Discover the great outdoors as you journey along the Lost Canyon Cave & Nature Trail at Top of the Rock Ozarks Heritage Preserve. Following your journey, take in the views of the Cathedral of Nature before exploring the Ancient Ozarks Natural History Museum.
Connect with friends and family while connecting to the great outdoors.
topo herock .c o m
It may sound strange, but I believe a significant aspect of the perfect vacation destination lies in the absence of technology.
Only after you’ve rested your thumbs from endless text messages, silenced the alerting ping of new emails, powered down your laptop and turned off the TV can your body truly decompress and find steadiness. It’s then that you can pause to breathe.
A college professor once told me that the average young person is exposed to eight hours of technology a day. This includes emails, text messages, television, tweets, snaps, posts and Zoom calls— essentially all the ways the world reaches out and touches us.
Eight hours. That’s one-third of a day.
If you manage to get a good eight hours of sleep each night, then nearly 50% of your waking hours involve technology bombardment. That’s half of your life. When I contemplate what people miss by being so connected to devices rather than nature, I want to sit down with them and introduce a destination designed for slowing down and appreciating their surroundings. There’s a place that radiates secluded peace, breaking through even the most businessready exterior, in order to bring loved ones closer together. That togetherness is best forged in the wilderness.
We found that special place here in Southwest Missouri. Take, for instance, the 4,600 pristine acres of naturally rugged mountain terrain in the heart of the Ozarks that is Big Cedar Lodge. Around here, the only snaps are the ones from cameras; the only tweets are the ones from birds.
To be sure, the golden sunset over Table Rock Lake is the perfect pulse steadier. As the bass bite and the wind whispers through the leaves, parents can watch the color return to their children’s faces in real time.
That’s just after your first night.
Golfers flock to this property because of the record five Audubon International Signature Sanctuary Status courses. Among them is Payne’s Valley, the first public-access course designed by 82-time
PGA Tour winner Tiger Woods (named after Ozarks native Payne Stewart), and the world-famous Top of the Rock—the first par 3 course included in a professional championship.
The youngsters can unplug and unwind by playing—the way kids used to play—on Fun Mountain. They squeal with delight on the Lazy River at Wilderness Club, and their eyes widen with wonder while meandering through towering limestone bluffs in Lost Canyon Cave and Nature Trail. Everyone gains an appreciation for conservation as they roam the grounds and learn the history of the Native Americans who have inhabited this land for generations.
All this is just the tip of the iceberg—or the top of the rock, as it were. Our slice of the Ozarks is truly a part of America you must experience to appreciate, and your appreciation will hopefully influence your day-to-day life long after you return home.
With that, I am pleased to present Issue 1 of Johnny Morris Nature Resorts, a magazine we created to enhance your stay as the Ozarks work their magic.
So I know it may sound strange, but I believe that after a few days unplugged in our corner of the country, you’ll be recharged, refreshed and eagerly looking forward to returning.
Welcome to Big Cedar Lodge, from my family to yours.
Johnny Morris, Founder
CONNECTING PEOPLE TO THE GREAT OUTDOORS
Witness one of the greatest collections of Native American, Old West and Civil War items under one roof.
With 5 award-winning courses in luxury surroundings, Big Cedar Lodge is the ultimate destination for a guys’ trip.
Big Cedar Lodge comes alive with summer fun for the whole family.
Johnny Morris’ Big Cedar Lodge pays homage to family and the Ozarks region.
By Susan Dragoo
Through the mists of time, the clear waters of the White River meander beneath the limestone bluffs of the Ozarks, sparkling in the sun’s early rays as anglers cast their lines. The scene is both a memory and a vision, a glimpse into the past and an ongoing passion for Big Cedar Lodge founder Johnny Morris.
“I grew up fishing here with my mom and dad,” Morris remembers. “We would float fish together, camp out on the gravel bars, have campfires and fry up some smallmouth bass and beans. Right at sunset, the whippoorwills would sing.”
Never losing sight of that connection with nature, Morris created Big Cedar Lodge as a place to make new memories while paying homage to the Ozarks of the past. The Ozark Mountains surround the lodge, protecting a landscape of springs, caves, ancient mountains and shimmering streams, once the hunting grounds of the Osage. By the turn of the 20th century, railroads had reached the area, making these natural wonders more accessible.
In the 1920s, entrepreneur Jude Simmons and railroad executive Harry Worman built opulent vacation homes on 300 acres of Big Cedar Hollow along the White River. Simmons’ log mansion and Worman’s English Tudor survive today as the core of Big Cedar Lodge, now serving as Devil’s Pool Restaurant and The Worman House, respectively.
Interest in wilderness retreats waned during the Great Depression and World War II, and the vacation getaway was sold to a logging firm. But in 1947, realtor and hotelier Dan Norris purchased the property, adding a lodge, swimming pool and stable, and creating Devil’s Pool Guest Ranch.
For Morris, the creation of Big Cedar Lodge was driven not by a long-term plan but rather by the culmination of a passion. “When I was 10, I went with my grandpa to the open house for Table Rock Dam, built by the Corps of Engineers in 1958,” Morris says. “We watched the first water come over the dam. Grandpa and a lot of others were not very happy because the lake flooded a lot of our good fishing on the river. But later we realized the importance of the habitat the lake created. It was a boost for wildlife, vegetation and timber, and a wonderful home for bass.”
Table Rock quickly became one of the top bass lakes in America. In 1970, Morris fished in his first national bass tournament and traveled on the circuit as a professional fisherman for five years.
“Those were some of the happiest days of my life, and that’s when I started Bass Pro Shops,” Morris says. Understanding the equipment needs of bass fishermen and unable to meet those needs locally, he started selling tackle in eight square feet of space in the back of his father’s Brown Derby Liquor Store on the way to Table
Rock Lake south of Springfield, Missouri. His father cosigned on a loan so Morris could drive to Tulsa to stock up on gear, and the business was launched.
“The one thing I miss about that store is being behind the counter and hearing from every customer and every fellow, whether you wanted to or not, and it kept you closely connected,” says Morris. “Our company centered around a beautiful part of the world I was blessed to grow up in. The White River is regarded as the float fishing capital of the world, and it’s full of just beautiful mountain streams, rivers. I grew up fishing with my mom and dad there.”
classified ad his wife, Jeanie, had seen in The Springfield NewsLeader That property, the former site of Devil’s Pool Guest Ranch, would become the home of Big Cedar Lodge.
“I drove down on the way to that auction and saw these old buildings,” he says. Although the place had been abandoned for nearly a decade, Morris saw the potential in the historic structures, appreciating the stone fireplaces and large beams of the Simmons and Worman homes. He bought the property in 1987 and began a journey of restoration and expansion, working to preserve the original character in partnership with Ozarks craftsmen who
“Families are reassessing and seeing that time together out in nature is so important.”
Morris called his little fishing lure store Bass Pro and did business out of that Brown Derby liquor store for 13 years. The demand became so great that he began creating a catalog with his sister Joanne. Soon, other family members were in on the business.
“That first catalog was guiding things like quality service, selection and friendly expert service,” Morris says, adding that the first brick-and-mortar store opened in Springfield in 1981. “Today, our distribution center today is 27 football fields long, with the main one in Springfield. We have seven of them around the country. But to me it’s all just where we came from. We came from that little hole there and people being dedicated to customers.”
Morris also wanted a place on the lake where customers could come and try their new boats and stay for a few days. He started looking for a place suitable for a sportsman’s camp or lodge and headed to an auction for a possible property. On his way, he stopped at a place on Table Rock Lake called Oakmont in response to a
shared his passion for the authentic. A number of small cabins built of logs hewn from the local forest were already present and are still in use today, as the Knotty Pine Cottages.
