Looking for the best Golf Courses Brainerd MN has to offer in 2026? The Brainerd Lakes Area includes championship resort layouts, public golf courses, practice facilities, dining, and lodging within an easy drive of downtown Brainerd. Based on listed ratings, available facilities, location, and golfer convenience, these are the leading courses to consider. Always confirm tee times, seasonal schedules, and access rules before visiting.
1. Madden’s On Gull Lake
Madden’s On Gull Lake is a full-service resort destination at 11266 Pine Beach Peninsula Road in Brainerd. Along with its golf course, the property offers resort lodging, event facilities, and wedding services. Its 4.7 rating from 1,928 reviews makes it one of the most highly reviewed golf destinations near Brainerd. The setting is particularly convenient for golfers planning a resort getaway.
Phone: (218) 829-2811
Website: maddens.com
Pros
- Resort hotel, golf, and event facilities in one location
- Excellent 4.7 rating with a large review volume
- Convenient Brainerd area location
Cons
- Resort golf may be less suitable for golfers seeking a strictly public-course experience
- Advance booking is advisable during peak season
2. Deacon’s Lodge
Located at 9348 Arnold Palmer Drive in Breezy Point, Deacon’s Lodge combines a golf course with a golf shop and resort hotel. The course is part of the Breezy Point Resort experience, making it a practical choice for visitors who want lodging and golf together. With a listed 4.7 rating from 322 reviews, it ranks among the strongest golf options near Brainerd.
Phone: (218) 562-6262
Website: breezypointresort.com
Pros
- Resort lodging and golf shop available
- Strong 4.7 rating
- Good choice for a golf weekend near Breezy Point
Cons
- Located outside Brainerd proper
- Resort availability can affect tee-time planning
3. Cuyuna Rolling Hills
Cuyuna Rolling Hills is a public golf course at 24410 Minnesota Highway 210 in Deerwood. Its facilities include a bar and golf driving range, offering useful amenities before or after a round. For golfers comparing public golf courses near Brainerd, MN, this course stands out for its accessible format and 4.7 rating from 198 reviews.
Phone: (218) 534-3489
Website: cuyunarollinghillsgolf.com
Pros
- Public course access
- Driving range for practice
- On-site bar
- Highly rated at 4.7
Cons
- Requires a drive from central Brainerd
- Fewer resort amenities than nearby destination properties
4. Cragun’s Legacy Courses
Cragun’s Legacy Courses are located at 11496 East Gull Lake Drive in Brainerd. The property offers golf facilities and a golf club experience in the Gull Lake area. Its 4.6 rating from 383 reviews indicates consistent appeal among visiting golfers. When I compare Brainerd golf destinations, its location and established resort setting make it a practical option for golf vacations.
Phone: (218) 825-2789
Website: craguns.com
Pros
- Located directly in the Brainerd area
- Established golf club destination
- Strong 4.6 rating
Cons
- Specific amenities and tee-time policies should be confirmed
- Busy resort periods may limit availability
5. The Classic at Madden’s
The Classic at Madden’s is located at 11672 County Highway 18 in Brainerd and provides a dedicated golf course experience connected with the Madden’s property. Golfers can pair a round with the resort’s broader lodging and hospitality services. The course has a listed 4.6 rating from 160 reviews, making it a respected choice among the best golf courses in Brainerd, MN.
Phone: (218) 855-5920
Website: maddens.com
Pros
- Strong 4.6 rating
- Connected to a well-known resort property
- Suitable for destination golf trips
Cons
- Resort access and booking requirements may apply
- Availability can vary by season
6. Crosswoods Golf Course
Crosswoods Golf Course is at 35878 County Road 3 in Crosslake. It offers a broad range of facilities, including a driving range, golf instructors, golf shop, restaurant, and miniature golf course. This combination makes it appealing to families, beginners, and experienced players. Its 4.5 rating from 181 reviews supports its reputation as a versatile public golf destination near Brainerd.
Phone: (218) 692-4653
Website: crosslakegolf.com
Pros
- Driving range and instruction available
- Golf shop and restaurant on site
- Miniature golf adds family appeal
Cons
- Located in Crosslake rather than Brainerd
- May feel busier because of its wide range of activities
7. Pine Beach West
Pine Beach West is a golf course at 6648 Sylvan Road West in East Gull Lake. Operated through Madden’s, it offers access to a recognizable Gull Lake golf destination. With a 4.4 rating from 63 reviews, it is worth considering for golfers staying near East Gull Lake or looking for another course within the Madden’s network.
Phone: (218) 855-5934
Website: maddens.com
Pros
- Convenient for East Gull Lake visitors
- Connected with Madden’s golf operations
- Good 4.4 rating
Cons
- Smaller review volume than major resort courses
- Confirm availability and access requirements before arrival
8. Whitebirch Golf Course
Whitebirch Golf Course is located at 7891 County Road 11 in Breezy Point. The property includes a golf course, resort hotel, and restaurant, allowing visitors to combine golf, dining, and accommodation. Its 4.3 rating from 111 reviews makes it a solid Breezy Point option for travelers seeking a complete resort experience near Brainerd.
Phone: (218) 562-7177
Website: breezypointresort.com
Pros
- Resort hotel and restaurant on site
- Convenient for Breezy Point stays
- Good choice for multi-day golf trips
Cons
- Located outside Brainerd
- Tee times may be affected by resort demand
9. The Preserve at Grand View Lodge
The Preserve at Grand View Lodge is at 5505 Preserve Boulevard in Pequot Lakes. Facilities include a public golf course, driving range, golf instructors, and golf shop. This makes it one of the more complete options for golfers who want practice support or lessons. It has a listed 4.2 rating from 81 reviews.
Phone: (218) 568-4944
Website: grandviewlodge.com
Pros
- Public golf access
- Driving range, instruction, and golf shop
- Suitable for skill development
Cons
- Located in Pequot Lakes
- Lower listed rating than several nearby alternatives
10. Pine Beach East
Pine Beach East is located at 11266 Pine Beach Peninsula Road in Brainerd and operates through Madden’s. Its location is convenient for golfers staying at the resort or exploring the Gull Lake area. The course has a 3.1 rating from 23 reviews, so golfers may want to review current conditions, availability, and recent feedback before booking.
Phone: (218) 855-5932
Website: maddens.com
Pros
- Brainerd location
- Connected with Madden’s resort facilities
- Convenient for resort guests
Cons
- Lower 3.1 rating
- Limited review volume
- Confirm course conditions and access in advance
For the best overall Golf Courses Brainerd MN experience, Madden’s On Gull Lake, Deacon’s Lodge, Cuyuna Rolling Hills, Cragun’s Legacy Courses, and Crosswoods Golf Course offer the strongest combination of ratings and facilities. Your ideal choice depends on whether you prioritize resort lodging, public access, instruction, practice areas, or proximity to Brainerd.
