Eaglewood seems fairly straightforward at first. Once you start playing, you realize she earns her slope rating.

The fairways are inviting. Then you notice strategic placement of bunkers, trees, and water hazards. My golf balls have an unnatural attraction to water. It's a good thing I stocked up on inexpensive, previously hit golf balls in the pro shop before I started.

There are no houses on the fairways here, just beautiful, pure nature. A couple of the holes run along the river for an added touch of  scenic challenge. 

You may encounter some non-nature distractions in the form of F-22s flying overhead or rocket motor tests at neighboring NASA Langley Research Center.

There's lots of nature here also. You might see deer, waterfowl, rabbits, coyotes, and even bald eagles nesting nearby.

If conditions allow, I'd really recommend walking the course. Take a look around and enjoy the serenity of this unique property.

Hole 13 was my most challenging here. Picture a long, sharp dogleg Par 4 with a pair of bunkers at the elbow and the green is bracketed by two more irregularly shaped traps. My Sand Wedge saw much use.

A Center for the Community
There's a movement in Air Force Golf to broaden usage and become "More than golf." Before I teed off, I got the chance to talk with the golf course manager Andy Weissinger. "We want to be the community center that's not a community center," he said, "So anyone in the community that wants to do any type of event or just needs a place to come and meet and hang out, Eaglewood's the place to do it." 

They've held job fairs, cheerleading practices, re-enlistments, and outdoor concerts. Partnering with the base Fire Department, the Egg Drop brought out over 700 people from the community. They extended their ladder truck up and dropped 6000 eggs over the course of two hours.

Growing the Experience
The golfing experience at Eaglewood is top notch. The Pro Shop is staffed with friendly people and they offer anything you could want for your game. The practice facilities are great, and soon will be better with the addition of a ten-bay Top Tracer Range.

Planning Your Visit
There are so many things to do in this area of Virginia, you'll have to no shortage of things to keep you and your family entertained.

If you're into the outdoors, check out all the offerings of the JBLE Outdoor Recreation. 

Facility Facts

• Par 72

• 6652 yards

• 72.7 rating

• 133 slope

• Architect: Edmund Ault

• Founded in: 1950