Oh Boy The Ozarks: Why Missouri’s Big Cedar Lodge Has To Be Your Next Big Golf Trip

The Ozarks is among the best destinations for a Golf trip. Millions of activities for you and the family or you and the boys to partake in outside of golf. But the golf to be had there is truly epic. And there’s no better place for you to do all that than Big Cedar Lodge. Big Cedar Lodge is America’s premier wilderness golf resort. 4,600-acre masterpiece in the Ozark Mountains near Branson, Missouri, created by Bass Pro Shops founder Johnny Morris. Designer of pyramids and golf courses, not too bad. With world class courses designed by legends like Tiger Woods, Tom Fazio, Jack Nicklaus, Coore & Crenshaw, and Gary Player. Voted #1 Golf Resort in America by USA TODAY readers, it’s a bucket-list escape blending epic golf with outdoor immersion.

Quick Facts

  • Five standout courses (three 18-hole championship + two short/par-3) + putting course and massive practice areas
  • Ozarks magic: Massive elevation, limestone outcrops, ravines, waterfalls, and wildlife every hole feels connected to nature
  • Year-round appeal: Peak spring/fall for mild weather and green fairways (April-October best); summer mornings beat the heat
  • Luxury resort vibes: Multiple lodges, cabins, cottages, spa, pools, marina, dining, and shuttles between courses
  • Top acclaim: Multiple Top 100 public courses (Golf Digest/Golfweek); Payne’s Valley, Ozarks National, Buffalo Ridge all elite

You really can’t go wrong with a trip to the Ozarks. It’s fun for the whole family. Hit the links in the A.M. and get a buzz going on the lake in the P.M.. Maybe even get into spelunking. The Ozarks has an extensive cave system. Just spelunking, is for crazy people.

Perfect For…

  • Guys’ Trips: Multi-course epics (play 36+ holes), caddie-guided strategy, post-round steaks or cocktails with sunset lake views, and Branson-area fun
  • Families: Luxe accommodations, kids’ activities, marina, spa; forgiving short courses; non-golfers enjoy caves, trails, fishing, or yacht cruises

Top Standout Courses

Payne’s Valley (Tiger Woods/TGR Design)

Tiger’s first public U.S. course, bold, big, and breathtaking with dramatic elevation, pristine white bunkers, limestone walls, waterfalls, and a signature par-3 island green homage to Payne Stewart (with a 19th “bonus” hole). Mesmerizing visuals and fun for all levels; jumped onto Top 100 lists instantly.

Ozarks National (Bill Coore & Ben Crenshaw)

Pure, thoughtful masterpiece on a mountaintop — wide fairways, natural contours, ridgetop drama, wooded ravines, and a stunning 468-foot wooden bridge (holes 13-14). Rewards strategy and grows on you; often ranked among the best for its seamless blend with the Ozarks landscape.

 

Buffalo Ridge Springs (Tom Fazio)

The original Fazio gem, rolling terrain, exposed limestone, long Ozarks views, burbling streams, and a herd of real buffalo grazing nearby. Visual flair meets excellent conditioning; challenging yet accessible with multiple tees. Many call it a hidden favorite.

Top of the Rock (Jack Nicklaus Signature, par-3)

9-hole (playable as 18) par-3 stunner, cliffside drama, panoramic views, and holes carved into the rocks with epic drops. Often recommended twice for its wow factor; part of the Legends of Golf event.

Mountain Top (Gary Player/Johnny Morris, par-3)

Walking only, short course with 300 million year old rock formations, insane elevation, and everchanging vistas. Fun, challenging, and one of the coolest short course walks anywhere, perfect for a wind-down or family play.

Great Stay-and-Play Resorts & Spots

  • Big Cedar Lodge on-site Variety of luxury options: grand lodges, rustic cabins, lakeside cottages, Buffalo Ridge cottages overlooking Payne’s Valley
  • Packages include lodging, multiple rounds (priority tees on all courses), caddies, breakfast, practice access, book Champions or Best-of packages for full access
  • Complimentary shuttles everywhere; Ship Sticks for clubs

All Key Big Cedar Lodge Golf Courses at a Glance

  • Payne’s Valley (Tiger Woods, bold drama)
  • Ozarks National (Coore & Crenshaw, thoughtful natural gem)
  • Buffalo Ridge Springs (Tom Fazio, classic with bison)
  • Top of the Rock (Jack Nicklaus, cliffside par-3 icon)
  • Mountain Top (Gary Player, epic walking short course)
  • Plus Tom Watson Himalayan putting course and upcoming Cliffhangers par-3

Pro Tips

  • Book stay-and-play packages early via bigcedar.com for multi-course deals and all-inclusive options save big; peak season fills fast
  • Fly into Branson (BKG), Springfield-Branson (SGF), or drive (central U.S. access)
  • Pair golf with Ozarks classics: Table Rock Lake cruises, fresh Ozark eats, caves/nature trails, or Branson shows
  • Use caddies for local knowledge; forward tees for fun; embrace the wildlife and views, it’s as much adventure as it is golf

Take yourself to the Ozarks and Swing Stick. You will thank me later,

The Caddy Shanks Team

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