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Ozarks National Golf Course

4.5
·126 reviews·Hollister, United States

A championship golf course carved into the Ozark Mountains, offering breathtaking vistas and a challenging, unforgettable playing experience.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Spring & Fall mornings

Pleasant weather, fewer crowds

CrowdLow
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Grand National

Ozarks National Golf Course

Best Time

Spring & Fall mornings

Pleasant weather, fewer crowds

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

A championship golf course carved into the Ozark Mountains, offering breathtaking vistas and a challenging, unforgettable playing experience.

4.5
(126 reviews)

"This place is legit! The course is gorgeous, the property is dialed in, and the views are next level. Reddit"

Vertical photo
TIP

🎯 Play from Forward Tees

Seriously, play forward! Even good golfers find it challenging. Better to enjoy the views than struggle. :golf_cart:

💨 Be Ready for Wind

The Ozarks are windy! Factor this into your club selection and strategy. It's part of the course's character. :windblowingface:

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Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Panoramic Ozark Vistas

Panoramic Ozark Vistas

Throughout the course

Breathtaking, sweeping views of the Ozark Mountains that will leave you speechless. A true feast for the eyes.

Reddit
Challenging Hole Design

Challenging Hole Design

Signature holes

Intricate and demanding holes that test every aspect of your game, especially with blind tee shots.

Reddit
Impeccable Course Conditions

Impeccable Course Conditions

Fairways and greens

The course is consistently praised for its pristine condition, even shortly after aeration.

Reddit
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Planning Your Visit

Tackle the Challenge: Play Forward!

Ozarks National Golf Course is renowned for its challenging layout. Many golfers recommend playing from the forward tees, even if you're an experienced player, to better manage the course and enjoy the stunning views without constant frustration. Don't let the difficulty deter you; it's part of the Ozarks experience! Reddit

Embrace the Elements: Wind and Views

Expect wind to be a significant factor at Ozarks National; it's a common characteristic of the course. While it adds to the challenge, it also enhances the breathtaking panoramic views of the Ozarks. Prepare for a visually spectacular, yet demanding, round of golf. Reddit

Best Times

When
Spring & Fall mornings
Why
Pleasant weather, fewer crowds
Crowd
Low
When
Weekday afternoons
Why
Less busy, more relaxed pace
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

reddit.com

Planning a trip to Cedar Lodge in May - Planning on Playing Ozark National and Buffalo Ridge

🎯 Play from Forward Tees

Seriously, play forward! Even good golfers find it challenging. Better to enjoy the views than struggle. Reddit :golf_cart:

💨 Be Ready for Wind

The Ozarks are windy! Factor this into your club selection and strategy. It's part of the course's character. Reddit :windblowingface:

reddit.com

Ozarks National- Big Cedar Lodge. First time…and wow!

reddit.com

Branson/Big Cedar courses (Payne's Valley, Ozarks National, Buffalo Ridge)

📸 Capture the Views

Take time to soak in the incredible scenery. The vistas are as memorable as the golf itself. Reddit :camerawithflash:

💧 Complimentary Refreshments

Enjoy complimentary hot dogs and snacks on the course. Water and wet towels are also provided by marshals. Reddit :ice_cream:

reddit.com

Ozark National

Tips

from all over the internet

🎯 Play from Forward Tees

Seriously, play forward! Even good golfers find it challenging. Better to enjoy the views than struggle. Reddit :golf_cart:

💨 Be Ready for Wind

The Ozarks are windy! Factor this into your club selection and strategy. It's part of the course's character. Reddit :windblowingface:

📸 Capture the Views

Take time to soak in the incredible scenery. The vistas are as memorable as the golf itself. Reddit :camerawithflash:

💧 Complimentary Refreshments

Enjoy complimentary hot dogs and snacks on the course. Water and wet towels are also provided by marshals. Reddit :ice_cream:

🚗 Clubhouse Amenities

Note that the clubhouse has limited food options; plan meals at other Big Cedar Lodge venues. Reddit :forkandknifewithplate:

What Travellers Say

4.5
(126 reviews)

Reviews Summary

Ozarks National Golf Course is widely praised for its stunning beauty and challenging design, offering breathtaking Ozark Mountain vistas. While the course conditions are impeccable, golfers should be prepared for a demanding round, with many recommending playing from forward tees. Limited clubhouse food options are a minor drawback, but the overall experience, including complimentary snacks and attentive staff, is highly rated.

"Ozarks national is a beautiful but extremely challenging course. I played it with a group of friends and we’re all average golfers from eight handicap to 20. My advice play at FORWARD and play 6000 yards or less. I know you wanna bang the drives, but it’s hard to see where they’re going on this track.Everything about it is exceptional, but it’s difficult."

