Public

Black Bear Course

Black Bear Country Club

Eustis, FL, USA
dm2316
sgp
Swatworthy
drewlanier2
pinnockom
+7
18 holesPar 727,018 yds74.1/139

About this course

Black Bear Country Club sits in the rolling terrain of Lake County in central Florida, roughly 30 miles northwest of Orlando. Designed by P. B. Dye and opened in the mid-1990s, the course reflects the architect's characteristic approach to strategic golf, incorporating bold bunkering, elevation changes uncommon in Florida, and risk-reward options throughout the routing. The Dye family's design philosophy—emphasizing player choice and visual intimidation balanced with playable alternatives—is evident across the layout. The property takes advantage of natural elevation shifts and mature vegetation, creating a parkland setting distinct from the flatter courses typical of peninsular Florida. Several holes feature dramatic vertical movement, with tee shots played from elevated positions and greens set into hillsides or protected by steep-faced bunkers. Water comes into play on multiple holes, but the design relies more heavily on contouring, sand, and strategic angles than on forced carries. The greens are characteristically firm and undulating, rewarding precise approach shots and demanding thoughtful short game play. Black Bear operates as a semi-private facility, offering both member and public access. The course has served the local golfing community for nearly three decades, maintaining a reputation for challenging design and conditioning that appeals to players seeking a test beyond typical resort-style Florida golf. The layout provides a solid example of P. B. Dye's work during a period when the family was actively designing courses throughout the southeastern United States.

Quick facts

Location
Eustis, FL, USA
Access
Public
Year built
1995
Holes
18
Designer
P. B. Dye
Par
72
Length
7,018 yards
Difficulty
74.1/139
Course Vaults score
5.7

Getting there

The journey to Black Bear Country Club begins at Orlando International Airport, just forty-five minutes southeast through the rolling terrain of Central Florida's lake country. The drive northwest traces the edge of the Harris Chain of Lakes, trading the theme park corridor for quieter two-lane roads where citrus groves and moss-draped oaks signal the transition into Old Florida. As you approach Eustis, the landscape opens to reveal glimpses of Lake Eustis itself, and the final turn onto the club's tree-canopied entrance feels less like arrival at a modern amenity and more like discovery of a hidden sanctuary carved from the region's wild, untamed past.

FAQ

Common questions about Black Bear

Ratings, design, and course details pulled from Course Vaults.

Black Bear has a Course Vaults score of 5.7 out of 10 based on 12 logged golfers.

Black Bear was designed by P. B. Dye.

Yes. Black Bear is listed as welcoming public or guest play on Course Vaults.

Par at Black Bear is 72.

Black Bear plays 7,018 yards from the back tees on Course Vaults.

The slope rating at Black Bear is 139.

250,000+
Course Reviews
+ 4.8
App Store

How many courses have you played?

Download Course Vaults on iOS and begin your golf legacy.

Course Vaults on three iPhones: player passport, map discovery, and course detail