Brainerd Lakes: Forests, Fairways, and True Northwoods Charm.
Surrounded by pristine lakes, dense forests, and gently rolling terrain, the Brainerd Lakes region delivers some of Minnesota’s most scenic and strategic golf. Courses weave through woodlands, wetlands, and shimmering shorelines, creating a relaxed yet engaging challenge. With its tranquil setting and variety of natural landscapes, Brainerd captures the essence of classic Northwoods golf.
Featured Golf Courses
Cragun's Legacy Courses - Brainerd, MN
Architect: Robert Trent Jones Jr. (1991, 1998); restored by Tom Lehman
Set among lakes, pines, and long natural corridors, Cragun’s showcases Robert Trent Jones Jr.’s hallmark use of bold bunkering, risk-reward lines, and water-integrated strategy. Tom Lehman’s renovation adds smoother routing and more playable contours, blending challenge with a welcoming, resort-style feel.
Madden’s on Gull Lake -
The Classic - Brainerd, MN
Architect: Joel Goldstrand (2000)
A serene, beautifully crafted layout that winds through forests, wetlands, and rolling landforms near Gull Lake. Precision matters here: tight approaches, elevated greens, and clean sightlines reward thoughtful shot-making. The peaceful, secluded setting makes The Classic one of Minnesota’s most memorable championship courses.
Deacon's Lodge - Breezy Point, MN
Architect: Arnold Palmer (1999)
Tucked deep within the Northwoods, Deacon’s Lodge reflects Arnold Palmer’s signature style, broad fairways framed by forests, natural wetlands, and wandering creeks. The routing flows seamlessly with the land, encouraging creative, strategic play while delivering a tranquil, immersive experience from start to finish.
Plan Your Next Trip the Right Way
See how the courses, hotels, and areas sit relative to each other in Brainerd Lakes.
Insider Notes:
Many golfers pair a round with a day on Gull Lake. Pontoon rentals, fishing, paddleboarding, and watersports are all popular here.
Deacon’s Lodge is widely considered the most scenic of the three, perfect for sunrise or late-afternoon tee times.
Madden’s and Cragun’s offer strong resort experiences, making this one of the most convenient stay-and-play regions in the Upper Midwest.
Short-game facilities at Madden’s are excellent; many golfers warm up there even if they’re playing elsewhere.
Airport Access:
Brainerd Lakes Regional Airport (BRD) – Closest airport for regional service:
Cragun's Legacy Courses: ~14 miles
Madden’s on Gull Lake – The Classic: ~16 miles
Deacon’s Lodge: ~22 miles
Minneapolis–St. Paul International Airport (MSP) – Nearest major airport with full national and international service:
Cragun’s Legacy Courses: ~2 hours 10 minutes
Madden’s on Gull Lake – The Classic: ~2 hours 15 minutes
Deacon’s Lodge: ~2 hours 20 minutes
Driving Times from Major Metro Areas:
From Minneapolis – St. Paul: ~2 hours 10 minutes
From Duluth: ~2 hours
From Fargo: ~2 hours 45 minutes
Cragun's Legacy Courses - Brainerd, MN Reviews
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“The Staff at Cragans Golf are simply outstanding! Today we had a severe storm condition (and tornado warnings) that required course evacuation and shelter from glass windows. Levi Curt and the entire crew handled a tough situation with aplomb."
-Joseph
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"The Lehman’s 18 is one of my top 5 favorite courses I’ve played. Just a beautiful golf track. The Dutch 27 is really nice as well. You can’t go wrong playing either of these. Maintenance team does a great job & the pro shop staff are very friendly / nice people! Will always come back to play when I get the chance.”
-Jordan
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"Extremely well maintained and beautiful course. We played the white front 9 of the Dutch 27. Hitting it straight is a must though! Greens were very tough due to the many undulations, but it made for a fun day!"
-Daniel
Madden’s on Gull Lake -
The Classic - Brainerd, MN Reviews
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"As always the course was in immaculate shape and the staff was friendly and helpful. Pace was decent. Easy to see why this is a Top 100 US Public Course. Will be back again next year."
-Woodrow
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"What can I add that hasn’t already been said about the Classic? Anyone who knows, knows how great of a course it is. I’ll add this, if you haven’t played it, it is a MUST play. I took advantage of the play all 4 for $99 and loved the Classic so much I played it again."
-Shawn
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"A beautiful piece of property! A great variety of holes with some good changes of elevations (#1!). It is always in great condition. It is a hard course with many carries required right up to the greens."
-Preston
Deacon's Lodge - Breezy Point, MN Reviews
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"Beautiful course. Customer service is top notch. The bar tender Chris was fantastic, and the starter Scott was a great help as well. Red tees seemed like an after thought with a lot of uphill drives.”
-Melinda
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"This course is worth all the hype. Privately tucked away in the woods with a fully loaded free practice nook to take advantage of right before you begin one of the funnest rounds you can play in Minnesota.”
-Coleman
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"Golf course was in wonderful shape, each hole is unique and has just wonderful views! The fairways were in good shape and the greens were fast! I was kind of shocked for the price it didn't have the GPS on carts.”
-Jon
