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The Wilderness Grill is tentatively scheduled to open May 3. We look forward to seeing you soon!

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Rated "Best 19th Hole Bar/Restaurant" by Golf Advisor!

The Grill now has its own Facebook and Instagram page! 

Audubon Internationsl Cert

The Wilderness at Fortune Bay has earned designation as an Audubon Cooperative Sanctuary. Achieving this status requires certification in five different areas: Environmental Planning, Chemical Use Reduction and Safety, Water Conservation, Outreach and Education, and Wildlife and Habitat Management. This initial certification as an Audubon Cooperative Sanctuary system was achieved in 2005 and was most recently renewed in December 2018 after an evaluation coordinated with both Audubon International and Vermilion Community College.

Environmental planning was achieved in November of 2004. The purpose of Environmental Planning is to balance the demands of the golf course with the responsibility to the natural environment. It explains both the measures currently being taken and the programs that are to be implemented to safeguard the quality of the environment.

Chemical Use Reduction and Safety was achieved January of 2005. With this certificate The Wilderness maintains healthy turf, monitors problems and takes responsible action when necessary. The Wilderness takes pride in trying to improve both the soil and turf health as well as dealing with underlying conditions by proper cultural practices that include irrigation and fertilization management. With this we apply chemicals on a primarily curative basis and in the most environmentally responsible method possible. The use of biological control measures as alternative pest controls will also be applied, as well as training the employees to help monitor the turf and catch pest and disease activity before it becomes a problem.

Water Conservation was also achieved in January of 2005. Water consumption is one of the primary environmental concerns facing golf courses today. The Wilderness has committed to the judicious and responsible use of water resources and works to reduce consumption and conserve water. The Wilderness grounds crew has been working hard to not apply any chemical additives to the water features on the course as well as commit to protect the wetlands.

Outreach and Education was achieved in 2005 after the golf course made, and continues to make, efforts to both assist the community in environmental projects and educating the public about the environmental benefits of golf courses. We have been active with the local DNR, Vermilion Community College, various school groups, and the Boy Scouts of America in trying to promote the positive environmental influence that golf courses can have when managed properly.

Wildlife and Habitat Management certification was also earned in 2005; the efforts we made can be seen on the golf course in the form of different types of bird and bat houses throughout the property, as well as the existence of natural habitats in the woods adjacent to every golf hole. Indeed, some of the best habitats for wildlife are blown down trees and other structure located throughout the property that provide cover for wildlife. It is not uncommon to spot various forms of wildlife during a round of golf including wolves, porcupines, black bear, and white tail deer.

The Bois Forte Band of Chippewa and everyone else who had a hand in achieving this type of environmental recognition is very proud of this achievement. We hope those of you who enjoy the beauty of our site will both enjoy and respect the truly remarkable site that we have built this golf course on, and the measures we have taken to help preserve the environment.

Any questions or suggestions concerning the certification programs may be addressed to Ryan VerNess at This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.. Community involvement and awareness are key elements to the success of the certification process.

Range opens daily 45 minutes before first available Tee Time!

Range may close earlier or at other times due to maintenance or tournaments. Please call ahead to confirm availability, 218-753-8917. Course/driving range closures may be found on our calendar.

May 7th - June 6th
Days Closing Time
Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, Friday & Saturday 1 hour before sunset
Sunday & Thursday 5:00pm
June 7th - Aug. 15th
Days Closing Time
Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, Friday & Saturday 1 hour before sunset
Sunday & Thursday 5:00pm
Aug. 16th - Oct. 9th
Days Closing Time
Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, Friday & Saturday 5:00pm
Sunday & Thursday 4:00pm

Daily usage of the driving range is $13 per person

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Please contact Rebekah to book for golf groups of 12 or more

Our award winning 18 hole golf course, expansive practice area, on-site restaurant and bar, lodging, marina and banquet facilities make The Wilderness at Fortune Bay Resort Casino the perfect destination to host any social or corporate golf outing. Our staff will assist you through the planning process and ensure that your group has a uniquely memorable experience with us.

For more information or to book your golf getaway please contact Rebekah via This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. or call, (218) 753-7803.

  • Testimonials

    “Of all the golf courses in Minnesota that I’ve had the opportunity to play, I’d rank The Wilderness as my favorite. The overall experience is outstanding. The golf course layout, the course conditions, the multiple tee box options, the value, the gorgeous north woods setting, the friendliness and attentiveness of the staff, and the food in the restaurant - are first rate. I’ve been bringing a group of buddies to The Wilderness for 15 years, and Rachel and her team have made booking everything - the tee times, lodging and dinner reservations – extremely easy. I can’t wait for this year’s trip!”

    - Derek Sussner, Plymouth, MN
  • Testimonials

    “I have brought large groups of customers for outings at The Wilderness now for 9 Years in a Row. The course is always in great shape, the staff has been extremely friendly, and they are always very prepared for us. Most of the folks that are enjoying The Wilderness for the first time, tell me that this has been the best golf experience they can remember. I would highly recommend The Wilderness at Fortune Bay for an Incredible Group Outing.“

    - Jerry Zink, Duluth, MN
  • Testimonials

    "The Wilderness golf course on beautiful Lake Vermilion is everything it should be as one of the top courses in the beautiful state of Minnesota. The course design, scenery and condition, as well as dining and clubhouse facilities, are all first class. The professionalism and courtesy of the attentive staff and employees is as good as it gets. 
    Being a summer resident in the area, I have been playing golf at the Wilderness at Fortune Bay since the day it opened in 2004. The Wilderness continues to be one of the best golfing experiences I have ever had. It certainly deserves the many awards it has received over the years."

    - Tom Vandenbark, Tower, Minnesota

The Wilderness At Fortune Bay Property Information

  • Golf Course: 18 holes
  • Golf Carts: GPS enabled, USB ports, built in speakers with bluetooth
  • Wilderness Grill Clubhouse Indoor Seating: 95 (72 restaurant, 20 high tops, 3 bar)
  • Outdoor Seasonal Seating: 74
  • Lodging: 173 rooms - Fortune Bay Resort Casino (located on property) 
  • Banquet/Meeting Facilities: 10,000+ square feet of flexible meeting space - Fortune Bay Resort Casino (located on property) 
  • Other: Casino, Marina, Arcade, Pool, RV Park, Multiple Restaurants and More!

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