Essex, MD

I consider this my "home" course as it is about 10 minutes away and I play it rather frequently. It is a Baltimore County course so, it is not a "elite" course but for the price you can't really go wrong. I can walk this course at twilight for under $20. 

The current Head Pro / Super has the course in great shape, it has definitely improved in the past couple of years. Even now in the winter months it is very playable. Also, this track offers some spectacular views of the Chesapeake Bay, particularly on the back nine holes 10, 11, 13, & 14. 

On the down side, as mentioned above, the pace can be BRUTAL. Despite their "pace of play" campaign that started last year, they really have not done much to improve it. 5.5 hour rounds are not uncommon in peak golf season. I played there probably 25-30 times last year alone and never once saw a ranger actually do anything to speed up pace. They start groups off too fast on 1 tee which just sets up for a long day. The first hole is a simple, straight-away par four and they should always wait until the group is on the green before starting the next group. Unfortunately, some starters send off groups as soon as the group in front gets past the first set of bunkers which is entirely too soon. On a busy day you will have three groups on this one short par four (tee, fairway, green) which is just a train wreck waiting to happen. 

All in all, I enjoy this track and would recommend it. Just beware of the time of year and understand that there is the possibility of a slow round.