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From Floodwaters to Fairways: Rivers Bend Golf Course is Back!

Aerial view of the Old Barn Resort and Rivers Bend Golf Course near Lanesboro, Minnesota, surrounded by rolling green hills, tree-lined fairways, a winding river, and a small pond under clear blue skies.
A stunning bird’s-eye view of the Old Barn Resort and Rivers Bend Golf Course, nestled in the scenic bluff country near Lanesboro, MN / Photo courtesy Old Barn Resort

August 22, 2025

 

There’s nothing quite like a round of golf at Old Barn Resort's Rivers Bend Golf Course, where the fairways wind along the Root River and the bluffs rise in the distance. After several days of heavy rain and high water, the course faced an unexpected challenge this week — but true to form, the crew and community rallied. Today, Rivers Bend is fully open again, ready to welcome golfers back to one of Bluff Country’s most scenic courses.

A Tough Stretch of Weather

After several days of steady rain, the Root River spilled its banks overnight on August 19, reaching parts of Rivers Bend Golf Course. While the front nine was able to reopen later that day, the back nine remained closed as crews assessed and began cleanup. Thankfully, Watson Creek stayed within its banks, keeping the campground dry and open for guests.

The Crew at Work

It didn’t take long for the recovery to begin. By August 20, the water was receding and our incredible staff was out mowing, hauling gravel, and repairing washed-out areas. The front nine was open for play, and work continued nonstop to prepare the back nine. The spirit of teamwork and dedication was on full display — and our community’s encouragement helped keep everyone motivated.

Fully Open Again

By August 21, sunshine returned and the river was back in its banks. That morning, Rivers Bend proudly announced that all 18 holes were officially open once again. With clear skies overhead and fairways drying out, golfers were welcomed back to the course in full. It was a moment of celebration, gratitude, and relief.

A golf green at Rivers Bend Golf Course sits right along the edge of the Root River, surrounded by lush trees and morning sunlight.
Hole 10 at Rivers Bend Golf Course — a signature green perched along the Root River, offering golfers both beauty and challenge / Photo courtesy Old Barn Resort

Come Play a Round

Today, Rivers Bend is lush, green, and ready for play. Whether you’re a long-time member, a weekend visitor, or trying the course for the first time, now is the perfect time to tee up. Bring your clubs, invite some friends, and enjoy a round of golf surrounded by Bluff Country’s stunning scenery.

Aerial view of the Old Barn Resort’s activity area featuring “The Shed,” with its covered pool building, outdoor seating with umbrellas, and a row of cornhole boards set up for games.
Fun at The Shed — the Old Barn Resort’s hub for swimming, outdoor dining, and yard games like cornhole / Photo courtesy Old Barn Resort

Plan Your Visit

Ready to hit the fairways — and enjoy everything else the Old Barn Resort has to offer? Here’s what you need to know:

📍 Location
The Old Barn Resort & Rivers Bend Golf Course is located just outside of Lanesboro, Minnesota, along the Root River and the Root River State Trail — making it a perfect stop for golfers, bikers, campers, and families exploring Bluff Country.

⛳ Rivers Bend Golf Course

  • 18 scenic holes winding along the Root River

  • Tee times available daily (call ahead or book your tee time online)

  • Cart rentals and course amenities available on-site

🏕️ The Old Barn Resort

  • Full-service campground with sites for tents, campers, and RVs

  • Indoor/outdoor pool, bike rentals, and direct trail access

  • Historic barn with lodging options and family-friendly activities
    👉 Explore camping and lodging options

🍴 The Restaurant at the Barn

  • Located in the resort’s historic barn

  • Serving hearty meals, cold drinks, and local favorites

  • A welcoming spot to relax after a round or cap off a day of exploring
    👉 View restaurant info and hours

✨ Whether you’re planning a weekend getaway, a golf outing with friends, or a family trip to Bluff Country, the Old Barn Resort has something for everyone. Tee up a round at Rivers Bend, grab a meal in the barn, and make yourself at home in this one-of-a-kind destination.

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