With 53% of golf tourism growth originating in North America during 2021-2025 (according to Technavio), there are always a variety of domestic destinations to consider, and unexpectedly, the grass might even be greener.
Mississippi has several gorgeous courses ranging in difficulty across the state that are worth the drive. The diverse scenery and well-maintained courses are sure to enhance the game for any player, whether fresh on the course or a seasoned pro.
Checkout these eight superb Mississippi’s top golf courses that are truly above par.
The Preserve is a beautiful course on the Mississippi Gulf Coast and is known for being particularly well maintained. Created by designer Jerry Pate, the course is a Certified Silver Audubon International Signature Sanctuary. The golf carts are equipped with GPS, and the course features a unique pitcher plant bog.
Shell Landing is a challenging course known for its rolling hills and friendly staff. Located in Gautier, the course offers an affordable golfing experience with beautiful waterfront views. Shell Landing is also home to The Landing Bar and Grill, which is open to golfers and the public alike.
Mossy Oak Golf Club is a new course in Mississippi, but it has been getting a lot of attention since opening late last year. The course is named for nearby camouflage giant Mossy Oak, and it was designed by architect Gil Hanse, who is known for the course he designed for the 2016 Rio Olympics.
Nestled under the big sky of the Mississippi Delta, Tunica National Golf & Tennis strives to emulate a private club feel while providing the accessibility of a public course. The course was designed by Mark McCumber and is challenging enough to attract pros while still offering a playable experience for the casual golfer.
Although The Refuge is located just 15 minutes outside of downtown Jackson in Flowood, visitors to the course will feel that they have stumbled on a remote paradise (hence the name). Eighteen holes tucked into over 200 acres of beautiful natural wetlands, oak groves, and pine trees make this an unforgettable destination.
Olive Branch is one of the fastest-growing cities in the state, so it’s no wonder that they’re home to one of the best golf courses. Cherokee Valley opened in 1996, and the staff has put a lot of effort into maintaining the course throughout the years, making it more popular than many of the locations in nearby Memphis.
The Dogwoods is a municipal course maintained by the City of Grenada. Named for the beautiful dogwood trees which grace the grounds, the course (which was designed by Gary Roger Baird of Global Golf Design) has been recognized by Golf Digest as “America’s Best New Bargain.”
A Jack Nicklaus Signature Design, Grand Bear Golf Club opened in 1999 in Saucier, MS to widespread fanfare and near universal acclaim. Built six miles into the DeSoto National Forrest, the course offers a seemingly private golf experience as no two holes parallel another, and homes, roads, or other distractions are absent while on property.
In its place, the golfer is alone to enjoy the pristine natural environment, where the manicured course conditions meet the towering pines and surrounding cypress wetlands, facing the challenge of the trademark Nicklaus design, while being treated to superior customer service from bag drop at arrival to the warm farewell.
