 BINDER PARK GOLF COURSE (269) 979-8250
Michigan Golf Course Review
Binder Park Golf Course, in Battle Creek, opened in 1959 as one of the first 18-hole public golf courses. In 1999 the course was expanded to 27 holes and it has always
contained some of Michigan's most pristine old growth forests, wetlands, scenic bluffs and changing land formations left behind by glacial ice deposits. Secluded and nestled
with beautiful natural scenery with abundant wildlife, this layout was designed to challenge players of any skill level.
Bunkering near the landing zones or greenside is rather understated with 38 bunkers situated about the 27 hole layout. There are 15 sand traps on the Preserve and 17 on the
Natural, but only 6 on the Marsh - all on the 1st and 9th holes. Golfers will also have to navigate strategically placed water hazards, with water affecting the tee shots or
approaches on 14 of the holes.
This layout features four sets of tee boxes, the yardage and slope depends upon which 18 hole course is chosen. The Marsh/Preserve plays the longest with distance ranging
from 5247 to 6622/slopes 110 to 130. The Natural/Marsh measures from 5126 to 6603 yards/slopes 109 to 130. The Preserve/Natural is the shortest and measures from 4943
to 6533 with a slope of 113 to 128.
Golfers have plenty of opportunity to warm up before a round at the comprehensive practice facilities which include a targeted grass range, putting green, short game area with
sand bunker, and an indoor golf training center. There are also three full length practice holes, and three teaching professionals available for lessons. The clubhouse features a
pro shop, grill serving lunch daily, and an outdoor patio with pavilion and BBQ grill.
Yardage on the course is very well marked with the Kirby marking system in effect (markers on all fairways every 25 yards from 250 to 50 yards to the greens center). Colored flags
indicate front, middle and back pin placements. The greens are of a larger variety with some decent slopes. The 2nd hole of the Natural features a very deep green with three
tiers and it is necessary for golfers to pay attention to the pin placement for a possible one putt.
Photos in this review were taken on the Preserve and the Natural. For more info, visit our page for the course with all the technical info on the property by clicking here.
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