$26 (cart included), played on Tuesday, April 2012 at 10am
This is an update of my earlier review from 2008. Our group of travelling seniors played here 4-17-2012, for the Senior Rte of $26, which is quite good for a course of this quality. Course remains a nice challenge, as previously stated. Conditions today were pretty good with the notable exception of the bunkers, which were very inconsistent. The same bunker varied from fluffy stuff, almost like talcum powder, to absolute hardpan. Otherwise, fairways, greens and tee boxes were good. This part of Maryland has had no rain to speak of in the last 60 days, so the course was very firm, but still played well. One other quirky thing: every green had a red flag. No reason for it, just that the course got tired of moving flags around(?): at least that was the answer the Ranger gave to me...go figure. Pace of play was a bit slow for a weekday by our usual standards, but bearable: we didn't see much action from the Ranger. Clubhouse remains marginal, and does not offer draft beer, only by the can. We usually order a couple of draft pitchers and several orders of fries, but had to do with cans at $3.00 each. Fries were a little expensive for the portion size. Next time we play Black Rock we'll probably go elsewhere for our post-round refreshments.
$21 (cart included), played on Tuesday, December 2008 at 10am
Our group of travelling seniors plays Black Rock about twice a year, most recently on 12-9-08, for $25/golfer (including cart), which is a good price for this course. The course is also in the Tee Time Book.
Conditions were seasonal: that is, greens were pretty firm early on, then softened as they thawed a bit, putting speed was a little inconsistent, and most of the water hazards were at least partly frozen over. Despite the weather, the bunkers were in excellent shape.
The layout is quite nice for a muni, rolling terrain, lots of mature trees, creative use of elevation change, bunkers aplenty, and good use of water. No two holes look quite alike, and the views are excellent. Course is fairly compact, and is walkable.
Clubhouse is showing its age, and could use an update. Snack bar is small, but adequate, although they do NOT have draft beer, only by the can. Staff is always pleasant and professional.
Overall, it is not Pebble Beach, but it is a nice course that is fun to play, and provides us mortals a fair challenge. We recommend it.