Golf Courses in Western Maryland
Western Maryland is the furthest corner of what this site covers, and it exists here for one reason: Deep Creek Lake. The McHenry area is a genuine vacation destination for Pittsburgh families, and the golf follows the tourism. Lodestone is the standout, a long modern course with serious elevation and views over the lake, and Fantasy Valley sits on the same resort property as the older and more forgiving option. Further east around Lonaconing and Rawlings the courses get smaller and cheaper, the kind of nine-hole layouts that exist for the towns around them rather than for visitors. If you are driving down for a week at the lake, this is the list. If you are looking for a Tuesday evening round, it is too far.
Why Play in Western Maryland
Because you are already there. Deep Creek draws a steady Pittsburgh crowd for the lake, the skiing and the state parks, and a round at Lodestone is a good use of a morning when the family wants a slower day. Lodestone in particular is a better course than most people expect to find two and a half hours from the city.
Best for
- Deep Creek Lake vacations
- Golf built into a longer trip
- Players who want one memorable course rather than several
Getting There
Deep Creek is about two and a half hours from Pittsburgh, down I-79 and across Route 40 or 68. The Lonaconing and Rawlings courses are another 40 minutes east of the lake. This is vacation driving, not commuting.
Season Tip
Garrett County sits high and gets real winter. The season here is shorter than Pittsburgh, realistically late May through early October, and mountain mornings stay cold well into June.
All 4 Courses in Western Maryland
Fantasy Valley Golf Course
Fore Sisters Golf Course
Lodestone Golf Course
Winnfield Golf
Frequently Asked Questions About Golf in Western Maryland
How far is Deep Creek Lake from Pittsburgh?
About two and a half hours, mostly on I-79 south and then Route 40 or 68 west. It is a common weekend and vacation destination for Pittsburgh families.
What is the best golf course at Deep Creek Lake?
Lodestone is the one worth the drive. It is a long modern layout with significant elevation change and views over the lake. Fantasy Valley, on the same resort, is shorter and more forgiving if you want an easier round.
Is it worth driving to Maryland to golf from Pittsburgh?
For a day trip, probably not. There is comparable golf much closer. It makes sense when you are already at Deep Creek for the lake or the skiing and want to fit a round in.
Explore Other Regions
Pittsburgh has 8 distinct golf regions. Each has its own character, pricing, and course styles.