Morris added even more luxury by partnering with golfing legends Jack Nicklaus, Tiger Woods, Tom Fazio, Gary Player, Tom Watson, Bill Coore and Ben Crenshaw to design the Ozarks National, Buffalo Ridge, Payne’s Valley, the iconic Top of the Rock and the Mountain Top Golf Courses at the resort, making Big Cedar one of the best golf destinations in the world.
“I think today, more than ever, people are hungry for nature,” Morris says. “Families are reassessing and seeing that time together out in nature is so important. It’s something I’ve been blessed to be around my whole life, and I love to share the nature of the Ozarks.”
At Big Cedar Lodge on Table Rock Lake, Morris’s passion and vision for family, conservation, education and stewardship are fulfilled as he invites guests to this mountain hamlet.
Big Cedar is the first resort to receive Audubon International Signature Sanctuary Gold Status at all five golf courses.
By Heide Brandes
On a sunny mid-spring day, Big Cedar Lodge Vice President of Golf Jeff Steen paused on his way to the office at the Buffalo Ridge Springs Golf Course. The wildflowers erupted in color, painting the scene with a dazzling palette, and in the distance, American bison grazed lazily among the backdrop of the Ozark landscape. The panoply left a lasting impression.
“It’s crazy because the wildflowers are out, and there’s a bison in the background: It’s surreal,” Steen says. “We have wild turkeys out here, deer and the odd bobcat that roams through. All our ponds are full of fish, and water management and ecological pond management are a big deal to us.”
That attention to the ecological health of Big Cedar Lodge’s properties and golf courses paid off in 2021 when Big Cedar became the only resort in the world to have all five of its premier golf courses designated as Audubon International Signature Sanctuary Certification locations.
The independent certification from Audubon International, a global not-for-profit conservation leader, ensured that all Big Cedar courses met the highest standard of conservation-minded course design and sustainable operation. Ultimately, the designation encapsulates Bass Pro Shops and Big Cedar founder and noted conservationist Johnny Morris’ dedication to conservation at his flagship nature resort.
As a certified golf course superintendent who worked at Pebble Beach Resorts for 16 years, Steen should know. He recently brought in Pebble Beach Golf Links Superintendent Bubba Wright as Big Cedar’s new Director of Agronomy.
“As the most noted conservationist in the country, Johnny’s vision is unmatched,” Steen says. “I don’t think guests realize how
much goes on behind the scenes to keep the land pristine and safe. We are very passionate and dedicated to bringing Morris’ vision to fruition and providing an unparalleled experience for our guests. When the habitat is thriving, the golfers and the guests have those ‘wow’ moments, and you know you’ve done your job.”
Receiving The Audubon Signature Sanctuary Gold designation is no easy feat for one golf course, let alone five. For more than two years, the Big Cedar team navigated the rigorous certification process, which includes several on-site visits from Audubon International staff.
This isn’t Big Cedar’s first interaction with the environmental organization. In 2019, the National Audubon Society awarded Morris its prestigious Audubon Medal for his lifelong efforts to protect wildlife habitats and connect more people to the great outdoors.
“There is such an art and science to managing turfgrass to this level, and all of our superintendents are stewards of the land,” Steen says. “We are very mindful of sustainability with conservation and all the environmental impacts. Whether you’re managing the many turf species, native habitats, waterways, ponds … all our actions directly impact the land we are blessed to oversee.
“We have the amount of wildlife migrating through our properties because of what we’re doing for sustainability. All of that adds to the guest experience and brings them closer to nature.”
Morris and Big Cedar Lodge first received Signature Sanctuary status for its Jack Nicklaus-designed Top of the Rock course in 2009, making it one of fewer than 100 courses in the world to earn
“When you know the habitat is thriving, the golfers and the guests have those ‘wow’ moments, and you know you’ve done your job.”
the distinction at the time. With the addition of the Buffalo Ridge, Ozarks National, Mountain Top and Payne’s Valley courses, all of Big Cedar Lodge’s courses share the designation, making it the first resort in the world to have all five courses recognized for its steadfast commitment to conservation by showcasing the rugged natural beauty of the Ozarks.
“We hold conservation close to our hearts and feel an obligation to protect the land and surrounding wildlife for future generations to enjoy,” Morris says. “All of us at Big Cedar are very grateful to the experts at Audubon International for their time and commitment to helping lead us and others to the very highest standards.”
“The Signature Certification Program is our most elite and customizable environmental certification verifying the sustainable design, construction and long-term management of golf courses,” says Frank LaVardera, director of Environmental Programs for Golf at Audubon International.
“By pursuing certification, architects, owners, managers, key stakeholders and Audubon International work together to outline environmental sustainability goals now and in the future. The certification, which has 14 components, is science and data-driven, ensuring economic and environmental goals are achieved, verified and sustained in the long term.”
The certification process involves a rigorous and highly technical comprehensive evaluation to ensure sound land management practices and appropriate land use based on scientific management. The process began with an on-site assessment conducted by Audubon International staff to evaluate existing natural resources. Big Cedar uses an Integrated Natural Resources Management Plan (NRMP) to dictate its practices on wildlife conservation and habitat enhancement, water quality monitoring and management, integrated pest management, water conservation, energy efficiency,
waste reduction and management and green building products and procedures.
From soil creation to implementing a linen reuse program, the environment is top of mind in everything Big Cedar Lodge does. Big Cedar also uses a special water recirculation system to help reduce unwanted chemical run-off during cleaning. The courses use moisture meters on the industrial spray and irrigation rigs to control how much water is used.
“Everyone we worked with at Big Cedar was committed to sustainable golf course management,” LaVardera says. “First and foremost, in this day and age given all we know in terms of environmental impacts, golf courses should be employing environmentally sustainable practices with or without certification because it’s the right thing to do.”
Many golf resorts have found that implementing these practices can also help reduce their maintenance budgets. What’s more, many golfers seek out resorts that hold these certifications so they can be assured that environmentally sustainable practices are being utilized.
Combining a passion for conservation with allowing guests to enjoy nature, Morris and Big Cedar Lodge have attracted visitors and widespread acclaim worldwide.
Golf Digest proclaimed that Ozarks National Golf Course and Buffalo Ridge Golf Course were so well designed and maintained that they are the only two public golf courses on the 2021-2022 “Best Golf Courses in Missouri” list.
“We are stewards of this land,” Steen says. “Guests stand in awe but sometimes don’t see the amount of effort behind the scenes to maintain the natural habitat. But their awe and wonder at the views, the beauty of the golf courses and the magnificence of the surrounding nature go hand in hand.”
Thunder Ridge Nature Arena combines natural beauty with show-stopping entertainment.
By Ben Fenwick
Blame it all on his roots, but country music superstar Garth Brooks was the perfect act to debut at Big Cedar Lodge’s Thunder Ridge Nature Arena in October 2022. With the sun setting over the glassy surface of Table Rock Lake and the vistas of the Ozarks shimmering in the dimming light, roughly 20,000 fans journeyed to the new arena to see one of the biggest names in music.
The air was electric with anticipation. Along with Brooks, his country superstar wife, Trisha Yearwood, was also set to take the stage for a four-night, sold-out run. As fans poured into the arena from the parking area through the wooded and scenic property, the intersection of anticipation and environment was palpable.
The crowds filled the green slopes facing the massive stage as stunt pilots loop-de-looped in the clear skies above Thunder Ridge. This was the throat-clearing, as it were, before the highly anticipated Brooks/Yearwood show. By the time the stars hit the stage, the crowd was ecstatic.
