Missouri's golf scene is a golfer's paradise, offering a diverse range of courses that cater to every skill level and preference. From the lush greens of the Ozarks to the challenging fairways of St. Louis, Missouri's golf courses provide an unforgettable experience for enthusiasts and professionals alike.
One of the standout features of Missouri's golf scene is the concentration of top-tier courses in the Big Cedar Lodge resort. This luxurious retreat boasts an impressive collection of courses designed by renowned architects, including Tiger Woods, Tom Fazio, Bill Coore and Ben Crenshaw, and Jack Nicklaus. The resort's proximity to Table Rock Lake adds to its allure, providing golfers with breathtaking views and a serene atmosphere.
Among the standout courses at Big Cedar Lodge is Ozarks National, a par-71 layout that stretches to 7,036 yards. Designed by Bill Coore and Ben Crenshaw, this course features wide fairways and new holes carved across limestone ridges. The highlight of Ozarks National is the 400-foot wooden bridge that carries golfers 60 feet above a creek, offering a truly unique golfing experience. The course has been consistently ranked among the top 100 public courses in the country, making it a must-play for golf enthusiasts.
Another notable course at Big Cedar Lodge is Payne's Valley, designed by Tiger Woods and named after Springfield-born major champion Payne Stewart. This par-72 course plays 7,170 yards over wide fairways and large greens, with a bonus 19th hole designed by Johnny Morris. The course's grand opening in September 2020 was marked by an exhibition match between Woods and Justin Thomas against Rory McIlroy and Justin Rose, further cementing its reputation as a premier golfing destination.
For those seeking a more challenging experience, Buffalo Ridge offers a par-71 layout that plays 7,036 yards. Designed by Tom Fazio and redesigned by Johnny Morris, this course features waterfalls, water features, and exposed rock. The course's zoysia fairways and North American bison grazing the pasture beside the opening hole create a truly unique setting. Buffalo Ridge has hosted the PGA Tour Champions Bass Pro Shops Legends of Golf, further adding to its prestige.
Top of the Rock, a nine-hole par-3 course designed by Jack Nicklaus, is another standout offering at Big Cedar Lodge. This course features holes that reach beyond 200 yards across lakes, cliffs, and rock ledges, providing a thrilling challenge for golfers of all skill levels. The course is open to the public, with green fees around $125 for lodging guests.
In addition to the courses at Big Cedar Lodge, Missouri offers a variety of other top-tier golf courses. St. Louis Country Club, designed by Charles Blair Macdonald, features a par-71 layout that plays 6,542 yards. This course has hosted several major championships, including the U.S. Open and the U.S. Amateur, making it a must-play for serious golfers.
Old Warson Country Club, another Robert Trent Jones Sr. course, is known for its undulating, tree-lined fairways and elevated greens. The course has hosted the Ryder Cup and the U.S. Mid-Amateur, further cementing its reputation as a premier golfing destination.
For those seeking a more relaxed experience, LedgeStone Country Club offers a par-71 layout that plays 6,881 yards. This course features bentgrass greens and tree-lined zoysia fairways, with the signature 15th hole dropping sharply downhill to a three-tiered green. LedgeStone is open to the public, with green fees ranging from $80 to $120 by season and time of day.
Bellerive Country Club, another Robert Trent Jones Sr. course, is a private club that has hosted several major championships, including the U.S. Open and the PGA Championship. The course's major-championship roll call is impressive, and it continues to be a top destination for serious golfers.
In conclusion, Missouri's golf scene offers a diverse range of courses that cater to every skill level and preference. From the luxurious Big Cedar Lodge resort to the challenging fairways of St. Louis, Missouri's golf courses provide an unforgettable experience for enthusiasts and professionals alike.
