NEW LONDON, Minnesota – Duininck Golf officially commenced the grassing phase at Tepetonka, marking a significant milestone in the construction of Minnesota’s newest private destination golf experience.
This critical stage transforms the carefully shaped landscape into living, playable terrain as premium turf varieties begin taking root across the championship layout.
Located just 90 minutes from the Twin Cities near New London, Minnesota, Tepetonka is the vision of founder Mark Haugejorde and is being crafted by the internationally acclaimed design team OCM Golf—Geoff Ogilvy, Mike Cocking, and Ashley Mead.
The course stretches across 228 acres of natural glacial moraines, featuring dramatic 100-foot elevation changes, cedar-lined corridors, and the meandering Shakopee Creek coming into play on 6 of the golf holes. Lodging and hospitality overlook the 18th hole, with the creek guarding the left side and a green hanging on the edge of the creek.
“The site we’re working with at Tepetonka is extraordinary. The first time we were on the property we knew Tepetonka was going to be special,” said Geoff Ogilvy of OCM Golf. “It’s rare to find property so naturally suited for golf that 16 of the 18 holes required minimal to no earthmoving. The course begins in the cedars, leads players out onto prairie for a dozen holes, weaves through wetlands, and then returns to the cedars.
“The variety of landscapes and the natural contours have allowed us to create something truly distinctive in the heart of Minnesota.”
Minnesota-based Duininck Golf, renowned for their work on many top-rated private clubs throughout the country, is spearheading the construction. Owner Judd Duininck expressed his enthusiasm about the project:
“Adding a private club of this stature to the Midwest collection of epic destinations like Sand Hills, Ballyneal, Caprock Ranch, and Sutton Bay is what Minnesota needs, ” said Duininck. “To build a world-class golf course in our own backyard makes it even more special. The land at Tepetonka has a natural character that architects dream about, moraines with golf holes fitting perfectly between them.
“When Mark called and shared his vision of this property, I knew exactly where it was, and knew it was going to be spectacular.”
With 14 of the 18 holes already shaped, along with the driving range and “The Prox” short course—being designed with input from CBS Sports commentator Jim Nantz—the project is progressing rapidly and on pace for a 2026 opening.
The grassing phase represents one of the most crucial stages in golf course construction, laying the foundation for the playing surfaces that will define the Tepetonka experience for decades to come. Following this phase, the grow-in period will allow the turf to mature and establish under expert care before play begins.
Tepetonka is positioned to become a flagship destination in the Midwest golf landscape, offering easy access from several major metropolitan areas including Minneapolis-St. Paul (90 minutes), Fargo (less than three hours), and Sioux Falls (less than three hours), with a regional airport just 20 miles north in Willmar for private travel.
Upon opening in 2026, Illinois-based KemperSports will manage Tepetonka.
