Greenhorn Creek Golf Resort in Angels Camp, Calaveras County derived its name from Gold Rush lore. The old timers or “sourdoughs” of 1849 would send the “greenhorns out to what is now the fourth hole on the resort. One of the “city slickers” who mined the “played out claim” actually did hit “pay dirt.” Hence the name Greenhorn Creek! There truly is “Gold in them ‘thar’ hills,” and Greenhorn Creek is a prime example.

Greenhorn Creek is not only 18 holes of pristine beauty but is also a journey through the historic foothills, where you will discover grinding rocks used by the Miwuk Indians and the remains of a hard rock mine. The course stretches 6,749 yards from the back tees and offers five sets of tees. The original course designer Don Boos teamed up with Robert Trent Jones Junior to create one of California’s premier golf resorts. Public and members receive the amenities and services expected at a first class resort.

Respected developer, Greenlaw “Fritz” Grupe Jr. purchased the resort in 1997. His mission has been to make the resort the finest golf and dining experience in the gold country. The Grupe Company has been building award-winning single family communities since 1966. Grupe has created 10 master planned communities and more than 50,000 homes in 35 cities nationwide. Greenhorn Creek has joined the long line of successes enjoyed by The Grupe Company. “The golf course obviously plays a major role in all that we are trying to accomplish,” said Fritz.

The front nine is punctuated by the 4th hole, which is a 476 yard, par five. It is known as the “Wall Hole” because of the rock wall that crosses the fairway approximately 200 yards from the tee. A homesteader built the wall in the mid – 1800s. Little did he know that 200 years later, this wall would be one of the main attractions of a golf resort. Jones lowered the forward tees to provide a better view, and tons of dirt was added to the landing area, greatly improving the playability of the hole. Number 4 offers history lessons beyond the wall. The Seilkirk Chimney, built in 1860, still stands to the left of the fairway. A blacksmith furnace is nestled near the wall, and a Miwuk burial ground is fenced off to the right. There is a huge elevation change to the well-bunkered green below. The wise tee-shot entails lying up in front of the wall. This hole can be a knife in your back, or make your day with a birdie.

Once you have conquered the “Wall Hole” the par four, number five awaits. It plays 368 yards and your tee-shot must be guided to the left side of the fairway to allow for a kick to the right. If you tee-shot has a left-to-right tail an ancient

Chinese oven will block any approach to the green. An environmental area hugs the right side of the fairway so don’t go looking for any wayward balls. Par is a good score.

Next in line is the terror filled 175 yard, par three, 6th hole. This hole speaks for itself. Danger lurks everywhere! The tee-shot needs to carry a rather large lake. If you want to bail out keep it left and pin high. If your ball becomes fish food, use the drop zone near the green to speed up play. Par is a really good score!

The back nine is punctuated by the breathtaking 136 yard, par three, 13th. This hole is a little monster that offers a stunning view of New Melones Reservoir. The green is fronted by a lake that is triple the size of the green’s. If your tee shot reaches the back bunker, a terror filled downhill shot will test your nerves. Par is an excellent score. Thirteen was named one of the top ten holes in Northern California by the Northern California Golf Association in 2005. If the “Little Monster” didn’t provide enough of a rush, be patient. One of the best finishing holes in Northern California is waiting. The eighteenth blankets 475 yards. It is a short par five but still requires thought and muscle. A long tee-shot down the middle is a must. Bunkers guard both the left and right of the wide fairway. Home can be reached in two if you carry the huge lake in front of the green and mange to keep your ball out of the bunkers to the rear. The green also slopes back to a watery grave. Birdie can be had and par is realistic for the less experienced!

“Camps Restaurant” awaits the survivors. Your favorite beverage, along with California cuisine, can be enjoyed. Ask for one of the famous Calaveras Wines! The staff is dedicated to providing a memorable culinary experience. Operations Manager Ms. Sherri Smith is very interested in your comfort and enjoyment while visiting the resort. Greenhorn Creek also offers indoor and outdoor banquet facilities for private outings, weddings and tournaments.

The pro shop is well stocked with of clubs, clothing and accessories. Under the watchful eye of Head Professional Darryl Pief and his trusty Assistant Ray Ramorini the golf resort has been voted by Greenkeeper.org as “The best playing conditions” and “Best value for green fees” in 2008.

Green fees range from $90.00 with cart and GPS on weekends to $70.00 with cart and GPS on weekdays. Twilight starts at 2:00 pm and includes $50.00 on weekends and $40.00 Monday – Thursdays. Various levels of memberships are available. Practice facilities include a driving range and putting green. Lessons and clinics are available.

So enjoy a bit of Gold Rush history and visit Greenhorn Creek Golf resort. For tee times call 209-729-8111 or contact www.GreenhornCreek.com.

Greenhorn Golf Resort is located approximately one hour from the central valley at 711 McCauley Drive, Angels Camp, California off Highway 4 and 49.