Bill Coore & Ben Crenshaw: The Visionaries Behind Cuscowilla’s Renowned Golf Course

Bill Coore & Ben Crenshaw: The Visionaries Behind Cuscowilla’s Renowned Golf Course

At the heart of Cuscowilla on Lake Oconee lies one of the most celebrated golf courses in the Southeast, designed by two of the most respected names in golf course architecture: Bill Coore and Ben Crenshaw. The duo’s renowned partnership, Coore & Crenshaw, has created some of the most highly regarded golf courses in the world, and their masterpiece at Cuscowilla is no exception. Their thoughtful approach to design and reverence for the natural landscape have made Cuscowilla’s golf course a true standout, blending challenge, beauty, and playability in perfect harmony.

The Coore & Crenshaw Philosophy

Bill Coore and Ben Crenshaw are known for their minimalist approach to golf course design. Instead of imposing their vision onto the land, they allow the natural contours and features of the landscape to guide their decisions. This philosophy stems from a deep respect for classic golf course design principles, where the land itself dictates the layout, ensuring that each hole feels organic and connected to its surroundings. At Cuscowilla, Coore and Crenshaw took full advantage of the stunning natural beauty of Lake Oconee and the surrounding woodlands. They crafted a course that not only provides a challenging and rewarding golf experience but also showcases the pristine environment of the region. This balance of natural beauty and strategic play is what has made Cuscowilla one of the most acclaimed courses in Georgia.

A Deep Connection to the Game

Ben Crenshaw, a two-time Masters champion, brings an intimate knowledge of the game to his design work. His deep understanding of golf’s nuances, combined with Bill Coore’s exceptional land-planning skills, results in courses that challenge even the most skilled players while remaining enjoyable for all levels. Crenshaw’s passion for classic golf architecture, particularly from the early 20th century, shines through in every project he and Coore take on. At Cuscowilla, their goal was to create a course that honors the traditions of the game while embracing the unique characteristics of the Lake Oconee landscape. The result is a course that feels timeless—where each hole presents its own set of challenges and rewards, requiring strategy, skill, and respect for the land.

Cuscowilla: A Masterpiece of Design

The Coore & Crenshaw design at Cuscowilla is a par-70 course that winds through the rolling hills and forests of the Lake Oconee shoreline. Every hole is designed to fit seamlessly into the natural topography, with minimal earthmoving to preserve the site’s inherent beauty. The result is a course that feels like it has always been part of the landscape, offering stunning views and a variety of shot-making opportunities. One of the hallmarks of a Coore & Crenshaw course is that no two holes are alike, and Cuscowilla is no exception. Each hole presents its own unique challenges, from strategically placed bunkers to undulating greens and natural water hazards. The course demands thoughtful play and rewards golfers who take the time to study the layout, but it also remains accessible to players of all skill levels, thanks to its multiple tee options.

Celebrating Natural Beauty

What truly sets the Cuscowilla golf course apart is how it celebrates the natural beauty of the Lake Oconee region. Coore and Crenshaw were deliberate in their efforts to preserve as much of the natural landscape as possible, incorporating native grasses, mature trees, and the lake itself into the design. As a result, golfers are treated to a round that feels more like a walk through nature than a typical course. The course offers breathtaking views of Lake Oconee from multiple vantage points, with several holes running alongside the water. It’s not just a place to play golf—it’s an experience that immerses you in the serenity and beauty of the area.

A Legacy of Excellence

Since its opening, the Coore & Crenshaw-designed golf course at Cuscowilla has garnered numerous accolades, including being named one of the top residential golf courses in the U.S. This recognition is a testament to the duo’s skill and dedication to their craft, as well as to the unique beauty of the Lake Oconee setting. For members and guests at Cuscowilla, the course offers more than just a round of golf—it’s a chance to experience the vision and artistry of two of the greatest minds in golf course design. Bill Coore and Ben Crenshaw’s work at Cuscowilla is a reminder that great design isn’t about forcing the land to fit a mold, but about allowing the land to shape the game.

The Rise of Pickleball: A New Era of Recreation at Cuscowilla on Lake Oconee

The Rise of Pickleball:

A New Era of Recreation at Cuscowilla on Lake Oconee

Pickleball, once a niche sport played by retirees in local parks, has rapidly grown into one of the fastest-rising recreational activities in the United States. From its humble beginnings in 1965, the game has captured the hearts of millions, attracting players of all ages and skill levels. The blend of tennis, badminton, and ping-pong has created an exciting and accessible sport, and nowhere is this more evident than at Cuscowilla on Lake Oconee.

The Pickleball Boom: Why is it Growing So Fast?

What is it about pickleball that’s turned it from a backyard pastime into a nationwide phenomenon? Here are a few key reasons:

1. Accessibility for All Ages: Pickleball’s smaller court size and slower-paced ball movement make it more accessible than traditional tennis, welcoming people of all ages and fitness levels. Whether you’re a seasoned athlete or a beginner, the game is easy to pick up, making it a favorite in multi-generational communities like Cuscowilla.

