Missouri has approximately 400 golf courses spread across a geographically diverse state that ranges from the flat plains of the north to the dramatic Ozark highlands in the south. With around 200 public, 68 municipal, and nearly 100 private courses, Missouri offers solid access for everyday golfers — and the Branson/Ozarks region has emerged as one of the genuine must-visit golf destinations in the entire country.
Missouri Golf by Region
The Branson Ozarks — Missouri’s Premier Golf Destination
The Branson area in southwest Missouri’s Ozarks has transformed into an exceptional golf destination over the past decade. Big Cedar Lodge alone offers five courses in the hills above Table Rock Lake, including Payne’s Valley (designed by Tiger Woods’ TGR Design and named for Springfield native Payne Stewart — the first public course created by TGR), Ozarks National (a stunning natural-terrain design by Bill Coore and Ben Crenshaw), and Buffalo Ridge Springs (a Tom Fazio design). With 11 courses all within 20 minutes of each other, four of which earned Golf Digest “Best in State” honours, Branson rivals any golf destination in the Midwest.
St. Louis Metro
Greater St. Louis offers a strong mix of public and private golf. Tapawingo National consistently ranks as the top public-access course in the metro, with rolling wooded terrain and premium conditioning at public pricing. The historic Bellerive Country Club — a former US Open venue — anchors the private tier. The area benefits from being in the southern part of the state with a longer season than northern Missouri.
Kansas City Metro
Kansas City has one of the densest concentrations of golf courses in the state, with well-regarded municipal facilities supplemented by a strong suburban daily-fee market. Tiffany Greens Golf Club and Falcon Lakes Golf Club are among the standout public options. The area benefits from its position as the state’s largest metro area drawing golfers from both Missouri and Kansas.
Lake of the Ozarks Region
The Lake of the Ozarks Golf Trail encompasses several courses clustered around the lake, making it a popular destination for weekend golf trips. The lakeside terrain creates naturally scenic layouts, and the resort accommodation in the area supports multi-day stay-and-play packages at accessible prices.
Top Courses in Missouri
- Payne’s Valley at Big Cedar Lodge (Hollister) — The only public course in the world designed by Tiger Woods’ TGR Design, named in honour of Missouri golf legend Payne Stewart. Spectacular Ozark scenery and a 19th bonus hole beside a waterfall.
- Ozarks National (Hollister) — Bill Coore and Ben Crenshaw design at Big Cedar Lodge. Widely regarded as one of the most naturally beautiful new courses in America, routing through cedar glades and native prairie.
- Buffalo Ridge Springs (Hollister) — Tom Fazio design in the Ozarks, a perennial entry on national best-public-course lists with dramatic elevation changes.
- Tapawingo National (St. Louis) — Consistently rated the top public course in the St. Louis metro, delivering a premium experience at accessible pricing.
- Bellerive Country Club (St. Louis) — Elite private club and former US Open host. One of the most historically significant private clubs in the Midwest.
- Tiffany Greens Golf Club (Kansas City) — High-quality public course in the Kansas City metro, popular for both casual and competitive play.
When to Play Golf in Missouri
Missouri’s golf season runs March through November, with the south of the state (Branson, St. Louis) offering more reliable early and late-season golf than the north. Peak season is May through September. April, May, and October are ideal months — temperatures are moderate, courses are in excellent condition, and green fees are typically below peak summer rates. Summer can be hot and humid, particularly in July and August, so early morning tee times are recommended.
Frequently Asked Questions
How many golf courses are in Missouri?
Missouri has approximately 400 golf courses, including around 200 public, 68 municipal, and nearly 100 private facilities spread across the state.
What is the best golf course in Missouri?
Payne’s Valley at Big Cedar Lodge in Hollister is widely regarded as Missouri’s premier public course — the only public layout in the world designed by Tiger Woods’ TGR Design firm. For overall prestige, Bellerive Country Club in St. Louis (a former US Open venue) is the state’s finest private club.
Is Branson worth a golf trip?
Absolutely. The Branson/Ozarks area has become one of the best golf destinations in the Midwest. Big Cedar Lodge alone offers five courses, and the broader destination has 11 courses within 20 minutes of each other — four of which earned Golf Digest “Best in State” recognition. Stay-and-play packages at the resort represent excellent value.
When is the best time to golf in Missouri?
April–May and September–October offer the best combination of mild temperatures, good course conditions, and reasonable prices. Summer golf is feasible but can be hot; plan early morning rounds in July and August. The Branson area is particularly beautiful in autumn when Ozark foliage turns.
How much does golf cost in Missouri?
Green fees vary considerably. Municipal and budget public courses run $20–$40 for 18 holes. Mid-range courses charge $50–$80. Premium courses like Payne’s Valley and Buffalo Ridge Springs at Big Cedar Lodge charge $100–$200+ per round, with resort packages offering the best per-round value.
All Golf Courses in Missouri
Browse all Missouri golf courses in our database below, including green fees, contact details, and course information.