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.