Plainfield Course
Edison, NJ, USA
Plainfield Country Club, a storied crucible of Metropolitan golf, stands as a testament to early 20th-century design ingenuity in the New Jersey suburbs. Carved into rolling, parkland terrain punctuated by mature hardwoods and subtle elevation changes, the course favors a strategic approach; slight fades off the tee are often rewarded, while recovery shots from the thick rough surrounding the closely mown fairways demand both imagination and precision. The masterpiece of Donald Ross, Plainfield has seen subtle refinements over the years, most notably, a thoughtful restoration by Brian Silva that returned many of Ross's original strategic intentions to the forefront. While not a regular host of major championships, Plainfield has welcomed significant amateur events, including the U.S. Women's Amateur, solidifying its reputation as a challenging test for elite players. The club, known for its vibrant and engaged membership, boasts a rich history that extends beyond the course itself. Its collegiate matches are a staple on the club's events calendar. Equally so is the club's iconic halfway house, famed for its perfectly executed egg salad sandwiches. Plainfield maintains a respected position in the region, revered for its classic design and enduring commitment to the traditions of the game.
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
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Best in USA
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Best in NJ
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Golfers say this Donald Ross design delivers exceptional conditioning and challenging green complexes that define the experience, with fast, severely undulating surfaces demanding creativity and precise approach play. Most praise the classic routing and natural terrain, though reviewers consistently note that holes 12–14 are flatter and weaker than the rest of the layout, and some find the 18th hole quirky due to later modifications. The course earns recognition as one of New Jersey's finest and ranks among the top Ross designs in America, offering a tough but fair test that rewards strategic play while punishing errant shots with demanding rough and water hazards. Members enhance the experience by sharing the club's history and insider knowledge of proper lines, and those fortunate enough to receive an invitation are urged to accept without hesitation.
8.8
188 players
I’m biased as my best friend is a member. Great course. If invited, take the day off and go.
Pure. This Ross design is in perfect condition and has such a good feel around the entire club. Was lucky enough to play with a couple members who told us stories of the club and showed us the lines.
Yeah the non Ross holes (12-14) are flat and lesser than the rest of the golf course. Yeah the 18th hole is a little funky (apparently they wanted a practice area and changed it) but it's so much fun to play that you can ignore those things. Squarely in the Top 7-8 Ross courses in America any way you slice it.
Upon arrival to the first green you’re hit in the face with what’s in store on the green complexes. Fast, undulating greens make for a great day
Played here a few times. NJ Open 2024 beat me down. The greens are phenomenal and really sloped, you have to be creative when they roll them out fast. No holes that I hate the design of, and some good punishment with rough and water throughout. It’s a tough test for the normal golfer, but it’s a great experience that Donald Ross has waiting for you
One of the best in the state, in my humble opinion. Few places do it better
Solid Donald Ross. Land makes the golf course. The new holes suck! But some awesome holes. Playable.
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FAQ
Ratings, design, and course details pulled from Course Vaults.
Plainfield has a Course Vaults score of 8.8 out of 10 based on 91 explicit golfer ratings.
Plainfield was designed by Donald Ross and Gil Hanse.
Plainfield is listed as private on Course Vaults; guest access is typically restricted.
Par at Plainfield is 72.
Plainfield plays 7,091 yards from the back tees on Course Vaults.
The slope rating at Plainfield is 142.
