Fairways & Muskoka Memories: Rocky Crest to Lake Joseph Club

Featured in Best Side Magazine, written by Mackenzie Best.

As winter begins to loosen its grip on Muskoka, the return of golf signals something much bigger than the start of a new season. Spring brings longer days, brighter light, and that familiar sense of anticipation shared by golfers eager to get back on the course. Our two-day golf escape — starting at Rocky Crest Golf Club, followed by an overnight stay at the resort and a second round at The Lake Joseph Club — offers a glimpse into how rewarding a Muskoka golf getaway can be as the season gets underway.

It was a trip defined by strong course design, comfortable pacing, and thoughtful amenities that enhanced the golf without distracting from it.

Aerial View of Rocky Crest Golf Club

DAY ONE:

ROCKY CREST GOLF CLUB

Our first day began at Rocky Crest Golf Club, a Thomas McBroom design that has become a Muskoka favourite. Routed naturally through granite outcroppings, wetlands, and forested corridors, the course feels intentional and well-balanced, rewarding strategic play rather than brute force. From the opening tee, it’s clear the layout was designed to work with the land.

Before heading out, we stopped at On The Green Bistro, located within the clubhouse and overlooking the 18th green. The clubhouse reflects classic Muskoka style — warm wood finishes, high ceilings, and large windows that invite the outdoors in. It’s a welcoming space that sets the tone for the day.

On The Green Bistro, at Rocky Crest Golf Club

Lunch was fresh, well-prepared, and ideal before a round. Lighter options such as salads and sandwiches were complemented by heartier favourites, all served efficiently without feeling rushed. Even early in the season, the views across the course offer a reminder of what’s ahead as fairways fully green up.

Once on the course, Rocky Crest delivered a confident start to the season. Wide landing areas off the tee allow players to find rhythm early, while approach shots demand accuracy and thoughtful club selection. The layout moves comfortably through varied terrain, with several holes standing out for their natural setting — particularly the par-3s framed by wetlands and open sightlines.

Rocky Crest Golf Resort View of Lake Joseph

AN EVENING AT ROCKY CREST RESORT

Staying on property at Rocky Crest Resort makes the experience seamless. Located directly on Lake Joseph, the resort offers comfortable, well-appointed accommodations that balance upscale amenities with a relaxed, cottage-style feel.

After a day on the course, the resort provides an easy transition from golf to downtime. Dinner options allow guests to stay on site and unwind, with menus focused on quality ingredients and relaxed service. As daylight stretches later into the evening in early spring, sitting by the lake offers a quiet reminder that another Muskoka season has begun.

Windows Restaurant at Rocky Crest Golf Resort

DAY TWO:

THE LAKE JOSEPH CLUB

The following morning, we headed to The Lake Joseph Club, another Thomas McBroom design and a long-standing favourite among Muskoka golfers. Where Rocky Crest feels open and flowing, Lake Joseph introduces more elevation changes and dramatic visuals, with exposed rock faces and elevated tees providing glimpses of Lake Joseph throughout the round.

Hole No. 2 at The Lake Joseph Club

The course is known for its strong par-3s and emphasis on shot placement. Fairways are generous, but thoughtful positioning matters, particularly on approach shots where elevation and green contours influence play. Convenient snack stations and lunch offerings along the course make it easy to stay fueled without interrupting the pace.

Early in the season, Lake Joseph feels especially rewarding. Cooler temperatures make for a comfortable experience, and the contrast between granite, water, and evergreen forest gives the course a clean, refreshed look as spring unfolds. Several elevated tee boxes offer long views across the property, reinforcing why the course continues to stand out year after year.

The Water's Edge Restaurant at The Lake Joseph Club

A THOUGHTFUL MUSKOKA GOLF ITINERARY

Playing Rocky Crest followed by The Lake Joseph Club offers a well-rounded Muskoka golf experience. Each course has its own personality, yet both share a commitment to strong design, natural beauty, and a pace that allows golfers to settle into the season.

For a spring getaway, this two-day itinerary feels particularly fitting. The courses provide a polished, playable introduction to the year ahead, while the surrounding resort and clubhouse experiences make it easy to turn an early-season round into a short escape. For golfers looking to ease back into the game while enjoying some of Muskoka’s most respected courses, this pairing delivers on every front.