Emerald Lake Golf Club is located in Matthews, a suburban town southeast of Charlotte in the Piedmont region of North Carolina. The course was designed by Gary Wirth, a North Carolina-based architect who has worked on several courses throughout the Carolinas since the 1990s. Wirth's designs typically emphasize playability while incorporating the natural terrain and water features common to the region. The layout at Emerald Lake reflects its name, with water coming into play on multiple holes throughout the round. The course occupies rolling Piedmont terrain characteristic of the Charlotte area, where elevation changes are moderate and the landscape features a mix of hardwoods and pines. The routing takes advantage of these natural contours and the presence of lakes and wetlands that define strategic decisions on approach shots and tee balls. As a daily-fee facility in the Matthews area, Emerald Lake serves both local residents and visitors to the greater Charlotte region. The course provides a straightforward test of golf without excessive length or severe hazards, making it accessible to a range of skill levels. The conditioning and pace of play reflect its role as a public course serving a steady volume of rounds in a growing suburban market where golf remains popular year-round due to the temperate climate.