This guide features the best disc golf courses in South Charlotte and nearby areas, so whether you're in Ballantyne, Cornelius, or Gastonia, you’ll find a place to play. Plus, we’ve got some tips at the end for making the game fun and easy for kids. Let’s get started!
Ballantyne District Park – The Hidden Gem Near Ballantyne Bowl
Perfect for a quick 9-hole round, this course offers some technical holes and is located near the Ballantyne Bowl area, so you can easily grab a bite or coffee afterward.
Reedy Creek Park – Classic Woodland Course
This well-loved 18-hole course is great for both beginners and more experienced players. It’s heavily wooded and offers some variety in hole distance.
Hornets Nest Park – Iconic Local Favorite
An 18-hole course that combines both open and wooded areas for a fun and challenging experience. This course is one of the largest and most popular in Charlotte.
Creekside Park Disc Golf – South Charlotte’s Hidden Oasis
A 9-hole course in South Charlotte that offers a peaceful, beginner-friendly experience, with plenty of shade and a nice, quiet setting.
Bailey Road Park Disc Golf
This 9-hole course in Cornelius is perfect for a quick round and features a blend of wooded and open holes, great for all levels of players.
McAlpine Creek Park – For a Longer Challenge
An 18-hole course offering both open and wooded holes, this one’s great for more experienced players who enjoy a longer and more challenging round.
Eastway Park Disc Golf
A 9-hole course that’s great for beginners or those looking for a quick, peaceful game. It’s a quiet spot with a mix of open spaces and trees.
Rankin Lake Park (Gastonia)
A beautiful, wooded 18-hole course that’s perfect for players who want a more scenic and challenging game, just a short drive from Charlotte.
Bradley Park Disc Golf Course (Gastonia)
Another solid 18-hole course in Gastonia that combines wooded and open fairways, offering a variety of challenges.
Tega Cay Disc Golf Course (Tega Cay, SC)
Located just south of Charlotte, this 18-hole course is scenic and challenging with a great mix of elevation and tight fairways.
Elon Park Disc Golf Course – Quick & Family-Friendly
A 9-hole disc golf course set in a scenic park next to Elon Park. Perfect for families or beginners, this course is great for a quick and enjoyable round.
🏅 Tips for Taking Kids to Play Disc Golf
Disc golf is a fantastic way to introduce kids to outdoor sports, and it’s easier than you might think to teach them how to play. Here are a few tips to make the experience fun and engaging for younger players:
- Start Simple – Younger kids don’t need to play by all the traditional rules. Instead, start with a friendly, “get the disc in the basket” game. You can add or remove obstacles and give them extra throws if needed. Keep it light and fun!
- Use a Lighter Disc – Kids will have an easier time throwing if they use lighter discs. You can find junior-friendly discs in many sporting goods stores.
- Make it a Family Competition – Introduce a fun “family challenge” where everyone gets a point for hitting the basket, even if they don’t complete the hole in one throw. You can create little rewards for kids to encourage participation.
- Keep It Short – If you’re at a course with a longer layout, feel free to skip some holes or set up a smaller course with just a few holes. This helps younger kids stay engaged without getting tired or frustrated.
- Celebrate Small Wins – Kids love to feel like they’ve accomplished something. Celebrate each small win, whether it’s a great throw or just finishing a hole. Positive reinforcement will keep them motivated.
- Be Patient – Remember, it’s a learning experience. Let kids experiment with different throwing techniques and give them the space to figure things out. It’s all about having fun, not necessarily about perfecting their form.
