Family Golfing in Missouri: Top Courses for Spring 2024
Missouri is a great place to enjoy a family golfing vacation. With its rolling hills, lush greenery, and mild spring weather, the state offers many excellent golf courses that cater to families. Whether you are a beginner or a seasoned golfer, there are plenty of courses for family golfing in Missouri that will challenge and entertain you.
One of the best places to play golf in Missouri is the Lodge of Four Seasons. This beautiful resort is located in the heart of the Ozarks and offers two championship golf courses that are perfect for families. The Cove is an 18-hole, par-71 course designed by Robert Trent Jones, Sr., while The Ridge is an 18-hole, par-72 course designed by Ken Kavanaugh. Both courses offer stunning views of the lake and surrounding countryside, as well as challenging holes that will test your skills.
Another great option for family golfing in Missouri is the Club at Porto Cima. This private facility features an 18-hole Jack Nicklaus Signature Design course, as well as a 17,000 square-foot clubhouse and a Yacht Club. The course is known for its challenging layout and beautiful views of the lake. Whether you are looking for a relaxing day on the links or an exciting family adventure, the Club at Porto Cima is sure to please.
Top Family-Friendly Golf Courses in Missouri
Missouri is a great place for golf enthusiasts, and families who enjoy golfing together will find plenty of options to choose from. Here are some of the top family-friendly golf courses in Missouri that offer an enjoyable experience for golfers of all ages and skill levels.
Ozarks National: A Premier Golfing Experience
Ozarks National is a semi-private golf course located in Hollister, Missouri. It offers a premier golfing experience with breathtaking views of the Ozark Mountains. The course was designed by Bill Coore and Ben Crenshaw, and it has been ranked as the number one public course in Missouri by Golf Digest.
The course features 18 holes, and it is suitable for golfers of all skill levels. It has a variety of tee boxes that allow players to choose the level of difficulty that suits them best. The course is also known for its fast greens and challenging bunkers.
Buffalo Ridge: Golfing Amidst the Ozarks
Buffalo Ridge is another great golf course located in Hollister, Missouri. It is known for its natural beauty and challenging layout. The course was designed by Tom Fazio, and it has been ranked as one of the top golf courses in Missouri by Golf Digest.
The course features 18 holes, and it is suitable for golfers of all skill levels. It has a variety of tee boxes that allow players to choose the level of difficulty that suits them best. The course is also known for its scenic views of the Ozark Mountains.
Branson Hills: Golf with a View
Branson Hills is a public golf course located in Branson, Missouri. It offers a challenging yet enjoyable golfing experience with stunning views of the Ozark Mountains. The course was designed by Chuck Smith and Bobby Clampett, and it has been ranked as one of the top public golf courses in Missouri by Golf Digest.
The course features 18 holes, and it is suitable for golfers of all skill levels. It has a variety of tee boxes that allow players to choose the level of difficulty that suits them best. The course is also known for its well-manicured fairways and challenging greens.
Old Kinderhook: A Golfing Retreat for All Ages
Old Kinderhook is a resort and golf course located in Camdenton, Missouri. It offers a relaxing and enjoyable golfing experience for players of all ages and skill levels. The course was designed by Tom Weiskopf, and it has been ranked as one of the top golf courses in Missouri by Golf Digest.
The course features 18 holes, and it is suitable for golfers of all skill levels. It has a variety of tee boxes that allow players to choose the level of difficulty that suits them best. The course is also known for its beautiful scenery and well-maintained fairways and greens.
Overall, these golf courses offer a great experience for families who enjoy golfing together. They provide a variety of challenges and scenic views that make for an enjoyable day on the course.
Amenities Beyond the Course
When planning a family golfing trip, it’s not just about the golf course. Many families are looking for a complete vacation experience with amenities that cater to all members of the family. Fortunately, Missouri has a variety of golf resorts that offer more than just golf. Here are some of the amenities beyond the course that families can enjoy:
Dining Options: From Casual to Fine Dining
Many golf resorts in Missouri offer a variety of dining options, from casual to fine dining. At Big Cedar Lodge, for example, guests can choose from a range of dining options, including the Devil’s Pool Restaurant, which offers a casual dining experience with views of Table Rock Lake, or Osage Restaurant, which offers a fine dining experience with a menu featuring locally sourced ingredients.
Lodging: Staying in Comfort and Style
Staying on the golf course is a great way to experience the resort, but some families may prefer to stay in a more comfortable and stylish setting. Missouri has a variety of lodging options, including hotels, cabins, and villas. At Big Cedar Lodge, guests can choose from a variety of lodging options, including cozy cabins and spacious villas.
Recreational Activities: Pools, Spas, and More
In addition to golf, many golf resorts in Missouri offer a range of recreational activities. Big Cedar Lodge, for example, has several swimming pools, including a lazy river, as well as a full-service spa. Other resorts may offer activities like hiking, fishing, or boating.
