Where to Play Pickleball in the Brainerd Lakes Area
Pickleball continues to grow in popularity across the Brainerd Lakes Area, offering a fun and accessible way to stay active. Whether you’re a seasoned player or just getting started, you’ll find a variety of indoor and outdoor courts throughout the region, from free public parks to membership-based facilities.
Here’s a guide to some of the top places to play pickleball in the Brainerd Lakes Area, featuring Brainerd Lakes Chamber members and community courts.
Brainerd & Baxter
Loren Thompson Park (Baxter) >>
Located in Baxter, this park offers a convenient outdoor option with free access.
- Access: Free
- Courts: (2) Outdoor
Takedown Gym (Baxter) >>
Takedown Gym offers a reliable indoor option for year-round play.
- Access: Membership required
- Courts: (3) Indoor
- Surface: Hard
Brainerd Family YMCA >>
The YMCA is a great option for members looking for indoor play on a softer surface.
- Access: Member access
- Courts: (3) Indoor
- Surface: Wood
Gregory Park (Brainerd) >>
A popular outdoor spot during the warmer months, Gregory Park provides free access and well-maintained courts.
- Access: Free
- Courts: (3) Outdoor
- Surface: Hard
Memorial Park (Brainerd) >>
Another key outdoor location in Brainerd, Memorial Park offers additional space for public play.
- Access: Free
- Courts: Outdoor
City of East Gull Lake Courts >> (Temporarily Unavailable – Under Construction)
East Gull Lake offers public courts with additional details available through the city website.
- Access: Public (check website for details)
Nisswa
Nisswa City Park >>
A public option in the heart of Nisswa, ideal for casual and drop-in play.
- Access: Free
- Courts: Outdoor
Pequot Lakes
Pequot Lakes High School Courts >>
These courts provide a convenient outdoor option for players in the Pequot Lakes area. Availability may vary depending on school use.
- Access: Public (hours may vary)
- Courts: Outdoor
Crosby & cuyuna
Hallett Center (Crosby) >>
The Hallett Center is a strong indoor option, especially during colder months.
- Access: One-time fee
- Courts: (4) Indoor
- Surface: Hard
Crosslake & Fifty Lakes
Crosslake Community Center >>
One of the largest pickleball offerings in the area, Crosslake Community Center is a hub for local players.
- Access: One-time fee
- Courts: (9) Outdoor
City of Fifty Lakes Courts >>
A quieter outdoor option, ideal for those looking to avoid crowds.
- Access: Free
- Courts: (4) Outdoor
Resorts with Pickleball (Open to Non-Guests)
While many resorts in the Brainerd Lakes Area offer pickleball, most limit access to overnight guests. A few locations provide opportunities for the public to play—either for a fee or day pass.
Ruttger’s Bay Lake Resort (Deerwood) >>
Ruttger’s is one of the most accessible resort options for non-guests.
- Access: Open to the public (may include day pass or activity fee)
- Courts: Outdoor
- Notes: Availability may vary based on events or programming; calling ahead is recommended
Grand View Lodge (Nisswa) >>
In addition to resort guests, Grand View Lodge may allow non-guests to play pickleball for a fee depending on availability.
- Access: One-time fee / day use (call ahead)
- Courts: Outdoor
- Notes: Guest priority may apply during peak times
Access policies can change seasonally, so it’s best to contact each resort directly for current availability and pricing.
Plan Your Next Game
With a mix of indoor and outdoor courts, free and paid options, the Brainerd Lakes Area makes it easy to find a place to play year-round. Be sure to check individual facility websites for seasonal hours, programming, and availability.
Whether you’re playing competitively or just for fun, there’s a court waiting for you nearby.
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