Michigan offers a range of private country clubs that provide a strong value for under $25K in total upfront and annual costs. While these clubs may not carry the national prestige of the ultra-exclusive names, they offer excellent golf, well-maintained facilities, and strong membership communities. Many are located in scenic areas across the state, from Northern Michigan’s lake towns to Detroit’s western suburbs.
This blog ranks 20 of the best country clubs in Michigan you can join without breaking the bank. We’ve focused on clubs that offer full golf privileges, well-maintained courses, and a reliable social calendar—all without the high price tag. Each description includes a brief but detailed look at the club’s strengths, including course design, amenities, and overall environment.
20. Oakhurst Golf & Country Club
Oakhurst Golf & Country Club sits in northern Oakland County and features a championship-level Arthur Hills course that’s walkable, tree-lined, and well-conditioned. Members enjoy access to tennis, swimming, fitness, and dining facilities, along with a range of golf leagues and social events. The layout emphasizes shot placement and offers challenges for low handicappers without overwhelming mid-level players.
The club has invested in steady upgrades, particularly around practice facilities and its event spaces. Oakhurst also benefits from being part of the ClubCorp/Invited network, which allows access to reciprocal clubs nationwide. It attracts families looking for a full-service country club experience at a manageable cost, with flexible membership options for both individuals and families.
19. Forest Lake Country Club
Forest Lake is one of the more social-focused clubs on the list, set on a quiet private lake in a prime suburb of Detroit. It’s not a pure golf club—this is a club for families who want a well-rounded experience, with access to paddle sports, casual dining, junior programs, and lakeside views. The 18-hole golf course is relatively short but fun and walkable, with enough challenge to stay interesting.
The club is known for its low-key, welcoming environment. There’s a strong emphasis on events and activities that bring members together, from youth swim meets to evening cocktails on the patio. Its proximity to Birmingham and Bloomfield makes it a convenient option for those living in central Oakland County.
18. Kingsley Club
Kingsley Club is a hidden gem in Northern Michigan. Unlike most clubs on this list, Kingsley is purely golf-focused with a minimalist, links-style layout built into the rolling, sandy terrain. There are no swimming pools, tennis courts, or weddings on the calendar—this is a purist’s golf club. The course, designed by Mike DeVries, has received national acclaim for its strategy and walkability.
Membership is capped to maintain fast play and course access, and the atmosphere is relaxed and informal. There’s no dress code beyond the basics, and most members arrive ready to play, not to socialize. It’s a seasonal club, but for serious golfers who spend summers in Northern Michigan, Kingsley offers one of the best values in the state.
17. Birchwood Farms Golf & Country Club
Birchwood Farms is a seasonal country club community on Michigan’s northern tip, just outside Harbor Springs. It features 27 holes of well-kept golf, along with tennis courts, pickleball, dining, and hiking trails that make the most of the natural setting. Many members own property on-site, but social and golf memberships are available separately.
The club is known for its peaceful setting and active social calendar during peak summer months. There’s a strong emphasis on community life, with wine tastings, themed dinners, and multi-generational events. It offers good value for part-time residents or retirees looking for a quiet, full-service private club without Detroit-area pricing.
16. Twin Beach Country Club
Twin Beach is a compact, affordable club tucked into West Bloomfield, offering a 9-hole course with dual tees that plays like 18. While smaller in scale, it’s one of the few affordable private clubs in this upscale suburb. The course is walkable and family-friendly, and it’s paired with a full-service clubhouse, dining, and lakeside views.
The club has a casual, welcoming atmosphere. It’s popular with young families and retirees alike who value convenience and intimacy over grandeur. While not a destination for tournament players, Twin Beach serves its local members well with short rounds, easy access, and a strong sense of neighborhood community.
15. Western Golf & Country Club
Western Golf & Country Club has been part of the Detroit-area private club scene since 1926 and remains a strong value for full-service amenities. The 18-hole course, originally designed by William Connellan, is a tight parkland-style layout with mature trees, quick greens, and elevation shifts that add complexity. Several holes require precision over distance, rewarding course management. The course is consistently well-maintained and hosts regular member tournaments and leagues.
