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 are a testament to the state's love for the sport. In this article, I'll take you on a journey through some of the best golf courses in Missouri, highlighting their unique features and what makes them stand out. So, grab your clubs and get ready to tee off!
Ozarks National
Nestled in the heart of the Ozarks, Ozarks National is a golfer's dream come true. Designed by the renowned duo of Bill Coore and Ben Crenshaw, this course offers a challenging yet rewarding experience. The fairways are wide and inviting, while the greens are meticulously maintained. What sets Ozarks National apart is its stunning natural setting, with limestone ridges and wooded ravines providing a picturesque backdrop. The 400-foot wooden bridge that carries golfers over a creek between the 13th tee and fairway is a true engineering marvel. The course was named a Best New Public Course for 2019 and has consistently ranked among the top 100 public courses in the country since then.
Payne's Valley
Payne's Valley, the first public-access course designed by Tiger Woods, is a must-play for any golfer. The course is named after Springfield-born major champion Payne Stewart, and it lives up to his legacy with its challenging yet fair design. The wide fairways and large greens provide a great balance of difficulty and playability, while the 19th hole, designed by Johnny Morris, is a true signature hole. The course hosted the Payne's Valley Cup, an exhibition featuring Woods and Justin Thomas against Rory McIlroy and Justin Rose, further cementing its place in golf history. The course is consistently ranked among the best in the country, making it a must-visit for any golf enthusiast.
Buffalo Ridge
Buffalo Ridge, designed by Tom Fazio and redesigned by Johnny Morris, is a golfer's paradise in the Ozarks. The course features stunning waterfalls, water features, and exposed rock, creating a truly unique playing experience. The fairways are well-manicured, and the greens are fast and true. The course co-hosted the PGA Tour Champions Bass Pro Shops Legends of Golf from 2014 to 2019, further cementing its reputation as a top-tier course. The course is open to the public, with green fees ranging from $135 to $275 by season, making it an affordable and accessible option for golfers of all levels.
Top of the Rock
Top of the Rock, designed by Jack Nicklaus, is a par-3 course that offers a challenging yet enjoyable experience. The course is set on a bluff above Table Rock Lake, providing stunning views and a unique playing experience. The holes are well-designed, with some reaching beyond 200 yards across lakes, cliffs, and rock ledges. The course is open to the public, with green fees around $125 for lodging guests, making it an affordable option for those looking to play a round of golf with a view.
Branson Hills Golf Club
Branson Hills, designed by Chuck Smith and consulted by PGA professional Bobby Clampett, is a golfer's paradise in the Ozarks. The course features a challenging layout with six tee sets, providing a great range of difficulty for golfers of all levels. The fairways are well-manicured, and the greens are fast and true. The course is named after moments from the careers of Missouri golfers, adding a touch of local flavor to the experience. The course is open to the public, with green fees ranging from $175 to $225, making it an affordable option for golfers looking to play in the Ozarks.
LedgeStone Country Club
LedgeStone, designed by Tom Clark, is a golfer's paradise in the Ozarks. The course features a challenging layout with steep elevation changes and tree-lined fairways, providing a true test of a golfer's skills. The course is open to the public, with green fees ranging from $80 to $120 by season and time of day, making it an affordable option for golfers looking to play in the Ozarks. The clubhouse is a great place to relax and refuel after a round of golf, with a pro shop and a grille serving up delicious food and drinks.
Bellerive Country Club
Bellerive, designed by Robert Trent Jones Sr., is a golfer's paradise in St. Louis. The course has hosted numerous major championships, including the U.S. Open, the PGA Championship, and the Senior PGA Championship. The course is challenging, with a rating of 76.3 and a slope of 141, but it is also fair, with a layout that rewards skill and strategy. The course is private, with membership by invitation, but it is open to members and guests outside tournament weeks. The clubhouse is a great place to relax and refuel after a round of golf, with dining options and practice facilities.
St. Louis Country Club
St. Louis Country Club, designed by Charles Blair Macdonald, is a golfer's paradise in the heart of St. Louis. The course is challenging, with a rating of 71 and a layout that favors spring and fall. The course is private and invitation-only, but it is open to members and guests. The clubhouse is a great place to relax and refuel after a round of golf, with dining options and practice facilities. The course is a true classic, with a rich history and a layout that rewards skill and strategy.
Old Warson Country Club
Old Warson, designed by Robert Trent Jones Sr., is a golfer's paradise in St. Louis. The course is challenging, with a rating of 74.5 and a slope of 144, but it is also fair, with a layout that rewards skill and strategy. The course is private and invitation-only, but it is open to members and guests. The clubhouse is a great place to relax and refuel after a round of golf, with dining options and practice facilities. The course is a true classic, with a rich history and a layout that favors spring and fall.
The Club at Porto Cima
The Club at Porto Cima, designed by Jack Nicklaus, is a golfer's paradise on the western shore of the Lake of the Ozarks. The course is challenging, with a rating of 72 and a layout that features seven holes running along or over the lake. The 15th hole is a true signature hole, with a green that juts into the water, forcing an approach decision few Missouri courses can match. The course is private and run by KemperSports, with membership opening the course, the clubhouse, and the neighboring Yacht Club. The clubhouse is a great place to relax and refuel after a round of golf, with dining options and practice facilities.
Old Kinderhook
Old Kinderhook, designed by Tom Weiskopf, is a golfer's paradise on the west side of the Lake of the Ozarks. The course is challenging, with a rating of 71 and a layout that features valleys, waterfalls, hills, and water hazards. The course is open to the public, with green fees ranging from $65 to $115 by season, and it features a lodge with 84 rooms that overlooks the course. The clubhouse is a great place to relax and refuel after a round of golf, with dining options and practice facilities. The course is a true gem, with a rich history and a layout that rewards skill and strategy.
Missouri's golf courses offer a diverse range of experiences, from the challenging fairways of St. Louis to the stunning natural setting of the Ozarks. Whether you're a seasoned golfer or a beginner, Missouri has something for everyone. So, grab your clubs and get ready to tee off in the Show-Me State!
