Big Cedar Lodge

Golf Destination · Midwest

Big Cedar Lodge, located in the heart of Missouri, is a premier golf destination that offers a unique blend of world-class golf and unspoiled nature. Nestled in the Ozark Mountains, it offers five distinct golf courses that are designed by some of the best golf architects in the world.

Fast Facts

✈️ Nearest Airports: Branson Airport (BKG), Springfield-Branson National Airport (SGF)
☀️ Best Season: April through October
📍 Region: Midwest
Courses: 3 available
❔ Current Condition: Not Available

Est. Trip Cost

$1,155

Includes 3 nights & 3 rounds

Lodging (avg/night): $240

Green Fees (avg): $145

Information

🏖️ Background

Big Cedar Lodge in Ridgedale, Missouri, offers five golf courses designed by renowned architects like Tiger Woods, Jack Nicklaus, and Tom Fazio. The resort combines high-quality golf with scenic Ozark Mountain views.

📅 When to Go

Best time to visit is April through October for optimal course conditions.
Shoulder seasons (March and November) offer lower rates but may have dormant fairways.
Zoysia fairways typically green up in April and go dormant by late October.

Upcoming Events

Payne’s Valley Cup (September): Impacts access to Payne’s Valley course.
Big Cedar Lodge Legends of Golf (Fall): Likely closures or partial access restrictions.
Bass Pro Shops/Payne Stewart Junior Championship (Various dates): May affect Payne’s Valley and Buffalo Ridge availability.
Seasonal and Charity Tournaments (Year-round): Shotgun starts and multi-day events may limit tee times.

✈️ Getting There

🚗 Drive: Approximately 15 minutes from BKG; about 1 hour from SGF
✈️ Airport: Branson Airport (BKG) – 9 miles; Springfield-Branson National Airport (SGF) – 56 miles
🚌 Shuttle Tips: Rental cars are recommended; resort shuttles available for on-property transport

⚠️ Course Conditions

Condition Status

Courses are well-maintained with zoysia fairways and bentgrass greens. Seasonal aeration occurs in spring and fall.

Last updated: May 25, 2025

⏰ Tee Time Tips

Resort guests can book tee times by calling the reservations team; public can book online 30 days in advance.
All courses are cart-only except Mountain Top, which is walking only.
Twilight rates and replay discounts are available; inquire at the pro shop.

💡 Destination Tips

Book tee times before arranging flights, especially for Thursday arrivals and Sunday departures.
Consider staying in golf cottages for proximity to courses and group convenience.
Dining options on-site are limited; plan meals accordingly.
The 19th hole at Payne’s Valley is a must-play for its island green and waterfall setting.
Lady Liberty dinner cruise on Table Rock Lake is a good group evening activity.