“This view is like being on vacation, except you’re seeing a concert,” says YouTube Host Chris Chrisman of Chris Chrisman Travel Adventures in his review of the new arena.
Just weeks before, construction was still ongoing on the new arena, and Brooks himself didn’t believe the stage would be concert-ready in time. Talking with Channel 6 News in Tulsa, Brooks says the call from Bass Pro Shop and Big Cedar Lodge Founder Johnny Morris was a surprise.
Brooks and Yearwood sold out four shows at Big Cedar Lodge’s Thunder Ridge Nature Arena, and the media couldn’t quit talking about it.
Although the concert was a success, Morris knew it could get even better. Big Cedar Lodge Spokesperson Jeff Wilhoit says Morris went to top venues across the country to see how they optimized their visitor experience. He visited the legendary Red Rocks Amphitheatre in Colorado and The Gorge Amphitheater in Washington state. He also visited other storied locations to gather best practices in entertainment and logistics.
Thanks in part to the Missouri Highways and Transportation Commission’s approval of $75 million to fund local transportation projects under Missouri Governor Mike Parson’s Transportation Cost-Share Program, Morris and the team at Thunder Ridge widened Highway 86 to four lanes, with two dedicated lanes to the arena. They also added a roundabout in front of the arena to accommodate picking
“There may be sites on this Earth that are as pretty, but there’s nothing prettier than this right here. It is gorgeous.”
— Garth Brooks
“I got a call from Johnny Morris that he was opening this big amphitheater overlooking Table Rock Lake to celebrate 50 years in the business,” Brooks recalls. “He just wants everybody to come for the party and he said, ‘I can’t think of anyone I’d rather have than you,’ which is awfully sweet. This was going to be a huge party in one of the most beautiful places on earth celebrating a true American icon: Johnny Morris and the success of Bass Pro Shops.” He was right.
Both the performers and the guests were blown away by the new concert venue and its stunning views of the surrounding mountains. But Morris knew there was still work to be done.
up and dropping off concertgoers. A 6,000-car parking lot, hidden behind earth berms to avoid spoiling the views, was also added.
The stage from the now-shuttered Five Points Amphitheater in Irvine, California, was disassembled and rebuilt at Thunder Ridge,the same stage used by Brooks, Billy Joel and the 3 Tenors.
A team specializing in designs that mimic natural architectural formations seamlessly melded the facility into the surrounding nature, with every seat boasting gorgeous views of Table Rock Lake, the inlets and the plateau of the lush Boston Mountains.
When it debuted Memorial Day weekend with Morgan Wallen, Thunder Ridge Nature Arena proved to everyone why it’s called “America’s most beautiful outdoor amphitheater.”
In 2019, Morris established the Johnny Morris Conservation Foundation to conserve land and inspire stewardship of the environment. The entire 1,200-acre Thunder Ridge preserve found a new purpose under the watchful eye of this foundation, and all net proceeds from events now go toward supporting conservation and further enhancing the venue.
“We all love our beautiful Ozarks and are proud to be able to preserve and share the beauty of the place we are blessed to call home with others for generations to come,” says Morris, who spent a majority of his life as a conservationist.
The Johnny Morris Conservation Foundation’s mission is to preserve natural resources and inspire future generations to be good stewards of land, water and wildlife. The Foundation is made up of numerous charitable organizations, and it also operates the nearby 10,000-acre Dogwood Canyon Nature Park, Audubon Signature Nature Golf Courses and the Wonders of Wildlife National Museum and Aquarium in Springfield, Missouri, the six-time winner of USA Today ’s “America’s Best Aquarium.”
And why this place? There’s no better way to answer that question than to come and see for yourself, Wilhoit says.
“You cannot beat the views. You can see clear into Arkansas and into the Boston Mountains. You can see that cove on Table Rock Lake. It’s an absolutely beautiful setting. The sunsets are incredible.”
At most venues, the artists roll up in a tour bus to the back of the stage, get out and play their gig. Then they get back on the bus and leave.
“That’s not going to be what they will do here,” Wilhoit says. “They are going to come early, bring their families, go fishing and do all the fun stuff we have at Big Cedar. They can even stay after the show if they want. There will be lots of stuff for the artists to do.”
And they are coming. Already, the arena has hosted superstars like Brooks, Morgan Wallen, Chris Stapleton and Luke Bryan, and The Rolling Stones just announced that Thunder Ridge will be the last stop on their North American Tour on July 21. But the arena isn’t just top-shelf country. The 20,000-capacity venue also hosts other major events ranging from monster truck shows to FFA conventions.
When artists and their fans arrive, they will find a destination that is nothing short of spectacular. Ozarks craftsmen and women poured their expertise into structures that harmonize with the natural environment, designing every seat in the amphitheater to have unobstructed views of the surrounding landscape as well as the stage.
Surrounded by thousands of acres of Ozark mountains, Thunder Ridge Nature Arena immerses guests in the great outdoors while entertaining them with some of the biggest names and events in the country. In the coming months, Thunder Ridge Nature Arena will host some of the top entertainers in the industry, like the Rolling Stones final North American tour stop. For a full listing of events, visit thunderridgenaturearena. com or scan this code.
One of the arena’s most captivating features, the 120-foot-tall Veterans Tower, juts above the scene and offers unparalleled views of the shows. Those who choose these VIP seats will not only have the best seats of any show in the entertainment world, but also adjoining hotel rooms. These lucky souls will be able to kick back for the evening, walk to their hotel room or travel down their elevator to the VIP lounge for a cocktail.
At the other end of the arena, guests can attend a soiree at a reconstructed barn.VIP ticket holders can watch the show and head to the bar for a drink, all underneath the barn’s 200-year-old wooden beams.
Another amenity included for all concertgoers at Thunder Ridge is 200 permanent bathrooms, no small detail for those who have attended other venues with unpleasant porta-potties located somewhere along the back fence.
For artists like Brooks, performing in the arena is a singular experience.
“There may be sites on this Earth that are as pretty, but there’s nothing prettier than this right here. It is gorgeous,” Brooks says. “I couldn’t be happier for Johnny Morris and the team. His story is truly the American tale. I love him.”
Witness one of the greatest collections of Native American, Old West and Civil War items under one roof.
By Heide Brandes
The Ancient Ozarks Natural History Museum at Top of the Rock is a 35,000-square-foot time capsule of Ozarks history and Native American artifacts and art. Alongside the massive skeletons of the now-extinct giant short-faced bear, the museum also includes dioramas showcasing animals that roamed the Ozarks in the region’s early days.
One of the largest Native American arrowhead and artifact collections in the world and one of the largest Native American war
shirt collections are housed within the museum’s massive halls. The regional footprint of the Civil War is aptly represented by local relics.
Home to over 75,000 artifacts, interactive exhibits and historical memorabilia, the Ancient Ozarks Natural History Museum at Top of the Rock is an unparalleled educational experience rivaling museum collections found at some of the world’s most prestigious institutions.
Here’s how to experience it all.
The museum sources its artifacts through
Journey Through the Past
Walking through the Ancient Ozarks Natural History Museum is a walk through history itself. Although the museum focuses on the Native American and American West eras, it also includes notable items from the Civil War era.
The astounding collection started right in the hills of the Ozarks when Bass Pro Shops and Big Cedar Lodge founder Johnny Morris was just a child.
“When I was 16 years old, I was fishing on the river with my dad,” says Morris. “We got off the river and walked across the field, and I looked down and found my very first arrowhead. I held it in my hand and wondered who the last person to touch it was. I wondered what they looked like, what they wore, how they lived. That started it all.”
