Chesapeake Bay Golf Club

Chesapeake Bay Golf Club sits in the rolling farmland of northeastern Maryland, near Rising Sun in Cecil County. Designed by Al Zikorus and opened in the late 1980s, the course occupies terrain characteristic of the region—gently undulating land with mature tree stands, open meadows, and occasional water features that reflect the Chesapeake watershed landscape. The layout takes advantage of natural elevation changes to create variety in shot values and visual interest across the routing. Zikorus, a regional architect active primarily in the Mid-Atlantic during the 1980s and 1990s, designed courses that balanced playability for everyday golfers with strategic interest. At Chesapeake Bay, the design incorporates traditional parkland elements: tree-lined fairways, strategically placed bunkers, and greens with moderate contour. Water comes into play on several holes, requiring careful club selection and course management. The property's openness in places allows wind to be a factor, particularly during spring and fall rounds. The club operates as a public facility, serving both local members and daily-fee players from the Baltimore and Philadelphia corridors. Its location between these metropolitan areas makes it accessible for golfers seeking a straightforward round in a rural setting. The course provides a representative example of regional golf design from its era, emphasizing playability and maintenance practicality over dramatic architectural statements.