In addition to golf, the club has a large pool facility, tennis courts, and a traditional-style clubhouse that includes dining rooms, a ballroom, and multiple event spaces. The club emphasizes year-round member engagement with events, family-friendly programming, and holiday celebrations. With its close proximity to Livonia, Dearborn, and western Wayne County, Western Golf & Country Club appeals to both long-time members and young families looking to join a private club without a high upfront cost.
14. Point O’ Woods Golf & Country Club
Point O’ Woods is a golf-centric private club located near Lake Michigan, long known for hosting the Western Amateur from 1971 through 2008. The Robert Trent Jones Sr. design is consistently ranked among the best in the state. It features a dense tree canopy, narrow fairways, and strategically placed bunkers that create demanding tee-to-green play. The course favors experienced golfers who appreciate traditional architecture and tournament-quality conditions.
Unlike many clubs on this list, Point O’ Woods is almost exclusively focused on golf. There is a practice range and short game area, but no pool or racquet sports. The clubhouse offers limited but well-regarded dining and a quiet atmosphere suited to serious players. Membership is modestly priced compared to other top-tier Michigan courses, and its reputation continues to draw golfers from across the Midwest seeking a pure golf environment.
13. Battle Creek Country Club
Situated on the south shore of Goguac Lake, Battle Creek Country Club offers a scenic, full-length course with a long private club tradition. The course was designed by Willie Park Jr. in the 1910s and features wide fairways, firm greens, and a classic routing that takes advantage of the lakefront property. While not extremely long, the course challenges players with wind conditions off the water and several well-placed hazards.
The club includes a full-service marina for members, a large pool, tennis courts, and lakeside dining areas. It serves as a social hub for the Battle Creek area, with a strong community atmosphere and seasonal events. Families and multi-generational members are common, and the club offers a full schedule of junior golf, swim, and social activities. For those looking to combine recreational variety with access to water, Battle Creek Country Club delivers unique value.
12. Traverse City Golf & Country Club
Located just a few miles south of downtown Traverse City, this private club offers an established, walkable 18-hole course with views of surrounding woodlands and hills. The course was designed in the early 20th century and has been upgraded over time to maintain modern standards. It provides a balance of open landing areas and tighter tree-lined holes, with subtle greens and elevation changes that reward local knowledge.
The clubhouse was recently renovated and includes both formal and casual dining, locker rooms, and event spaces. Members enjoy a strong year-round social calendar, although the club is most active during the summer months. Traverse City Golf & Country Club appeals to both permanent residents and seasonal homeowners who want private access without the isolation of resort-only clubs. The initiation fees remain reasonable given the location’s popularity and the club’s longstanding reputation.
11. Harbor Point Golf Club
Harbor Point is one of the oldest private golf clubs in northern Michigan, located just north of Petoskey and adjacent to Little Traverse Bay. The course dates back to the 1890s and is a short, classic layout that emphasizes shot placement over distance. The routing moves through wooded hills and offers occasional water views, with small greens and tight corridors that keep scores in check. Walking is the preferred method of play, and carts are limited.
The club includes a historic clubhouse with a wraparound porch, providing relaxed lake views and a quiet dining setting. Harbor Point is a seasonal club, open only during the summer, and maintains a traditional membership structure that prioritizes generational continuity. While amenities are limited compared to full-service clubs, the charm, setting, and pedigree of Harbor Point make it a compelling option for those spending summers in northern Michigan.
10. Egypt Valley Country Club
Egypt Valley offers two championship 18-hole golf courses designed by Arthur Hills, making it one of the only clubs in Michigan with 36 holes of private play. The Ridge and Valley courses are routed through heavily wooded terrain, with water hazards, rolling elevation, and expansive fairways that appeal to both low and mid-handicap golfers. The club has hosted several national amateur events and maintains a high standard of course conditioning throughout the season.
