Candyroot Lodge is described by its proprietors, Aaron and Ethan Oberman, as an “elevated golf retreat” designed for all golf enthusiasts. This ambitious public golf project is situated in the sandhills of Jefferson, South Carolina.
While the first of four planned golf courses, designed by Mike Koprowski, is set to fully open in 2027, Candyroot Lodge is already generating considerable anticipation. Located conveniently an hour from both Charlotte, North Carolina, and Columbia, South Carolina, it’s poised to become a prominent golf destination.
Adding to its allure, U.S. Women’s Open Champion and five-time LPGA Tour winner Michelle Wie West will design her inaugural golf course at Candyroot Lodge. This par-3 layout, named Sweet Tooth, is being developed in collaboration with Koprowski.
In a conversation with Aaron Oberman, a former college athlete and software executive, he elaborated on the vision behind Candyroot Lodge.
Defining an “Elevated Golf Retreat”:
Oberman explained that for them, an “elevated golf retreat” signifies more than just exceptional golf; it encompasses an outstanding experience from the moment a tee time is booked until guests depart. The aim is to infuse the ease and warmth typically found at private clubs into public golf, ensuring every guest feels valued and catered to with a high level of hospitality.
Acquisition of Land:
Following the sale of his business in 2023, Oberman sought new ventures. His involvement as an early investor in Broomsedge, a private golf club, inspired him. Mike Koprowski, who designed the Broomsedge course, presented him with a nearby land parcel, believing it ideal for an exceptional golf course. This led Oberman and his brother, Ethan, to acquire the surrounding 1,200 acres that would become Candyroot Lodge, recognizing a significant demand for high-quality public golf in the vicinity of Charlotte and Columbia.
Desired Guest Experience:
Oberman hopes guests will remember Candyroot Lodge as a place characterized by seamlessness, warmth, and thoughtful design. The objective is to create a connected and unpretentious experience, from the course layout to the flow between golf, practice areas, and amenities. The destination is intentionally evolving to reflect the modern game, offering a timeless retreat for guests to play, rejuvenate, and create lasting memories.
Development Timeline:
The concept for Candyroot Lodge began to form in 2025 when Mike Koprowski brought the initial 350-acre parcel to their attention. The vision rapidly expanded, with preview play scheduled to commence in November.
Public Golf Commitment:
The vision has consistently been to create an accessible, elevated public golf destination, designed by a new generation of golf course architects. This ensures that the experience is open to everyone. The strong demand for high-quality public golf in the Carolinas makes Candyroot Lodge a compelling option, serving both regional golfers and international travelers seeking a unique destination.
Future Courses:
Currently, plans are in place for the first three courses to be public. The development of additional courses will be contingent on demand.
Anticipation for Mike Koprowski’s Course:
Oberman is particularly eager for golfers to experience the natural character of the Sandhills as interpreted through Koprowski’s design. The first course emphasizes movement and variety with winding fairways, unique greens, and a focus on strategic ground shots, deeply connected to the landscape. The design incorporates small, engaging greens, minimal bunkering, and natural features that provide both visual challenge and strategic depth, aiming for a thought-provoking, old-school golfing experience.
Wellness Component:
The wellness aspect of Candyroot Lodge is envisioned as a seamless extension of the overall guest experience. The destination will eventually feature restorative amenities such as hot-cold therapy, fitness facilities, and walking trails, aiming to provide a holistic retreat that balances world-class golf with opportunities for recovery, movement, and outdoor connection.
Opening Dates:
Preview play for the first course is slated for November 2026, with a full opening expected in spring 2027. Lodging facilities are part of the long-term plan, likely to be developed in phases after the initial golf course opening.
Second Course Construction:
Construction on the second course is anticipated to begin by late next year, though the immediate focus remains on completing the first course and ensuring an exceptional guest experience from day one.
