Excellent private and public golf clubs abound across the land, and with the economy reducing membership rolls, some private clubs have drastically cut initiation fees, and even eliminated them in some cases.  Green fees at the semi-privates are lower as well, especially with a range of tee time consolidators slugging it out on the Internet.  If you have the patience to shop around, you can do quite well.

Private University of Texas Golf Club at Steiner Ranch (left) and public Avery Ranch (right), both near Austin, TX.

Private Wachesaw Plantation (left) and Caledonia Golf and Fish Club (public, right), just south of Myrtle Beach, SC.

Balsam Mountain Preserve (private, on left) and Laurel Ridge (right), both near Waynesville, NC.

Daniel Island Fazio Course (private, left) and Charleston National (right), both near Charleston, SC.