Golf In The Garden State Begins To Rebound After Hurricane Sandy

Home Page Photo: Mini Golf in Point Pleasant takes a hit. Credit: Wayne Parry/AP

As New Jersey and areas nearby struggle to recover from the damage caused by Hurricane Sandy, one of the common challenges is to seek ways to work toward to normalcy. For some, a return to their job or the ability to begin a day with hot coffee might signal a step in a positive direction. Others might seek a distraction from the last week’s events by going for a jog, watching a football game, or even playing golf. While those in the golf industry were reminded over the past week that “it’s just a game” and its relative importance is quite minimal, golf presents an opportunity for a well-needed distraction for many in our region.

In the early hours after Sandy’s departure from the area, many weather forecasters remarked that one fortunate aspect to the storm was that New Jersey did not face flooding issues similar to those caused last summer by Hurricane Irene. This enabled many golf courses to reopen just days after the storm quieted. Many facilities ranging from the Atlantic City area and west toward the Philadelphia suburbs, and in many central and northern New Jersey counties are open for business.

The following information has been compiled from courses throughout New Jersey; public courses are encouraged to contact the NJSGA with any pertinent information. Visitors are encouraged to check back frequently, as the NJSGA will provide updates.

Monmouth County:

Bel-Aire, Charleston Springs North, Hominy Hill, Shark River all open for play. Walk-ons only, Cash or Check only

Bergen County Courses (Darlington, Orchard Hills, Overpeck, Rockleigh, Valley Brook):

All open for play.

Atlantic County:

Many open for play.

Essex County Courses (Francis Byrne, Hendrick’s Field, Weequahic):

All open for play.

Somerset County:

3 of 5 open for play. Neshanic Valley, Spooky Brook, and Quail Brook open. Warrenbrook is closed for the season, Green Knoll closed due to storm, should open in the next couple days.

Morris County Courses (Berkshire Valley, Flanders Valley, Pinch Brook, Sunset Valley):

All open for play.

Mercer County Courses (Mercer Oaks, Mountain View, Princeton):

Open for play

Union County Courses:

Closed due to storm damage (as of Monday, November 5). The learning center at Galloping Hill is open.

Middlesex County:

Tamarack Golf Course still closed, should open later in the week.

Sussex County:

Crystal Springs Resortcourses are open.

Passaic County:

Closed due to downed utility wires.