The Forest Country Club
The Forest Country Club in Fort Myers, Florida, is a private, non-equity golf community nestled within 620 acres of nature preserve. It features two award-winning, walkable 18-hole courses—The Bear and The Bobcat—designed by Gordon G. Lewis. The Bear course is renowned for its challenging layout and has hosted multiple USGA and FSGA events. The Bobcat course offers wider fairways and scenic lakes, catering to golfers of all skill levels. Memberships are available to both residents and non-residents, providing flexibility for prospective members.
Beyond golf, The Forest Country Club boasts a 40,000-square-foot clubhouse with modern amenities, including indoor and outdoor dining options. The club offers various recreational facilities such as tennis courts, pickleball courts, and a fitness center. A vibrant social calendar features events like the annual Boston Red Sox Celebrity Classic, enhancing community engagement. Located just 15–20 minutes from Fort Myers beaches, it combines luxury living with convenient access to local attractions. Overall, The Forest Country Club provides an exceptional lifestyle for its members.
Video of The Forest Country Club in Fort Myers, Florida
Course Description
The Forest Country Club in Fort Myers, Florida, is a private golf facility featuring two 18-hole courses: The Bear and The Bobcat. The Bear Course spans 6,852 yards from the back tees, with a slope of 131 and a rating of 74.0. The Bobcat Course measures 6,607 yards, offering a slope of 125 and a rating of 71.8 from the back tees. Both courses feature TifEagle Bermuda grass greens; The Bear has Tifway 419 Bermuda fairways, while The Bobcat uses Celebration Bermuda. Course conditions are consistently praised for their excellent maintenance and playability.
Signature holes include The Bear’s par-5 3rd, known for its challenging length and strategic bunkering, and the par-4 14th, which demands precision with water hazards flanking the fairway. On The Bobcat, the par-3 4th stands out with its picturesque setting and water carry, while the par-5 15th offers risk-reward opportunities with its reachable green guarded by hazards. These holes exemplify the thoughtful design and natural beauty that The Forest Country Club offers its members.
Greens Fees and Membership Costs
The Forest Country Club in Fort Myers, Florida, is a private, member-owned golf community offering various membership options. Green and cart fees are included in the membership dues; the club does not offer public tee times. Therefore, daily green and cart fees are not applicable to non-members. Memberships are available to both residents and non-residents, providing flexibility for prospective members. For detailed information on membership options, prospective members are encouraged to contact the club directly.
Membership options include:
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Family Golf Membership: $47,500 initiation fee; $1,100 monthly dues; $245 monthly capital contribution.
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Individual Golf Membership: $47,500 initiation fee; $880 monthly dues; $245 monthly capital contribution.
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Executive Golf Membership (for individuals under 54): $23,750 initiation fee; $550 monthly dues; $123 monthly capital contribution.
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Sports Membership (limited golf): $15,800 initiation fee; $440 monthly dues; $245 monthly capital contribution.
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Club Membership (no golf): $5,000 initiation fee; $2,970 annual dues.
All memberships include access to clubhouse dining, tennis, pickleball, fitness center, bocce, and social activities.
Additional Information
The Forest Country Club in Fort Myers, Florida, is led by General Manager Matt Gaudet and Director of Golf Scott Newhouse. The golf staff includes Head Professional Graham H. Sell, Assistant Professional Kyra R. Woods, and Assistant Professional Megan A. Crews. Director of Tennis Fred Kangwa, a former Davis Cup player for Zambia, has served over 22 years. The club is renowned for its vibrant community and diverse social events. Members enjoy a welcoming atmosphere with numerous opportunities for engagement.
The Forest Country Club hosts the annual Boston Red Sox Celebrity Classic, attracting notable personalities. The club offers over 40 lifestyle events each season, including theater trips and live performances. Members can join various interest groups, such as the Book Club and Wine Club. The club’s commitment to community involvement is evident through its members’ participation in local charities. This blend of sports, social activities, and community service defines the club’s unique character.