Overall, golf resorts in Missouri offer a range of amenities that cater to families. From dining options to lodging and recreational activities, there is something for everyone.
Golfing Events and Tournaments
Spring is the perfect time to enjoy some golfing events and tournaments in Missouri. Here are some of the top options for golf enthusiasts.
PGA Events and Local Tournaments
Missouri hosts several PGA events throughout the year, including the PGA Championship and the Senior PGA Championship. These events attract top golfers from around the world and offer an excellent opportunity to watch world-class golf. In addition to the PGA events, Missouri also hosts several local tournaments that are open to the public. These tournaments are a great way to test your skills against other local golfers and enjoy a fun day out on the course.
Family-Friendly Golfing Competitions
For families who enjoy golfing together, Missouri offers several family-friendly golfing competitions. These competitions are designed to be fun for the whole family and often include activities and games for children. The Family Golf and Learning Center, for example, hosts a Junior Tournament in partnership with the Gateway PGA Junior Tour. This tournament is open to juniors of all skill levels and includes 9 or 18 holes of golf at the Hualalai Resort.
Other family-friendly golfing events include the Ladies’ League at Family Golf and Learning Center. This 15-week league is open to ladies of all skill levels and includes morning or evening play on Wednesdays throughout the spring and summer. The league concludes with a small awards day after completion.
Overall, Missouri offers a wide range of golfing events and tournaments for all skill levels and interests. Whether you’re a seasoned pro or a beginner, there’s something for everyone in Missouri’s golfing scene.
Golf Course Features and Design
Signature Holes and Course Landscapes
Missouri is home to several golf courses that offer stunning signature holes and beautiful landscapes. For example, the Ozarks National at Big Cedar Lodge in Hollister is known for its picturesque views of the Ozark Mountains and Table Rock Lake. The 13th hole at this course is particularly breathtaking, as it requires golfers to hit their shots over a deep chasm and onto a green that is perched on the edge of a cliff.
Another course that offers impressive views is the St. Louis Country Club. This course, designed by Charles Blair Macdonald, features rolling hills and mature trees that provide a serene backdrop for golfers. The signature hole at this course is the par-3 11th, which requires players to hit their shots over water and onto a green that is guarded by bunkers.
Course Designers: Palmer, Trent Jones, and Others
Missouri is also home to several golf courses that were designed by renowned course architects, such as Arnold Palmer, Robert Trent Jones, and Tom Weiskopf. For example, the Country Club of St. Albans, located in St. Louis, was designed by Jones and features two 18-hole courses, the Lewis and Clark Course and the Tavern Creek Course. Both courses feature Zoysia fairways and Bentgrass greens, as well as GPS-equipped golf carts.
Another course that was designed by Palmer is the Payne Stewart Golf Club in Branson. This course, named after the late PGA Tour player, features rolling hills and natural water hazards that provide a challenging yet enjoyable experience for golfers of all skill levels. The course also features GPS-equipped golf carts and a fully-stocked pro shop.
Overall, Missouri offers a variety of golf courses with unique features and designs that make them stand out from the rest. Whether you’re looking for stunning landscapes or challenging holes, Missouri has something for everyone.
Planning Your Golf Trip
When planning a family golf trip to Missouri, it’s important to consider the best times to visit and tee time reservations, as well as golf packages and membership deals.
Best Times to Visit and Tee Time Reservations
Missouri’s golf season typically runs from March through November, with the peak season being from May through September. Spring and fall are ideal times to visit for cooler temperatures and beautiful scenery. However, summer offers longer days and more time to play golf.
To ensure the best tee times, it’s recommended to make reservations in advance. Many golf courses in Missouri offer online booking systems, making it easy to reserve a tee time before arriving.
Golf Packages and Membership Deals
Golf packages and membership deals can help families save money on their golf trip to Missouri. Many golf courses offer discounted rates for groups, as well as stay-and-play packages that include accommodations and golf.
Membership deals can also provide significant savings for families who plan to golf frequently in Missouri. Some golf courses offer annual memberships that include unlimited golf and other perks, such as discounts on merchandise and dining.
Before booking a golf package or membership, it’s important to research and compare options to find the best deal for your family’s golfing experience.
Golfing Resources and Extras
Golf Lessons and Clinics for Beginners
For those who are new to golfing or want to improve their skills, Missouri offers plenty of opportunities for golf lessons and clinics. Many golf courses have experienced instructors who can provide individual or group lessons to help beginners learn the basics of golfing. Some courses offer clinics specifically designed for beginners to learn the game in a fun and relaxed environment.
One of the best places to start is at the Bellerive Country Club, which is one of the oldest and most prestigious golf courses in Missouri. They offer both group and individual lessons for beginners and experienced golfers alike. Another great option is the Lake of the Ozarks Golf Trail, which has a variety of courses that offer lessons and clinics for all skill levels.
