Ozark Heights: A Branson & Big Cedar Golf Trip
Payne's Valley, Ozarks National and Buffalo Ridge Springs, all near Branson.
Big Cedar Lodge and Top of the Rock make Branson one of the Midwest's best golf destinations. Payne's Valley is the Tiger Woods-designed public course, and Ozarks National and Buffalo Ridge Springs add mountain scenery.
Branson is a family-friendly resort town with Table Rock Lake, Silver Dollar City, and live shows. The Big Cedar Lodge golf properties are the draw for golfers.
The three courses are minutes apart, so there is little driving.
- Region
- Midwest
- Courses
- 3
- Total driving
- 0 miles
- Duration
- 3 days
- Estimated green fees
- ~$289
- Difficulty
- Championship
Courses in this guide
- Payne's Valley Golf Course — Hollister, Missouri
- Ozarks National Golf Course — Hollister, Missouri
- Buffalo Ridge Springs Golf Course — Hollister, Missouri
Suggested itineraries
- Day 1: Payne's Valley
Arrive and play Payne's Valley.
- Day 2: Ozarks National and Buffalo Ridge
Play Ozarks National in the morning and Buffalo Ridge Springs in the afternoon.
- Day 3: Optional round
Replay a favorite or visit Table Rock Lake.
Where to stay
- Big Cedar Lodge: Resort with golf packages.
- Chateau on the Lake Branson: Lakeside resort.
- Branson Landing Hotel: Value option.
Where to eat
- Wormy Walnut at Big Cedar Lodge: Resort dining.
- Devil's Pool Restaurant: Casual.
- Top of the Rock Restaurant: Scenic.
Getting around
Fly into Springfield-Branson airport (about 45 minutes) or drive from Kansas City or St. Louis. There is little driving between courses.
Best time to visit
April through October. Fall foliage is spectacular.
Budget tips
- All three courses are $95 to $99 on weekdays.
- Stay off-property in Branson for lower lodging costs.
- Look for stay-and-play packages.
- Weekday rounds are cheaper.