That single find launched Morris’ love affair with Native American culture. And although he collected arrowheads and Native American artifacts most of his life, he didn’t start collecting at the museum-quality level until 2013. When the museum opened in 2015, Morris invited tribal leaders from all the tribes represented in the museum to honor them and receive their blessing. Today, the Ancient Ozarks Museum of Natural History is home to 75,000
artifacts, including 40,000 Native arrowheads on display and an additional 50,000 items in storage.
“It’s the largest privately-held collection of Native American, Civil War and American West artifacts in the world held by one individual,” says Jeff Wilhoit, creative services and digital content manager for Big Cedar Lodge.
Once, creatures that would have towered over today’s bears and wild cats roamed the hills of the Ozarks. Several species are displayed with heart-pounding realism at the Ancient Ozarks Natural History Museum. A massive wooly mammoth stands just inside the entrance, and other large animals recovered in the Ozarks include a giant ground sloth, a saber-toothed cat, and a short-faced bear, which is decidedly larger and more ferocious than a modern-day grizzly bear.
Earning its horror-movie name, the Terror Bird display shows just how terrifying these creatures were. Standing more than eight feet tall, one bird species weighed 300 pounds and used its deadly beak to take down prey, like the Hell Pig and Bear Dog. The nowextinct North American jaguar once hunted these forests, and all are displayed throughout the museum.
Don’t Miss
One of the best ways to explore the museum is through an audio tour of its most outstanding items, like an elk tooth Native American dress, grizzly bear claw necklaces, Remington paintings, the war shirt gallery, Geronimo’s gun, hundreds of items from the Plains tribes, the Gettysburg Canon, a lock of George Washington’s hair and more.
The Ancient Ozarks Natural History Museum is an experience that weaves the past with the present, capturing the fascination of children and adults alike. For a full listing of events, scan this code.
“He held it in his hand and wondered who the last person to touch it was. He wondered what they looked like, what they wore, how they lived. That started it all.”
In addition to hundreds of Native American clothing items presented in pristine condition, ceremonial artifacts, war shirts adorned with scalped hair, exquisite beading examples and art, the museum also houses the photographic collection of Edward Curtis. Curtis lived in Seattle, Washington, in 1895, and fell in love with Native American culture after photographing the daughter of Chief Seattle, the leader of the Duwamish and Suquamish peoples.
“Curtis wanted to preserve what he witnessed because he knew the traditional Native American culture wasn’t going to be around much longer,” Wilhoit says. “He wrote JP Morgan and President Teddy Roosevelt a letter asking for $75,000 with hopes of going in a covered wagon around all of North America and photographing Indians in their traditional communities.”
The result was one of the most extensive collections of Native American photographs, which was lost in storage until being rediscovered in a warehouse in 1976. In addition to the photograph collection, Native American culture is beautifully depicted throughout the museum.
Some of Morris’ personal collection of arrowheads and spades were found during the building of Top of the Rock. Before the Table Rock Lake Dam was built, archaeologists performed a major exploration of the area, which is shown in a series of photographs in the museum.
The American West comes alive in a gallery filled with photos, items and details from such American figures as Buffalo Bill and Teddy Roosevelt, but the Civil War exhibits are staggeringly unique. In addition to cannons used at the battle of Gettysburg, rifles and sidearms and sabers adorn the walls, and the museum also includes items of a personal nature from several notable dignitaries, including Abraham Lincoln, his wife Mary Todd Lincoln and the Civil War’s most recognizable generals. Heroes and notorious figures from the American West are also on display.
“In 1899, Buffalo Bill’s Wild West Show covered 11,000 miles in 200 days, giving 341 performances in 132 cities across the U.S.,” Wilhoit says. “These are the costumes from the show. They even performed for the Queen of England.”
One unique artifact in this section of the museum is a particular find. A small locket containing a strand of George Washington’s hair and another locket containing Lincoln’s hair are on display alongside the flag that draped Lincoln’s casket after his assassination, the famous Bible that stopped a bullet with the bullet still embedded, President Lincoln’s desk, the saddle pad George Washington used during the Revolutionary War and other Civil War items. The Ozarks served as battlegrounds during the war, and the museum sheds light on how Civil War events shaped the area’s development.
“We’ve had many celebrities like Kevin Costner and Val Kilmer tour here,” Wilhoit says, pointing to Kilmer’s Doc Holliday costume from the movie Tombstone. “They loved it, too.”
Heide Brandes is an award-winning journalist who writes for publications such as National Geographic, The
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With 5 award-winning courses in luxury surroundings, Big Cedar Lodge is the ultimate destination for a guys’ trip.
By Scott Kramer
When I entered the main property at Big Cedar Lodge, the first thing that impressed me was the incredibly beautiful scenery, followed quickly by the scale of this huge, sprawling golf destination. The most underrated surprise, however, was that you don’t need a car on the property. Big Cedar Lodge shuttles guests everywhere around the grounds at no cost, instantly making Big Cedar one of the world’s top golf resorts for a guys’ trip.
And we hadn’t even teed off yet.
When you and your friends can play three championship golf courses and two incredible par-3 tracts spread out over miles, drink beverages out on the course, and then not have to worry about packing everyone’s clubs in a trunk and driving them back to their respective rooms afterward, you have a winning formula that most other places have not figured out.
But you and your pals are coming for the golf, and that experience at Big Cedar will well exceed your expectations. Sculpted by some of the game’s best architects, Big Cedar’s courses collectively wow golfers with untouched scenery gracing the fairways. In fact, this is the world’s only resort to have all five courses designated as Audubon International Signature Sanctuary locations (see story on page 10). This only adds to the sheer variety of looks, landscapes and playing styles your group can experience. It truly offers something to appeal to everyone in your group.
Ozarks National Golf Course embraces its native habitat, with holes along ridgetops and wooded ravines. The course is Missouri’s first and only course designed by architect duo Bill Coore and Ben Crenshaw, who have created more than 30 layouts together. Measuring 7,036 yards from the back tees, it offers remarkable views and a variety of shots, spotlighting the native habitat. Tee shots will be challenging, but those hits on the screws will be well rewarded and balanced out with good looks at the greens and birdie opportunities. This course is also walkable. As you move from the 13th tee to the fairway, you’ll negotiate a 400-foot wooden beam-and-plank bridge suspended 60 feet above a flowing creek, a perfect place to snap that group selfie.
At Buffalo Ridge Golf Course, freeranging North American bison are a common sight. Thanks to the vision of renowned architect Tom Fazio, the layout was designed to immerse players in the striking nature around them. Praised as one of the region’s top courses, Buffalo Ridge showcases the charm of the Ozarks with rich native grasses, natural rock formations, caves and creeks, lakes, streams, ponds and waterfalls. The fairways are generous, but the greens are well protected by water, bunkers and heavy rough.
By Matt McQuear y PGA DIRECTOR OF GOLF SALES AND MARKETING
Since I see Big Cedar Lodge golf guests daily, I’m familiar with how a good buddy trip here should be organized. I tell people that this is an ideal golf site for a three-day guys’ getaway, and we can help arrange everything. Here’s my suggested itinerary.
Day 1: Buffalo Ridge and Top of the Rock. These were our first two courses to open and are a great introduction to Big Cedar Golf. You’ll get in 18 holes plus a par-3 for the perfect amount of golf in a day. Not too much, not too little.
Day 2: Ozarks National and Mountain Top. These two courses are close together, so you won’t have to travel in between rounds, and you’ll have time to grab lunch at Mountain Top Grill and enjoy the Tom Watson Putting Course on the same day.
Day 3: Payne’s Valley. The single best way to cap off the golf trip is by playing Payne’s Valley last and ending the trip with the 19th hole experience.
