[poundwise]

I'm not sure exactly where you live but I would be surprised if the typical public course cost $50 for a single round. An excellent course near my home has the following 'in season' rate table:

Weekdays (Monday - Friday):
Before 2:00 - $30.00
After 2:00 - $25.00
Senior (55+) - $23.00

Weekends and Holidays:
Before 2:00 - $40.00
After 2:00 - $30.00

All rates include cart rental

And this is definitely a top public course, not some badly kept facility or something.

If you are looking to save money I'd say shop around; play during off-peak times, look for discount offers, etc. Or, if you can afford the membership you have and are happy with it, just keep it and hit 'em straight!