News Summary
Central Minnesota boasts a variety of public and private golf courses within a short drive from St. Cloud, catering to golfers of all skill levels. With numerous options including the Albany Golf Club, Angushire Golf Course, and Blackberry Ridge, players can enjoy both challenging and accessible rounds. The community also engages in voting for favorite local courses to celebrate the region’s rich golfing culture and offerings.
Central Minnesota Offers Diverse Golfing Options Near St. Cloud
Golf enthusiasts in Central Minnesota have a wide selection of public and private courses within a short drive of St. Cloud, providing options for players of all skill levels. With over a dozen public courses and two private clubs within approximately half an hour of the city, residents and visitors can enjoy a variety of golfing experiences, from challenging championship layouts to quick, accessible rounds.
Accessibility and Location
St. Cloud is conveniently situated just over an hour from some of the region’s top-tier courses in the Twin Cities area. This proximity gives local golfers the opportunity to access nationally recognized golf destinations while also exploring a rich landscape of local courses that cater to amateurs and advanced players alike.
Community Engagement and Voting
In an effort to recognize favorite local courses, a polling opportunity is available for golfers to vote for their top choices. The vote is open until 8:30 p.m. on Thursday, August 14, allowing community members a chance to voice their preferences and celebrate area golf. The results aim to highlight the most popular local gems among players.
Highlighted Courses in Central Minnesota
Albany Golf Club
Recognized as a local standout, Albany Golf Club has recently updated its clubhouse and pro shop, now hosting the Greenside Grille for dining. The course features dynamic water elements such as a creek and retention ponds, alongside fast greens and a demanding back nine. Notable holes include the par 3 No. 11 and No. 17, which challenges players to drive over a creek, making it a favorite for those seeking technical play.
Angushire Golf Course
Offering nine holes of golf without the need for tee time reservations, Angushire provides flexible and last-minute play opportunities. Open from March through October, this course is accessible for spontaneous rounds and ideal for casual golfers.
Blackberry Ridge
Sarton’s Blackberry Ridge stands out as one of the area’s longest courses at nearly 7,000 yards. It features a mix of wooded and link-styled holes, with four par fives and challenging par 3s. The facility includes a driving range and Grill19 restaurant, providing players with amenities for practice and relaxation.
Other Notable Courses
Boulder Ridge, situated north of St. Cloud Tech High School, offers quick rounds with few water hazards and a straightforward layout. The course includes a driving range and clubhouse for convenience. Kimball Golf Club has evolved from nine to 18 holes, showcasing mature trees, rolling hills, and an island green at hole 15, adding a unique challenge.
Oak Hill is known for its well-maintained fairways, affordability, and four tee positions suitable for beginners. Its clubhouse features a menu with breakfast options, catering to players starting their day. Pebble Creek Golf Club in Becker provides a variety of challenging holes that are used for state championships, making it a magnet for serious golfers.
Rich Spring Golf Course emphasizes tight fairways and shaded greens, offering good value and hosting local tournaments. River Oaks provides picturesque views overlooking the Sauk River, with multiple water hazards and dogleg holes on the back nine, adding both beauty and challenge to the layout.
St. Cloud Country Club, the oldest in the area, has recently undergone renovations and offers stunning vistas of the Mississippi River but requires membership for access. Stone Creek features open fairways, sand traps, and ponds, along with an on-site bar and grill. Territory Golf Club’s spacious fairways and water features create challenging conditions, especially for short game practice.
Upcoming developments include a new restaurant at Three Tees Golf Course, aiming to foster community engagement among local players. Travelers Golf Course provides nine private holes nestled among residential homes and trees, offering a casual and tranquil environment. Veterans Golf Course, maintained by the city, offers primarily par 3 holes at affordable rates, emphasizing accessibility. Lastly, Wapicada Golf Course combines scenic water hazards with a mix of difficult and shorter holes, complemented by a large practice green suitable for all skill levels.
Conclusion
Central Minnesota’s diverse golf courses supply a broad spectrum of playing options, from challenging championship layouts to quick and accessible public courses. The variety of course features, amenities, and community initiatives reflect the region’s rich golfing culture, making it an ideal destination for local players and visitors alike.
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Local Qualifier for Generation Cup Golf Tournament
Additional Resources
- St. Cloud Times: Voting Poll of the Best Golf Course
- SCSU Huskies: John Berling Memorial Golf Tournament Set for September 27
- St. Cloud Live: Disc Golf in the St. Cloud Community
- Authentic Florida: 10 Best Things to Do in St. Cloud
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Golf
Author: STAFF HERE WASHINGTON DC
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