If you’ve driven through Fort Washington recently, you’ve probably passed it without a second thought. It’s tucked away. Honestly, Henson Creek Golf Course MD doesn’t scream for attention like the high-end private clubs or the sprawling championship layouts that dot the Maryland landscape. It’s a 9-hole executive course. Short. Sweet. Kinda unassuming. But for golfers in Prince George’s County, this little slice of green managed by the Maryland-National Capital Park and Planning Commission (M-NCPPC) serves a purpose that the flashy courses simply can't touch.
The vibe here is different. You aren't going to see many people in $100 polos stressing over their handicap. Instead, you see a lot of local regulars, seniors getting their morning steps in, and parents teaching their kids how to swing without the pressure of a 500-yard par 5 looming over them. It’s accessible. That’s the big draw.
What Actually Happens on a 9-Hole Executive Course?
Most people hear "executive course" and think it’s just a glorified mini-golf setup. It isn't. At Henson Creek, you’re looking at a par-33 layout. It’s about 2,400 yards from the back tees. You’ve got six par-4s and three par-3s. No par-5s. If you’re a long hitter, you might be tempted to leave the driver in the trunk, but that’s usually a mistake because the tight fairways and mature trees demand a level of accuracy that catches people off guard.
The course was originally designed by Edmund Ault. He’s a big name in mid-Atlantic golf architecture, having worked on iconic spots like the original TPC Potomac at Avenel Farm and Worthington Manor. Ault knew how to use the natural topography of the Maryland suburbs. At Henson Creek, he utilized the namesake creek and the rolling elevation changes to make a short course feel substantial. It’s not a "pitch and putt." If you miss the green on the signature par-3 5th hole, you're going to have a rough time scrambling for par.
One thing that surprises people is the condition of the greens. For a muni that sees a ton of foot traffic, the M-NCPPC maintenance crews do a decent job. Are they Augusta fast? Of course not. But they are consistent. You get a true roll most days, provided you aren't playing immediately after a week of Maryland summer downpours.
The Reality of the "Muni" Experience
Let's be real for a second. Municipal golf has its quirks. You’re going to encounter slow play on Saturday mornings. You might see a foursome that doesn't quite understand the nuances of ready golf. It happens. But that’s the trade-off for a greens fee that basically costs less than a decent steak dinner.
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Henson Creek Golf Course MD is part of a larger ecosystem. The facility shares its footprint with the Henson Creek Stream Valley Park. This means you’re playing golf in a literal nature preserve. You’ll see deer. You’ll see red-tailed hawks. Sometimes you’ll see the occasional fox darting across the 3rd fairway. It provides a sense of isolation from the DC suburbs that is hard to find anywhere else for twenty bucks.
The clubhouse is functional. It’s not a ballroom. It’s a place to grab a Gatorade, some crackers, and check in for your tee time. They have a small practice putting green and a hitting cage. Note: there is no full-scale driving range here. If you need to bomb 100 balls before your round, you’ll need to stop by the Paint Branch Golf Complex or another nearby range first. This is a "show up and play" kind of spot.
Why the Location Matters
Being in Fort Washington puts Henson Creek in a unique spot. It’s close enough to Alexandria and DC that commuters can sneak out for a "twilight" 9 holes and be home before dark.
- Accessibility: Right off Tucker Road.
- Price: It’s one of the most affordable rounds in the DMV area.
- Speed: You can walk 9 holes in under two hours if the course isn't packed.
- Walkability: It’s a very easy walk. Low elevation change compared to courses like University of Maryland or PB Dye.
The demographic is truly diverse. Prince George’s County has a rich history of African American golf culture, and Henson Creek is a hub for that. You see legacy golfers who have been playing this specific 9-hole loop for forty years. They know every break in every green. They know exactly which tree to aim for on the dogleg 7th. That kind of institutional knowledge gives the place a soul that newer, corporate-owned courses lack.
The Technical Side: Navigating the Creek
The creek itself comes into play more than you’d think. It’s not just a name; it’s a hazard. On several holes, the water guards the approach or runs parallel to the landing zone.
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On the 4th hole, a par 4, the creek crosses the fairway. If you try to get too aggressive with a big drive, you’ll find the drink. The smart play is a long iron or hybrid to the fat part of the fairway, leaving a short wedge in. This is why "executive" courses are great for your game—they force you to think about course management instead of just swinging out of your shoes.
The 8th hole is another one that tests your nerves. It’s a par 3 that requires a carry over a wooded ravine. If the wind is swirling, club selection becomes a nightmare. It’s these little moments of drama that make Henson Creek Golf Course MD feel like a "real" golf course despite its shorter length.
Misconceptions and Local Gripes
People complain about the drainage. It’s a valid point. Because it sits in a stream valley, the course can get soggy. If Maryland has had a week of rain, you can expect "cart path only" rules or some muddy lies in the low-lying areas. Experienced regulars know to bring an extra towel and maybe a pair of waterproof shoes during the spring season.
Another misconception is that it’s "too easy." Sure, if you're a +2 handicap, you’re going to tear it up. But for the average golfer—the guy who shoots 95 or 100 on a championship course—Henson Creek is a beast. The small greens are hard to hit. The trees are unforgiving. It’s a fantastic place to work on your "short-to-mid" game. If you can shoot even par here, you can play anywhere.
Looking Ahead: The Future of Henson Creek
Golf saw a massive boom in 2020, and Henson Creek benefited from that. The M-NCPPC has been putting resources into their courses because they realized how vital these green spaces are for the community. There have been ongoing discussions about irrigation upgrades and bunker renovations across the county system.
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The value proposition remains the strongest selling point. In an era where a round of golf at a premium public course can top $150, staying under $30 is a miracle. It keeps the game alive for people who can't justify spending a car payment on a Saturday morning hobby.
Pro-Tips for Your Visit
- Book Online: Use the M-NCPPC Parks and Rec portal. It’s way easier than calling the pro shop and hoping someone picks up during a rush.
- Walk, Don't Ride: Save the cart fee. The course is flat enough that a push cart or a light carry bag is the way to go. You'll get more exercise and see the course better.
- The 5th Hole: Don't go long. The back of the green slopes away into the woods. Better to be short and chip up.
- Twilight Specials: If you can get there after 4:00 PM, the shadows over the creek are beautiful, and the course usually empties out.
Henson Creek Golf Course MD isn't trying to be something it's not. It isn't a country club. It isn't a tour stop. It’s a neighborhood course where the grass is green, the beer is cold, and the par-3s are trickier than they look. Whether you're a beginner trying to lose fewer balls or a veteran golfer looking for a quick fix, it’s a reliable, honest place to play.
Actionable Next Steps
If you're planning a trip to Henson Creek, check the weather first; if it has rained more than an inch in the last 48 hours, call ahead to check on course conditions. Sign up for the M-NCPPC "Golf PG" alerts to get updates on aeration schedules—nothing ruins a round like showing up to freshly punched greens. Finally, grab a yardage book or use a GPS app like 18Birdies, because several of the hazards are blind from the tee and can ruin a good scorecard if you don't know where they're hiding.
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