Adam Ruggles

"We played Payne’s Valley, Ozarks National, Buffalo Ridge and Top of The Rock. Out of the 3 18 hole courses everybody has a different ranking of Ozarks. Some thought it was the best, others the worst but mainly just depended on who played what course well. I would say Ozarks was the most challenging of the 3. The fairways and greens are large but if you miss the fairway you are going to have a hard time finding your ball. We played 10 days after aeration and you couldn’t tell at all. The course was in incredible shape. The staff is amazing. The marshals have water and wet towels every time you see them which was great on a hot day. My only complaint would be the pro shop. No restaurant or breakfast food. You have to go the whole way over to Payne’s valley. There’s food out on the course but just hot dogs and snacks (all complimentary by the way). One toilet in the club house as well which was odd. But all in all amazing course, staff and views."

shawn U

"Fantastic course. Extremely challenging with tons of blind teeshots. The views can't be beat. I can't wait to go back and play paynes valley and Buffalo ridge. You get free range balls. Also free lunch and snacks but only at the clubhouse after the 9th hole. 10/10 would recommend."

McStabasaurusrex

What People Like

Spectacular mountain views
Challenging course design
Impeccable course conditions

What People Dislike

Difficult for average golfers
Limited clubhouse food

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

Ozarks National Golf Course is located at Big Cedar Lodge in the Ozarks. The best way to get there is by car, as it's a resort destination. If flying, the closest major airport is Springfield-Branson National Airport (SGF), about an hour's drive away. Reddit

Yes, Ozarks National is one of the premier golf courses at Big Cedar Lodge, offering stunning views and a challenging experience within the resort's expansive property. Reddit

Specific driving directions will depend on your starting point, but navigating to Big Cedar Lodge will lead you to the course. GPS is highly recommended. Reddit

Big Cedar Lodge typically offers shuttle services around the property, which can be helpful for getting to different golf courses or amenities. Inquire with the lodge directly for current availability. Reddit

While Ozarks National is part of Big Cedar Lodge, tee times are generally available to the public. However, booking in advance is highly recommended, especially during peak seasons. Reddit

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

Green fees for Ozarks National can vary significantly based on the season, day of the week, and time of day. Expect rates to be in the higher range, reflecting the course's prestige. It's best to check the official Big Cedar Lodge golf website or call for current pricing and to book tee times. Reddit

Absolutely. Booking tee times well in advance is crucial, especially for popular times and seasons. Ozarks National is a highly sought-after course. Reddit

Typically, green fees include the round of golf and access to practice facilities. Complimentary range balls are provided. Some reviews mention complimentary snacks and hot dogs on the course. Reddit

The course generally opens at sunrise and closes at sunset, with tee times staggered throughout the day. Specific hours can vary seasonally, so it's best to confirm with the pro shop when booking. Reddit

Big Cedar Lodge often offers golf packages that may include rounds at Ozarks National, along with accommodation. Keep an eye on their website for special promotions. Reddit

🎫 ⛳ Onsite Experience

Ozarks National is considered very challenging, with many blind tee shots and demanding fairways. Golfers often recommend playing from the forward tees to better manage the course. Reddit

The dress code typically requires collared shirts and golf shorts or slacks. Denim and athletic wear are usually not permitted. It's always a good idea to check the specific dress code policy when booking. Reddit

Golf carts are generally included or available for rent. Given the hilly terrain and the course's layout, most players opt for a cart. Reddit

Prepare for spectacular, expansive views of the Ozark Mountains. The course is designed to showcase the natural beauty of the region, making it a visually stunning experience. Reddit

While the main clubhouse may have limited food options, there are typically beverage carts and complimentary snacks like hot dogs available on the course. Reddit

🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining

The clubhouse at Ozarks National has limited food options, often just snacks. For more substantial meals, you'll need to visit other dining establishments within Big Cedar Lodge, such as those at Payne's Valley or Top of the Rock. Reddit

Yes, Big Cedar Lodge offers several dining options ranging from casual to fine dining. Popular choices include Devil's Pool Restaurant, Buzzard's Bar, and the various eateries at Top of the Rock. Reddit

Breakfast options are typically found at the main lodge or other resort restaurants. The Ozarks National clubhouse itself may not offer a full breakfast menu. Reddit

While there might be a beverage cart on the course, the clubhouse amenities can be limited. Check with Big Cedar Lodge for the most current information on bar services at Ozarks National. Reddit

Some reviews mention complimentary hot dogs and snacks available on the course, which is a nice perk for golfers. Reddit

📸 📸 Photography

The entire course offers incredible photo opportunities, especially from elevated tees and greens overlooking the Ozark Mountains. Don't miss the signature holes for dramatic shots. Reddit

