A beer on the patio at Owen’s Pub overlooking the Par 3 - 6th hole provides the perfect pre or post-round entertainment as you watch golfers struggle to clear the lake in front of the green. The Irish Pub doubles as a clubhouse, embodying the course’s Celtic atmosphere where a bagpiper performs every evening at 5:30 pm.
Consistently heralded as one of the best public golf courses in New Jersey, Ballyowen is the flagship track amongst Crystal Spring’s collection of 7 courses. Located in the scenic hills of Sussex County, the course’s visual display is stunning. Its Irish-heathland style layout, including wide, fescue-laden fairways, intimidating bunkers, and a lack of trees, will satisfy any NJ golfer’s search for a taste of Ireland.
There is a range on-site, but be sure to spend more time on the practice putting green; Ballyowen’s greens are quick and tricky due to the hilly landscape. Tee shots require picking the right club and not just reaching for your driver every hole.
Ballyowen is the only public golf course in NJ offering caddie service.
The trip to Ballyowen is likely a long one for most. Make a day trip or do as we did - staying overnight and playing one (or two) of Crystal Springs’ other courses the next day.
Public: Course Website | Opened: 1998 | Designer: Roger Rulewich