Let’s be real. Most golfers spend way too much time at the driving range trying to smash a driver 300 yards when they actually slice it into the woods. It’s frustrating. If you want to actually lower your score, you’ve gotta find a place where the short game is the only game. That’s exactly what Twin Willows Par 3 Golf in Lincoln Park NJ offers, but it’s often overlooked by people heading to the massive 18-hole championship courses nearby.
It’s tucked away. Seriously, if you aren't looking for it off Ryerson Road, you might drive right past.
This isn't some manicured country club where you need a $500 pantsuit to check in. It’s a community-focused, accessible spot that focuses on the fundamentals. Honestly, it’s one of the few places left in North Jersey where you can walk on without a week-old reservation and just... play.
What is the Vibe at Twin Willows Par 3 Golf in Lincoln Park NJ?
If you're expecting the Masters, keep driving. But if you want a relaxed environment where a beginner can learn without getting yelled at by a Marshall, this is your spot. Twin Willows is basically a par 3 course designed for iron work. The holes are short. They range roughly from 80 to 110 yards.
You only need three clubs. Maybe four if you're feeling fancy.
A wedge, a 9-iron, and a putter will get you through the whole day. Because the distances are so manageable, it’s the perfect breeding ground for "touch." You know, that soft landing on the green that actually stops the ball? You can't practice that on a simulator. You need real grass, real wind, and the slightly unpredictable turf of a local muni.
The course layout is straightforward, but don't let that fool you. The greens are smaller than what you’d find at a massive resort. This means your accuracy has to be pinpoint. If you're off by five yards, you're chipping from the rough. That’s the "hidden" difficulty of Twin Willows Par 3 Golf in Lincoln Park NJ. It forces you to be precise with your scoring clubs.
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Why Beginners and Pros Both Show Up
It's a weird mix of people. You’ll see a dad teaching his seven-year-old how to hold a grip for the first time. Right next to them? A scratch golfer working on their 60-degree lob shot.
Why do the pros come here?
Efficiency.
You can play nine holes here in about an hour. Sometimes less if the course is empty. In a world where a round of golf takes six hours on a Saturday, being able to get in and out in 60 minutes is a total luxury. Plus, it’s cheap. Golf is getting insanely expensive, but Twin Willows keeps it accessible for the average person who just wants to hit some balls and enjoy the weather.
The turf quality is decent for a par 3. Look, it’s a public course in New Jersey. It deals with the humidity and the heavy foot traffic of kids. It’s not going to be a bentgrass carpet. But the greens roll true enough to practice your putting line.
Breaking Down the Layout
Most of the holes follow a similar pattern. You’re hitting over flat or slightly undulating terrain toward a circular green. There aren't massive water hazards or deep bunkers that will eat your ball and ruin your afternoon.
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- Hole 1: A nice "get right" hole. Usually around 90 yards.
- The Middle Stretch: Holes 4 through 6 require a bit more loft.
- The Finish: You end near the small clubhouse area, usually feeling like you should have birdied at least three of them.
It's a confidence builder.
The Logistics: What You Need to Know Before Going
The course is located at 405 Ryerson Rd, Lincoln Park, NJ 07035. It’s managed by the Morris County Park Commission, which generally means the maintenance is consistent.
They have a small shop. Don't expect a massive selection of Titleist gear, but they have the essentials—balls, tees, and basic snacks.
Is there a dress code?
Kinda, but it's loose. Wear a collared shirt if you want to feel like a golfer, but they aren't going to kick you out for nice shorts and a clean tee. It’s Lincoln Park, not Bedminster. Just don't show up in a swimsuit or something ridiculous.
Do you need a tee time?
Usually, it’s first-come, first-served. That’s the beauty of it. On a random Tuesday at 2:00 PM, you can usually just walk up to the window, pay your fee, and be on the first tee in five minutes. On weekends, it gets busier with families, so maybe call ahead just to check the pulse of the place.
Why This Specific Course Matters for the Local Community
Lincoln Park isn't exactly a mountain town, but it has its fair share of greenery. Twin Willows sits in a spot that feels isolated from the noise of Route 23 and the surrounding industrial areas.
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It serves a specific purpose: it’s an entry point.
Most people are intimidated by golf. They think they need to spend $3,000 on clubs and know 500 rules. At Twin Willows Par 3 Golf in Lincoln Park NJ, that barrier is gone. You can rent a few clubs, bring a bag of cheap balls, and just have fun. It keeps the sport alive in a way that the exclusive clubs never will.
Also, it’s a great "date night" spot. If you want to do something active that isn't just sitting at a bar, hitting a few holes here is actually a blast. Even if you're bad at it, you're only walking a few hundred yards total.
Actionable Tips for Your First Visit
If you're planning to head over this weekend, keep these things in mind to make the most of it.
- Leave the Wood at Home. You genuinely do not need a driver, 3-wood, or even a 5-iron. Carrying a heavy bag is just going to tire you out. Bring a small "Sunday bag" or just carry three clubs in your hand.
- Focus on "Up and Down." Since the holes are short, use this as a chipping clinic. If you miss the green, don't get mad. Use it as an opportunity to practice your bump-and-run or a high flop shot.
- Check the Weather. Since it’s a smaller course, it can get a bit soggy after a heavy Jersey rain. If it poured the night before, give it a few hours to dry out.
- Bring the Kids. If you’ve been wanting to introduce your children to the game, this is the safest place to do it. The holes are short enough that they won't get discouraged, and the atmosphere is welcoming.
- Walk, Don't Ride. It’s a par 3. Enjoy the walk. It’s good for your heart and lets you soak in the quiet.
Twin Willows Par 3 Golf in Lincoln Park NJ isn't trying to be something it’s not. It’s a humble, effective, and fun place to sharpen your skills. Whether you're trying to break 100 on a big course or you just want to spend an hour outside, it’s a local gem that deserves a spot in your rotation.
Go play a round. Focus on your alignment. Stop worrying about distance and start worrying about where the ball actually lands. You'll probably find that your "real" golf game improves significantly after a few trips here.