Bethpage Black Golf Course — Attraction in Town of Oyster Bay

Wanted to add this review, as when I had researched- there was very little said about the camping experience at Bethpage. I figured I'd try and make others' lives a little easier and tell you about ours.

We came from Ottawa, Canada for my dad's 65th birthday in the summer of 2018. It's long been on his bucket list for the camping experience at Bethpage. We had passes to the US Open at Shinnecock (about an hour east) on the Friday and wanted to play the Black course on the Thursday. As there was little written about the ins and outs of the camping experience, we figured we best get there early to secure a spot- as we didn't know what kind of demand there would be with the US Open nearby.

We made it to Bethpage at about noon and struggled to find exactly where the camping parking lot was. Even the attendants at the course seemed unsure. After a bit of searching, we finally found it. It's at the very front when you get to the course, near Quaker House Rd. If you turn in, you'll find that the spots have numbers on them. The #1 spot is right in front of the sign with the camping rules. As it's not facing the road, it's tough to see the sign when you come in, but it's quite apparent when you're there.

There wasn't anybody there, so we went into town and had lunch- returned at around 2:30 PM- still nobody there. We didn't see another car until about 5:30 PM. Cars started to roll in around 7pm, and there were probably about 20 by 9:30, and maybe 50 when we woke up the next morning.

The night is quite the experience- we played poker and drank beer in the lot until about 2 am- played music, BBQd, had pizzas delivered- and talked a ton of golf- it was a great time!

At about 5:00 AM, you get a knock on the window and you're given your tickets. You then drive up to the ticketing office and buy your fees. At this point, with your time booked- you can start prepping. We showered in the clubhouse (although I'm not sure we were allowed to)- if you go upstairs in the clubhouse there's a locker room with shower facilities and lockers. We quickly showered, then went downstairs and had breakfast.

The range at Bethpage is short- so no drivers- and we're talking old school hard mats, so it isn't great- but good enough to get warmed up.

First tee jitters are real at Bethpage- as everybody you were up with the night before are now watching you in full display on the first tee. The course itself- it's long, especially if you play from the tips. The rough is gnarly- and make sure you have a good spot if you miss the fairway, because the ball just sits way down in it. Take your medicine and get it back on the fairway- you're going to find out really quickly that spraying it here is punished severely.

Overall- awesome experience- would love to do...

Bethpage Black is a true gem for golf enthusiasts, offering an unparalleled golfing experience that is both challenging and rewarding. Set to host the Ryder Cup in 2025, this iconic public golf course in Farmingdale, New York, is a must-visit for serious golfers.

The Black Course at Bethpage is renowned for its difficulty. The second cut of grass is extraordinarily tough, making every shot a test of skill and precision. The course's hilly terrain adds to the challenge, ensuring that even the most experienced golfers will find their abilities pushed to the limit. The fairways are meticulously maintained, and the greens are fast and true, providing a championship-caliber experience.

One of the best aspects of Bethpage Black is its accessibility. While the course can be booked in advance, there are often open spots during the middle of the week. This walk-up availability makes it easier for golfers to experience the course without long wait times or extensive planning. If you have the flexibility to play during the week, you'll find plenty of opportunities to get on the course.

Bethpage State Park offers excellent facilities and amenities to complement the golfing experience. The clubhouse is welcoming, with a pro shop stocked with the latest gear and apparel. After a round, golfers can relax and enjoy a meal at the clubhouse restaurant, which serves delicious food and drinks in a comfortable setting.

The course itself is a visually amazing with stunning views and lush greenery. Each hole is beautifully designed, offering a unique challenge and a picturesque backdrop. The Black Course's natural beauty adds to the overall enjoyment, making every round a memorable experience.

Bethpage Black is a must-play for any serious golfer. Its combination of difficulty, beauty, and accessibility makes it one of the top public courses in the country. Whether you're preparing for the Ryder Cup or just looking for a great day of golf, Bethpage Black is sure to deliver an unforgettable experience. For the best chance at securing a tee time, consider walking up during the middle of the week when there are typically more open spots.

Prepare for a challenging round, and enjoy one of the finest public golf courses...

Bethpage Black is among every American golfers favorite courses. But the Tillinghast Red Course is a wonderful, less arduous track, and is slightly more accessible.

The Bethpage Black fairways are narrow and run lightening quick. The local Long Islanders boast strong, and straight long driving golfers of all ages and nationalities. They are to a person and without fail, welcoming golfers.

Walk up tee times for singles ( playing without telephonic or online reservations) to the Black course is possible , but the online booking service is top notch and removes the mystery of whether you can complete a full round.

Bethpage Black is a walk only course, and that walking experience allows one to enjoy the beauty of the amazing Bethpage State Park landscape. It also permits you to breathe between shots on this long and demanding track. Part of the joy of traveling to Bethpage is getting there

The convenience of the Long Island R. R. and shouldering one’s clubs through Grand Central station is worthy of the envious stares of Wall Street types who move with glazed looks in the opposite direction.

Getting there from Manhattan:

The L. I. R. R. (Hicksville Line) from Grand Central Station makes the trip from 76th & Lexington on Manhattan’s upper eastside to Farmingdale (Bethpage) in well under two hours.

Bethpage Pro shop:

The fall season means less selection (all the PGA merchandise had been bought by summer patrons) but decent sales items.

The Bethpage retail golf shop is splendiferous, especially in the run up to the 2019 PGA and the raucously anticipated 2024 Ryder Cup Championship .

Playing tips:

Hit the ball high to hold on to narrow dime sized greens.

Use the toe of your putter to acclimate to the speed of the world class greens.

Play happy golf!

Use brightly colored balls to aide in identification amidst the splendid fall foliage.

Despite the mammoth carries, swing within yourself, as the locals do.

Stop by the grill and pro shop, you never know who you will meet. (Sightings included - esteemed Lee Elder, the Straw - Darryl Strawberry, Len Barney, and...