8.16

Windsong Farm Golf Club

Course info

ACCESS
Private
EST.
2002
GRASS
Bentgrass
SEASON
April–October
CART TYPE
Electric
avg. Price
$
?
CADDIES
Unknown
Type
Parkland
Unknown
Par
71
Unknown
Holes
18
Stimpmeter
11
City
Independence

Score

8.16
Design
40%
8.4
Conditions
25%
8.3
Desirability
15%
8.0
Scenery
10%
7.7
Fun
5%
7.9
Uniqueness
5%
7.3

Difficulty

Overall
Hard

Slope 135

75
155

Scratch Rating

-10
0
+10

Stimpmeter 11

7
15

Walkability Moderate

Easy
Brutal

Weather

Average Rain Medium

Low
Extreme

Average Wind High

Low
Extreme

Price

?
?
?
$
$
$
Low
Average
High

Yearly Rounds

0
75,000

Course Report

Windsong Farm is the only private club in Minnesota with two full 18-hole courses and hosts prestigious competitions, including USGA events and the Trans-Mississippi Amateur.

About

Windsong Farm Golf Club is a private, pure-golf destination west of Minneapolis. Set on a rolling 248-acre former horse farm, it was designed by John Fought and Minnesota’s Tom Lehman in 2002. Known for its challenging layout, large Donald Ross-style greens, and minimal distractions, Windsong provides a top-tier Midwest golf experience focused entirely on the game.

Caddie Tip

Keep approaches below the hole, as Windsong’s large greens include subtle breaks and fast surfaces. On the closing stretch, play conservatively off the tee and watch for winds that can change rapidly across the open farm terrain. Local caddies recommend a thoughtful club selection, especially with shifting elevation.

The Main Challenge

The biggest challenge at Windsong Farm is contending with the expansive, subtly contoured greens designed to mimic Donald Ross’s work. Slippery surfaces and strategic bunkering demand precise approach play and deft touch. Wind is also a significant factor across the open fairways and can change club selection and strategy throughout the round.

The Good

Golfers especially love Windsong’s pure focus on golf, the absence of non-golf amenities, and the excellence of its Donald Ross-inspired green complexes. Many members praise the layout’s strategic options, the walkable rolling terrain, and the tranquil, scenic setting outside the bustle of the city.

The Not So Good

Some members mention the strict guest policy and exclusivity can make it difficult to share the experience with friends. Others note that conditioning has occasional variance early in the season, and unpredictable winds or tough pin placements on large greens can frustrate less-experienced players.

Signature Hole:

#

18

No items found.

The par-4 18th is a strong finishing hole that doglegs right, with water running the entire length of the right side. It requires a precise drive and a well-placed approach shot, challenging players to finish their rounds with both strategy and nerve. The hole is memorable for its risk-reward setup and picturesque closing view of the course.

Clubhouse

The clubhouse provides upscale locker rooms, dining, and relaxed gathering areas, embracing the club’s pure-golf philosophy without distractions like pools or tennis. The Murphy House on property offers unique overnight accommodations for members and guests.

Practice Facilities

No items found.

Windsong offers a top-quality practice area with full-length driving range, a large short game facility, multiple putting greens, and a dedicated chipping area. There is also a private putting green attached to The Murphy House guest lodging for overnight visitors.

Dress Code:

Strict

No dress code enforced. All attire is permitted.

Collared shirts not required. Clean, athletic or golf-appropriate casual wear is acceptable.

Collared shirts required. No denim, gym wear, or overly casual clothing.

Collared shirts must be tucked in; no cargo or athletic shorts. No hats indoors.

Elite club standards; jackets required indoors, no changing shoes in the parking lot, and specific attire rules based on the area of the facility.

Minnesota
U.S.A.