Bethpage State Park (Black Course)
- Par
- 71
- Yardage
- 7,468yds
- Holes
- 18
- Opened
- 1936
- Access
- Public
- Design
- Classic
History
Bethpage Black, designed by A.W. Tillinghast and opened in 1936 as a public course on Long Island, is the most prestigious municipal course in America and the first public layout to host a U.S. Open. Tillinghast's severe design features massive rough-topped mounds, deep bunkers, and tortuous green complexes across 7,468 yards. A warning sign tells average golfers to choose another course. Tiger Woods' dominant 2002 U.S. Open victory here validated it as a genuine major venue. Phil Mickelson won a thrilling 2009 U.S. Open here. The course hosted the 2019 PGA Championship.
Signature Hole
4th hole, par 5, 517 yards — a massive par-5 with mounded rough forcing a precise lay-up before a demanding approach
Notable Tournaments
- 2002 U.S. Open
- 2009 U.S. Open
- 2019 PGA Championship
- 2024 Ryder Cup
In the context of the top 100
Where this course sits against every ranked course on the list.
Frequently asked questions
Is Bethpage State Park (Black Course) public or private?
Bethpage State Park (Black Course) is open to the public — any golfer can book a tee time, subject to availability and rates.
Who designed Bethpage State Park (Black Course)?
Bethpage State Park (Black Course) was designed by A.W. Tillinghast & Joseph Burbeck and opened in 1936.
Where does Bethpage State Park (Black Course) rank among the top golf courses in America?
Bethpage State Park (Black Course) ranks #26 on our consensus ranking of America's 100 greatest golf courses, synthesized from Golf Digest, Golfweek, and GOLF Magazine.
What is the signature hole at Bethpage State Park (Black Course)?
The signature hole at Bethpage State Park (Black Course) is the 4th hole, par 5, 517 yards — a massive par-5 with mounded rough forcing a precise lay-up before a demanding approach.