Galloping Hill Golf Course sprawls across 271 acres of rolling terrain in Kenilworth and Union, New Jersey. Often referred to simply as “the hill,” this public course is a go-to destination for players who appreciate a classic layout enhanced by modern updates. Just a short drive from Manhattan, Galloping Hill offers a unique blend of natural beauty and golfing challenge, making it a favorite among locals and visitors alike.

What makes Galloping Hill stand out is not just its location, but the way it integrates with the land. The course’s natural contours, with hills and valleys, create an engaging experience for golfers of all skill levels. Originally designed by Willard G. Wilkinson in 1928, it’s seen updates over the years, including a major renovation in 2013 led by Rees Jones Inc., ensuring it stays fresh while maintaining its historic charm.

Whether you’re a regular or planning your first visit, there’s always something new to discover about Galloping Hill. From tee times to tournament history, this guide will walk you through everything you need to know to get the most out of your time on the course.

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Table of Contents

• A Rich History Rooted in Tradition
• Course Design and Layout
• Recent Upgrades and Rees Jones’ Influence
• What to Expect When You Play
• Booking Tee Times Made Easy
• Community and Charity Events
• Frequently Asked Questions

A Rich History Rooted in Tradition

Galloping Hill Golf Course has been around since the late 1920s, when Willard G. Wilkinson first laid out the course across the undulating terrain of Union County. It’s one of those places that’s grown with the game, adapting through the decades while keeping its original spirit. Over the years, different architects have left their mark, but the course has always held onto its identity as “the hill.”

So, what makes this course special from a historical standpoint? Well, for starters, it’s not just any old layout—it’s stood the test of time and hosted events like the 2016 New Jersey State Open. That’s a big deal, and it shows how respected the course is within the golf community. It’s also a public facility, which means it’s open to everyone, not just members of a private club.

For those interested in the history of New Jersey golf, Galloping Hill is a key piece of the puzzle. It bridges the gap between the golden age of golf course architecture and modern-day expectations, offering a bit of both in a single round.

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Course Design and Layout

The layout of Galloping Hill is defined by its natural topography. The course winds through rolling hills and deep valleys, creating a dynamic playing experience. There are blind shots, elevation changes, and plenty of opportunities to test your game. It’s not just about power here—you’ll need to think your way around the course, too.

One of the standout holes is the 14th, which underwent a major redesign during the 2013 renovation. That change brought a fresh look to the hole, improving both playability and visual appeal. The redesign by Rees Jones Inc. and Total Turf Golf Services added modern touches without losing the course’s original character.

Here’s a quick breakdown of the course details:

• Total acreage: 271 acres
• Location: Kenilworth and Union, NJ
• Designer: Willard G. Wilkinson (original), Rees Jones (renovation)
• Renovation year: 2013
• Proximity to NYC: About 30 minutes west

Recent Upgrades and Rees Jones’ Influence

The 2013 renovation by Rees Jones Inc. was a major turning point for Galloping Hill. Rees Jones, known as the “U.S. Open Doctor” for his work on championship setups, brought a level of polish and precision to the course. He focused on enhancing the greens, bunkers, and overall playability, making the course more enjoyable for a wider range of players.

One of the most noticeable changes was on the 14th hole. The redesign added more definition to the fairway and green, making it more forgiving for mid-handicappers while still offering a challenge to low handicaps. The bunkers were also repositioned for better strategy, and the overall course conditioning saw a significant boost.

What’s really cool about this update is how it managed to modernize the course while preserving its original feel. That’s a hard balance to strike, but the team pulled it off. Now, Galloping Hill is not just a classic—it’s a classic with a fresh coat of paint.

What to Expect When You Play

If you’ve never played Galloping Hill, here’s what to expect: a fun, challenging round with plenty of elevation changes and tight fairways. The course is known for being in great condition, especially after the 2013 overhaul. You’ll find wide landing areas on some holes and tighter ones on others, so you’ll need to vary your approach throughout the round.

The greens are well-maintained and have a bit of undulation, making putting a real test of skill. There’s also a good mix of par 3s, 4s, and 5s, so you’ll get a full workout for your bag. For beginners, the course might seem a bit tough at first, but with a little patience, it’s definitely playable.

Some tips for first-timers:

• Play from the forward tees if you’re new or working on your game.
• Pay attention to the slopes on the greens—they can be tricky.
• Take a moment to enjoy the scenery. The views are worth it!

Booking Tee Times Made Easy

Getting a tee time at Galloping Hill is pretty straightforward. You can book online or call the course directly at 866-802-0868. The best part? The booking system is available 24/7, so you can reserve your spot whenever it’s convenient for you.

If you’re planning a trip, it’s a good idea to book a few days in advance, especially on weekends or during peak seasons. The course is popular, and tee times can fill up quickly. Also, if you’re part of a larger group or planning an event, it’s worth reaching out directly to ensure you get the time and setup you need.

Once you’re on the course, you’ll quickly see why people keep coming back. The layout, the views, and the overall vibe make for a memorable round of golf. Learn more about golf tips for better play to get the most out of your visit.

Community and Charity Events

Galloping Hill isn’t just about the game—it’s also about giving back. The course regularly hosts charity events and community outings. One of the most notable is the annual James Goerl Memorial Golf Outing, which supports the SFPE NJ/NY Education Foundation Scholarship Program. This event brings together players and supporters for a great cause, showing how the course plays a role beyond just recreation.

Participating in these events is a great way to enjoy the course while contributing to local education. If you’re interested in joining or learning more about upcoming charity rounds, you can learn more about charity golf events on our site.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Galloping Hill Golf Course open to the public?
Yes, Galloping Hill is a public course, meaning it’s open to all players. There’s no membership required, and tee times are available for booking online or by phone.

How much does it cost to play at Galloping Hill?
Rates can vary depending on the time of day, day of the week, and season. It’s best to check the official website or contact the course directly for the most up-to-date pricing.

What are the best times to play at Galloping Hill?
Early mornings and late afternoons tend to be less crowded, making for a more relaxed round. Weekdays are typically less busy than weekends, especially during peak golf season.