We've had signs of warmer weather, although looking outside at the snow falling it can feel like it's farther away than it actually is. Soon enough, golf season will be underway in Central Minnesota, and if you are new to the area or just beginning to try golf as a hobby/sport, here are my 10 best public courses near St. Cloud for you to try this summer.

Every Course Is Different & Offers Unique Challenges

Before we get to the list of courses, if you are just starting off golfing, good for you. It's a great way to get outside and enjoy a Minnesota summer, while staying active. Remember, it's only as much fun as you make it to be, so keep a positive mental attitude, bring plenty of balls and sunscreen, and have patience.

Each course on this list offers unique challenges and is different. Some are water hazard-heavy, others are shorter courses and challenge your irons play, while others are courses you might only play once this summer, but you'll enjoy every minute of it.

Let's get to my list, so here it is, in no particular order, as all of the courses in our area are great to play. (You might be able to save on your next round of golf using the Value Connection.)

10 Public Courses Near St. Cloud (In No Particular Order)

Territory Golf Club (St. Cloud) - 480 55th Ave SE, Saint Cloud, MN - Opened in 2001, it is recognized as one of Central Minnesota’s premier golf destinations, known for scenic design, upscale amenities, and a welcoming atmosphere for players of all skill levels. Territory is a par-72, 18-hole course.

Blackberry Ridge Golf Club (Sartell) - 3125 Clubhouse Rd, Sartell, MN - Opened in 1998, it combines challenging golf with scenic natural surroundings and modern hospitality amenities. The club is recognized as one of Central Minnesota’s premier destinations for golf, dining, and weddings. Blackberry Ridge is a par-72, 18-hole course.

Oak Hill Golf Club (Rice) - 8852 Indian Rd NW, Rice, MN - Established in 1989, it is recognized for its scenic layout, tree-lined fairways, and well-maintained greens that attract both local and visiting golfers from Central Minnesota. Oak Hill is a par-72, 18-hole golf course.

Wapicada Golf Club (Sauk Rapids) - 4498 15th St NE, Sauk Rapids, MN - Founded in 1958, Wapicada is known for its well-maintained greens, scenic layout, and welcoming atmosphere, the club serves both recreational golfers and competitive players throughout Central Minnesota. Wapicada is a par-72, 18-hole golf course.

Kimball Golf Club (Kimball) - 11823 Co Rd 150, Kimball, MN - Established in 1968, it has become a notable destination for golfers across Central Minnesota thanks to its blend of playability, affordability, and well-maintained greens. Originally designed as a nine-hole layout by golf architect Joel Goldstrand, the club expanded to 18 holes in 1997. Kimball is a par-72 18-hole golf course.

Angushire Golf (St. Cloud) - 224 Waite Ave S, St Cloud, MN - Angushire was founded in 1984 and is known for its tree-lined fairways, ponds, and friendly atmosphere. It offers a relaxed, walker-friendly experience for players of all ages and abilities. Angushire is a par-35, 9-hole golf course

Veterans Golf Course (St. Cloud) - 5001 Veterans Dr, Saint Cloud, MN - Transferred to the City of St. Cloud in 1990, the course offers affordable and accessible golf for players of all ages and abilities. It is known for its walkable layout, community-oriented programs, and seasonal membership options. Veterans is a par-30, 9-hole course.

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Rich Spring Golf Club (Cold Spring) - 17467 Fairway Cir, Cold Spring, MN - Established in 1961, the course sits along Schneider Lake, which lends a scenic feel to several holes. It’s known for its winding fairway, water hazards that come into play, well-kept greens, and a relaxed “Minnesota golf” atmosphere. For pure value per dollar, Rich Spring may be one of the area's top 3 courses. A lot of local golfers like it because it feels challenging without being overly punishing. Rich Spring is a par-72, 18-hole course.

Pierz Golf Course (Pierz) - 603 Park Ave SE, Pierz, MN - Established in 1935 as a Works Progress Administration project, it was one of the few classic nine-hole layouts left in Central Minnesota. An upgrade to the course in 2025 added 9 holes and created an 18-hole gem that is now an all-day golf option. Pierz Golf Course is a par-71, 18-hole course.

Plus 2 -

Albany Golf Club (Albany) - 500 Church Ave, Albany, MN - Established in 1961, Albany Golf Club is known for its rolling parkland layout, tree-lined fairways, and welcoming small-town setting. The club’s design emphasizes walkable fairways and scenic elevation changes. Added bonus for Albany Golf Club is that it features a heated, three-sided Toptracer range with twelve stations, allowing year-round practice and virtual course play.

River Oaks Golf Club (Cold Spring) - 23742 County Road 2, Cold Spring, MN - Established in 1990, River Oaks Golf Club is known for its scenic, links-style design that caters to golfers of all experience levels. The club offers a welcoming environment for both serious players and families seeking a relaxed round in the countryside near central Minnesota. River Oaks is a par-70, 18-hole golf course.

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Beautiful Photos From Clemens Gardens

This weekend was a great one to get out and do something fun. I wanted to destress, so I drove over to Clemens Gardens for a nice stroll through the gardens. What a beautiful place it is. There are flowers everywhere, as well as fountains and statues. These photos only capture part of what's available to see, but in case you haven't had a chance to visit, now is a great time to view them, as everything is in full bloom. Take a look at some beautiful photos and then make a plan to take your own trip. All of your senses will thank you.

Gallery Credit: Photos by Kelly Cordes

 

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