Which golf courses near Gatlinburg, TN offer the best combination of mountain scenery, course quality, and convenient facilities in 2026? Golfers have several strong options across East Tennessee and western North Carolina, from resort-style layouts to public courses suited for a relaxed vacation round. Based on location, available amenities, ratings, and practical trip planning, these are the best Golf Courses Gatlinburg TN visitors should consider.
1. Sequoyah National Golf Club
Located in Whittier, North Carolina, Sequoyah National Golf Club is a scenic mountain course designed around dramatic elevation changes and panoramic views. The facility includes a full golf course, golf club amenities, and a driving range. Its 4.6 rating from 533 reviews makes it one of the strongest day-trip options from Gatlinburg. On a mountain golf itinerary, this course stands out for its visual appeal and challenging terrain.
Phone: (828) 497-3000
Pros:
- Highly rated mountain layout
- Driving range available
- Excellent views and natural surroundings
Cons:
- Longer drive from central Gatlinburg
- Elevation changes may challenge beginners
2. Egwani Farms Golf Course
Egwani Farms Golf Course in Rockford is a well-reviewed Tennessee course with a 4.6 rating from 405 reviews. The layout provides a more open setting than many mountain courses, making it appealing for golfers who prefer traditional fairways and a quieter atmosphere. It is a regional option rather than a quick Gatlinburg round, but the course quality makes it worth considering for a full golf day.
Phone: (865) 970-7132
Pros:
- Excellent customer rating
- Peaceful rural setting
- Suitable for a dedicated golf day
Cons:
- Not close to downtown Gatlinburg
- Fewer listed amenities than resort facilities
3. Smoky Mountain Country Club & Vacation Rentals
Smoky Mountain Country Club combines golf with vacation accommodations in Whittier, North Carolina. The property offers a golf course, golf club facilities, and resort lodging, making it useful for golfers planning an overnight escape. With a 4.4 rating from 450 reviews, it is especially attractive for families or groups who want golf, mountain scenery, and a home-base experience near the Smokies.
Phone: (828) 497-7622
Pros:
- Golf and vacation rentals in one location
- Scenic mountain environment
- Good option for group trips
Cons:
- Located outside Gatlinburg
- Resort availability may vary by season
4. Patriot Hills Golf Club
Patriot Hills Golf Club in Jefferson City is a public golf facility with a golf club, driving range, and full course. Its 4.3 rating from 228 reviews reflects a dependable experience for golfers willing to travel beyond the immediate Smoky Mountain area. The driving range is useful for warming up before a round, while the public format makes access straightforward.
Phone: (865) 475-4466
Pros:
- Public course with driving range
- Convenient for a broader East Tennessee road trip
- Solid overall rating
Cons:
- Not among the closest courses to Gatlinburg
- Less resort-focused than some alternatives
5. Gatlinburg Golf Course
Gatlinburg Golf Course, located on Dollywood Lane in nearby Pigeon Forge, is one of the most convenient golf options for visitors staying in the Smoky Mountains. The public course has a 4.2 rating from 721 reviews, providing a substantial review history. Its location works well when combining golf with Dollywood, Pigeon Forge attractions, or a Gatlinburg vacation.
Phone: (865) 453-3912
Pros:
- Convenient location near Gatlinburg and Pigeon Forge
- Public access
- Extensive review history
- Easy to combine with other attractions
Cons:
- Can be busy during peak tourist seasons
- Mountain terrain may affect pace of play
6. Island Pointe Golf Club
Island Pointe Golf Club in Kodak offers a golf course, club facilities, and driving range. Rated 4.2 from 420 reviews, it is a practical choice for golfers traveling toward Knoxville or looking for a less tourist-centered course. The facility setup supports both casual rounds and players who want practice time before teeing off.
Phone: (865) 933-0100
Pros:
- Driving range available
- Good option for Knoxville-area itineraries
- Well-established review base
Cons:
- Considerable drive from Gatlinburg
- Less focused on Smoky Mountain scenery
7. Creekside Golf Course
Creekside Golf Course in Seymour provides a straightforward public golf experience in a quieter East Tennessee setting. With a 4.2 rating from 131 reviews, it has fewer reviews than larger facilities but maintains a positive reputation. This course may suit travelers who prefer a relaxed round away from the busiest tourist corridors.
Phone: (865) 577-4653
Pros:
- Peaceful location
- Positive customer rating
- Good choice for a less crowded golf outing
Cons:
- Limited listed amenities
- Smaller review sample than other courses
8. Smoky Mountain Golf Course
Smoky Mountain Golf Course in Newport is a regional course offering a classic Tennessee golf setting. The course holds a 4.2 rating from 156 reviews and can fit well into a day trip through the northern or eastern Smokies. Its location makes it a useful alternative when tee times near Gatlinburg are limited.
Phone: (423) 623-7321
Pros:
- Positive overall rating
- Scenic regional location
- Helpful backup for busy Gatlinburg golf schedules
Cons:
- Farther from the main Gatlinburg tourism zone
- Fewer listed facilities than larger clubs
9. Wild Laurel Golf Course
Wild Laurel Golf Course in Townsend offers a public course, golf club, and restaurant. Its 4.1 rating from 433 reviews makes it a popular option on the western side of the Great Smoky Mountains. The restaurant is a practical bonus after a round, particularly for golfers exploring Townsend and the quieter Wears Valley area.
Phone: (865) 738-3134
Pros:
- Restaurant on site
- Public golf access
- Convenient for Townsend and western Smokies visits
Cons:
- Moderate rating compared with top-ranked courses
- Less convenient for visitors staying in eastern Gatlinburg
10. Bent Creek Golf Course
Bent Creek Golf Course is located in Gatlinburg itself on East Parkway, making it one of the most geographically convenient Golf Courses Gatlinburg TN visitors can choose. The public course and golf club are surrounded by mountain scenery. It has a 3.8 rating from 468 reviews, so golfers should compare recent conditions and tee-time availability before booking.
Phone: (865) 436-3947
Pros:
- Directly in Gatlinburg
- Public course
- Mountain setting and convenient access
Cons:
- Lower rating than most courses on this list
- Course conditions and pace may vary
Before booking any 2026 round, confirm current green fees, operating hours, dress requirements, and tee-time policies by phone or through the course website. For convenience, start with Gatlinburg Golf Course and Bent Creek. For scenery and a destination-style round, consider Sequoyah National or Smoky Mountain Country Club.
