Batesville Unveils “The Rocks” Disc Golf Course

The ribbon cutting, hosted by the Batesville Area Chamber of Commerce, officially opened the city’s first public disc golf course and highlighted the growing role outdoor recreation plays in attracting visitors and strengthening local economies.

 

“This is such an exciting day for Batesville,” said Amanda Roberts, membership engagement specialist with the Chamber. “We’re thrilled to celebrate the opening of this beautiful course and invite families, visitors, and players of all skill levels to come experience one of the fastest-growing sports in the country.”

 

Disc golf — played by throwing specialized discs toward metal basket targets in as few throws as possible — has surged in popularity nationwide. Today, there are more than 16,000 disc golf courses worldwide, and the sport continues to grow rapidly as communities invest in accessible outdoor recreation. Participation has risen dramatically in recent years, with millions of rounds played annually and players frequently traveling to experience new courses. Batesville leaders believe The Rocks will help place the city on the radar for outdoor enthusiasts exploring Arkansas.

 

The course is located near the intersection of White Drive and Barnett Drive and winds along the natural terrain beside Poke Bayou, offering scenic views and a unique playing experience.

 

“This course is the result of a true community effort,” said Damien Deloach of the Disc Golf Batesville Club, who helped design and build the course. “Our club members worked hard clearing brush, designing the layout, and bringing this vision to life. We’re proud to give Batesville a place where anyone can come enjoy the game.”

 

Deloach worked alongside fellow designer Kyle Downs and members of the local disc golf club, who volunteered countless hours preparing the site.

 

According to UDisc, a leading disc golf technology platform, the sport has experienced more than 70% growth in participation over the past five years, reflecting its appeal as an affordable, family-friendly activity.

 

During the ceremony, Lowen Lermitte, director of Batesville Parks and Recreation Department, emphasized the strong partnerships behind the project.

 

“When we gather here today, we aren’t just opening a disc golf course—we’re celebrating a community-driven mission,” Lermitte said. “This project shows what happens when a passionate local club, dedicated city staff, and generous businesses all pull in the same direction.”

 

The project also honors the vision and legacy of former parks director Jeff Owens, who helped identify Poke Bayou Park as an ideal site for the city’s first public course.

Local sponsors supporting the course include First Community Bank, Atlas Asphalt, White River Materials, Citizens Bank, Custom CNC Machining, Lyon College, White River Health, and Poke Bayou Outfitters.

 

Outdoor recreation is increasingly important to Arkansas’s economy. According to the Arkansas Office of Outdoor Recreation, outdoor recreation contributes more than $7 billion annually to the state’s economy and supports over 68,000 jobs.

 

Mayor Rick Elumbaugh said The Rocks Disc Golf Course is another example of Batesville’s commitment to expanding quality outdoor experiences for residents and visitors alike.

 

“This is a great day for Batesville,” Elumbaugh said. “Thanks to the dedication of volunteers and community partners, we now have another outstanding outdoor amenity that families will enjoy for years to come.”

 

Disc golf equipment is available locally at Ford’s Guns Pawn Shop, the Scot Shop at Lyon College, and Poke Bayou Outfitters downtown, making it easy for new players to get started.

 

With the ribbon officially cut and the first disc thrown, The Rocks Disc Golf Course is now open to the public — inviting players of all ages to discover Batesville’s newest destination for outdoor adventure along the banks of Poke Bayou.

 

Ambassadors in attendance include: Abigail Ballard (Lifeplus), Ashlyn Blevins (Myers-Davis Life Coaching), Brandi Curbo (Batesville Guard), Brandon Lackey (Southern Bank), Brenda Rivera (First Community Bank), Eva Henriksen (Merchants & Planters Bank), Dr. Katelyn Holt (Family Chiropractic Care), Lindy Hopper (First Community Bank), Lori Campbell (Batesville Schools), Megan Strother (George's Inc.), Micah Richardson (Citizens Bank), Michael Dickinson (City of Batesville), Michael Kelley (Peco Foods), Nathan Dowen (Citizens Bank), Sarah Perkins (Mossy Oak Properties), Scott Phillips (UACCB), Silje Antonsen (First Community Bank), and Taylor Williams (First Community Bank).