Mountain Top Golf Course is a world-class, walking-only 13-hole short course weaving through rock formations and showcasing spectacular panoramas. Bass Pro Shops founder and noted conservationist Johnny Morris co-designed this masterpiece with golf legend and fitness guru Gary Player, thereby giving credence to the walkingonly mantra. Perfect for all skill levels, Mountain Top includes dramatic views and hole lengths from 60 to 200 yards with a few hazards, no water and zero forced carries off the tee. Greens have lots of fun bowls, slopes and ridges that can make putting a skill-honing experience. You’ll challenge yourself along 300-million-yearold limestone formations that add to the unforgettable experience.
Perched high above Table Rock Lake, Top of the Rock Golf Course is the first-ever par-3 course to host a professional championship. A Jack Nicklaus Signature Course, Top of the Rock features well-manicured grass, gorgeous trees and flowers, peaceful waterfalls, wandering creeks, bass-filled ponds, pristine lakes and a true island green. While hole lengths vary between 90 and 200 yards, several hazards and penalty areas add to the play. Near the course is a 150-yearold barn that was relocated from Arnold Palmer’s Latrobe, Pennsylvania, backyard. Truth be told, this is the single-best par-3 course I’ve ever played.
After your game, head over to Top of the Rock Pro Shop and grab the latest in golf apparel and goods from top brands, such as Peter Millar, johnnie-O, Polo Ralph Lauren, Vineyard Vines, Travis Mathew, Greyson, Maui Jim and more. Plus there’s an amazing array of accessories and themed memorabilia.
Finally, Big Cedar’s newest course offering, the Tiger Woods-designed Payne’s Valley Golf Course, was named Golf Digest’s Best New Public Course in North America. The course, geared to all levels, is an homage to the late Ozarks native and PGA Tour star Payne Stewart. You’ll enjoy several unique water features, wide fairways and undulating greens, but the real star is the spectacular 19th hole called “The Big Rock at Payne’s Valley.” A bonus island par-3 with a massive waterfall backdrop, The Big Rock is a great hole to settle any closest-to-the-pin disputes. En route back to the clubhouse, you’ll navigate the waterfall, bridges, cliffs and even a cave.
Buddy trips are about so much more than just golf, and Big Cedar Lodge shines even brighter with food, entertainment and activities.
“We have so much to offer golfers beyond golf, separating us from other golf resorts,” says Matt McQueary, PGA associate and director of golf sales and marketing at Big Cedar Golf. “There is a wide variety of indoor and outdoor activities for everyone to enjoy. Plus, with our different restaurants and dining experiences, we can cater to anyone wanting anything from a high-level dining event to burgers, beer and sports on TV. The hardest part of planning a trip to Big Cedar is fitting in everything you want to do during one stay.”
Other group activities to check out with your buddies include guided fishing out of the resort’s marina, fly fishing, the Ancient Ozarks Natural History Museum, bowling or indoor golf at Fun Mountain, clay target shooting, horseback riding, go-carts and plenty more. Dining can encompass bourbon and wine tasting at the End of the Trail Wine Cellar & Whiskey Bar, cocktails at Harry’s Cocktail Bar & Lounge, steaks at Osage Restaurant, fine dining at The Worman House or burgers and beer at Tall Tales or Mountain Top Grill.
Big Cedar Lodge is considered one of America’s great golf destinations for a guys’ trip for a reason. In addition to the multitude of golf courses and experiences, the accommodations make booking a group trip easy, with options ranging from standard hotel rooms to private cabins and exclusive 16-person golf cottages, featuring 4 bedrooms and their own private pools and putting greens overlooking Payne’s Valley.
If you’re looking to experience someplace new, spectacular, carefree and convenient for the ultimate golf-centric guys’ trip, you’ve found it.
Scott Kramer is a writer based in Southern California. He carries a 6.0 index—mostly thanks to his hacker's short game. Kramer is the former senior editor of Golf magazine, and has also written for Forbes.com, Golf Digest, Golf Monthly, PGA magazine, Met Golfer, SCGA Fore magazine and Virginia Golfer
Relax in the comfort of your
Big Cedar Lodge comes alive with summer fun for the whole family.
By Nicky Omohundro
As the weather heats up in Southwest Missouri’s Ozark Mountains, the summer breeze is infused with the sharp, warm scent of cedar and the nostalgic smell of evening bonfires. For many families around the nation, a trip to Big Cedar Lodge is an annual treat, while others may be discovering the luxury and entertainment of Big Cedar for the first time.
Whether you’re a familiar face or a newbie, get ready for the best summer ever at Big Cedar Lodge, where family fun is a top priority. Offering endless activities and adventures, there’s something for everyone to enjoy.
Miles of hiking trails mean guests can explore the great outdoors on foot, by bike or by golf cart. The rolling hills of the resort are connected with walking paths and rock bridges that span over waterfall features. Pristine Table Rock Lake offers the opportunity to cool off and escape the summer heat with swimming, boating and some of the best bass fishing in the country.
Big Cedar Lodge is known for its award-winning, top-notch golf courses surrounded by breathtaking scenery, so it’s easy to tee off at one of the five golf courses on-site. If golf isn’t your thing, try out Top of the Rock’s Lost Canyon Cave and Nature Trail, a self-guided 2.5-mile golf cart tour around stunning rock formations, through a cave and under waterfalls. After entering the cave, be sure to stop at the in-cave Bat Bar for refreshing drinks and snacks.
The Top of the Rock Ozarks Heritage Preserve is a must-visit for families staying at Big Cedar Lodge.
Located just a few minutes’ drive (or complimentary shuttle ride) from the resort, this preserve offers expansive views of the Ozarks and a variety of activities for all ages. The Sunset Ceremony, featuring the ceremonial cannon firing and the sound of bagpipes to mark the day’s end, is a truly breathtaking Southwest Missouri experience.
Be sure to carve out time to tour the Ancient Ozarks Natural History Museum, which showcases artifacts and exhibits from prehistoric times through the Civil War. While exploring the history of the area, browse through gift items at Arnie’s General Store before dinner at one of the world-class dining options only offered at Top of the Rock, from contemporary Mexican cuisine to a fine dining experience complete with a glass of wine.
Immerse yourself in novel experiences with newly offered workshops. Families can craft their own candy bars in the chocolate delight class, discover the art of essential oils and tea blending, explore the unique technique of leather burning or create a mini ecosystem in a terrarium workshop. Each workshop provides hands-on learning and new skills to take home.
Summer is Ashlie Fatino’s favorite season on the property. As Big Cedar’s special events manager, she loves seeing a child catch their first fish at the kids’ fishing event, followed by dads telling campfire stories during bonfire nights and moms creating lasting memories with daughters while painting pottery.
“I remember doing all these things with my family when I was younger, and it brings me so much joy to be living out my dream at a place that loves the outdoors and family as much as I do,” she says.
For families looking to spend quality time together, book one of the family dinner events to experience a taste of the great outdoors while enjoying food and fun activities.
The Hoop Dee Doo event is a BBQ-style dinner that includes a bonfire, a guided tram tour of Big Cedar, a boat ride and lawn games. The Family Date Night at Swimmin’ Hole Lawn includes a family dinner with fried chicken, biscuits, grilled vegetables and more.
At Big Cedar Lodge, there’s no such thing as boredom. Spanning 50,000 square feet, Fun Mountain promises to delight both children and adults with its array of attractions including underwater-themed bowling, a four-story ropes course with live alligators beneath, Thunder Alley go-carts, a full arcade, Spin Zone bumper cars, a rock climbing wall, laser tag, a golf simulator and more.
