A Golfer’s Guide to Courses During Your DeKalb Stay
A Golfer’s Guide to Courses During Your DeKalb Stay
Written By Tim Eberhart
Planning a trip to DeKalb County? Whether it’s for work, a weekend escape, or a full-on vacation, don’t forget to pack your clubs — this corner of Alabama is a hidden gem for golfers. With two semi-private courses and one private club, you’ll be just minutes from tee time no matter where you stay — hotel, cabin, or campsite.
Golf in DeKalb County is a year-round affair (weather permitting), and walk-ins are welcome at the public spots. So, let’s talk courses:
Lil’ Mole Run Golf Course (Semi-Private)
Location: Lookout Mountain, just north of Mentone
Address: 741 Co. Rd. 647, Mentone, AL 35984
Contact: 256-634-2104 | Website | Facebook
This 18-hole beauty is less than 2 miles from Mentone’s town hall and sits at an impressive 1,850+ feet — making it Alabama’s highest golf course! With smooth greens, lake views, and four tee shots over water (gulp), you’re in for a scenic and slightly nerve-wracking round.
Wildlife sightings? Oh yes. Expect deer, waterfowl, and maybe even a bald eagle or black bear. Bring your camera!
Bonus: You can camp, golf, and fish all in one spot here.
• Par: 71
• Length: 5,400 yards (back), 4,300 yards (front)
• Fees (18 holes):
⋅ Weekday: $35 w/cart, $20 walking
⋅ Weekend: $45 w/cart, $25 walking
⋅ Youth & twilight discounts available
• Amenities: Clubhouse snacks, drinks, apparel, putting green, driving range (buckets start at $7)
Rainsville Golf & Country Club (Semi-Private)
Location: Sand Mountain, 5 miles from I-59 Exit 218
Address: 390 Pine Hill Rd. SE, Rainsville, AL
Contact: 256-638-8846 | Facebook
Tucked just off Alabama Highway 35, this nine-hole course offers a charming mix of flat and rolling terrain. Towering longleaf pines and a hardwood grove make it a peaceful and pretty place to play — especially the picturesque par-3 8th hole.
• Par: 36
• Length: 2,903 yards (blue), 2,749 yards (white)
• Hours: 8 a.m. – 5 p.m.
⋅ Closed for member play: Sat. 8 a.m. – 12 p.m., Sun. 12 p.m. – 5 p.m.
• Fees:
⋅ Weekend: No walking allowed, slightly higher rates
⋅ Weekday (9 holes): $20 w/cart, $15 walking
⋅ Weekday (18 holes): $30 w/cart, $18 walking
⋅ Note: Small rate increase in 2025
• Practice area: Large putting green
Terrapin Hills Country Club (Private)
Location: Fort Payne, just off I-59 Exit 224
Address: North side of Fort Payne, AL
Contact: 256-845-4624 | Website | Facebook
This private club is worth checking into if you can snag an invite. Nestled in gorgeous Big Wills Valley, the 18-hole course offers pristine fairways and greens — plus plenty of water hazards with seven greens by lakes or Big Wills Creek.
Guests can play if a member invites or books for them:
• Fees (18 holes):
⋅ Mon–Thu: $50
⋅ Fri–Sun & holidays: $75 (+$10 for extra cart)
• Perks: Driving range, putting green, pro shop, club repair services
Please contact the golf course directly to confirm pricing and availability.
