
Knickerbocker Course
Knickerbocker Country Club
About this course
Knickerbocker Country Club, nestled in the leafy, affluent enclave of Tenafly, New Jersey, is a study in understated elegance, a throwback to an era when golf was a gentleman's pursuit, less about championship yardage and more about strategic shot-making. Devereux Emmet, a prominent figure of the Golden Age, sculpted Knickerbocker's parkland layout across gently rolling terrain. While not exceedingly long, the course emphasizes finesse and thoughtful course management. Subtle elevation changes and cunningly placed bunkers require players to carefully consider club selection and approach angles, favoring a precise, rather than powerful game. The course is bisected by a creek that comes into play on several holes. It's known to have a number of dog legs that will favor a player that likes to move the ball right to left, as well as a few blind shots, which is something that has been reduced over the years as trees have been removed. The club, while lacking a marquee history of major championships, maintains a quiet reputation as a haven for serious golfers and their families. The membership, largely drawn from the surrounding affluent communities, enjoys a relaxed, unpretentious atmosphere. Knickerbocker is a classic, well-maintained course that speaks to the enduring appeal of traditional golf values, a place where camaraderie and the spirit of the game take precedence over championship aspirations.
Rankings
Ranked by CV ratings from golfers who've played this course. Positions are shown worldwide, by country, and by state; the Private column compares member-only and guest-restricted courses.
Best in World
Best in USA
Best in NJ
Quick facts
- Location
- Tenafly, NJ, USA
- Access
- Private
- Year built
- 1914
- Holes
- 18
- Designer
- Donald Ross
- Par
- 72
- Length
- 6,726 yards
- Difficulty
- 72.8/135
- Course Vaults score
- 8.2
FAQ
Common questions about Knickerbocker
Ratings, design, and course details pulled from Course Vaults.
Knickerbocker has a Course Vaults score of 8.2 out of 10 based on 55 logged golfers.
Knickerbocker was designed by Donald Ross.
Knickerbocker is listed as private on Course Vaults; guest access is typically restricted.
Par at Knickerbocker is 72.
Knickerbocker plays 6,726 yards from the back tees on Course Vaults.
The slope rating at Knickerbocker is 135.