The Kids’ Nature Discovery Center caters to children ages 4 through 12, serving as an imaginative playground filled with interactive activities. Kids can explore an indoor treehouse equipped with a rope bridge and slide, alongside cozy “reading” caves designed to spark their curiosity and a sense of adventure.
Additionally, the Kids Adventure Club offers children the unique opportunity to explore the great outdoors with activities such as
“I remember doing all these things with my family when I was younger, and it brings me so much joy to be living out my dream at a place that loves the outdoors and family as much as I do.”
Your 3-Day Family Fun Itinerary at Big Cedar Lodge
Day 1
4 p.m.: Arrive at Big Cedar Lodge.
5 p.m.: Squeeze in a round of mini golf at the Big Bass Mini Golf course.
6 p.m.: Dinner at Uncle Buck’s Grill at Fun Mountain followed by bowling at Fun Mountain’s underwater-themed bowling alley.
7:30 p.m.: Enjoy the family bonfire, roast s’mores and watch a movie on the Swimmin’ Hole lawn.
Day 2
8 a.m.: Visit Devil’s Pool Restaurant for breakfast before renting a boat at Bent Hook Marina and spending the day on Table Rock Lake.
5:30 p.m.: Visit Top of the Rock for the Lost Canyon Cave & Nature Trail tour and the Ancient Ozarks Natural History Museum.
7:30 p.m.: Enjoy dinner at Buffalo Bar or at Osage Restaurant.
Dusk: Experience the evening Sunset Ceremony with the firing of the cannon and a bagpiper.
Day 3
8 a.m.: Hop to Truman Cafe & Custard for breakfast before heading to Dogwood Canyon, the 10,000-acre nature park.
4 p.m.: Do Kids Adventure Club at Fun Mountain for a fun-filled themed adventure.
6:30 p.m.: Enjoy dinner and drinks at The Worman House Bistro just before picking the kids up from the Kids Adventure Club at 8 p.m.
8 p.m.: Meet on the Swimmin’ Hole Lawn for one last family adventure with the Blacklight Scavenger Hunt.
fishing, hiking and archery. With trained counselors leading the way, children can safely learn about nature while having fun and making new friends.
For guests looking to unwind by the water, the resort features four outdoor pools and one indoor pool, a lazy river and hot tubs scattered across the premises. The Swimmin’ Hole caters to all guests with a spacious pool for families and an exclusive adultsonly area equipped with its own hot tubs, pool and, new in 2024, luxurious cabana rentals.
There’s no better way to cool off this summer than at Table Rock Lake. The lake offers crystal clear waters and stunning views, making it an ideal spot for various recreational activities like swimming, fishing, paddleboarding, kayaking, wakeboarding and water skiing. Families can take the free shuttle from the resort and rent a boat at Bent Hook Marina, where a variety of options are available, including complimentary canoes and pedal boats for resort guests.
Be sure to check the daily activity calendar for more familyfriendly activities, which are updated regularly. Guests can enjoy blacklight scavenger hunts, blacklight family bingo, outdoor movie nights and roasting marshmallows during the nightly campfires on the Swimmin’ Hole lawn.
Vacations are a great opportunity for families to bond and create memories together. At Big Cedar Lodge, there are plenty of unique experiences that the whole family can enjoy together.
Join other families for the Ozarks Olympics with Ozark-style games like archery, BB guns, spam carving, outhouse toss and more. For those seeking to be named Big Cedar’s Top Baker, bring your favorite cookie recipe from home and enter to win in the Big Cedar Bakery Wars.
The Big Bass Miniature Golf Course, located near registration, gives families the opportunity to enjoy some friendly competition and is complimentary for all resort guests. For families with beginner or junior golfers, Matt McQueary, Big Cedar’s director of Golf Sales and Marketing, recommends Mountain Top Golf Course.
“It’s under two miles with no forced carries or hitting over water,” McQueary says. “It is at the top of the mountain, so you have these panoramic vista views of the Ozarks in all directions.”
With her expertise regularly featured on MSN.com and USA Today 10 Best, Nicky Omohundro has become a trusted authority in family travel, offering invaluable insights on the best family-friendly attractions, destinations and activities.
Harry’s Cocktail Lounge & Bar blends jazz, relaxation and an expert mixologist for a memorable experience.
By Heide Brandes
Harry’s Cocktail Lounge & Bar, nestled down the spiraling stone staircase under Big Cedar Lodge’s high-end restaurant The Worman House Bistro, is a favorite low-key, high-taste experience that melds a comfortable and lush atmosphere, wood-paneled walls and the dulcet sounds of live jazz with craft cocktails and eats.
For many, the feel of the dim and cozy space is reminiscent of a bygone era. The intimate atmosphere is both inviting and elegant. Guests are transported back to when Harry and Dorothy Worman held court with their hand-crafted cocktails and chef-prepared shareable plates. This new lounge, debuting on Labor Day weekend 2023, is now an upscale, cozy and romantic getaway for guests looking to take in the striking sunsets over Table Rock Lake while swaying to live jazz and enjoying a fine cigar.
“It’s an upscale experience that we needed for our guests,” says Charles Govan, senior director of food and beverage at Big Cedar Lodge. “We pick our barrels ourselves from the distilleries, like a Barrel-Select Maker’s Mark or Angel’s Envy—we get very unique bourbons or whiskey or tequila from the distilleries, and the taste profile is one you can’t buy anywhere else.”
Harry’s also boasts the full line of Pappy Van Winkle, spirits like Macallan 25 Year scotch and Old Forester Birthday Bourbon. Pairing these select spirits with one of the fine cigars at the lounge, guests can understand why Harry’s is also known as a place of discernment.
The Worman House, a testament to the legacy of Big Cedar Lodge, was built in the 1920s by Harry Worman, an executive of Frisco Railways. Worman and his wife Dorothy shared a love for Springfield but wanted a peaceful countryside escape. With this vision in mind, they discovered the perfect piece of land and embarked on building their dream estate. This grand estate allowed the couple to spend their weekends among the Ozark hills, hosting parties for friends and associates.
In 1987, Big Cedar Lodge founder Johnny Morris recognized the historical significance and potential of the estate and embarked on an expansion project that would breathe new life into the legacy residence. The house was expanded to include two private dining rooms, The Library and the Chef’s Room, each offering guests a unique and elegant dining experience within the grandeur of the Worman House. While the Worman House itself honors the memory of Dorothy, it only seemed natural to create a place where Harry’s memory could shine. The spirit of hospitality and fellowship that was once prevalent is still alive in Harry’s Cocktail Lounge, which tastefully pays homage to this rich history.
“We try to get guests down there to experience Harry’s Cocktail Lounge before dinner or after dinner for a drink,” says Govan. “Harry’s has a really good vibe for just relaxing. It also has breathtaking views of Table Rock Lake outside on the patio with all the fire pits. This time of the year, you can’t beat it.” It is a sentiment that transcends the seasons. “It’s just beautiful.”
1 oz. Strawberry-Infused Angel’s Envy
1 oz. Amaro Nonino
1 oz. Aperitif
1 oz. Fresh Lemon
• Fill a shaker with ice and add all ingredients
• Shake vigorously for 10 seconds
Double strain and pour into coupe glass
• Garnish with small paper airplane and mini clothespin
3 oz. Apple Juice
1 oz. Fresh Lemon Juice
1/2 oz. Apple Butter
1/4 oz. Cinnamon Syrup
Fill a shaker with ice and add all ingredients
• Shake vigorously for 10 seconds
Double strain and pour into coupe glass
• Garnish with apple fan
The patio at Harry’s Cocktail Lounge is a popular spot. The numerous fire pits keep guests cozy on chilly nights, creating an intimate atmosphere in a romantic setting. Inside Harry’s Cocktail Lounge is a space for couples and families to unwind or for golfers to kick back after a long day on the greens. Decked out in a lush brown hue with darker accents and soft seating, the bar itself is a work of art.
