Nick Santoriello/Courtesy of the club
Nick Santoriello/Courtesy of the club
Nick Santoriello/Courtesy of the club
Nick Santoriello/Courtesy of the club
Nick Santoriello/Courtesy of the club
Nick Santoriello/Courtesy of the club
Nick Santoriello/Courtesy of the club
Courtesy of the club
Courtesy of the club
Nick Santoriello/Courtesy of the club
Knickerbocker Country Club
Tenafly, NJ•Private
Panelists Score
Knickerbocker Country Club
188 Knickerbocker Rd
Tenafly, NJ 07670-2416
United States
Overview
In a crowded northern New Jersey golf market, Knickerbocker Country Club’s trajectory continues to rise as the club improves its golf course and amenities. The past 15-20 years have seen a steady restoration and tree removal program—first by Ron Forse in 2007 and 2008 and current transformation being done by Jaeger Kovich of Proper Golf and overseen by superintendent Kyle Hillegass. The routing is a fantastic mix of strategy and heroic design—testing ball control into some of the most sloped greens in the state. The ultra-slick Donald Ross/Herbert Strong greens are some of the most varied putting complexes you’ll see—like the par-3 sixth hole, which is part reverse-redan, part tidal wave rising from left to right—meaning errant tee shots or poor approach putts often lead to auto-bogeys. Nearby clubs like Ridgewood, Hackensack and Arcola might garner more attention, but Knickerbocker is a great private club with a fantastic pool and other amenities.
About
Golf Digest Panelists
Ratings from our panel of 1,900 course-ranking panelists
100 Greatest / Best In State Scores
Shot Options
Character
Challenge
Layout Variety
Fun
Aesthetics
Conditioning
Reviews
Review
“The course, built in 1914, flashes traits of its architect Donald Ross, which adds to its character. Only playing 6700 from the tips, good decision making off the tee and proper angles into pins are a priority. The green complexes protect par, with greens that are large, slope back to front with nuanced spines and ridges, and green speeds that run 12 on an average day. The course does not include a ton of dramatic twists or turns but fairway bunkering requires the golfer to navigate left and right. Conditions played fast and firm, both in the fairway and on the greens. Shorter hole lengths and wide fairways lessen the challenge a bit. It has a nice collection of Par 3s, with different lengths and green complexes. Overall, a course that will keep your attention regardless of how often you play."
Read More2026
Review
“They have removed many trees from the property, which dramatically changes the sight lines. Some of the tee shots have lost their visual intimidation, however the course has become more playable. I think the change is overall positive, it added to the fun and shot options, but takes away from the challenge."
Read More2026
Review
“In my opinion, this is one of the most underrated courses in New Jersey and one that keeps getting better with Jaeger Kovich's master plan ongoing. Set on a somewhat small, compact property, this is a wonderful parkland design with excellent conditioning and beautiful bunkering. Aesthetically, it is fairly similar to its more well-known neighbor Ridgewood. While not a terribly long course, the defense here is the greens, which are blisteringly quick, large, and sloping and defend par quite well. There are many standout holes, but the par 3 6th stands out in particular as one of the most unique and attractive one-shotters you'll ever play. This is an excellent walk and ideal members course and one I certainly recommend very highly if you get a chance to play."
Read More2025
Review
“Known as having some of the slickest greens in Bergen County. Back in the day there were 27 holes with nine holes across the street where the current clubhouse is (and land behind it that the club no longer has). Some original Ross holes remain, but the existing routing is mostly Herbert Strong ... and it's a stern, fair test with great variety and nice subtle land movement. This is a sporty country club course that you'd love to belong to. And the club's master plan will continue making Knickerbocker one of the best in NJ for years to come."
Read More2021
Review
“Strong Ross course overshadowed by neighbors"
Read More2018
