Lining the lovely shores of Lake Murray, Timberlake Country Club in Chapin, South Carolina, is more than just a premier golfing destination—it is a thriving community built on friendship, tradition, and a love for the game. From its humble beginnings in 1987 to its present-day success, Timberlake has overcome challenges to emerge stronger with an ever-growing membership and a heart for people at its core.
We recently had the pleasure of sitting down with Board President Taylor Batey and club historian Julie Nelson, both of whom shared the rich history and unwavering spirit of Timberlake. Originally designed by Willard C. Byrd along with Jimmy Koosa, the course opened as a members-only club in 1987 before facing financial difficulties in 1990 and again in 2007. However, the determination of its members saved it from closure in 2008 when Julie and approximately 200 others joined forces to purchase the course, ensuring its legacy. Since then, Timberlake has flourished.
The course began as a nine-hole layout in 1988, with an additional nine holes added in 1989 to complete the full 18-hole course. Despite facing financial struggles in the years that followed, this expansion marked the beginning of Timberlake’s evolution into the beloved community hub it is today. Spanning 145 acres, the course is a par 71, offering a challenging yet rewarding experience for golfers of all skill levels.
In 2012, the club had just 250 members; today, that number has more than doubled to 530. Timberlake is the only golf course on Lake Murray with members from all locations surrounding the lake traveling by boat to golf and enjoy the atmosphere. The course itself has seen significant upgrades, including the complete renovation of the back nine in 2023 and the front nine in 2024, along with freshly paved cart paths. Notable holes include the picturesque Hole 4, referred to by Julie as “Turtle Cove”, and the challenging Hole 18, offering breathtaking lake views. Hole 9 even features a historic Civil War cemetery which adds a unique touch of history to the course.
Beyond golf, Timberlake is a hub for community engagement. With a fitness center offering yoga and wellness classes, a swimming pool with a competitive swim team, and a vibrant restaurant and sports bar, there’s something for everyone. The club’s social committee curates events ranging from line dancing and shag lessons to karaoke nights and Elvis impersonator performances. These activities foster an atmosphere of connection that makes Timberlake feel like family.
A testament to this camaraderie is Taylor’s men’s league that started with just a handful of participants and has since grown to nearly 80 strong. The club’s leadership is mindful of preserving its intimate feel, planning to cap membership in the near future to maintain a close-knit atmosphere.
As the sun set over Lake Murray, our conversation on the back porch of the clubhouse highlighted what makes Timberlake truly special—not just its meticulously maintained greens, but the friendships and sense of belonging that flourish here. Whether you’re teeing off at the driving range, networking with fellow business professionals, or enjoying a casual meal after a round, Timberlake Country Club remains a place where memories are made and community thrives.
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