The Poconos Club — Attraction in Middle Smithfield Township

I’ve played most of the public courses with in 30 minutes of marshals creek and this one is definitely at the top of the list for me. First, the staff was great. Don’t let the “country club” in the name intimidate you. The staff was very welcoming and accommodating and as a non resident outsider I’ve gotten less than stellar treatment at other semi private courses. The course itself is super interesting. It plays short and narrow and certainly makes you think about your tee shot but a good decision off the tee and precise approach shot will reward you with a true rolling green to give you a look at birdie. The tee boxes and fairways were showing their strain from the dry summer but they were flat which is a huge deal and the greens, where it matters most were in excellent condition. Some of the views were really spectacular too. Elevated tee boxes and punishing wood lines OB will make you think twice before going for the short par 4’s with your woods. It’s nestled in a residential area and houses usually concern me off the tee as I’m not always a straight shot but they were never really a concern as they are far enough away from the course and well guarded by trees I felt I could swing freely without having to worry about an errant shot costing me big $$$. Finally each hole is spaced out ridiculously far apart. I spent as much time driving as I did playing golf. Don’t take that the wrong way, the quiet trek though woods and gorgeous houses was a welcome sight. Even with that, I still finished in about 3 hours and I took my time planning my strategy and reading putts on this new to me course. I’d rate this 5 stars if the tee boxes and fairways were in better shape but the management assures me they will be putting in some time and money to making the needed improvements. Some may be displeased with the conditions I played in today, but as long as the greens roll true, I’m fairly easy to...

Finally after living in Bushkill, PA for 19 years, we hit the course yesterday for the first time. Living in Saw Creek, I played Pocono Hills formerly known as Fernwood as my main course being only 5 mins from my house. Disappointed for not trying this course sooner. Absolutely gorgeous course. Very well maintained. Beautiful views. Course holes are spread out. Nice drives in the cart from the greens to the next tee box. Greens are very soft and well maintained. Took a few holes adjusting my putting coming from a course that greens were very firm and extremely fast. I wouldn’t say the course is difficult, but can be challenging in certain situations. Many shots where you need to layup and play smart golf. If you go into certain situations with the mind mentality most of us golfers have of “I’m going to go for it, grip it and rip it”, you better have a lot of balls in your bag as the hazard areas are extremely unforgiving and that ball will be gone. Staff is very friendly, helpful in any concerns or questions you may have. I have played golf since I was 13 and am now 45. I really have never thought about becoming a member of any golf course up until now and that’s only after playing here once. I can honestly say that I have found my new...

I don't give 5 stars easily and unless worth the rating. I am stunned at the previous post that said there were no greens, just dirt. I played here last year at least 3 or 4 times and while it is not Augusta National, I found the course and greens to be very playable. A VERY GIMMICKY kind of layout with the holes spread out all over "town." Don't try to walk it! It has some very cool mountainous holes and others that were plain and simple. One problem I had was that the carts need repair / upgrades!! It was damp and the cart paths were slimy / slippery and the Brakes on my cart and several others would LOCK-UP causing VERY DANGEROUS / NEAR DEATH experiences on the Hilly cart paths. The Brakes Locking on the carts could cause you to spin out or worse just lose control and slide off rocky cliffs in between holes #1 and 2 and # 3 !! They need ABS brakes on the carts! ......The course is tricky but fun. It's Golf people, hit the fairway(s) - hit the Greens and make your putts!! Don't complain, because for the price - It's not a bad little place. No real amenities though - Don't go thinking you're gonna get a fancy Lunch or Dinner -...