The clubhouse is a modern facility with multiple dining areas, locker rooms, and event spaces for weddings, banquets, and member functions. Egypt Valley also features a junior Olympic pool, tennis courts, and active junior programs, making it a popular choice for growing families near Grand Rapids. Membership costs are competitive for the size and scope of the amenities, and the club consistently attracts younger members looking for value and variety without sacrificing quality.
9. Muskegon Country Club
Muskegon Country Club is a historic course originally designed by Donald Ross in 1908, later updated by architect Bruce Matthews. The course is routed across sand dunes overlooking Muskegon Lake, with several holes offering panoramic views. The routing uses the natural elevation and terrain, creating a course that is both strategic and scenic. Tight landing areas and sloped greens make it a strong test for skilled players, but it remains approachable for all levels.
The clubhouse was recently renovated to include updated dining areas, banquet facilities, and a pro shop. The club also features a large outdoor patio, pool, and small fitness center. Located only minutes from Lake Michigan, it is well-positioned for both full-time residents and second-home owners. The club’s golf pedigree and lakeside setting offer excellent value for the price point, especially for those looking for a blend of classic design and west Michigan charm.
8. Blythefield Country Club
Located just north of Grand Rapids, Blythefield is a private club with a strong tournament history, currently serving as the host venue for the Meijer LPGA Classic. The 18-hole course, originally built in the 1920s, has been updated in recent years to accommodate modern play while preserving its traditional style. Tree-lined fairways, fast greens, and significant elevation changes make it both scenic and challenging.
Beyond golf, the club offers a full suite of amenities including a pool, tennis courts, and multiple dining venues. Blythefield’s strong emphasis on member engagement includes women’s leagues, junior golf, and social events year-round. The club is considered one of the premier options in the area for serious golfers and active families alike, and its modest joining costs relative to its reputation make it one of the top private club values in western Michigan.
7. Walnut Creek Country Club
Walnut Creek is a large, full-service private club with a 27-hole championship layout, giving members plenty of variety in how they play each round. The course is routed through gently rolling terrain with mature trees and water features that impact several holes. Each of the three nines presents different challenges, which keeps the experience fresh and engaging. The club also has extensive practice facilities including a short game area and driving range.
The family-friendly atmosphere extends beyond golf, with a swim complex, racquet courts, and a busy social calendar. The clubhouse includes casual and formal dining options, as well as banquet and event spaces. Walnut Creek’s large membership base includes many younger families and mid-career professionals from western Oakland and eastern Washtenaw Counties. Its range of amenities and accessible joining cost make it a strong contender for those wanting a complete private club experience.
6. Polo Fields Golf & Country Club
Polo Fields offers a private golf experience just minutes from downtown Ann Arbor, with an 18-hole course designed to blend into the natural landscape. The course features open sightlines, strategic bunkering, and fast, true greens that appeal to both high and low handicappers. The layout provides a mix of scoring opportunities and demanding approach shots, making it suitable for regular play and competitive events.
The club emphasizes family involvement with a pool, summer camps, and social events designed to bring members together. The clubhouse includes a full-service restaurant and bar, locker rooms, and meeting areas. Polo Fields serves both Ann Arbor locals and professionals from nearby suburbs who want a convenient, well-rounded private club. Its fees remain approachable compared to other clubs in southeast Michigan, making it a practical choice for those seeking quality without excess.
5. Travis Pointe Country Club
Travis Pointe is a private, full-service club that offers a championship-level golf course just southwest of Ann Arbor. The course has hosted multiple professional events, including the LPGA Volvik Championship, and features a mix of wide landing areas, deep bunkering, and fast bentgrass greens. Designed to challenge players without being punishing, the layout is well suited for both tournament play and casual rounds. Conditioning is consistently among the best in the region.
The club also includes indoor and outdoor tennis courts, a fitness center, swimming pool, and a large clubhouse with several dining options. Travis Pointe attracts a mix of longtime members and young families, with a steady pipeline of University of Michigan professionals and Ann Arbor residents. For a club of this size and reputation, the entry cost remains reasonable, particularly for those seeking a year-round private club with serious golf and family amenities.
