Historic Stryker Golf Course at Fort Bragg to Close After 80 Years

Financial Sustainability Forces Closure After Decades of Service

Opened shortly after World War II, the course sitting right outside the main gate where Bragg Boulevard ends has long served soldiers, veterans, and their families. According to Jennifer Hodges, director of Family and Morale, Welfare and Recreation (MWR)—which manages both of Fort Bragg’s golf courses—the decision to close Stryker was not made lightly. Hodges stated that declining attendance and a yearly maintenance cost of about $750,000 forced tough choices, noting that the post exhausted marketing campaigns and other avenues before deciding to repurpose or close the facility. Other recreational amenities on post, including several bowling alleys, have also closed in recent years as the installation balances its recreational offerings and budget limitations.

Community Pushback and Morale Concerns

The impending closure has drawn strong reactions from regular players and veterans who view the facility as essential for troop well-being. Retired Command Sgt. Major Ron Thompson, who served for more than three decades and regularly plays and teaches the game at Stryker, told reporters that the course layout is particularly good for disabled veterans. Thompson argued that relaxation spaces for soldiers are more important than money, stating, “Sometimes the soldiers deserve they deserve every penny that’s available out there.” As the closure draws near, Thompson and other regulars have launched a petition that has gathered more than 400 signatures, hoping leaders will reconsider and give them a chance to help maintain the course.

Proposed Entertainment Hub and Future Redevelopment

Military officials have hired a firm to evaluate alternative uses for the Stryker property. According to reporting from the Fayetteville Observer, officials are considering transforming the historic course into a community space and rebranding it as the Stryker Entertainment Complex. Col. Chad Mixon told the Fayetteville Observer that the project involves potential investment from Fort Bragg alongside local civic leaders and state and federal funding. The public can share their vision through QR codes placed around the area, with suggested additions including walking trails, outdoor shows, and water activities. Meanwhile, the driving range at Stryker will remain open, and the post’s other facility, Ryder Golf Course, will remain operational for golfers willing to navigate security checkpoints.

Pro Tip: Accessing Alternatives on Post

Golfers looking to transition to Ryder Golf Course must navigate security checkpoints. According to local reports, getting onto base requires REAL ID cards, U.S. passports, government worker badges, transport worker cards, updated state licenses, or tribal photo cards.

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