RIDGEDALE, Mo. (May 1, 2025) — Nestled in the heart of the Missouri Ozarks, Big Cedar Lodge has officially been named the #1 Golf Resort in the United States by USA Today. Known for its breathtaking scenery, world-class design, and commitment to conservation, Big Cedar edged out legendary destinations like Pebble Beach and Pinehurst to earn this top honor.
Built from the ground up by Bass Pro Shops Founder Johnny Morris, the resort is home to five award-winning courses — including the Tiger Woods-designed Payne’s Valley and the iconic Top of the Rock by Jack Nicklaus. But Big Cedar is more than just golf. It’s a one-of-a-kind destination where guests of all ages can enjoy the natural beauty of the Ozarks while supporting a larger mission of sustainability and outdoor education.
Want to read more about how Big Cedar rose to the top of the golf world — and what’s coming next?
Click here to read the full press release.
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ABOUT MGA: The Missouri Golf Association is a non-profit organization dedicated to promoting the best interests and true spirit of golf throughout the state of Missouri.
Founded in 1905 in St. Louis, the MGA was established to conduct the Missouri Amateur Championship, originally hosted by four founding clubs—St. Louis Country Club, Algonquin Golf Club, Glen Echo Golf Club, and Normandie Golf Club. In 1909, the invite-only championship expanded to Kansas City’s Evanston Club, and by 1911, the MGA became formally organized under Bonner Miller, its first Secretary and Executive Director. Since then, the MGA has grown to provide a variety of competitive tournaments, junior programs, and resources that support golfers of all ages and skill levels, continuing its mission to grow and enhance the game across Missouri.
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Ella Fixsen
Director of Marketing, Media & Communications