4. Oak Pointe Country Club
Oak Pointe features two 18-hole courses, the Championship Course and the Honors Course, offering a broad range of playing styles. The Championship Course is a more traditional parkland layout, while the Honors Course includes more water hazards, modern shaping, and a higher level of difficulty. Together, they provide members with variety and flexibility across all skill levels. The courses are well maintained, and the club runs a steady schedule of leagues and tournaments throughout the season.
Beyond golf, Oak Pointe includes a large pool, tennis facilities, and a lakeside clubhouse that provides expansive views and flexible dining options. With a growing membership base from Livingston and western Oakland counties, the club strikes a balance between family-focused amenities and strong golf programming. Oak Pointe’s dual-course setup and community-centered atmosphere make it one of the most complete and accessible private clubs in southeast Michigan.
3. Plum Hollow Country Club
Plum Hollow is a classic private club with a strong architectural pedigree. The course was designed by Colt and Alison, the same team behind several British Open venues, and has hosted the PGA Championship and Western Open in its history. The layout moves through dramatic elevation changes and natural ravines, demanding precision and shot-making from tee to green. The greens are sloped and fast, making short game skill a necessity.
The club’s location near Detroit’s northwest suburbs makes it convenient for members from multiple counties. While golf is the focus, the club also includes a pool, tennis courts, and a recently updated clubhouse with casual and formal dining. Plum Hollow maintains a quiet and traditional club culture with a focus on quality over flash. It offers top-tier golf for a fraction of the cost of more publicized Detroit-area clubs.
2. Grosse Ile Golf & Country Club
Located on an island in the Detroit River, Grosse Ile Golf & Country Club offers a private retreat with a highly regarded course designed by Donald Ross. The layout features subtle elevation shifts, natural rolling terrain, and small greens that are typical of Ross’s work. The course is walkable and framed by mature trees, offering a classic feel with minimal distractions. It appeals to purists who appreciate timeless course architecture.
The clubhouse has been restored to maintain its historical character and includes lake views, dining spaces, and event areas. The club also includes a pool and racquet courts, though the main draw is golf. Grosse Ile’s location gives it a secluded feel despite being just 30 minutes from downtown Detroit. For those looking for a private club with real architectural heritage and a quiet setting, it’s one of the best options in Michigan under the $25K mark.
1. Great Oaks Country Club
Great Oaks tops the list due to its strong mix of quality golf, excellent facilities, and accessible price point. The course, designed by architect Bruce Matthews, is a par-71 layout that winds through wooded land and natural wetlands. It offers a fair but firm test with a mix of long par fours, short risk-reward holes, and elevated greens that demand accuracy. The club has invested steadily in course and facility improvements to stay modern while preserving character.
The clubhouse includes multiple dining areas, banquet spaces, and a large outdoor patio overlooking the course. Other amenities include a junior Olympic pool, tennis courts, and youth programs. Great Oaks is highly active with men’s and women’s leagues, couples events, and seasonal tournaments. Its central location in Rochester makes it popular with families and professionals throughout the northern suburbs. For overall value, it delivers one of the strongest private club experiences in the state.
Michigan’s private club scene offers a mix of tradition, quality golf, and well-rounded amenities without the high entry costs found in other parts of the country. Whether you’re looking for a walkable Donald Ross course, a modern 36-hole layout, or a club with strong junior programs and family appeal, there are options that fit a range of lifestyles. Many of these clubs have maintained their reputation for decades while keeping their facilities current and their membership engaged year-round.
The best part is that all twenty clubs listed can be joined for less than $25K, making them attainable for many families and avid golfers. From Ann Arbor to Traverse City, metro Detroit to the lakeshore, these clubs offer serious value while still delivering the privacy, course access, and social structure that define a country club experience. For those ready to join, the options across Michigan are both accessible and worth the investment.