News Summary
Tepetonka Golf Club, developed by Mark Haugejorde, aims to transform the golfing scene in central Minnesota. Scheduled to open in summer 2026, this destination golf course will feature a minimalist design on 228 acres of stunning natural terrain. The project not only focuses on providing an exceptional golfing experience but also emphasizes eco-friendly initiatives and job creation for the local community.
Tepetonka Golf Club Set to Become Central Minnesota’s Premier Destination Course
Get ready, golf enthusiasts! A new oasis for golfers is on the horizon, and it’s called Tepetonka Golf Club. Nestled in the stunning natural beauty of northern Kandiyohi County, Minnesota, this exciting project is set to transform the golfing scene in the area. Developed by Mark Haugejorde, this destination golf club is pegged to open its greens to the public in the summer of 2026, and it promises to be a game-changer for avid golfers.
A Dream from an Enthusiastic Golfer
Mark Haugejorde isn’t just any golf aficionado; he has golf written all over his background. Growing up in New London, he was steeped in the golf industry from an early age, with his father co-founding the Little Crow Resort Golf Course. After pursuing collegiate golf at the University of Houston—where he rubbed elbows with the likes of professional golfer Fred Couples and broadcaster Jim Nantz—Haugejorde honed his skills further. His eight-year stint as the director of marketing for none other than Jack Nicklaus speaks volumes about his dedication and expertise in the golf arena.
From Vision to Reality
The inspiration for Tepetonka came to Haugejorde while visiting the renowned Sand Hills Golf Course in Nebraska. That experience planted the seeds of inspiration that led him on a three-year journey to find the perfect site for his dream. And guess what? He found it just near New London! This ideal location boasts an expanse of 228 acres featuring remarkable natural terrain—think rolling hills, picturesque moraines, and a charming creek meandering through the landscape.
The Design
Tepetonka will be crafted by OCM Golf, a prestigious design firm from Melbourne, Australia. Golfers will soon be able to experience an 18-hole championship course along with a 9-hole short course. One of the most exciting aspects of this development is the minimalist design approach, which seeks to preserve the natural charm of the land by limiting soil movement to just 1,000 cubic yards. The ambitious project will also require roughly 50,000 tons of sand, enough to fill around 2,200 truckloads, to ensure that every green and fairway is top-notch.
Eco-Friendly Initiatives
But it’s not just about the golf; establishment of Tepetonka includes a commitment to the environment as well. The plan incorporates projects to restore Shakopee Creek and other ecological initiatives will take shape over the coming years. An Environmental Assessment Worksheet (EAW) has already been completed to analyze potential impacts on the environment, and there’s even a unique permit condition that prohibits helicopter access. This decision was made considering noise concerns, showing that the club is mindful of its community and surroundings.
Creating Jobs and Opportunities
Tepetonka aims to be a club with limited membership but anticipates making a positive impact on local economies. Construction jobs will spring up locally, and the golf course’s operations are expected to bring about 50 to 60 jobs during the golf season, along with around 20 during the off-season. Members can also look forward to winter activities as well, rounding out the year with a wealth of opportunities.
A Unique Membership Experience
What’s really exciting is how Haugejorde envisions the membership experience. He describes it as having a vibe that’s “high-end Minnesota casual,” where respectfulness among members triumphs. This kind of culture will undoubtedly attract not just local players but golfers from afar who are looking for that perfect blend of exclusivity and camaraderie.
A Behind-the-Scenes Look
For those curious about the club’s development journey, there’s a docuseries titled “Building the Game,” produced by Capture, which will be documenting the process of bringing Tepetonka to life. Readers should stay tuned for updates and behind-the-scenes glimpses into this major project.
A Name with Significance
And what’s in a name? In this case, quite a bit! Tepetonka, a name that translates to “big tent” in the Dakota language, pays homage to an old resort that once stood along the scenic shores of Green Lake.
So mark your calendars for 2026, as Tepetonka Golf Club is set to redefine what it means to be a destination course in central Minnesota!
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Additional Resources
- MinnPost: How a Luxury Travel and Play Golf Club Ended Up in Rural Kandiyohi County
- BBC News: Article Title
- Today’s Golfer: First Look at The Inspiration Club
- Google Search: Tepetonka Golf Club
- BBC News: Article Title
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Golf Clubs
