Northwood Hills Golf Course at Mille Lacs

Northwood Hills Golf Course at Mille Lacs sits in Garrison, Minnesota, a small community on the southwest shore of Mille Lacs Lake in the central part of the state. Designed by Robert Murphy, the course occupies terrain characteristic of Minnesota's lake country, where glacial topography creates rolling ground and the landscape transitions between hardwood forest and open meadow. The region around Mille Lacs has long been known for its fishing and outdoor recreation, and the golf course serves both seasonal visitors and local players drawn to the area's natural setting. The routing works through wooded corridors and clearings, with elevation changes that provide variety in shot-making and strategic options. Water features and natural vegetation frame several holes, while the tree-lined fairways demand accuracy from the tee. The design reflects Murphy's approach to working with existing landforms rather than imposing dramatic reshaping, allowing the native character of the site to define the playing experience. Northwood Hills functions as a public facility, accessible to travelers exploring Minnesota's lake region and to residents of the surrounding communities. The course fits within the tradition of northern Minnesota golf, where the short summer season and forested landscapes create a distinct regional character. Players encounter a straightforward test that emphasizes course management and shot placement over length, typical of layouts designed to accommodate a range of skill levels while respecting the natural environment.