Golfers who are looking for a challenge or an escape will find just what they need in Missouri. The state is home to some of the finest golf courses in the country, with pristine fairways and lush greens designed by top course architects. From awe-inspiring championship layouts to relaxing executive par 3’s, there’s something for every level of golfer in Missouri. Whether you’re looking for a weekend getaway or just a quick round, here are the 10 best golf courses in Missouri.
Buffalo Ridge Springs Course
Tucked away within the rolling hills and stunning scenery of Missouri’s Ozark region, Buffalo Ridge Springs Golf Course boasts an exceptional design by the legendary Tom Fazio. With a challenging yet enjoyable layout that spans just over 7,000 yards from the back tees, golfers are treated to a unique experience as they navigate the tree-lined fairways that come into close proximity with the free-roaming buffalo of Dogwood Canyon Nature Park.
As a testament to its quality and popularity, Buffalo Ridge Springs has been ranked as the best public golf course in Missouri by both Golf Magazine and Golf Digest. For any golf enthusiast seeking a tranquil escape to an exceptional course, Buffalo Ridge Springs is a must-play destination.
Address: 1001 Branson Creek Blvd, Hollister, MO 65672, USA
Branson Hills Golf Club
Branson Hills Golf Club is more than just a fun test of golf, it is a Missouri Golf Hall of Fame, honoring some of the state’s most legendary players including Tom Watson, Payne Stewart, and John Daly. This course was designed not only to showcase the stunning natural beauty of the Ozark region but also to challenge even the most skilled golfers. With its stone walls and picturesque waterfalls, players will feel immersed in the grandeur of the course before the game even begins.
But the true test of skill begins on the fifth hole, where the terrain becomes hilly and demanding. The game’s competitors must bring their absolute best if they hope to score well on this 7,300-yard course. Throughout the round, players will be challenged with tricky creek beds and bunkers ranging from massive to petite. Branson Hills Golf Club truly personifies the “Show Me” state and aims to do just that – to impress even the most seasoned and skilled golfers.
Address: 100 North Payne Stewart Dr, Branson, MO 65616, USA
Ozarks National Golf Course
Designed by renowned architects Bill Coore and Ben Crenshaw, Ozarks National is a stunning golfing destination that boasts 18 magnificent holes and a par of 71. The course is situated on an undulating landscape that provides panoramic views of the scenic foothills that typify the region.
Unlike the rugged elements found in the resort’s other golfing layouts such as exposed rock formations, partially excavated caves and sinkholes, Ozarks National is designed with a more subdued landscape that is both challenging and inviting. This golfing masterpiece is set up to play firm and fast, giving golfers the chance to embrace a ground game strategy at their discretion. With its breathtaking views and first-class amenities, Ozarks National epitomizes the ultimate golfing experience.
Address: 1250 Golf Club Dr, Hollister, MO 65672, USA
Shoal Creek Golf Course
Established in 2001, Shoal Creek Golf Club is a high-quality daily fee golf course that has quickly become a favorite among those in the Kansas City area. Designed by Steve Wolfard, the 18-hole course spans 6,983 yards and presents a unique and thrilling challenge to golfers of all skill levels. The course’s impressive layout features stunning elevation changes and expansive landing areas that traverse through some of the most visually appealing terrain in the Northland.
To enhance the playing experience, Shoal Creek offers the Global Positioning System, which provides players with precise yardage to the flagstick and details regarding the green’s contour. If you’re looking for an exceptional round of golf, Shoal Creek Golf Club is the place to go.
Address: 8905 Northeast Shoal Creek Parkway, Kansas City, MO 64157, USA
Payne’s Valley Golf Course
Payne’s Valley, the newest addition to Missouri’s Ozarks golf scene, offers an unforgettable experience for avid golfers. Designed by none other than world-renowned golf legend, Tiger Woods, the course features 18 regulation-length holes that span across 7370 yards. After a successful 13-hole preview loop earlier this year, Payne’s Valley is now fully open for golf enthusiasts to appreciate. The course boasts over 450 feet of elevation change, wide fairways, and broad earth shaping that add to the beauty of the Ozarks.
While a walkable course routing brings the added bonus of a good workout, golfers who wish to rest their feet can take a shuttle back to the clubhouse, which is shared with the Mountain Top 13-hole par-3 course. With its state-of-the-art facilities and gorgeous natural setting, Payne’s Valley is a must-visit for any golf aficionado.
