It’s hard to imagine that a course that has only been in existence since May of 2008 would widely be considered as one of Maryland’s top Public Golf Courses, but after spending an afternoon at the course, it’s very easy to understand why Lake Presidential deserves these accolades . . . and many more.

Amazingly, Lake Presidential is still in its infancy still working through only its third golf season, although its run like such a well-oiled machine that you would believe it has been around for decades.  From the Bag Drop attendants and Maintenance Crew to the Pro Shop employees and the Starter, every member of the staff is well-educated about the course and treats you with a great amount of respect. 

You may think that I’m making this next part up, but trust me, I was just as shocked when the contractors working on a house just off one of the fairways actually halted their work while our group took our swings!  This clearly emphasizes the high level of value the development places on the golf course.

The layout of the course is phenomenal, providing an ideal golf experience.  From the Clubhouse, you essentially perform a figure-eight from the 1^st to the 18^th, each hole leading directly to the next with limited distance in between.  There is no fear of errant shots from other golfers affecting your play, and interaction between groups is limited to the four holes near the Clubhouse (1, 9, 10 & 18). 

Lake Presidential - view from the Clubhouse

Then there is the lake which gives the course its name — 30-acres of pristine waterway that Lake Presidential is designed around.  While the water and wind are key factors of numerous holes, it’s more the aesthetic impact of the lake that makes this a special place to play.

As for the course itself, the conditions are impeccable.  Even on a day after receiving lots of overnight rain, everything from Tee to Green was in excellent shape, and that includes the monstrous Sand Traps which I spent more time in than I like to admit.  It is very easy to tell that the Superintendent is on the top of his game as Lake Presidential seems to be one of the top conditioned courses in the region.

Overall, I left the course feeling euphoric; it is truly is an incredible experience.  There are not many courses that are as rewarding as Lake Presidential, and my only regret is that it took me until now to play.  I certainly will not make that same mistake twice and I cannot wait to schedule my next outing.

Less than 10 miles from the Bay Bridge, Hunter’s Oak Golf Club is the Eastern Shore’s best kept secret.  Once a private course, Hunter’s Oak has started to allow public play.  Featuring a challenging Par 72 Scottish links-style course, the river plantation compound also includes a 9-hole Championship course.

The entire facility is first class, from the staff to the practice range; guests are treated like members of an exclusive golf club.  As you drive on to the River Plantation, the rolling hills of the Scottish links-style course seemingly go on forever.  We were greeted with Hunter’s Oak representatives to take our bags and place them in carts.  Check-in was quick and as we walked out of the club house, the cart was conveniently pulled up right as we walked out the door.  Next, we were directed to the large grass driving range, which was lined with a plentiful amount of range balls.

We decided to play the 9-hole Parkland course first as a “warm-up” round.   The Parkland course is designed like a traditional American style course.  It features an open layout with its fair share of hazards.  The course was in excellent condition, with well manicured tee boxes, true greens and beautiful fairways.  After a quick 90 minute – 9 holes – we took a quick break and went on to the Scottish links-style par 72 course.

As soon as you tee up on hole #1 you immediately have an idea of the challenge you are about to encounter.  Each hole possess its unique challenges, however the tall grass that line the rolling fairways and large strategically placed pot bunkers are consistently throughout the course.  The course is fairly wide open – there are hardly any trees, so if you keep an eye on your ball it is usually in play wherever it lands (within reason).  The course guide was handy to understand the complexities of each hole.  It is crucial to plan out each shot and determine how to play each hole before you tee off.  As I teed up on every hole I took a couple minutes to take in the view, the course is quiet, there are no busy roads with traffic, or houses with noisy neighbors to worry about, just complete silence.

Playing Hunter’s Oak makes you feel as if you are in truly in Scotland – the beautiful scenic views and tranquil feel delivers an unmatched golf experience.  Having played just about every public course in Maryland, I can truly say nothing compares to Hunter’s Oak.