+ Design: 9-Hole Layout Designed by 4X World Champion Johnny Sias. This course was created for beginners but still has fun design elements for more advanced players to practice the short game. Signage provides accurate distances and the layout flows well so there is no chance of getting lost.

+ Dynamic Discs Veteran Baskets: These targets are sturdy and catch putts well. They have white bands and flags to make them visible from a distance. Players will have no trouble finding their way around the course.

+ Tees: These tees are framed up nicely and filled with packed gravel. They provide a sturdy surface to throw from and are large enough for a small run-up. Players will not need full-power drives as this course is very short.

+ Landscape: This area of the state is beautiful and the landscape is mostly flat and the perfect space for a beginner-friendly nine-hole course. Players could easily roll a cart on this course as there is very little elevation change. This is much different than most other layouts in the state which have elevation as a key design feature.

+ Location: This state park is approximately 20 minutes from Huntington and Barboursville. There are plenty of places for food, lodging, and entertainment close to the course. Once you leave Route 60 be prepared for the landscape to thin out quickly. Beech Fork State Park may be off the beaten path but that's part of the allure.

+ Amenities: With over 3,000 acres to explore visitors will have much more to do than just disc golf. The lake here is HUGE! The shore line stretches over 30 miles and provides plenty of room for boating and fishing. There are also trails for biking and hiking. Shelters are close to the course and are the perfect place to picnic. Immediately next to the disc golf course is a campground so you may want to turn this trip into a vacation and stay for the weekend.

+ Proximity to Other Courses: There is a championship caliber 18 hole course across the street. I generally play this 9-hole layout to warm up my short game before teeing off on the championship layout. If you're into course-bagging there are several other parks in the area you may want to check out. I especially enjoy Armco, Rotary, Barboursville, and Valley Park.

- Lack of Variety: If you are searching for big distance or a challenging course this is not your layout. Check out the tight and technical "Champ" design across the street or travel to another course in the area. All holes are flat with partial woods and between 150 - 200'.

- Rough: There are only a couple spots you may find the rough but it can make your approach very difficult. There is little chance of losing a disc but you may find yourself dealing with briers or poison ivy. I would recommend wearing long pants or bringing a disc retriever for this course just in case you find a pocket of the rough stuff.

This course is really fun but the big draw for disc golfers is the Championship layout across the street. The original layout is the perfect warmup to get your short game ready but you'll likely be finished within 20-30 minutes. If you're a beginner start here with a midrange and/or putter and let them fly. Bring the family or a friend for a great time.

For more advanced players consider this a place to practice. You'll have plenty of ace runs and birdie chances. Putter-only rounds or a three-disc challenge would be fun at this course. You could also do a round of RIPT Revenge or Disc Dice to keep things interesting. If you're in the area definitely take the time to play here (and if you're up to the challenge) add in the Championship layout to your itinerary. Beech Fork State Park is a local gem!