
Black Bear Course
Black Bear Golf Club




About this course
Black Bear Golf Club sits in the rolling hills of Sussex County in northern New Jersey, approximately an hour northwest of New York City. Opened in 1999, the course was designed by Jack Kurlander and David Glenz, who routed the layout across varied terrain that includes elevation changes, natural wetlands, and mature woodland. The property's topography provides strategic interest throughout the round, with holes playing uphill, downhill, and across sloping fairways. The design incorporates the natural features of the site, with several holes framed by dense forest and others opening to broader views of the surrounding countryside. Water comes into play on multiple holes, and the green complexes feature contouring that rewards accurate approach shots. The course measures over 7,000 yards from the back tees, offering length and challenge for accomplished players while remaining accessible from forward tees. Black Bear operates as a semi-private facility, welcoming both members and daily-fee play. The club serves the northern New Jersey golf market, drawing players from the surrounding region who seek a contemporary course design in a natural setting. The layout reflects the design trends of the late 1990s, balancing playability with strategic options and taking advantage of the property's natural movement and wooded character.
Rankings
Ranked by CV ratings from golfers who've played this course. Positions are shown worldwide, by country, and by state; the Public column compares courses anyone can play.
Best in World
Best in USA
Best in NJ
Quick facts
- Location
- Franklin, NJ, USA
- Access
- Public
- Year built
- 1996
- Holes
- 18
- Designer(s)
- Jack Kurlander, David Glenz
- Par
- 72
- Length
- 6,673 yards
- Difficulty
- 74.3/132
- Course Vaults score
- 6.8
Getting there
Most visitors to Black Bear Golf Club arrive via Newark Liberty International (EWR), roughly an hour's drive northwest into the rolling hills of Sussex County. The route traces Interstate 80 west before peeling off onto quieter state roads that climb gently through hardwood forests and open farmland, the landscape growing wilder and more secluded as you approach the New Jersey Highlands. Teterboro Airport serves those flying private, shaving minutes off the approach while preserving the same transition from suburban density to the wooded seclusion that defines Franklin's corner of the state. The final miles wind through terrain that feels far removed from the Garden State's reputation, delivering you to a course carved from genuine wilderness.

FAQ
Common questions about Black Bear
Ratings, design, and course details pulled from Course Vaults.
Black Bear has a Course Vaults score of 6.8 out of 10 based on 42 logged golfers.
Black Bear was designed by Jack Kurlander and David Glenz.
Yes. Black Bear is listed as welcoming public or guest play on Course Vaults.
Par at Black Bear is 72.
Black Bear plays 6,673 yards from the back tees on Course Vaults.
The slope rating at Black Bear is 132.




