Ozark's National Course
Hollister, MO, USA
Ozarks National, etched into the rugged landscape of the Missouri Ozarks, presents a raw and demanding test of golf that echoes the untamed spirit of the region. This modern marvel, sculpted from dense hardwood forest and exposed rock outcroppings, feels like a journey into a forgotten corner of the American heartland. The course favors players who can move the ball right to left, with numerous doglegs and strategically placed hazards punishing those who challenge the terrain without respect. Designed by Bill Coore and Ben Crenshaw, Ozarks National deliberately avoids the manicured perfection of many contemporary courses. Instead, it embraces the natural contours and unpredictable elements of the Ozark Mountains. While not yet a stage for major championships, its challenging layout and breathtaking views have quickly garnered attention and praise within the golf community. The essence of Ozarks National is perhaps best captured by its iconic 13th hole. The tee box is perched atop a bluff overlooking a deep valley. A forced carry over a chasm to a narrow fairway framed by ancient oaks makes it one of the most visually intimidating and strategically compelling shots in the region. The clubhouse, known for its hearty, home-style barbecue, provides a warm respite after a round spent battling the course's inherent challenges.
Ranked by CV ratings from golfers who've played this course. Positions are shown worldwide, by country, and by state; the Public column compares courses anyone can play.
Best in World
Public: #122
Best in USA
Public: #54
Best in MO
Public: #2
Golfers say Ozark National stands out as the best and most challenging course at Big Cedar, with a spectacular mountain-top setting that delivers stunning views and memorable holes throughout. Most praise the Coore and Crenshaw design for its scenic beauty and solid conditioning, calling it a must-see layout that's more fun to play than the resort's other full-length courses. Reviewers note the terrain creates numerous uphill and blind shots on a grand scale, though some find the sheer size makes walking impractical and a few consider it their least favorite among Big Cedar's offerings despite its strong appeal. The consensus remains that it's a really cool, fun course worth playing or revisiting.
8.5
125 players
Pace of play was great, everything was kept in good shape, great views. Overall, great experience.
Ozark National is the best course down at Big Cedar, in solid shape and the best challenge. It’s not difficult but it’s a more fun course to play than Paynes and Buffalo.
Scenic. Beautiful. Amazing layout of holes and memorable from front to back. This course is amazing and a must see! Coore and Crenshaw simply do not miss. It technically is probably walkable but the scale is just huge and they would likely scoff at you for doing so. I like a C&C that is truly walkable so that’s my only real knock.
A really cool course basically set on top of a mountain. The views at the top of Ozarks National are so good. I’m not sure I’m a huge fan of the course though as much as others are. Still a really fun course and the conditions are so good. Lots of uphill shots, uphill greens, and blind shots. Compared to the other 18 hole courses this was my least favorite. Would love to play it again though.
Public courses closest to Ozark's National at Big Cedar Lodge.
FAQ
Ratings, design, and course details pulled from Course Vaults.
Ozark's National at Big Cedar Lodge has a Course Vaults score of 8.5 out of 10 based on 69 explicit golfer ratings.
Yes. Ozark's National at Big Cedar Lodge is listed as welcoming public or guest play on Course Vaults.
Par at Ozark's National is 71.
Ozark's National plays 7,036 yards from the back tees on Course Vaults.
The slope rating at Ozark's National is 131.
Ozark's National is a 18-hole course.
