Dogwood Canyon
by Gigi Bors-Koefoed
Get Acquainted
Big Cedar Lodge in Ridgedale, Missouri, is more than just a destination; it’s an unforgettable experience. This thoughtfully designed resort beautifully combines the charm of rustic nature with luxurious amenities. With its Hallmark movie-like setting, Big Cedar Lodge creates the ambiance of a small town on a mountain, nestled in rolling hills and surrounded by luxurious cottages along Table Rock Lake. This resort will leave a lasting impression and a desire to return.
Straddling the Arkansas-Missouri border of the Ozark Mountains, the resort provides various mountain accommodations, including rooms in the grand lodge, private lakeside cottages, rustic log cabins, and on-course golf accommodations with multiple attractions and seasonal activities. Although it’s a mountaintop resort, its proximity to Branson provides all the conveniences and amenities of a town.
Lakeside Cottage
Lakeside Cabin
Big Day Details
Weddings at the Big Cedar Lodge are a fairytale experience. Waking up on the mountain top to face the big day while inhaling the fresh Ozark air is a perfect start to a special day, followed by a pre-wedding treatment at the resort’s award-winning luxurious Cedar Creek Spa. Bridal parties can pamper and rejuvenate while the groom’s party enjoys morning golf at the notable Top of the Rock Golf Course designed by one of the greatest golfers-turned-designers, Jack Nicklaus.
Couples will find an impressive selection of wedding venues at Big Cedar Lodge. The highlight is the exceptionally romantic Chapel of the Ozarks, situated on a mountain hill with stunning views of Table Rock Lake. Guests are welcomed through antique pine wood doors into a breathtaking space featuring soaring 23-foot vaulted ceilings, creating the perfect romantic atmosphere for their special day.
In addition to chapel weddings, the resort offers a beautiful natural landscape for a romantic union at the Lakeside Rooms and the Grandview Lawn. Whether rustic romantic, or storybook style, the Big Cedar Lodge is the ultimate wedding destination.
Get the Dish
Each corner of the expansive resort presents a culinary experience unique to its setting. The Big Cedar Lodge caters to every palate, from casual bars to award-winning fine dining at the Osage Restaurant, where guests can delight in the upscale regional cuisine while taking in the stunning vista of the Ozark Mountains. Featuring floor-to-ceiling windows, handcrafted woodwork, and Native American art, the Osage pays homage to the land’s history and natural surroundings.
The historic Worman House Bistro, originally the residence on the property, is a beautifully restored 1920s manor that offers a blend of vintage charm and gourmet dining in an elegant atmosphere. Guests can enjoy craft cocktails while exploring the history of the residence, showcased through the various mementos displayed on the walls.
Out and About
While nestled atop the mountains, Big Cedar Lodge is home to one of the nation’s most impressive golf courses. Each course is uniquely designed to reflect its surroundings. Buffalo Ridge, ranked among Golf Digest’s Top 100, takes players on a journey through nature, with each par presenting a greater challenge. As players navigate the course, they can enjoy views of grazing buffalo herds, waterfalls, and rolling hills, creating an immersive experience in its natural setting.
Guests also have the option to enjoy the natural setting by cruising in the luxurious Lady Liberty. The 62-foot yacht channels 1920s grandeur as it glides across Table Rock Lake, offering guests live music, gourmet dining, and a truly unforgettable experience of the Ozarks.
Big Cedar Lodge expertly blends rustic mountain charm with refined luxury. From dream weddings and world-class golf to exceptional dining and peaceful lakeside moments, every detail is crafted to leave guests enchanted. Whether visiting for a weekend retreat, tying the knot, or seeking the perfect mix of adventure and indulgence, Big Cedar Lodge creates timeless memories in the heart of the Ozarks.
Payne’s Valley
photography: Mike Allen Photo
