Black Brook at Izatys Resort

Black Brook is an 18-hole course at Izatys Resort in Onamia, Minnesota, designed by John Harbottle III. The resort sits along the western shore of Mille Lacs Lake in central Minnesota, a region characterized by glacial topography, hardwood forests, and numerous small lakes and wetlands. The course takes its name from a local waterway and reflects the natural terrain of the area, with elevation changes, wooded corridors, and water features that come into play on several holes.

Harbottle, a Minnesota-based architect active in the latter decades of the twentieth century, designed courses throughout the Upper Midwest with an emphasis on working within existing landforms rather than imposing dramatic earthmoving. Black Brook follows this approach, routing holes through stands of mature trees and around wetland areas. The layout requires accuracy off the tee and thoughtful course management, as narrow landing zones and strategically placed hazards penalize errant shots.

Izatys Resort functions as a vacation destination, drawing visitors to the Mille Lacs region for golf, fishing, and lake recreation. The course serves both resort guests and local golfers, offering a traditional parkland experience in a quiet, wooded setting. The facility includes practice areas and a clubhouse with dining options typical of a resort property. Black Brook provides a straightforward test of golf without excessive length, suited to a range of skill levels while rewarding players who navigate its tree-lined fairways and water hazards with precision.