“It is just beautiful, and the display backdrop is amazing to see,” Govan says. “The whole place radiates warmth, understated luxury and relaxation. We also have an impressive selection of fine wines for guests to choose from.”
The lounge occasionally hosts special events like “The Art of the Cocktail,” where guests can learn mixology secrets from Harry’s expert mixologist Jimmy Gallaher. This enlightening experience delves into the history behind classic drinks, with a different themed beverage featured each month, offering guests a chance to impress their friends with their newfound knowledge.
“We do seasonal mocktails and cocktails, and Jimmy has free rein to create new drinks or twists on old classics,” Govan says.
“We asked him to be creative and use some of the classics when creating the cocktails, but he does his own riffs on those cocktails, which is fun. He has a real talent for creating drinks that reflect the seasons, and they are always popular with guests.”
Gallaher has more than 17 years of experience serving as a bartender at bars, steakhouses and for Norwegian Cruise Lines. He moved to Branson in 2008 and then found himself at The Worman House in October 2021.
“At the time of my hire was the first I heard of Harry’s, and I was asked if I would have interest. My reply was a very enthusiastic yes,” Gallaher says. As time went on, he was allowed to experiment with different cocktails and wrote the beverage menus for The Worman House.
“We enjoyed a surge of guests who loved our craft cocktails and began making a name for ourselves. Fast forward to June of 2023, and I was asked by the food and beverage team to go downstairs and describe my dream bar. In all my time anywhere, this is hands-down the most beautiful location that I’ve had the privilege to work in.”
Gallaher’s favorite go-to cocktail is the Old Fashioned. In contention with the Sazerac for the first cocktail created, the original recipe was defined as any spirit with bitters, sugar and water or dilution.
“Today we know it as Rye Whiskey,” Gallaher says. “I use it to highlight a certain spirit or as a template to create a unique cocktail experience, such as our Banana Nut Bread Old Fashioned with candied pecan-infused Angel’s Envy, house-made banana liqueur, cinnamon syrup and black walnut bitters served over a scoop of vanilla ice cream. If you haven’t had bourbon and ice cream before, you are really missing out.”
Harry’s Cocktail Lounge also serves small bites, perfect for a light meal or a pre-dinner appetizer. Choices like the favorite Wahoo fish dip, a 24-hour Guinness-braised short rib, a cheese and charcuterie selection, smoked salmon flatbread and whipped goat cheese dip with candied bacon are just a few of the delectable selections. Sweets include dessert temptations like a chocolate hazelnut cream puff, wine-poached pears and spiced tartlets.
Learn more about Harry’s Cocktail Lounge at bigcedar.com/dining/harrys-cocktail-lounge.
Cedar Creek Spa & Salon proves that spa pampering is not only for adults.
By Sadie Menalaus
During Jan Winter’s visit to Big Cedar Lodge with her family, she wanted a special experience for her and her 7-year-old granddaughter. Big vacations can make it hard for grandmothers to bond with their grandchildren, but Jan found the perfect “girls-only” special treat at the Cedar Creek Spa & Salon. She treated her granddaughter, Brooke, to the Royal Treatment for Mommy and Me, thereby extending the clientele to include grannies.
“I would like to say that the Royal Treatment for Mommy and Me was a new experience for us,” Jan says. “It was lots of fun for both of us, and the young woman in charge of our services was delightful, kind and wonderful with my granddaughter.”
One of the Cedar Creek Spa & Salon signature packages at Big Cedar Lodge includes a mommy and me experience designed to make visiting little princesses (and moms) feel, well, like a little princess. The Royal Treatment for Mommy and Me is a one-hour, hands-on service that includes a special hairstyle and makeup for a little princess while mom enjoys a foot soak in the spa’s pedicure thrones.
“Mom enjoys a pedi soak while her daughter is treated like a princess with princess-themed hair braid, tiara, fun nail polish and light makeup,” says manager Cynthia Olmeda. “Your little princess takes home a Royal Treatment backpack full of fun goodies from her spa time, and mom and princess enjoy Royal Treats together following their salon services.”
“Mom enjoys a pedi soak while her daughter is treated like a princess with princess-themed hair braid, tiara, fun nail polish and light makeup.”
When Big Cedar Lodge and its spa opened, the family-time offerings were built into the vision. Because Big Cedar is a familyoriented resort, it offers numerous spa treatments, including sideby-side facials or massages for parents and children. The newest
option is the Royal Treatment for Mommy and Me, letting adults and their daughters enjoy a salon experience together.
“When you walk in, you are taken to the bridal suite,” Olmeda says. “You’ll get glasses of lemonade and the little girl’s string backpack that says ‘The Royal Treatment.’ We display all the little goodies that are part of that Royal Treatment special event for her, like a tiara on a stuffed fawn, nail polish and lip gloss.”
Mom and princess get their own special robes for a photoshoot before heading to the salon for an hour of pampering. Mom relaxes at the foot spa while the princess gets a pedicure, makeup and her nails polished. Grandmothers, aunts and big sisters also take advantage of the special girl time.
“We have a lot of family reunions here, and sometimes a big bunch of the group will go out on a boat together,” Olmeda says. “But maybe grandma doesn’t want to go out on the boat, or the little ones are too small to go out on the boat. This has become a fun event for them to do simultaneously.”
Located within the grounds of Big Cedar Lodge, the Cedar Creek Spa & Salon is a dreamy getaway providing a serene indoor grotto pool with underwater lounges, full-body massage jets and secluded coves. The scenic views of Table Rock Lake serve as a dramatic backdrop for Cedar Creek’s saunas, hot spas and steam rooms, leading out to private, open-air showers.
The 18,000-square-foot Cedar Creek Spa & Salon pays homage to the beauty of the Ozarks with hand-hewn timber ceilings, natural stone floors, handcrafted stainedglass accents and antique-style chandeliers.
A grand double staircase leads guests into tranquility in one of 11 luxurious treatment rooms, each featuring its own fireplace.
The Cedar Creek Spa & Salon isn’t just for women and girls. The spa’s men’s treatment includes a sportsman's massage, an organic facial, manicures and pedicures, haircuts and mustache, beard and sideburn trims.
Following the pampering session, the girls are escorted back to the suite to enjoy royal treats like brownies and cupcakes—and to take more photos, of course.
Cedar Creek Spa & Salon is more than just a place for indulgence— it’s a sanctuary for family holistic wellness. In addition to the luxurious treatments, it also offers men’s and women’s dry sauna, steam sauna, walk-in hot pools and a beautiful candlelit co-ed grotto pool with jetted alcoves. Big Cedar recently created a wellness retreat with yoga and meditation classes, skin care classes, nutritional counseling and wellness workshops.
“Our goal is to provide you with the tools and resources you need to nurture your mind, body and spirit long after you leave our doors,” Olmeda says.
Jan says she won’t forget the special Royal Treatment time with her granddaughter— mostly because little Brooke won’t let her.
“Brooke is still wearing her tiara and backpack,” Jan says. “It’s a wonderful concept, and one I hope is kept. Brooke truly felt like a ‘little princess,’ and continues to remind us of her status as one.”
Hit the lake in style with these summer must-haves from Bent Hook Marina & Market.
Understated design and gorgeous color make this beach towel not only beautiful but handy as well. The BCL ultra-absorbent towel is the perfect addition to your day on the water and is designed to be quick-drying and easy to carry, store or drape around your shoulders.
