The Southeast’s Best Kept Golf Secret
By Wade Conway – Coach, Lender, and Lifelong Golfer
There’s a little pocket of golf paradise tucked away in the Cumberland Plateau that doesn’t get enough credit — but maybe that’s part of its charm. It’s not flashy. It’s not hyped. But it’s quietly become one of my favorite places to tee it up and reset. I’m talking about Crossville, Tennessee.
Yep. Crossville. Population: relaxed. Golf scene: loaded.
The “Golf Capital of Tennessee” — and It Earned It
Crossville didn’t just slap that nickname on a license plate. With more than 150 holes across nine public-access courses, this little mountain town punches well above its weight class. Whether you’re grinding out a scorecard or just out for fresh air and fellowship, Crossville has the kind of variety that keeps you coming back.
Here’s what makes it special — and where you should play.
Stonehenge Golf Club
Stonehenge isn’t here to play nice. It’s a shot-maker’s dream and a scorecard-wrecker if you’re not paying attention. Elevation shifts, tight fairways, and tricky greens mean it’ll test your swing and your patience. But when you pull off a great round here? You’ve earned every bit of it.
Druid Hills
This one feels like home. Forgiving enough to keep the game fun, but still built to challenge your club selection. Great for a casual round, a client meeting, or a quiet afternoon walk in the pines.
Dorchester & Heatherhurst (Brae & Crag)
Dorchester is the kind of course that surprises you — shorter yardage but big on strategy. Heatherhurst brings two flavors: the Brae, longer and more demanding, and the Crag, compact but creative. Between them, you’ve got a full day of variety.
The Hidden Gems You Can’t Miss
Lake Tansi Golf Course
Tansi is golf’s version of a comfortable pair of jeans — dependable, relaxed, and somehow always exactly what you needed. Wide fairways, sneaky slopes, and a laid-back vibe make this one a local favorite. I’ve had some of my most enjoyable rounds here, and I’m not the only one.
Bear Trace at Cumberland Mountain (Nicklaus Design)
One of the best public tracks in the state, period. Jack Nicklaus didn’t phone this one in — Bear Trace has bold bunkering, elevation movement, and water that creeps in right when you’re feeling confident. It’s challenging without being unfair, and the scenery is just icing on the cake.
Deer Run Golf Course
This one is pure Crossville grit — a bit rustic, a bit raw, and a whole lot of heart. Deer Run might not have the polish of the bigger clubs, but it’s got character. Great layout, peaceful setting, and a loyal local crowd. Perfect for when you want a round without the rush, the rules, or the resort pricing.
A Golfer’s Playground — Without the Price Tag
One of the best-kept secrets of Crossville golf? You can play all day without draining your wallet. The quality-to-cost ratio here is unmatched. It’s the kind of town where you can play 18, eat a solid meal, and still have cash leftover for a bucket of range balls or a round two.
And the people? Salt of the earth. You won’t find snobby starters or corporate crowds here — just folks who love the game and are happy to share it with you.
Golf as a Mirror
Golf is more than a game. It’s a metaphor, a mindset, and sometimes, therapy with a scorecard. That’s why I keep coming back to Crossville. Out here, I’ve had coaching breakthroughs, business conversations that changed lives, and moments of clarity that didn’t cost a dime.
This is where I think. Where I refocus. Where I remind myself that growth isn’t always loud or expensive — sometimes it’s just 18 holes and a good walk spoiled.
Final Thought: Play with Purpose
If you haven’t played in Crossville, you’re overdue. Bring your clubs. Bring your business cards. Bring your mindset. Because something happens when you’re out here — something quiet, but powerful. You get better at golf, sure. But you might just get better at you.
Swing freely,
Wade Conway
Coach • Lender • Author of Never Settle for Par
www.neversettle4par.com