Tom Fazio’s Old North State Club dazzles golfers with its peninsula routing, fresh post-restoration conditioning, and dramatic Badin Lake vistas. While it sits just outside the top national rankings, it’s a must for those seeking North Carolina’s most scenic private golf.
Old North State Club’s Tom Fazio design uses its peninsula setting to dramatic effect, with holes crowding Badin Lake’s edge and weaving through mature Carolina pines. Fazio’s newly restored bunkers, expanded and subtly contoured greens, and carefully cleared sightlines set up diverse shot values from tee to green. The routing never drifts far from water, and decisions abound: lay up or go for par 5s, hug risk-reward lines off the tee, and decipher each restored green’s challenges—all amid lush, meticulously maintained turf.
Tom Fazio’s championship style is on vibrant display: bold visuals, flowing fairways, and green complexes that reward creativity, now reenergized by the 2023 renovation.
A sweeping par 5 launches you down the peninsula, lined by pines and hints of water. The fairway invites a confident first strike, but smart play sets up a controlled wedge into an undulating restored green.
Favor the right side; risk-reward for longer hitters on the second. A wary approach and disciplined wedge play yield early scoring chances.
Missing left—or coming out cold—brings deep bunkers and awkward lies into play quickly.
Superbly groomed TifEagle Bermuda greens, pristine fairways after the 2023 restoration, and predictably consistent bunkers throughout.
Relaxed, never rushed; member-focused private club rhythm.
Refined lakeside resort feel, friendly and Southern, with a sense of occasion on every tee.
Traditional private club attire—collared shirts, no denim.
Fresh Bermuda greens are quick, with more slope restored—practice speed on the practice green before you head out.
Lake breezes mean conditions can change rapidly; bring a windbreaker or light rain gear.
Check the yardage book for smart layup spots—aggressive play can be costly, especially off the tee.
Course opens, designed by Tom Fazio
Named Golf Digest #2 Best New Private Course in America
Begins long-standing run hosting ACC Men’s Golf Championship
Confirmed host for ACC Men’s Golf Championship; Women’s ACC events also played
Ranked #8 in North Carolina (McConnell Golf)
Major $3 million Fazio-led restoration completed
Old North State Club closed for months in 2023 as Fazio’s team restored greens to their original scale, rebuilt all bunkers, and peeled back tree lines for sunlight and views. The project earned club-wide praise—'the course has never been better.'
For over 20 years, the ACC Men’s (and often Women’s) Golf Championships have brought collegiate stars to Badin Lake, fostering dramatic finishes and a sense of big-stage tradition.
Each round is framed by panoramic lake vistas and peninsula breezes, with holes winding through woods or running right beside the shoreline. You might spot bald eagles or herons as part of the round.
Old North State made an immediate splash in the golf world as Golf Digest’s #2 Best New Private Course in 1992 and has remained a top-35 North Carolina mainstay ever since.
Built atop a two-and-a-half-mile lake peninsula for maximum water views.
Host site for more than 20 ACC Men’s and Women’s Golf Championships.
Fazio’s 2023 restoration expanded greens and enhanced shot variety.
Golf Digest’s #2 Best New Private Course in America (1992).
You’re likely to spot bald eagles and herons mid-round, thanks to the neighboring Uwharrie National Forest.
Unique, wild Mike Strantz design—rugged bunkering, public access, and great contrast with Fazio’s polish.
Fun, varied holes near Badin Lake; relaxed and welcoming for groups.
Convenient add-on with friendly pace and walkability.
Budget-friendly play; complements a high-end trip with a casual round.
Albemarle or Mount Gilead for proximity; Concord/Charlotte suburbs for amenities.
Courses with the most similar DNA profile — matched by deviation shape across all eight playing characteristics.
Why it matches: Kelly Plantation Golf Club is a natural next stop after Old North State Club: it offers similarly polished playing surfaces.
Why it matches: There is real overlap here. Anthem Country Club offers similarly polished playing surfaces, making it a compelling counterpart to Old North State Club.
Why it matches: What links these two? Makes the landscape part of the experience — a familiar feeling, expressed in Gozzer Ranch Golf & Lake Club's own setting.
Community Sentiment
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