River Bend Links Golf Course

Most people heading south from Memphis think they know what Tunica, Mississippi, is about. They picture slot machines, buffets, and maybe a little too much time at the blackjack table. And sure, all of that is there. But about 30 minutes south of the Tennessee state line, tucked into a bend of the Mississippi River where cotton fields and catfish ponds meet casino resorts, there’s a golf story that doesn’t get told nearly enough. Tunica is, quietly and legitimately, one of the best golf getaways in the Mid-South, and a two-night stay here will do nothing to change that opinion.

River Bend Links, nestled into a bend of the Mississippi River near the Hollywood Casino, is a Scottish links-style course designed by Clyde Johnston, and is a 180° turn from Tunica National. Johnston himself described the course as “a field of dunes,” and it’s hard to believe this windswept, treeless layout was once a cotton field.

At 6,923 yards with a slope of 128, River Bend plays differently depending on which way the Delta wind is blowing, and it’s usually blowing. The bunkers were originally sand but have since been converted to grass. Before you start thinking that sounds like a break, consider that the 6-foot lip in front of you is still very much there. A grass bunker might be easier on the lie, but the same wall that trapped you in sand is now trapping you in turf. Lakes and elevated mounding add further to the challenge. It’s a moodier track than Tunica National, less manicured in the traditional sense but authentic in its own way. Wildlife is part of the experience out here. Deer, fox, and wild turkey are regular spectators, and the proximity to the Mississippi River gives the back nine a quiet, almost remote feel.

Five tee options keep it accessible across handicap levels, and the plantation-style clubhouse is a relaxed spot to grab a sandwich and a cold drink after the round. River Bend also hosts golf tournaments and corporate events, which tells you it can handle traffic. On a midweek morning, however, it’s just you, the fairways, and whatever the Delta wind decides to do.

Tunica is about 30 miles south of Memphis, Tennessee, making it an easy drive for golfers across the Mid-South and an accessible fly-in destination via Memphis International Airport. The casino resort corridor puts accommodations, dining, and entertainment within minutes of both golf courses, so logistics are never a problem. That’s exactly how a golf trip should work.

Two nights, two rounds, two dinners, and a casino or two in between. Tunica won’t put you on a flight to Scotland, but River Bend Links will make you wonder why you’d bother.

Don't understand negative reviews. For the $37 senior rate there is nothing in my home town of Texas that can touch this. Greens and fairways were very good. Bunkers do need some work but if you are going to let something go this is the right choice. Play a "links" course and Scotland and this more "natural" links condition of the bunkers is something you might expect. Staff was friendly, met me in the parking lot with a cart, and the Pro was actually on the course enforcing pace of play. Hear that ClubCorp. Clouse is fairly open but could be easily made a greater challenge if rough was allowed to grow in. This was a fun course and I do plan on playing here again.