elevation changes, it’s an ideal setting for golfers who appreciate peaceful rounds and the challenge of thoughtful design.

As one of the top public golf courses in Tennessee, it offers a rare blend of affordability, scenery, and seclusion that’s hard to find elsewhere.

🗣️ What Golfers Are Saying

Golfers who visit Fall Creek Falls often talk about how relaxing and quiet the course is. Many mention how well it blends into its surroundings, providing a tranquil, almost meditative experience.

The course is frequently described as both fair and challenging, with a mix of short and long holes. It’s considered one of the best-kept secrets for scenic public golf courses near Chattanooga, and several reviews highlight the impressive condition of the greens.

🧭 Tips for First-Time Players

• ⛳ Use the short game area: The putting green and range are great for warming up

• 🌲 Watch for bunkers: There are over 70 bunkers, many near the greens

• 🦌 Embrace the setting: Keep an eye out for deer, turkeys, and other wildlife

• 📸 Bring your camera: You’ll find photo-worthy views all over the back nine

• 📅 Book early: Tee times for this state park golf course in Tennessee fill quickly on weekends

📸 Scenic Views & Photo Ops

One of the most visually memorable golf courses on the Cumberland Plateau, the course features rolling fairways framed by towering trees and occasional glimpses of wildlife.

Hole 15, with its sweeping dogleg left and elevated tee box, is especially popular for scenic shots. Fog rising over the course during early morning rounds creates an unforgettable backdrop for photos.

🍴 Nearby Recommendations

Make the most of your visit with a bite to eat after your round:

• The Restaurant at Fall Creek Falls Lodge
  Lakeside views and Southern-style dishes served inside the park
  Website: The Restaurant at Fall Creek Falls

• The Foglight Foodhouse
  Known for creative cuisine and riverside dining just a short drive away
  Website: The Foglight Foodhouse

📋 Quick Info Recap

• Address: 626 Golf Course Road, Spencer, TN 38585

• Hours: Daily; hours vary by season

• Fees: Affordable public rates

• Par: 72

• Holes: 18

• Tee Options: 3,573 – 6,655 yards (multiple sets)

🏁 Final Thoughts

Whether you’re searching for a scenic golf course near Fall Creek Falls State Park or planning a weekend golf trip from Chattanooga, Fall Creek Falls Golf Course delivers. It’s quiet, affordable, and filled with the kind of views you’ll remember long after the last putt drops. If you're a fan of golf courses designed by Joe Lee or just want a peaceful round in a natural setting, this course checks all the boxes.

Have you played Fall Creek Falls Golf Course? Tag @chattanoogalocal and share your experience—we’d love to hear about your round!