Robert Trent Jones Golf Course in Goose Creek

A public championship course designed by a legendary architect

Robert Trent Jones Golf Course is an 18-hole public course in Goose Creek, about 20 minutes north of Charleston. It was designed by Robert Trent Jones Sr., one of the most influential golf architects of the 20th century, and opened in 1990. The course plays to over 7,000 yards from the back tees and sits on 165 acres of lowcountry terrain with water hazards, native trees, and strategic bunkering throughout.

The course is owned and operated by the City of Goose Creek and welcomes daily play from golfers of all skill levels. It's known for its well-maintained fairways, challenging par-4s, and finishing holes that demand precision. The design reflects Jones's signature style: playable from multiple tee boxes but with enough difficulty to test experienced players.

Key Takeaways

• Robert Trent Jones Golf Course is a public 18-hole championship course in Goose Creek designed by one of golf's most respected architects.
• The course stretches over 7,000 yards and features water hazards, native lowcountry vegetation, and strategic bunkering on 165 acres.
• Multiple tee boxes allow golfers of different abilities to play from distances that suit their game.
• The course is open to the public for daily play and includes a practice range, putting green, and clubhouse with food service.

Layout and design features

The course winds through typical lowcountry landscape: oak trees, cypress, and marsh areas that come into play on several holes. Water hazards appear on at least half the holes, and the routing takes advantage of natural elevation changes that are subtle but noticeable in the Goose Creek area. Bunkers are positioned to reward accurate approach shots and penalize errant ones.

Jones designed the course with four sets of tees, so the yardage ranges from around 5,000 yards for shorter hitters to over 7,000 from the championship tees. This approach means a beginner can play a manageable round while a low-handicap golfer faces a genuine test. The par is 72, and the course rating and slope vary depending on which tees you choose.

Several holes are particularly memorable: the par-3s demand accurate iron play over water, and the finishing stretch includes a strong par-4 and par-5 that require solid execution down the stretch.

Amenities and services

The clubhouse sits near the first tee and includes a pro shop, restaurant, and bar. Food and beverage service is available before, during, and after your round. The practice range is full-length with grass tees, and there's a dedicated putting green where you can warm up before play.

The course offers both walking and cart play, though cart rental is standard. Golf lessons are available through the pro shop, and the staff can arrange group outings for clubs, corporate events, or tournaments. Membership options exist for regular players, though daily green fees are the most common way to play.

Getting there and course conditions

Robert Trent Jones Golf Course is located at 1 Goose Creek Golf Club Drive in Goose Creek, South Carolina. From Charleston, take I-26 north toward Summerville, then follow local roads to the course. Parking is ample at the clubhouse.

The course is open year-round, though conditions vary seasonally. Spring and fall typically offer the best playing conditions, with moderate temperatures and firm fairways. Summer rounds are possible but can be hot and humid. Winter play is feasible but the course may close briefly for maintenance.

Rates and booking

Green fees vary by season and day of the week. Weekday rates are typically lower than weekend rates, and rates are higher during peak season (spring and fall) than in summer or winter. Cart rental is included with most green fee packages. Twilight rates—discounted fees for play starting in late afternoon—are often available.

You can book a tee time by calling the pro shop directly or visiting in person. Walk-ins are accommodated when the course is not fully booked, though calling ahead is recommended, especially on weekends. The pro shop staff can answer questions about current rates and availability.

Why Robert Trent Jones matters to South Carolina golf

Robert Trent Jones Sr. designed over 500 courses worldwide and is credited with raising the standard of American golf course architecture. His courses are known for being fair but challenging, with strategic design that rewards good shots without being unfairly punitive. The Goose Creek course is one of his few public designs in South Carolina and represents his philosophy of making championship-level golf available to everyday players.

The course has hosted regional tournaments and amateur competitions over the years, and it remains a popular destination for golfers visiting the Charleston area who want to play a course with serious design credentials without the price tag of a private club.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need to be a member to play?

No. Robert Trent Jones Golf Course is open to the public for daily play. You pay a green fee and can book a tee time through the pro shop. Membership is optional and is mainly for golfers who play frequently.

Can I walk the course or do I have to rent a cart?

Walking is permitted, though cart rental is standard and included with most green fee packages. Ask the pro shop about walking rates when you book, as some times of day or seasons may have different policies.

What's the best time of year to play?

Spring (March through May) and fall (September through November) offer the most comfortable temperatures and best course conditions. Summer is playable but hot and humid. Winter is mild compared to northern states, though occasional closures for maintenance can occur.

How far is the course from Charleston?

Robert Trent Jones Golf Course is about 20 minutes north of downtown Charleston in Goose Creek. It's easily accessible from I-26 and makes a good day trip for visitors staying in the Charleston area.

Can I book a group outing or tournament?

Yes. The pro shop handles group bookings and can arrange outings for clubs, corporate events, and tournaments. Contact them directly to discuss your group size, preferred date, and any special requests.