Big Hickory Golf Course
Big Hickory Golf Course delivers a welcoming 9-hole experience in Manchester, KY, blending approachable design with natural beauty. Known for smooth greens and water hazards that reward precision, it’s a budget-friendly course suited for golfers of all levels.
Course Overview
Big Hickory Golf Course presents a distinctive 9-hole layout that offers both challenge and charm in the heart of Manchester, Kentucky. This public course is known for its approachable design and natural landscape that make it a favorite for local golfers and visitors alike. The course unfolds across gently rolling terrain, interspersed with patches of mature trees and occasional water hazards that quietly influence strategy without overwhelming less experienced players.
The fairways at Big Hickory carry a rustic appeal, framed by lush greenery and open skies that invite a relaxed pace. Greens are well-maintained and often praised for their smooth, true roll, adding an enjoyable putting experience that rewards precision. Although the course does not feature sand bunkers, water hazards create subtle risk-reward decisions, particularly on the closing holes where careful club selection can make the difference between par and a challenging score.
Designed primarily for accessibility, Big Hickory welcomes golfers of all skill levels. Beginners find the layout forgiving yet instructive, while seasoned players appreciate the nuances in elevation and green contours that call for thoughtful shot-making. The absence of sand traps shifts focus onto clean ball striking and course management, providing a refreshing alternative to more penalized courses.
Amenities are kept straightforward, reflecting the community-driven nature of the club. Basic golf carts are available, and walking is encouraged for those who want to engage fully with the setting. The clubhouse serves as a friendly gathering spot, offering a modest but inviting atmosphere that reinforces the course’s welcoming spirit.
Big Hickory’s appeal lies in its balance of simplicity and subtle challenge, making it an ideal stop for a casual round or a quick practice session. Visitors can expect a pace of play that is generally smooth, with the possibility of some busy days on weekends. The course’s scenic backdrop, combined with its budget-friendly fees, creates an accessible golf experience that stands out in Southeast Kentucky’s golfing landscape.
Course Highlights
A unique 9-hole course praised for its smooth, fast greens and practical layout without sand bunkers. Water hazards add strategic interest, while the modest amenities maintain affordable play. The course showcases gently rolling Kentucky terrain with mature trees creating a natural boundary that blends challenge with accessibility.
Frequently Asked Questions
Guest Reviews
Montana Collette
Greens are in good shape, unique layout… only issue I have is the last 2 rounds I came to I was blessed with a 5 stack in front of us that held everyone up and the 2nd round on a different day there was a 6 stack on the tee box that held everyone back from finishing! Grass needs mowed. First hole can’t find ball bc of all the range balls in the fairway.
Lynsey Bryan Bowling
Big Hickory is a great asset for a small town like Manchester. It offers a beautiful 9 hole experience that cannot be found anywhere else.
Montana Collette
Greens are in good shape, unique layout… only issue I have is the last 2 rounds I came to I was blessed with a 5 stack in front of us that held everyone up and the 2nd round on a different day there was a 6 stack on the tee box that held everyone back from finishing! Grass needs mowed. First hole can’t find ball bc of all the range balls in the fairway.
Kyle Catching
Good course for the money really enjoyed it. In 25 years of golfing never played there.
brad oakwood
It's only a 9 hole golf course, but it's beautiful. Not expensive, either. Must go at least once to see the beauty! It's also not bad in the off-season.
James Lay
Jeff Bristow
Love this 9 hole course! People are what you would expect in a small community, wonderful. I am by no means a golf pro. Really pretty bad. I mostly play at four different KY state parks, this is what I am comparing it to. The greens at this course are the best I have played on, with the second best being at The golf course (really was the name) which now I believe is now closed. The greens are very fast when conditions are right. Just got done playing 9 holes with some friends that never played this course. The greens was super slow after all the rain, don't think they had been cut for a few days. Friends commented on how fast the greens was, I was complaining on how slow they was! There is no sand traps, I think it helps keep the cost down. There is water, sometimes too much for me. The carts are all in great shape too. For the money, I don't think there is a better course anywhere!!!! A whole 10 bucks for 9 holes. It is a 9 hole course. I wish they would put two holes on each green. You expect chandeliers, a five star restaurant, high dollar sports cars in the parking lot, well you need to go elsewhere. If you want to have a great laid back time and do t want to spend a arm and a leg to play a round or two. Check out big hickory! I don't know how they keep the cost down as they do. Wonderful little course! Thank you Manchester!
Charles Perrin
Big Hickory is probably the finest 9 hole course in Kentucky for playability, breathtaking natural surroundings, and affordability. If you are visiting Southeast Kentucky, just passing through, or live in a nearby county, come visit and play this Clay County gem!
brad oakwood
It's only a 9 hole golf course, but it's beautiful. Not expensive, either. Must go at least once to see the beauty! It's also not bad in the off-season.
Lynsey Bryan Bowling
Big Hickory is a great asset for a small town like Manchester. It offers a beautiful 9 hole experience that cannot be found anywhere else.
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Course Details
Access & Location
521 Old Hickory Drive, Manchester, KY 40962, USA
Big Hickory Golf Clubhouse
Walking encouraged and well-supported; wear soft spike shoes due to natural terrain and occasional wet areas.
No reservation required; walk-ins welcome, carts available on a first-come basis.
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