Gamble Sands Climbs Golfweek’s Resort Rankings for 2026
News Summary
Gamble Sands secures a top spot in Golfweek’s Best Resort Rankings for 2026, aided by the new Scarecrow course, which is captivating golf enthusiasts nationwide. With rising demand since its opening, the course enhances Gamble Sands’ reputation as a premier golfing destination. New entries from notable resorts also shake up the rankings, showcasing a thrilling year for golf lovers.
New Courses Propel Gamble Sands to Top of Golfweek’s Best Resort Rankings for 2026
Golf enthusiasts, gather ’round! The world of resort golf is buzzing with excitement as the latest rankings are out. The prestigious list reveals the top 200 resort courses in the United States, and boy, does it come with surprises. Notably, several sensational new courses have made their mark and shaken up the standings, marking a thrilling year for golf lovers across the nation.
Fresh Faces in the Rankings
This year, the rankings showcase some fascinating new contenders. Among the shining stars are The Keep at The McLemore, Pinehurst No. 10, and the much-anticipated Scarecrow course at Gamble Sands. One course that has quickly garnered attention is The Keep at The McLemore, which rocketed to the impressive No. 25 spot since its debut in 2025. Designed by the talented duo of Bill Bergin and Rees Jones, this gem is perched on Lookout Mountain in Georgia, providing golfers with both challenge and breathtaking views.
Next up, we have the High Hampton Resort’s delightful new course, crafted by none other than Tom Fazio in the heart of North Carolina. It has bagged itself the No. 45 ranking after opening its doors in 2021, making it a sought-after destination for those seeking a well-rounded golfing experience. And let’s not forget the North Course at Omni La Costa Resort & Spa in California, which has made a comeback in the rankings at the No. 56 spot thanks to an impressive renovation by design legends Gil Hanse and Jim Wagner.
Gamble Sands and the Scarecrow Course
Now, let’s shine the spotlight on Gamble Sands, which continues to evolve into one of golf’s hottest destinations. This resort, which features a total of 36 holes, has added the Scarecrow course to its roster, and what a debut it has made! Tied for the impressive No. 73 in this year’s rankings, the Scarecrow course opened in August 2025 and was designed with an eye for greater challenge, making it a perfect addition for seasoned players.
Originally, the designer David McLay Kidd envisioned the original Gamble Sands course on the Scarecrow site, but had to pivot due to overhead power lines. Those lines have since been buried, allowing this exhilarating new course to come to fruition. Golfers can expect a thrilling round here, where wider fairways meet soft greens and more penal bunkers, making the Scarecrow course about three to five shots tougher than its predecessor.
A Unique Experience Awaits
Gamble Sands is nestled on a stunning sandy plateau overlooking the Columbia River, providing golfers with views that are as captivating as the game itself. The resort’s dual-course layout is clearly part of a growing trend to enhance the resort golf experience, pushing Gamble Sands to the forefront of must-visit golf destinations.
Looking at the numbers, the original course attracted over 5,500 rounds in its first three months alone. However, the new Scarecrow course is breaking records, having hit demand for an outstanding 12,000 rounds in just three months, with projections soaring to 21,000 rounds in the upcoming season. This meteoric rise is a testament to the course’s design and the relaxing yet exhilarating atmosphere that Gamble Sands embodies.
Competing with the Best
What really stands out is the unique fescue grass used at Gamble Sands, which replicates the feel of classic Scottish links courses, making it a distinctive choice for golf tourists. Gamble Sands is now in the ring with the heavyweights like Bandon Dunes, Streamsong, and Pebble Beach for attracting golf lovers seeking both challenge and beauty.
The success of Gamble Sands can be largely attributed to the remarkable teamwork between designers, course management, and maintenance crews, highlighting the fact that great golf experiences do not come about by chance. With its eye on the future, Gamble Sands continues to innovate and grow, leaving golf aficionados eager for what’s next. So grab your clubs and pencil in a visit to one of America’s hottest new golf destinations!
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