Around The Bend: Erskine Park Golf Course
As South Bend's first 18-hole public golf course, Erskine has welcomed generations of golfers since opening in 1925.
Today, its rolling fairways, well-maintained greens, and welcoming atmosphere make it a favorite for everyone from first-time players to seasoned golfers. Here's why Erskine Park Golf Course deserves a spot on your next adventure around The Bend.
From its rich history to its beautiful tree-lined course, you'll discover why Erskine Park Golf Course is the perfect place to spend a day on the greens, whether you're chasing a personal best or just enjoying the outdoors.
Around The Bend takes a deeper look into the stories of beloved favorites and hidden gems throughout St. Joseph County that make this place unforgettable. These places we cherish didn’t just appear—they were built with passion, purpose, and stories worth telling.
Where History Meets the Fairways
Albert Erskine, president of Studebaker from 1911-1933 owned a large amount of land on the south side of South Bend. He and his family wanted to donate this land as a golf course, with the intention that it stay a golf course forever. They donated the land, converted their horse barn into a clubhouse and created the golf park which opened June 27, 1925.
The park celebrated 100 years in 2025, as members of the Erskine family returned to for the commemoration. A special plaque at the entrance reads: Erskine Park Golf Course has served golfers from South Bend and surrounding communities for 100 years, enduring times of war and peace, the Great Depression, societal change and remarkable advances in technology and the game of golf in that time.
Not to mention, the many special guests that have graced the fairways.
“One of the big ones, I believe it was 1961. Arnold Palmer was here, and he was under the weather, but he played the back nine, and he was one under par. And you know, that's a big one. You can play the course, Arnie played,” said Gary Hegland, manager of Erskine Golf Park.
Arnold Palmer is one of the most famous golfers of all time, winning 29 PGA-tour events from 1960-1963. His legacy crossed over into pop culture, as well as the famous "Arnold Palmer" alcohol-free drink.
Another major visitor to the course was John Wooden, renowned UCLA men’s basketball coach famous for winning seven consecutive national championships with the Bruins. The only coach to ever amass such an achievement.
“He had quite a feat in a round. He had a hole in one on (hole) number six. And a double eagle on 16, which is an albatross, and that is just unheard of. So, there's a lot of history out here.”
The meticulously manicured bent grass greens and bluegrass fairways are dutifully cared for by a powerhouse grounds crew. The inside is just as picturesque as the outside.
The renovated clubhouse has been the backdrop of numerous weddings and special events as well, adding to its illustrious history. You can still see original beams dating back to the 1800s when the structure was a horse barn. The original fireplace also stands in the main room.
The basement is finished with a rustic bar that is also used for events. The space was previously a locker room and kitchen. Now, visitors can enjoy a beverage and watch a game. The bar is also connected to the pro shop.
“If you're from here or if you're out of town, this is just a great place to relax, unwind, play some golf, and you know, I don't know about you, but go for a hot dog or a brat.”
"Caddy Snacks" is a walk-up, or drive-up, snack and beverage window in the clubhouse, providing a full bar and some of the most delicious hot dogs in town.
Tucked just south of downtown South Bend among shopping plazas and restaurants, Erskine is a modest size in comparison to its sister South Bend courses. But their signature hole sets it apart.
Hole 10 is a 610-yard, par 5 hole. No, it is not the hole Coach Wooden hit a hole-in-one on. But someone has completed that hole on par 2!
Erskine Golf Park sits on around 100 acres on the south side of South Bend. Purchasing a season pass to this course also grants you access to other South Bend courses, Elbel Golf Course and Studebaker Golf Course for a great overall value. They also have PGA teaching pros on staff for golf lessons.
As time has shown us, Erskine will be around growing the game of golf in South Bend for many years to come.
Also see:
Elbel Golf Course: One of three courses operated by the City of South Bend, Elbel Golf Course blends the natural landscape of our area with golf better than most courses. Bent grass greens and bluegrass fairways on the par 72 course give way to wooded areas and plenty of water, including Mud Lake. The course includes practice putting greens that overlook the scenic 18th hole, as well as a spacious driving range.
Studebaker Golf Course: Built in 1919, this 9-hole course is the oldest in South Bend. It’s perfect for children, beginners or anyone looking for a casual round playing mostly shorter holes. There are two par 4s. Everything else is a par 3. Bowman Creek runs along the west side of the course. Be sure to check out the "Kids Play Free" program for the younger golfers.
A Guide to Golf in The Bend: Playing golf courses in South Bend and Mishawaka means choosing from championship-caliber options. Whatever kind of course you’re looking for, you’ll find it here. Take a look at your options.
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