Made with high-quality materials and attention to detail, this Bent Hook-branded Camp David Encore woman’s tee is designed to be comfortable, stylish and durable. The eye-catching design will make everyone else “starry-eyed” with envy.
This stylish and jaunty t-shirt stands up to the sun with ringspun cotton printed with Bluesign-certified dye. The premium ultra-soft feel ensures ultimate comfort, thanks to the ringspun cotton, which is considered superior to cotton produced through other processes because the finished product is noticeably finer, softer and more durable.
You’ll be ready for a day in the water with Vissla’s board shorts, made from durable materials with built-in sun protection and classic style. These premium four-way stretch boardshorts are made with comfortable fabric consisting of an eco-friendly blend of recycled polyester, cotton and hemp fibers. With UPF 50+ protection and High IQ Repel technology, you’ll dry easily and keep your sensitive skin protected.
Pack everything you need for a day on the lake in this Gecko waterproof beach tote. These oversized totes make it easy to pack towels, snacks, clothes, books, sunscreen and more with a large main compartment and four exterior pockets. A zippered internal compartment keeps valuables safe, making this bag a necessity for long days on the water.
Made from nine recycled plastic water bottles, the kids anchor is the perfect chafe-free short to keep up with active adventurers all day long. Sporting a fun navy sailboat design, these shorts can go from the water to the land easily, keeping your kiddo in comfort with a built-in BreezeKnit liner and four-way stretch material.
Packed with Huk Performance Technology, this lightweight crew neck shirt for the young angler can tackle all the elements with UPF 50+ to block UVA and UVB rays for all-day sun protection, antimicrobial treatments and superior breathability.
REEF sandals transition effortlessly from the boat and the beach to the streets, and everywhere in between. Using materials like genuine cork, jute, cotton and wood elements that celebrate nature, the sandals also utilize eco-foam and responsibly sourced leather in an effort to continue REEF’s mission to protect beaches and reefs. They are also wonderfully comfortable.
Protect your skin from the elements and the sun in this Bent Hook Marina-branded stylish long-sleeved Tidal tee. This performance long-sleeve shirt with sun-protecting, moisture-wicking fabric is not only stylish, but also comfortable to wear all day in the sun while you fish for bass or cruise on your boat.
Both floral and sultry, this two-piece swimsuit by Rip Curl combines beauty and functionality. The tie halter and bikini-cut bottoms flatter while providing coverage and comfort for a long day on the boat, for showing off your waterski skills or for just soaking up the Ozarks sun.
Thread Wallets come in a variety of colors and designs, hold two to eight cards or cash and include an RFID secure pocket. The built-in metal D-ring makes this thin and light wallet easy to attach to a Thread lanyard so you can go pocket- or purse-free. Pair this with the Thread Wallets elastic lip balm holder keychain, and you’ll ever lose your lip balm, lip gloss or lipstick again.
From beach days to brunch, these finely-crafted straw sun hats by Hemlock provide attractive style and protective shade with unisex collections that look good on everyone. The Hemlock Hat Capri Visor is especially good for showing off a messy high bun or that loose braid, but looks just as sporty on men as it does women. The Hemlock Lifeguard Hat has a cool vagabond vibe with a UPF 50+ underbrim liner and drawstring.
Before heading out for a day on the lake, stop at Bent Hook Marina & Market for all your fishing and boating needs. Scan here to see the full retail selection.
PFG American Flag Lightweight Hoodie
Show off your national pride just in time for Independence Day while getting all-day coverage and protection with breezy airflow. This fishing-ready lightweight hoodie from PFG Apparel creatively combines your love of fishing with an American theme, and this patriotic design is sure to sell out soon.
By Jeff Wilhoit
The sign above the front door of the registration building at Big Cedar Lodge reads, “Welcome Home.” I think a lot of guests walk through those doors and feel the stress of everyday life melt away as they come home to the heart of the Ozarks, where the rugged beauty of nature meets the warmth of rustic elegance. Having spent over half my life here, it sure feels like home to me, weaving itself into the fabric of my life for the past 24 years. My journey here began with a chance encounter, fueled by the words of a man whose vision transformed this wilderness into a haven for outdoor enthusiasts and dreamers alike.
It was a sunny day in late spring at the University of Missouri in Columbia when I sat among my fellow graduates, the mortarboard perched awkwardly on my head. I had no idea what I would do with my life after graduation. The commencement speaker that day happened to be Johnny Morris, the visionary founder of Bass Pro Shops, Tracker Boats and the sprawling wilderness resort that would become my second home.
Johnny’s tale unfolded like a well-worn map, tracing the contours of his love affair with the Ozarks. He spoke of childhood fishing trips with his father and Uncle Buck, the thrill of discovering an ancient arrowhead in a freshly plowed field. That arrowhead, he said, ignited a curiosity—a burning desire to step back in time and understand the lives of those who once roamed these hills. He spoke about the great Native American Chief Seattle, who penned a now-famous letter to the President of the United States in 1854 on protecting our natural resources. When asked to sell their land, Chief Seattle wrote, “Will you teach your children what we have taught our children? That the earth is our mother? What befalls the earth befalls all the sons of the earth.”
Fast-forward 170 years and Johnny Morris has become that steward, teaching folks the story of conservation and why it’s important to take care of our resources. Walk through Johnny’s Wonders of Wildlife National Museum and Aquarium in Springfield, Missouri, and you’ll immediately see it’s not just idle talk: It’s a deep passion, and it will be his legacy.
As a child, my parents brought me to Big Cedar on a family vacation soon after it opened—a magical escape from our small town in northern Missouri. I remember checking in at the front desk inside the Historic Worman House, the smell of cedar trees and wood smoke coming out of the stone chimneys of the log cabins along the lake and the thrill of getting to drive our car through stream crossings. It was a place where dreams took root, where I imagined myself as part of this wild landscape.
And so, a few years after that fateful graduation day at MIZZOU, an opportunity arose to work at Big Cedar Lodge. Twenty-four years later, I’ve been able to watch countless families create their own lifetime memories here, and I’ve seen the same wonder reflected in their faces that once danced in my own eyes. I’ve watched kids catch their first fish, witnessed weddings of long-time guests at our chapel and talked with teary-eyed guests who knew this would be their last vacation after a serious health diagnosis.
Most days, I walk to work on a familiar path that leads from my home on Table Rock Lake to the resort. During those 15 minutes, the memories of that childhood vacation flood my mind—the laughter, the wonder, the promise of adventure. They accompany me through the day, in my routine and in every interaction with guests. As the unofficial president of the Big Cedar Fan Club, I feel like a custodian of the rich history we have here at the resort. I love spending time with our guests, sharing the stories of the past and how Johnny has used it to shape Big Cedar into America’s premiere wilderness resort.
Every day, when I walk under that Welcome Home sign, it truly feels like a homecoming—a chance to relive that magical vacation, to honor the past and to write new chapters in the story of this special place.
I hope you enjoyed this inaugural edition of Johnny Morris Nature Resorts magazine, learning a little more about the beautiful Ozarks and Big Cedar Lodge. We can’t wait to welcome you home this summer.
Voted one of the area’s best restaurants, The Ozark Mill at Finley Farms is a family-friendly dining experience rooted in the history of the Ozarks. The restaurant’s dining space, bar and patio overlook the picturesque Finley River, connecting guests to the beauty of the great outdoors. Additional experiences on property include The Workshop, a coffee and makers space, and The Garrison, a fine dining social affair tucked away beneath The Ozark Mill. As a nod to The Mill’s original purpose, each experience, along with each menu, highlights traditional selections along with seasonal specialties with many ingredients being sourced directly from the urban farm on property. Take a tour, sip and savor, and discover the Ozarks like never before.
