Adventure Collective
Brainerd Golf Course
Public
Municipal
18-Hole

Brainerd Golf Course

Chattanooga, Tennessee, USASoutheast Tennessee

Brainerd Golf Course offers an accessible 18-hole public layout in Chattanooga, Tennessee, blending challenge and approachability with a course length of roughly 6,450 yards. Its straightforward design and friendly staff create an inviting setting for golfers seeking value and strategic play in a municipal environment.

Course Overview

Brainerd Golf Course, located in Chattanooga, Tennessee, offers an 18-hole public layout that welcomes golfers seeking a straightforward yet engaging municipal experience. Its relatively modest length, stretching to approximately 6,450 yards from the back tees with a par of 72, makes the course accessible to players of various skill levels, though it leans toward rewarding thoughtful shot-making and course management.

The course’s terrain unfolds with a blend of tree-lined fairways and strategically placed hazards, including water features that demand precise approach shots. Certain holes come with their own character, such as the par-3 that plays alongside a well-traveled road, injecting a touch of uncommon challenge and local flair. This layout does not rely on length alone; instead, it tests accuracy and control, offering risk-reward scenarios particularly appealing to mid-handicap players and above.

Greens at Brainerd vary in speed and condition depending on seasonal maintenance, often delivering a test of putting that encourages focus on pace and reading subtle breaks. While maintenance has seen uneven stretches, the course staff typically maintain a welcoming atmosphere and encourage a visitor-friendly environment.

The clubhouse, though modest, provides essential services including a stocked pro shop and rental clubs, albeit with somewhat dated equipment. Golfers who prefer walking will find the course manageable on foot, but given the occasional elevation changes and summer heat, a cart rental is commonly advised for comfort.

Players looking for an affordable round in the Chattanooga area will appreciate Brainerd’s value and accessibility. Its municipal status supports spontaneous tee times and a casual pace to play. The course’s layout demands strategic play without overwhelming complexity, making it a practical option for beginners wanting to build confidence and for regulars pursuing familiar challenges.

Visiting golfers should plan accordingly for variable course conditions and embrace the straightforward, welcoming style that characterizes this local favorite. Brainerd Golf Course stands out as a balanced public venue where the fundamental elements of the game come to the fore amid approachable surroundings.

Course Highlights

The course features a distinctive par-3 adjacent to a busy roadway, providing an uncommon sightline and challenge. Tree-lined fairways and water hazards come into play on several holes, encouraging accurate shot placement. The layout favors strategic play over sheer power, creating opportunities for golfers to test course management skills.

Municipal
Affordable
Accessible
Walking Friendly

Frequently Asked Questions

Guest Reviews

4.8(10 reviews)

ThreeLeaf

3 months ago
I really wanted to enjoy my round at Brainerd Golf Course, but unfortunately, my experience was far from pleasant. From the start, the course was in terrible shape. The fairways were poorly maintained, with large patches of dead grass, making it difficult to get any consistent contact with the ball. The rough was incredibly thick and wild, leading to numerous lost balls, and it was nearly impossible to find a decent lie in many areas. The greens were the most frustrating part of the course. They were slow, inconsistent, and riddled with bald spots, which made putting feel like a guessing game. Putt after putt would either roll off in strange directions or simply stop short. It was clear that little effort had gone into maintaining them, and it was almost impossible to gauge speed or break. The layout of the course didn’t help either. Many of the holes were poorly designed, with awkward water hazards and narrow fairways that seemed more like obstacles than challenges. The flow of the course didn’t feel natural, and the overall experience just wasn’t enjoyable. The staff didn’t do much to improve the situation either. There was a lack of hospitality, and the customer service felt robotic and uninterested. No one seemed to care about the state of the course or how golfers were feeling. Overall, Brainerd Golf Course was a huge disappointment. With poor course conditions, frustrating greens, and lackluster service, I wouldn’t recommend it to anyone. I won’t be coming back, and I’d suggest looking elsewhere for a more enjoyable golfing experience.

David Gardner

6 years ago
What a fun public course. I played with a group of friends. Course was in average shape and the greens were fast and in good shape. Not a long course from the tips. 6450 yards....but risk and reward. I'd recommend to play. Pro shop small but equipped well and staff was very friendly. Paid 78 for 2 people 18 holes with a cart on the weekend. Great Value

Jonathan Durichek

3 years ago
This was my first time visiting the Brainerd Golf course and really enjoyed my experience here. The staff were great and got me at the last minute too. I missed my time slot to team up with two other more experienced guys. The tardiness because of traffic was a blessing. I met some great guys and learned a few things. I do have to say, if you're not a great at setting up shots, there are many houses to hit or cars by the roadway. This is not a negative but means a better place to learn and hoan in things to work on or learn. Great experience. I would recommend this course to anyone.

Jamie R.

2 weeks ago

Sam Speights

a week ago
The course is in amazing shape.

Art McKeldin Jr

a week ago
An above average 18-hole municipal Course that all recreational golfers will enjoy. Friendly and helpful staff. Clean facility.

Scott

a month ago

Ashton White

a year ago
Brainerd Golf Course offers a spontaneous golfing opportunity, accommodating even last-minute players. The charm of this municipal course includes a par 3 along a bustling road, adding a touch of classic muni character. Despite the exceptionally dry conditions, the staff maintains a friendly atmosphere. The rented clubs may have seemed like relics from a '90s yard sale, but surprisingly, they held up well, allowing for straight shots and an enjoyable round without losing a single ball.

Art McKeldin Jr

a week ago
An above average 18-hole municipal Course that all recreational golfers will enjoy. Friendly and helpful staff. Clean facility.

Michael Peterson

3 months ago
This place is very run down. The golf store and food need work and the place needs to be cleaned.

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Course Details

Holes
18
Total Yardage
6,450
Par
72
Access Type
public
Course conditions fluctuate seasonally; summer months may result in drier fairways and greens.

Access & Location

Address

5203 Old Mission Rd, Chattanooga, TN 37411, USA

Clubhouse

Modest clubhouse with pro shop and rental equipment available

Walking Policy

Walking is permitted and feasible, though the course features some elevation changes; sturdy shoes and water are advised, especially in warmer months

Open to the public with walk-up tee times generally available; cart rentals recommended but not mandatory

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