Golfweek’s latest “Best Courses by State” report highlights Branson’s golf excellence, with Ozarks National, Buffalo Ridge, Payne’s Valley, and Branson Hills claiming the top four spots in Missouri. Additionally, LedgeStone, another Branson course, secured the No. 8 position, giving the destination five courses in the state’s top ten.
Heather Hermen, Senior Vice President/Chief Marketing & Communications Officer, emphasized golf as a key draw for Branson visitors, stating, “Golf complements our lakes, live entertainment theatres, historic downtown, family-friendly attractions, and modern waterside Branson Landing town center.” She noted that Branson’s exceptional golf courses are a significant reason people choose to visit.
Golfweek’s rankings are determined by a panel that continuously assesses courses based on 10 criteria on a 10-point scale. Each course receives an overall rating, and these ratings are then averaged to establish a cumulative score for ranking purposes.
Big Cedar Golf boasts three acclaimed 18-hole courses: Ozarks National (designed by Bill Coore and Ben Crenshaw), Buffalo Ridge (by Tom Fazio and Johnny Morris), and Payne’s Valley (by Tiger Woods and Beau Welling). Additionally, the resort offers three short courses—Cliffhangers (Johnny and J.P. Morris), Mountain Top (Gary Player), and Top of the Rock (Jack Nicklaus)—all reflecting the rustic elegance characteristic of properties owned by Big Cedar Lodge and Bass Pro Shops founder, Johnny Morris.
Beyond its No. 4 state ranking among over 300 courses, Branson Hills (designed by Chuck Smith and Bobby Clampett) earned a national No. 10 spot in Golfers’ Choice by GolfPass/GolfNow, recognizing it as a top player favorite. Its challenging yet picturesque design is highly regarded. LedgeStone, another local favorite, offers a thrilling experience with its winding layout through the Ozarks’ undulating landscape, demanding strategic shot-making.
Branson features three other notable courses: Thousand Hills (by Bob Cupp), The Pointe, and Holiday Hills. Thousand Hills, part of a larger resort, is centrally located near numerous live entertainment venues.
All eleven of Branson’s golf courses are conveniently situated close to each other, surrounded by abundant dining, lodging, and post-golf activities. According to TripAdvisor, Branson consistently ranks as a top tourism destination in America.
