Nestled among the world's largest chain of freshwater lakes, Big Stone Golf Course offers visitors to Three Lakes a memorable golfing experience with spectacular waterfront views. Originally established as Marty's Three Lakes Golf Club, part of the renowned Northernaire Resort, founded by Carl Marty along the shores of Deer and Big Stone Lakes. Over the last 74 years, this family-owned course has evolved into a premier golf destination. Owners Ed & Sue Jacobsen and Lennel Sergent have taken great care to update the course while staying true to Marty’s philosophy of making golf enjoyable for all.
The nine-hole course provides an engaging challenge for golfers of all skill levels, with strategically placed sand bunkers, creeks, and ponds testing players' abilities. What sets Big Stone apart is its stunning setting – many holes feature beautiful views of Big Stone Lake, with the second hole's water fountain and the seventh hole's pond creating particularly picturesque scenes. Recent modifications to several holes, including four new tees, have added both length and fresh challenges to the course.
A spectacular clubhouse, built in 2017, serves as the heart of the facility. This modern building welcomes guests with a full-service bar, well-stocked pro shop offering clothing and accessories, and a comfortable patio perfect for post-round relaxation. The addition of a circular driveway with convenient bag drop and handicapped parking makes arrival seamless, while a direct cart path from the clubhouse to the first tee gets golfers started quickly.
In 2024, the course enhanced the player experience with a new fleet of quiet, comfortable Yamaha golf carts. The grounds have seen significant improvements as well, with over 2,500 saplings and 30 mature trees planted along fairways and between holes, ensuring the course's natural beauty will continue to flourish for generations to come. Ongoing improvements include leveling and re-sodding of fairways, enhanced irrigation, and the addition of a new ninth green, with the existing green being converted to a practice facility.
Visitors can easily book tee times online or by calling 715-546-2100. The pro shop offers club rentals and all necessary equipment, making it convenient for travelers to enjoy a round without transporting their gear. For those seeking to improve their game, PGA Professional Patti Marquis provides comprehensive lessons tailored to all skill levels, from beginners to advanced players. The course also offers various leagues and tournaments throughout the season.
While Big Stone provides limited food options, their pizza has earned a reputation as some of the best in the area. Throughout the season, a local caterer offers special dining events featuring well-crafted food options, adding variety to the dining experience. The new pavilion, added in 2021, has transformed Big Stone into a versatile venue capable of hosting everything from weddings to class reunions, making it a true community gathering place.
The course's commitment to excellence extends beyond the greens. The friendly and professional staff prioritizes creating the best possible experience for every visitor. Whether you're an experienced golfer looking for a challenging round or a casual player seeking to enjoy the scenic beauty of the Northwoods, Big Stone Golf Course offers an unforgettable golfing experience.
For those new to the area, the course's location amid the spectacular Three Lakes chain provides a perfect introduction to the region's natural beauty. The combination of challenging play, stunning views, and modern amenities makes Big Stone Golf Course a must-visit destination for any golfer traveling to the Northwoods.