Once a month, the quaint little town of Canton, which sits roughly 60 miles east of Dallas, becomes the seventh-largest city in Texas. That’s when about 400,000 shoppers attend the world-famous First Monday Trade Days. It’s billed as the largest flea market in America, and modern-day treasure hunters come from far and wide to search for one-of-a-kind items.
Even if antiquing isn’t your thing, there are plenty of other good reasons to visit Canton. For those whose idea of a good time is tracking down pars and birdies while enjoying some fresh air and beautiful scenery, then a chance to play Van Zandt Country Club is incentive enough to plan a trip to the charming community on the western edge of the Piney Woods.
Van Zandt Country Club is conveniently situated just off Interstate 20 and only a few minutes from the din of activity that surrounds First Monday, though you would never be able to tell with the semi-private club’s peaceful and secluded setting.
The course was designed by Leon Howard and opened for play in 1966. The traditional layout Howard crafted blends perfectly into the natural landscape. Measuring just under 7,000 yards from the back tees, the par-72 course features gently rolling terrain, fairways lined with tall pines, sculpted bunkers and water hazards coming into play on many of the holes.
As for the greens, the putting surfaces are as smooth as any to be found for miles around.
“We have MiniVerde bermudagrass greens, and we feel they are some of the best-conditioned putting surfaces in the area, even when compared to courses in major cities with much bigger budgets,” said Magee Burns, the club’s president. “We’re not Augusta National, but if you love greens that roll fast and true, then you really should come check us out.”
For nearly 60 years, the course’s engaging mix of long and short holes, left and right doglegs and memorable par 3s has provided a rewarding experience for players of all ages and abilities. With such an enjoyable layout, relaxed atmosphere, numerous fun outings, and tournaments, it’s easy to see why the tee sheet is always so busy.
“My favorite thing about the club is that we have a diverse and active membership,” Burns said. “You can show up any day of the week and find a game with one of the many different types of groups that get together to play. It’s a great way for everyone to get to know each other and build long-lasting friendships.”
There are many other amenities for members and guests to enjoy at the club, including an expansive practice area, fully stocked pro shop, pool and snack bar, cookouts, live music, and social gatherings at the outdoor pavilion, as well as tasty food and drinks at The Bunker Bar and Grill.
While it’s been a longtime regional favorite, Van Zandt Country Club will soon garner a wider fan base when it hosts the Legends Junior Tour’s Collegiate Preview from June 20-21. One of the premier events on the LJT’s annual schedule, the 36-hole stroke play championship features an elite 84-player starting field comprised of the state’s top-ranked boys and girls aged 14-18.
A trip to Canton will offer up a nice escape from the big city, but the challenge that awaits the junior competitors will be no relaxing stroll in the countryside.
For more information about Van Zandt Country Club, click here. For more information about the LJT Collegiate Preview, click here.
