Cream Ridge Golf Course
New Jersey’s State-Owned Golf Facility — Acquired Through Green Acres Program 2006, Privately Managed Public Golf Course, Open Space Preservation, Upper Freehold Township Monmouth County New Jersey
Cream Ridge Golf Course is a state-owned golf facility in Upper Freehold Township, Monmouth County, New Jersey. Acquired by the New Jersey Department of Environmental Protection (NJDEP) in 2006 through the Green Acres Program for open space preservation, the course is leased to and operated by a private management company. The site represents New Jersey’s commitment to preserving open space in the rapidly developing Monmouth County region. Features include a public golf course open to all players, state-owned land managed for open space preservation, scenic rural setting in Upper Freehold Township, and Green Acres Program stewardship.
Green Acres Preservation
The Green Acres Program has been New Jersey’s primary tool for preserving open space since 1961. Cream Ridge Golf Course’s acquisition in 2006 protected this property from potential residential or commercial development, ensuring the agricultural and open landscape character of Upper Freehold Township. The dual use as a golf course and preserved open space demonstrates how recreational facilities can coexist with conservation goals.
Golf and Recreation
The course operates as a public golf facility under private management, offering tee times to all players. The rural Monmouth County setting provides a scenic backdrop for golf. Contact the course directly for current rates, tee time availability, and seasonal hours.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is this a public golf course?
Yes, the course is open to the public and operated by a private management company on state-owned land.
Why is it state-owned?
The NJDEP acquired the property in 2006 through the Green Acres Program to preserve it as open space.
Insider Tips
Horse country: Cream Ridge sits in NJ’s horse country — Monmouth County has more horses per capita than Kentucky. Pro tip: NJ is the “Garden State” for good reason — it’s among the top states for cranberries, blueberries, peaches, and tomatoes. Farm-to-table: NJ’s proximity to NYC and Philadelphia makes it a premier farm-to-table source.
Best Time to Visit
Spring/fall: Perfect golf weather. Summer: U-pick berry season. Year-round: Course open. Winter: Mild.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why is NJ the Garden State?
New Jersey’s nickname reflects its agricultural productivity — the state’s fertile soil, mild climate, and proximity to massive urban markets made it one of America’s most productive farming states. NJ is a top producer of cranberries, blueberries, peaches, bell peppers, and tomatoes. Even today, 720,000+ acres (one-third of the state) remain farmland. The nickname dates to 1876 and remains proudly accurate despite NJ’s urban reputation.
Wildlife & Nature
Cream Ridge Golf Course — provides recreation in Monmouth County’s farmland. The course’s mature trees, water features, and meadows support red-tailed hawks, eastern bluebirds, and wild turkeys. White-tailed deer are abundant.
Nearby Attractions
Cream Ridge — adjacent. Allentown — 5 miles north. Six Flags Great Adventure — 15 miles east.
