Maryland National Golf Club | Frederick

Maryland National Golf Club, located in Middletown, Maryland, is a distinguished public golf facility renowned for its challenging course design, scenic mountain views, and comprehensive amenities tailored to golfers of all skill levels.

Course Overview and Design

The golf course, designed by celebrated architect Arthur Hills and opened in 2002, stretches over 6,800 yards from the championship tees and plays to a par of 71. The layout is thoughtfully integrated into the natural landscape of the Catoctin Mountains, combining rolling terrain, mature woodlands, wetlands, and strategically placed hazards to create a demanding yet rewarding round of golf.

The course features five sets of tees, making it accessible for beginners while still providing a competitive challenge for low handicappers and professionals. Key holes showcase Hills’ signature design style-blending risk-reward opportunities with natural beauty. For example, the 16th hole is a dramatic downhill par 4 that requires a carefully placed tee shot to avoid a stream running along the right side of the fairway. This hole demands precision and course management, offering both a scoring opportunity and a potential hazard.

Throughout the course, water comes into play on multiple holes, with strategically placed ponds and streams forcing players to consider club selection and shot placement carefully. Bunkers are placed to protect the greens and landing areas, often appearing deceptively in natural-looking formations. The undulating greens challenge putting skills, emphasizing subtle breaks and speed control.

Practice Facilities

Maryland National Golf Club provides an extensive practice complex designed to accommodate every aspect of a golfer’s game. The driving range is a three-tiered bentgrass facility with five target greens, offering ample space to work on distance and accuracy. The short game area includes dedicated chipping and putting greens that simulate on-course conditions, perfect for honing delicate touch shots around the greens.

Instruction is available through the club’s PGA professionals, who offer private lessons, clinics, and group sessions to golfers seeking to improve their skills. Practice facility access is complimentary with the purchase of a greens fee, encouraging players to warm up thoroughly before their rounds or simply work on their game independently.

Clubhouse and Amenities

The clubhouse sits atop one of the highest elevations on the property, providing panoramic views of the golf course and surrounding countryside. This location offers a scenic and relaxing atmosphere for guests. The clubhouse amenities include a well-stocked golf shop featuring equipment, apparel, and accessories, along with locker rooms equipped for member and guest convenience.

Dining is available at Schroyer’s Tavern, located within the clubhouse. This casual yet inviting restaurant serves breakfast, lunch, and dinner daily, with a menu emphasizing classic American fare made from fresh ingredients. The tavern offers indoor seating with large windows overlooking the course, as well as outdoor patio seating for warm-weather dining. The environment is welcoming for both golfers finishing a round and visitors seeking a quality meal in a picturesque setting.

Membership and Programs

Maryland National offers the Eagle Club membership, which provides a variety of benefits tailored to frequent players. Members enjoy a complimentary round of golf with each membership purchase, discounts on greens fees (20% off on weekdays and 15% off on weekends and holidays), and reduced prices on merchandise in the golf shop. The club caps the number of Eagle Club memberships available to maintain exclusivity and quality of service.

Additionally, the club hosts regular tournaments, leagues, and social events to foster a vibrant golfing community. These organized activities cater to a range of skill levels and promote camaraderie among members and guests.

Events and Weddings

Beyond golf, Maryland National Golf Club serves as a sought-after venue for private events, including weddings, corporate gatherings, and social celebrations. The clubhouse’s event spaces feature a large two-story stone fireplace, full-service bar, and flexible seating arrangements both indoors and outdoors.

The venue can accommodate up to 175 guests, providing an intimate yet elegant atmosphere enhanced by stunning views of the golf course and natural surroundings. Event planning services are available to assist with catering, decorations, and logistics, ensuring that special occasions run smoothly.

Location and Accessibility

Situated just off Interstate 70, Maryland National Golf Club enjoys convenient accessibility from nearby cities. It lies about five minutes west of downtown Frederick, Maryland, and approximately an hour’s drive from both Baltimore and Washington, D.C. This proximity makes it a popular destination for weekend golf trips as well as for locals seeking a high-quality course with picturesque scenery.

The setting in Middletown offers a peaceful retreat from urban life, allowing golfers to enjoy a round surrounded by nature without long-distance travel.

Summary

Maryland National Golf Club combines a thoughtfully designed, challenging golf course with excellent practice facilities, a welcoming clubhouse, and a strong community atmosphere. Its location near major urban centers, coupled with its scenic mountain backdrop and versatile event spaces, make it a premier golf destination in Maryland. Whether playing a competitive round, improving skills with professional instruction, or hosting a special event, the club provides a comprehensive experience tailored to diverse needs.