Pro Shops and Equipment Rentals
If you’re looking for golf equipment or want to rent clubs and carts, there are many pro shops and rental services available throughout Missouri. Most golf courses have pro shops that offer a wide range of golfing equipment, including clubs, balls, bags, and accessories. Some pro shops also offer rental services for carts and clubs, which can be a cost-effective way to enjoy golfing without investing in your own equipment.
One of the best pro shops in Missouri is the Ozarks National Pro Shop, which has a wide selection of golf equipment and accessories. They also offer rental services for carts and clubs, which can be reserved in advance online. Another great option is the Crown Pointe Golf Club Pro Shop, which has a variety of golfing equipment and accessories at affordable prices.
Overall, Missouri has plenty of golfing resources and extras available for beginners and experienced golfers alike. Whether you’re looking for lessons, equipment, or rental services, there are many options to choose from that can help you enjoy the game of golf to the fullest.
Missouri’s Golfing Landscape
The Rich Golfing History of the Midwest
Missouri, located in the heart of the Midwest, has a rich golfing history. The state boasts some of the oldest and most prestigious golf courses in the region. St. Louis, in particular, is home to some of the most historic golf courses in the Midwest. Bellerive Country Club, located in Town and Country, has been the host of several major championships, including the 1965 U.S. Open and the 2018 PGA Championship. Old Warson Country Club, another historic club in St. Louis, was founded in 1954 and has hosted several USGA events over the years.
Top Rated Courses in the Show-Me State
Missouri is home to several top-rated golf courses, including some of the best public courses in the country. The state has several courses that have been ranked among the top 100 courses in the United States. The Ozarks National Golf Course, located in Hollister, was ranked as the #1 public golf course in Missouri by Golf Magazine and Golf Digest in 2021. The course is part of the Big Cedar Lodge resort, which features several other top-rated courses.
Lake of the Ozarks, located in central Missouri, is another popular destination for golfers. The Lake of the Ozarks Golf Trail features 13 courses, including several championship courses designed by some of the biggest names in golf course architecture. The Trail has been named one of the best golf destinations in the Midwest by Golf Digest.
In addition to these top-rated courses, Missouri has several other golf courses that are worth checking out. Branson, located in the southwestern part of the state, has several great courses, including the Branson Hills Golf Club, which was voted the #1 course in Missouri in Golf Advisor’s Golfers’ Choice 2021 Awards.
Overall, Missouri’s golfing landscape offers something for everyone, from historic courses to top-rated public courses and everything in between. Whether you’re a seasoned pro or a beginner, you’re sure to find a course that suits your needs in the Show-Me State.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the top family-friendly golf courses in Missouri for spring play?
Missouri offers several family-friendly golf courses that are perfect for spring play. Some of the top options include the Golf Foundation of Missouri, which hosts a golf camp for kids each summer, and the Missouri Bluffs Golf Course, which features a challenging yet playable course set in a beautiful nature setting.
Are there any free golfing options for families in Missouri?
While most golf courses charge a fee to play, there are a few free options available for families in Missouri. One such option is the Frisco Highline Trail Golf Course in Bolivar, which is a 9-hole course that is open to the public free of charge.
Which golf resorts in Missouri offer stay and play packages suitable for families?
Several golf resorts in Missouri offer stay and play packages that are suitable for families. Some of the top options include the Big Cedar Lodge in Ridgedale, which features multiple golf courses and a variety of family-friendly amenities, and the Lodge of Four Seasons in Lake Ozark, which offers a family golf package that includes accommodations, breakfast, and a round of golf for two adults and two children.
Can you recommend some golf courses near Branson, Missouri, for a family outing?
Branson, Missouri, is home to several excellent golf courses that are perfect for a family outing. Some of the top options include the Payne’s Valley Course at Big Cedar Lodge, which was designed by Tiger Woods and features stunning views of the Ozarks, and the Thousand Hills Golf Resort, which offers a variety of family-friendly amenities and a challenging yet playable course.
What are the costs associated with playing at a premier golf course in Missouri?
The costs associated with playing at a premier golf course in Missouri can vary depending on the course and the time of year. For example, a round of golf at the Payne’s Valley Course at Big Cedar Lodge can cost upwards of $200 per person during peak season, while a round at the Missouri Bluffs Golf Course may cost around $80. It’s always a good idea to check with the course directly for current pricing and availability.
Is it possible to walk the course at Payne’s Valley, and what can families expect?
While golf carts are available for rent at the Payne’s Valley Course at Big Cedar Lodge, it is also possible to walk the course. Families can expect a challenging yet playable course that offers stunning views of the Ozarks, as well as a variety of family-friendly amenities such as a practice range, putting green, and clubhouse.
