Rock Spring Golf Club, West Orange, NJ

The Rock Spring Golf Course is a public course that allows any golfer to experience a championship-type layout.

Open since 1925, this course is one of only two public courses designed by famous golf architect Seth Raynor. The course has a classic design with good variety from hole to hole. Water comes into play in many spots as well as the mature trees and rolling hills that nature has provided. Bunkers protect each green while doglegs have you considering every shot.

Water comes into play right away at Rock Spring as the first two holes are situated across the picturesque Cable Lake. Your tee shot on the 351-yard, par-4 first hole is over the water; don't go left of the fairway on the 385-yard, par-4 second hole or your ball will end up in the lake.

The par-71 course is 6,445 yards from the back tees and has just two par-5 holes. It's not an easy course as the obstacles are more of a challenge than the distance. For example, the par-5 sixth hole is the longest on the course at 528 yards, but is one of the few holes on the course that is wide open. You can chance ripping the driver on this hole and good golfers have a decent chance of putting for birdie (or even eagle if you are a big hitter).

Rock Spring was a private club until just a few years ago and the attention to details at the course is certainly at a premium level. The bent-grass course is very well maintained and the greens play true. Several PGA Tour qualifiers have been held at the course as well as the New Jersey State Open.

The clubhouse doesn't look like much from the outside but the inside is clean and charming. Stop by the grille after your round for sandwiches, salads and fish tacos. The clubhouse has great views of the Manhattan skyline, which is only 15 miles away.

Play a round during prime times on the weekend and expect to pay $80 (with cart). For lower rates, consider playing after 2:30 p.m. or during the week. Annual memberships are also available for local golfers.

Rock Spring Golf Course is ideal for golfers who want a top-notch experience without the country club price.