I have the same dilemma. I have friends who enjoy playing golf, but none of them really have it in them like I do. Most of them are only good for a round or two a month, others won't play if it's windy, a little cold, a little rainy, whatever. More ofthen than not, they blame their wives. My most reliable golf buddy just joined a Club (about 5K annually after dues, assements, and restaurant/proshop minimums). Guest fee is $75, and although it's a nice course, I can do better publicly for less money.
I'm probably going to break down and join a league. I've tried playing as a single, and had at best mixed experiences. When you get paired up as a twosome, even if it's not an ideal match with the other two guys, at least you've got your buddy with you.
At best my experience as a single has been a mix of good, bad, and indifference. On a cold November morning I got paired up with a couple of old hippies, and had the time of my life. On another day I got paired up with a guy who I think was in his late 90s. He introduced himself by saying "My name is Ed, Ed Muth. How do you think you spell Muth?" Unprepared for the question, I fired back with M-O-O-T-H. Disgusted, he proceeded to berate me for the misspelling (after all, I wouldn't spell Ruth R-O-O-T-H), so why would do him the indignity of spelling Muth with a pair of Os?
It got worse from there. Ever since I've been gunshy about heading out as a single. On those days when I can't find anyone else to get out on the course with, I'll either hit the range, or wait until later in the day when I can walk the course alone.
Hope you have better luck...