Address: 1250 Golf Club Drive, Hollister, Missouri 65672, Taney County
Osage National Golf Course
Positioned in the picturesque region of Lake Ozark, the Osage National Golf Course remains a top choice for golf enthusiasts at all skill levels. With Arnold Palmer at the helm of designing the course in 1992, the par-72, 18-hole golfing destination only opened its doors to the public in 1999.
At 7165 yards, golfers are bound to experience a challenging yet enjoyable round of golf, surrounded by rolling green terrain, crystal clear lakes, babbling creeks, and the towering allure of Osage River bluffs. The manicured fairways, well-groomed greens, and professional staff ready to offer helpful tips ensure a top-notch experience at Osage National Golf Club. Whether you’re a newbie looking to hone your skills or an experienced player, Osage National Golf Club is always a practical option for your next game.
Address: 400 Osage Hills Rd, Lake Ozark, Missouri 65049, Miller County
Missouri Bluffs Golf Club
Missouri Bluffs Golf Club offers an exciting and challenging round of golf, beginning with the first three holes. The gentle par five of the opening hole leads downhill towards the river, while the following par three offers a significant fall from tee to green, highlighting Tom Fazio’s majestic design. The third hole, less than 400 yards from the tips, presents a formidable challenge as you begin to come back from where you started.
Fortunately, the course has no real estate to intrude on the idyllic round, showcasing the scenic property. However, the challenge from the tips, exceeding 7,000 yards, may prove daunting for even the most experienced golfers. Missouri Bluffs Golf Club offers a truly enchanting golfing experience, where players have the opportunity to hone their skills and tackle the course’s challenging terrain.
Address: 18 Research Park Cir, St Charles, MO 63304, USA
Ledgestone Country Club – Public Welcome
Located within the StoneBridge development, the LedgeStone Country Club offers a golfing experience that has dazzled members and visitors alike. The championship course features 18 holes, with a par 71 layout that presents a unique and exciting challenge. Neat hole designs and the soothing presence of a clear creek running through the course contribute to a relaxed and fun atmosphere. Designed by Tom Clark, the course requires a combination of strategy and careful consideration of natural design elements to produce the desired results.
Golfers will encounter distinct elevation changes that demand accurate shot shaping and distance control, making for a rewarding experience. And just as players begin to feel confident, the formidable “Gambler’s Revenge” presents a 235-yard par three that seems to defy the laws of gravity and physics while lying snug against a lake. Though tempting to the bold, the odds of conquering this hole are slim and may leave even the brash plotting their “revenges” in the aftermath.
Address: 1600 Ledgestone Way, Reeds Spring, MO 65737
Mozingo Lake Recreation Park
With its stunning location among the rolling hills and sprawling woodlands of Maryville, Mozingo Lake Golf Course has quickly established itself as one of the premier golf destinations in the northwest Missouri region. Designed by Donald Sechrest, the 18-hole championship-caliber course is a true test of skill and precision, offering four tee boxes on pristine ryegrass. And for those who are eager for a quicker round, the smaller nine-hole course designed by the legendary Tom Watson provides a satisfying alternative.
Since being named “The Best New Public Golf Course in America” by Golf Digest magazine in 1996, Mozingo Lake Golf Course has continued to improve and refine its amenities and services, providing an unforgettable golfing experience for visitors of all skill levels. With a course rating of 73.5 and a slope rating of 134 on rye grass, this course is not to be missed by any dedicated golfer.
Address: 25055 Liberty Road, Maryville, Missouri 64468, Nodaway County
The Oaks Golf Course at Margaritaville Lake Resort
Hoe-18 is a stunning course, formerly known as The Oaks at Tan-Tar-A Resort and Golf Club. Its designers, Bruce Devlin and Robert Von Hagge, crafted a challenging masterpiece that spans 18 holes and covers 6432 yards. Featuring demanding approaches, challenging greens and well-placed hazards, golfers are taken on a journey through surrounding forests, hills and a sparkling lake. With several traps and water features to navigate, Hoe-18 demands precision and skill from even the most seasoned golfers. All of this is set against the backdrop of lakeside beauty that adds to the overall appeal of this course.
Address: 494 Tan Tar A Drive, Osage Beach, Missouri 65065
Final Thoughts
Golfers in Missouri are never at a loss for great places to practice their game. From championship-level courses to family-friendly 9-hole options, there is something here for everyone. Whether you’re looking for an unforgettable golfing experience or just some quality time on the fairways, these courses provide unique opportunities that you won’t find anywhere else. So pack your clubs, lace up your shoes and hit the green for a Missouri golf experience that you won’t soon forget.
