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

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Pleasant weather, fewer crowds

Ozarks National Golf Course
Best Time
Pleasant weather, fewer crowds

Highlights
Must-see attractions
A championship golf course carved into the Ozark Mountains, offering breathtaking vistas and a challenging, unforgettable playing experience.
"This place is legit! The course is gorgeous, the property is dialed in, and the views are next level.
"
🎯 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:

Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

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

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

Impeccable Course Conditions
Fairways and greens
The course is consistently praised for its pristine condition, even shortly after aeration.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Tackle the Challenge: Play Forward!
Embrace the Elements: Wind and Views
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
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.
: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:Ozarks National- Big Cedar Lodge. First time…and wow!
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.
:camerawithflash:💧 Complimentary Refreshments
Enjoy complimentary hot dogs and snacks on the course. Water and wet towels are also provided by marshals.
:ice_cream: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.
: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:📸 Capture the Views
Take time to soak in the incredible scenery. The vistas are as memorable as the golf itself.
:camerawithflash:💧 Complimentary Refreshments
Enjoy complimentary hot dogs and snacks on the course. Water and wet towels are also provided by marshals.
:ice_cream:🚗 Clubhouse Amenities
Note that the clubhouse has limited food options; plan meals at other Big Cedar Lodge venues.
:forkandknifewithplate:What Travellers Say
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
What People Dislike
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
🎫 🎫 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.
Absolutely. Booking tee times well in advance is crucial, especially for popular times and seasons. Ozarks National is a highly sought-after course.
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.
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.
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.
🎫 ⛳ 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.
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.
Golf carts are generally included or available for rent. Given the hilly terrain and the course's layout, most players opt for a cart.
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.
While the main clubhouse may have limited food options, there are typically beverage carts and complimentary snacks like hot dogs available on the course.
🍽️ 🍽️ 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.
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.
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.
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.
Some reviews mention complimentary hot dogs and snacks available on the course, which is a nice perk for golfers.
📸 📸 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.
Yes, photography is generally allowed and encouraged. However, be mindful of pace of play and ensure you're not holding up other golfers.
Many holes offer stunning vistas. Holes with elevated tee boxes providing panoramic views of the surrounding landscape are particularly photogenic.
Early morning or late afternoon (golden hour) often provides the best light for landscape photography, with softer shadows and warmer tones.
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.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
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.
💰 Budget Travelers
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.
couples
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.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Navigating the Challenge: Playing Ozarks National
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.
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.
The Ozark Mountain Scenery
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.
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.
Big Cedar Lodge Golf Experience
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.
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.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit