I had high hopes for Maple Grove Golf Course, with its spirited and entrepreneurial charm located in Lambertville, Michigan. The venue is more than just its 18-hole course; it also features a nine-hole par three, a driving range, and even some batting cages for softball and baseball enthusiasts. Despite the interesting mix of amenities, the overall golfing experience left much to be desired.
The course itself falls short of expectations. Covering only 5,403 yards, Maple Grove barely qualifies as an “executive course.” It offers six par threes, two par fives, and eleven par fours, with a few par fours stretching roughly 300 yards each. Even for those of us who aren’t heavy hitters, these holes just require a drive and a pitch. There’s also a peculiar hole that can either be played as a par 3 or 4, resulting in the course being listed as a par 68 or 69, depending on your approach.
Now, I’m all for executive courses—they play a valuable role in the golfing world. But it’s critical to market them as such. Maple Grove suggests it’s a “regulation course,” which typically translates to at least a par 70 and 6,000 yards in length. Unfortunately, it falls short on both accounts.
The condition of the course was another disappointment. On my visit, it was clear the fairways needed care; they were often hard to distinguish from the rough. Various areas had either dried out hardpan patches or were overly soggy, making play inconsistent and challenging.
Additionally, the trees around the course seemed to encroach a bit too much, creating a somewhat stifling atmosphere at times. I’ve never been a fan of overly manicured landscapes that strip away the natural charm of parkland, but in this case, a bit of strategic clearing could enhance both the playability and the overall condition of the course.
Yet, despite its shortcomings, I saw plenty of locals enjoying their time on the course. I even played alongside a regular who vouched for its appeal, emphasizing the unbeatable local rates. I paid just $20 for a walk. While I can see its local charm and value, it’s not a course I’d revisit.
The initial review was shared on April 8, 2025, reflecting on a round played during the previous year and covering notes and photos taken at the time. For a broader look at GolfBlogger’s reviews on Michigan courses, follow the provided link. A photographic tour of the Maple Grove course is also included, detailing each hole and its unique challenges.
