Unless you’ve lived or visited the Ozark Mountains in Missouri, your introduction to the area was likely on Netflix, with the award winning series “Ozark.” While many of the overhead shots of the area are accurate, you miss out on all the charm and beauty that you see when you’re on the ground. That’s especially true of the Big Cedar resort.
Renowned for its breathtaking landscapes and world-class amenities, Big Cedar has emerged as a premier destination for golf enthusiasts from around the globe. Boasting a collection of meticulously designed courses, each offering a unique blend of challenge and natural splendor, Big Cedar is a haven for both recreational players and seasoned pros alike.
The spotlight on Big Cedar got brighter in 2020 when Payne’s Valley, the first public access course designed by Tiger Woods, opened. Described as the 19th Wonder of the World, the course is a tribute to the late Payne Stewart, who hails from the area. The course integrates the rugged terrain of the Ozarks with strategic elements that test every golfer.
As players navigate through the course, they encounter captivating vistas, including dramatic rock formations and pristine water features. The signature “Big Rock at Payne’s Valley” serves as a memorable backdrop for the challenging par-3 19th hole, offering a thrilling climax to the round.
Even when you walk off the island green off the 19th hole at the end of the round, the treat continues. The drive back to the clubhouse winds through the sandstone caves and caverns of the Big Rock, taking roughly 10 minutes and giving you one last look at the course you’ve just played.
The other two courses on the property, Ozark National and Buffalo Ridge, are not to be underestimated.
Ozarks National Golf Course feels like a truly classic golf course, something you’d expect to find in the British Open rotation. Designed by the team of Bill Coore and Ben Crenshaw, this masterful layout pays homage to the classic courses of Scotland and Ireland while showcasing the Ozark landscape.
From the moment golfers set foot on the first tee, they’re immersed in a golfing experience unlike any other. The wide fairways and strategic bunkering challenge players of all skill levels, while the undulating greens demand precision and finesse on every putt.
As players make their way through the course, they are treated to sweeping vistas of the surrounding countryside, with panoramic views of Table Rock Lake and the rolling hills. Whether navigating doglegs like the par four 5th hole or tackling the daunting par three 16th, every shot at Ozarks National is an adventure unto itself.
Buffalo Ridge, formerly the Branson Creek Golf Club, has undergone a remarkable transformation at the hands of designer Tom Fazio. Getting its name from the herd of bison roaming its perimeter, Buffalo Ridge may be the best test of golf on the property.
Golfers are treated to a sensory journey as they traverse the undulating fairways and meticulously manicured greens. Each hole presents a unique set of challenges, requiring strategic shot-making and precise course management. Challenging holes, like the par five 13th hole, can be played in a variety of ways and give players the opportunity to use every club in the bag. It’s truly an unforgettable golfing experience.
In addition to its stunning natural beauty, Buffalo Ridge is committed to environmental sustainability, employing innovative practices to preserve the delicate ecosystem of the Ozarks. Through initiatives such as native grass restoration and water conservation efforts, the course remains a model of responsible stewardship for future generations to enjoy.
It’s hard to believe that Big Cedar has more golf to offer on top of the three championship courses, but it’s true. The resort sports a top notch practice facility – located at Ozark National – that gives players the opportunity to hone their games before and after their rounds of golf. For those looking to play more golf without heading out for a full 18 holes, Big Cedar has two options: The Top of the Rock Golf Course and Mountain Top Golf Course. The former is a Jack Nicklaus par three course and home to Arnie’s Barn, a 150-year-old barn relocated from Arnold Palmer’s home in Latrobe, Pennsylvania and full of memorabilia from his historic career. The latter course was designed by Gary Player and sits atop the rock formation at the high point of the property. The 13-hole short course plays up and down and has some of the most challenging greens on the property.
Most importantly, don’t forget to visit the snack shacks every chance you get for the opportunity to eat a complimentary bison dog, produced right on the resort property.
The Rest of the Resort – Not Just for Golfers
Nestled amidst the rolling hills and pristine forests of the Ozark Mountains in Missouri, Big Cedar Resort stands as a beacon of tranquility and luxury. This idyllic retreat offers guests a respite from the hustle and bustle of everyday life, inviting them to immerse themselves in the beauty of nature while enjoying world-class amenities and unparalleled hospitality.
At the heart of Big Cedar Resort lies its breathtaking natural surroundings. Guests are greeted by the serene waters of Table Rock Lake, whose crystal-clear depths offer endless opportunities for swimming, boating, and fishing. Surrounded by lush forests teeming with wildlife, the resort provides an ideal setting for outdoor enthusiasts to explore hiking trails, go horseback riding, or simply unwind in the beauty of nature.
For those seeking adventure, Big Cedar offers a wealth of outdoor activities, from zip-lining through the treetops to exploring the rugged terrain on an ATV tour. Guided nature walks and wildlife tours allow guests to discover the rich biodiversity of the Ozarks, while lake cruises offer a leisurely way to soak in the scenery and spot bald eagles soaring overhead.
Big Cedar Resort is home to an array of luxurious accommodations, ranging from cozy cabins nestled along the lakefront to spacious lodge suites with sweeping views of the mountains. Each room is meticulously appointed with modern amenities and rustic-chic décor, creating a warm and inviting atmosphere for guests to relax and unwind.
The resort’s commitment to hospitality is evident in every aspect of the guest experience, from the attentive service provided by staff to the thoughtful touches that ensure a memorable stay. Whether indulging in a rejuvenating spa treatment, savoring gourmet cuisine at one of the onsite restaurants, or simply lounging by the pool with a refreshing cocktail, guests are treated to the highest standard of comfort and care.
Big Cedar Resort caters to guests of all ages, with a wealth of family-friendly activities and entertainment options to enjoy. The Kids’ Adventure Club offers supervised activities and games for children, allowing parents to relax and unwind knowing their little ones are having a blast under the watchful eye of trained staff.
Families can bond over a friendly game of mini-golf or challenge each other to a round of bowling at the onsite entertainment center. Evening bonfires and marshmallow roasts provide the perfect opportunity to gather around the fire and share stories under the stars, creating cherished memories that will last a lifetime.
Above all, Big Cedar Resort is a sanctuary for relaxation and rejuvenation, offering guests a chance to escape the stresses of modern life and reconnect with themselves and their loved ones. Whether seeking adventure in the great outdoors or simply unwinding in the comfort of a luxurious cabin, visitors to Big Cedar are sure to find peace, serenity, and a sense of renewal in this enchanting mountain retreat.