Yes, photography is generally allowed and encouraged. However, be mindful of pace of play and ensure you're not holding up other golfers. Reddit

Many holes offer stunning vistas. Holes with elevated tee boxes providing panoramic views of the surrounding landscape are particularly photogenic. Reddit

Early morning or late afternoon (golden hour) often provides the best light for landscape photography, with softer shadows and warmer tones. Reddit

Drone usage is typically restricted at golf courses and resorts due to privacy and safety concerns. It's essential to check Big Cedar Lodge's specific drone policy before visiting. Reddit

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

While Ozarks National is a championship golf course, families can still enjoy the Big Cedar Lodge property. Consider booking a tee time for the adults and exploring other family-friendly activities at the resort, such as swimming, fishing, or the Top of the Rock attractions. If younger golfers are playing, definitely opt for the forward tees and focus on fun over score. Reddit

For families looking for a more relaxed golfing experience, Big Cedar Lodge also offers other options. However, if the goal is to experience a top-tier course, parents might consider a round while older children enjoy the resort's other offerings, or plan for a shorter, more manageable nine-hole experience if available. Reddit

💰 Budget Travelers

Ozarks National is a premium golf experience, and as such, it comes with a premium price tag. Budget travelers might find the green fees challenging. Consider visiting during the off-season or looking for package deals that bundle accommodation with golf to potentially reduce costs. Reddit

Alternatively, explore other golf courses in the broader Ozarks region that offer a similar natural beauty at a lower price point. However, for the unique combination of challenging design and spectacular views offered by Ozarks National, it's often considered a worthwhile splurge for serious golf enthusiasts. Reddit

couples

Ozarks National offers a romantic setting with its stunning mountain views, making it a great option for couples who enjoy golf. The challenging course provides an engaging activity, while the breathtaking scenery offers plenty of opportunities for shared appreciation and memorable photos. Reddit

Consider booking a tee time during the golden hour for even more spectacular lighting. After your round, explore the dining options at Big Cedar Lodge or enjoy a leisurely stroll around the resort to cap off a perfect day. Reddit

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

Navigating the Challenge: Playing Ozarks National

Ozarks National Golf Course is celebrated for its dramatic elevation changes and strategic design by Gil Hanse. The course presents a significant challenge, with many holes featuring blind tee shots and undulating fairways that demand precision. Reviewers consistently advise playing from the forward tees, even for experienced golfers, to better appreciate the course's beauty and reduce frustration. The large greens can be deceptive, and missing the fairway often leads to difficult recovery shots. Reddit

Patience and course management are key to a successful round. Don't be discouraged by a few errant shots; the stunning scenery provides ample distraction. The course is known for its impeccable conditioning, ensuring a high-quality playing surface regardless of the season. Marshals often provide water and wet towels, a welcome amenity on warmer days. Reddit

While the golf itself is the main draw, remember that the clubhouse amenities are somewhat limited. Plan your meals at other Big Cedar Lodge venues for a more complete dining experience. The complimentary snacks on the course, however, are a delightful bonus. Reddit

The Ozark Mountain Scenery

The defining characteristic of Ozarks National is its breathtaking natural beauty. The course is meticulously routed to showcase the rolling hills and expansive vistas of the Ozark Mountains. From elevated tee boxes, golfers are treated to panoramic views that are truly world-class, making it a photographer's paradise. Reddit

The wind is an ever-present element that adds to both the challenge and the atmosphere. While it can make club selection tricky, it also contributes to the wild, untamed feel of the landscape. Embrace the elements, as they are an integral part of the Ozarks National experience. Reddit

Beyond the golf, the entire Big Cedar Lodge property is designed to immerse visitors in the natural splendor of the Ozarks. Whether you're on the course or simply enjoying the resort, the stunning scenery is a constant companion. Reddit

Big Cedar Lodge Golf Experience

Ozarks National is part of the acclaimed Big Cedar Lodge golf collection, which includes other notable courses like Buffalo Ridge and Payne's Valley. This resort destination is a golfer's dream, offering a variety of challenging and visually stunning layouts. Staying at Big Cedar Lodge allows for easy access to all these courses and amenities. Reddit

The service at Big Cedar Lodge golf courses is consistently praised. Staff members are attentive, and amenities like complimentary range balls and on-course refreshments enhance the overall experience. Even with the course's difficulty, the friendly atmosphere and beautiful surroundings contribute to a memorable golf trip. Reddit

When planning your visit, consider booking a golf package that might include rounds at multiple courses. This can offer great value and allow you to experience the full breadth of what Big Cedar Lodge has to offer golfers. Reddit

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