2. Social Nature: At its core, pickleball is as much about community as it is about competition. It’s an incredibly social sport, perfect for fostering friendships and connections. This sense of camaraderie has made pickleball a staple in recreational clubs and communities nationwide, including right here at Cuscowilla.

3. Low Barrier to Entry: All you need is a paddle, a ball, and access to a court to get started. The simple rules and minimal equipment make it an affordable and easy sport to embrace, whether you’re a casual player or looking to get competitive.

Pickleball at Cuscowilla on Lake Oconee

Cuscowilla on Lake Oconee is known for its first-class amenities, including its acclaimed golf course and lakeside lifestyle. But the addition of pickleball courts a few years ago has brought a new energy to the community, offering members and their guests a fun and inclusive way to stay active and socialize. The courts at Cuscowilla provide the perfect setting for both casual matches or more organized and competitive play. Here’s why pickleball has become a favorite activity at Cuscowilla:

Community Building: Pickleball has quickly become a beloved social event at Cuscowilla, offering a way for members to connect. Whether you’re a beginner attending a clinic or a seasoned player joining, the sport has a way of bringing people together.

Active Lifestyle: Pickleball is the perfect addition to the many outdoor activities available at Cuscowilla. Alongside golf, tennis, and water sports, members now have even more ways to enjoy an active lifestyle. The fitness benefits of pickleball—ranging from improved cardiovascular health to increased agility—align with Cuscowilla’s overall interest in wellness and recreation.

A Lifestyle of Recreation and Relaxation

Pickleball is more than just a game at Cuscowilla; it’s a reflection of the community’s commitment to fostering an active, engaged, and connected lifestyle. Along with the pristine golf course, access to Lake Oconee, and other world-class amenities, pickleball rounds out a comprehensive recreational offering for residents of all ages. Whether you’re a seasoned player or just curious about the game, pickleball at Cuscowilla is a perfect way to get involved, stay fit, and meet new people. As the sport continues to grow across the country, Cuscowilla on Lake Oconee is proud to be at the forefront of this exciting recreational movement. So grab your paddle, lace up your sneakers, and join us on the courts—it’s time to see why pickleball is taking the nation, and Cuscowilla, by storm! With pickleball becoming a key part of life at Cuscowilla, members are embracing this fast- growing sport, adding yet another reason to love living on Lake Oconee.

Discovering Jumping Rock: Lake Oconee’s Hidden Gem

Discovering Jumping Rock: Lake Oconee’s Hidden Gem

Nestled along the scenic shores of Lake Oconee lies one of the area’s best-kept secrets: Jumping Rock. Standing at an impressive 10 feet tall, this natural formation has become a staple for thrill-seekers and families alike, offering an exciting nature-made playground that is perfect for an adrenaline rush. Accessible only by water, Jumping Rock remains one of the lake’s most coveted destinations, inviting visitors to take the plunge and enjoy the beauty of Lake Oconee from a unique vantage point.

What Makes Jumping Rock So Special?

At first glance, Jumping Rock may seem like just another rocky outcrop, but it offers much more than meets the eye. Carved out by time and nature, this impressive formation rises from the water’s edge, beckoning adventure enthusiasts to climb to the top and take a leap into the lake below. The rock stands at 10 feet—an ideal height that offers just enough thrill while being approachable for most. For many, Jumping Rock is a rite of passage on Lake Oconee. Whether it’s your first jump or your hundredth, the exhilarating rush of leaping into the water below, surrounded by the pristine nature of the lake, never gets old.

A Playground in Nature

Lake Oconee is known for its serene beauty, but Jumping Rock brings a little bit of excitement to the peaceful waters. This natural feature has transformed into a playground where visitors can reconnect with nature and create lasting memories. Whether you're boating with friends or spending the day exploring the lake with family, stopping by Jumping Rock adds an extra layer of fun to any lake day. And for those who may not be ready to take the leap, the view from the top is worth the climb! Surrounded by lush greenery and crystal clear waters, Jumping Rock offers a stunning perspective of Lake Oconee that you can’t get anywhere else.

Only Accessible by Water

One of the things that make Jumping Rock truly special is its exclusivity. Accessible only by boat or watercraft, it offers an experience that feels untouched by time. As you approach Jumping Rock, the sense of anticipation builds—part of the adventure is simply finding it. The fact that you can only reach it by water adds an extra sense of adventure and makes it a unique destination on the lake. For many lake-goers, spending the day boating or jet skiing with a stop at Jumping Rock has become a quintessential Lake Oconee experience. It’s not uncommon to see boats anchored nearby, as families and friends take turns climbing the rock and jumping into the cool waters below.

A Staple of Lake Oconee Life

Jumping Rock has earned its place as one of the top attractions for both locals and visitors to Lake Oconee. Its natural beauty, combined with the thrill of the jump, has made it a must-visit spot for anyone exploring the lake. Whether you’re spending the weekend at Cuscowilla or simply out for a day on the water, Jumping Rock offers the perfect break from your usual lake routine. For those seeking an adventure, a memory to last a lifetime, or simply a little fun in nature, Jumping Rock is a destination you don’t want to miss. So, next time you find yourself on Lake Oconee, set your course for Jumping Rock, climb to the top, and take the leap—you won’t regret it!