Pennyrile Forest State Resort Park Golf Course is a hidden gem located about 90 minutes northwest of Nashville in a remote and wooded part of Kentucky. Designed by prolific architect Larry Packard, the course features an original nine holes with a second nine added in 2003, winding through a small valley carved into wooded hills. However, the course is facing the threat of closure due to high maintenance costs and low revenue generation.
Christian County Judge-Executive Jerry Gilliam recently shared that the state is considering closing the course as it is the most costly to maintain and generates the least amount of revenue among Kentucky state park courses. Maintenance costs per round played average around $100, making it cost prohibitive to keep the course operational. The golf course was built in a floodplain, leading to significant damage during rain events and requiring expensive repairs and long closures.
Despite the challenges faced by the Pennyrile golf course, Kentucky State Parks officials have not yet made a final decision on its future. The Tourism, Arts and Heritage Cabinet is exploring all options to address the course’s maintenance and revenue issues. Commissioner Meyer has expressed a desire to continue discussions with local leaders about potential future opportunities for the course.
In the 2023 fiscal year, only 13 rounds of golf were played at Pennyrile out of a total of 5,862 “stay and play” rounds at all Kentucky state park courses. With just one full-time employee, the course brings in the least revenue and has the highest cost per round among Kentucky Department of Parks courses. If the course were to close, the employee would be reassigned to a similar role at the state park or another park course.
Kentucky State Parks remains committed to its mission of providing vibrant and welcoming spaces for visitors to enjoy. While the future of the Pennyrile golf course is uncertain, officials are dedicated to exploring all possible options and opportunities to address the challenges facing the course. The community surrounding the course has expressed surprise and concern over the potential closure, highlighting the value and significance of the course to the area.
