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Home » United States

Big Cedar Lodge, A Rustic Retreat in Ridgedale, Missouri

Created On: March 31, 2016  |  Updated: September 23, 2022  |   19 Comments

Disclaimer: This post contains affiliate links from which we may make commission from. As always, we only recommend places and products we love! In addition, we try our best to keep our articles up-to-date with current prices, locations, and hours of operation however we always recommend double-checking when planning a trip as these items can change frequently.

Table of Contents show
1 A Romantic and Rustic Getaway at Big Cedar Lodge
2 Booking A Room At Big Cedar Lodge
3 Things to Do at Big Cedar Lodge
3.1 Cedar Creek Spa at Big Cedar Lodge
4 Top of the Rock at Big Cedar Lodge
5 Big Cedar Lodge Main Area
5.1 Table Rock Lake
6 Restaurants at Big Cedar Lodge
6.1 Big Cedar Restaurants
6.2 Top of the Rock Restaurants
7 Dogwood Canyon

A Romantic and Rustic Getaway at Big Cedar Lodge

Being tucked away minutes from Branson, Big Cedar Lodge is in a terrific location! There is always plenty to do at this resort to keep everyone entertained. But it is also the perfect location for a romantic getaway or retreat with friends or family.

Other than the fact that Ridgedale is roughly 20-30 minutes from Branson, Big Cedar Lodge has many other draws to help you consider their resort. For example, they have a complimentary tram service that will take you anywhere on the resort without you having to drive.

They also have 8+ restaurants on-site, two golf courses, a luxurious spa, a boat marina where you can rent pontoons/boats and other complimentary water sports, nature trails, and much more! So let’s see why Big Cedar Lodge is one of the ultimate rustic retreats.


Booking A Room At Big Cedar Lodge

Big Cedar Lodge offers a variety of rooms at all different price ranges. We typically have stayed at the Wilderness Club timeshare properties. FYI: We do not own a timeshare but have rented them from others who do. We have never been pressured into buying a timeshare when renting them directly from the owner.

Travel Tip: We recommend looking into Wilderness Club rooms for Big Cedar Lodge on eBay as many owners put them on there for lower fees during the weekdays.


Things to Do at Big Cedar Lodge

Cedar Creek Spa at Big Cedar Lodge

A new addition to Big Cedar Lodge is the Cedar Creek Spa. After our one-hour Swedish couples massage, we both agreed that this was the ultimate romantic getaway spot at Big Cedar Lodge.

When you step inside Cedar Creek Spa you’ll find an inviting walkway and lounge area that will instantly make you feel as if you’ve stepped into a wooded forest with beautiful birch trees.

Entryway and exit of the Cedar Creek Spa at Big Cedar Lodge
Entryway and exit of the Cedar Creek Spa at Big Cedar Lodge

Upon checking in to your spa appointment you will be shown to either the women’s or men’s retreat area where staff will give you a tour of the facilities. You will be given a personal locker with sandals and a robe to wear during your visit.

  • Cedar Creek Spa at Big Cedar Lodge
    Each guest is given a locker to store items in. You will also be able to use a comfy robe and sandals.
  • Cedar Creek Spa at Big Cedar Lodge
    Changing room area and spot to get ready in.

After changing for your appointment you will be shown to a tranquil relaxation area. There you can sip on some water, have a light snack, and sit by a cozy fireplace. You will then be greeted shortly and taken to your service.

  • Cedar Creek Spa relaxation room at Big Cedar Lodge
    Relaxation room area to enjoy while waiting to be taken to your spa service.
  • Water and complimentary snacks at Cedar Creek Spa
    Complimentary water, hot tea, and snacks.
  • Small gratto pool Cedar Creek Spa
    Private pool

After your service, you can utilize the co-gender grotto pool, sauna, steam room, or relax in a more private gender-specific pool. After enjoying a morning or afternoon of relaxation, you then can easily begin your day using the open-air showers and complimentary toiletries provided by the spa including lotion, shampoo, conditioner, body wash, razors, hairspray, and more.

  • Cedar Creek Spa at Big Cedar Lodge
    Complimentary toiletries for after your spa service.
  • Cedar Creek Spa at Big Cedar Lodge
    Shower stalls available to use after spa service.
  • Cedar Creek Spa at Big Cedar Lodge
    Bathrooms
  • Cedar Creek Spa at Big Cedar Lodge
    Bathroom area
  • Cedar Creek Spa at Big Cedar Lodge
    Changing room area and spot to get ready in.
  • Cedar Creek Spa at Big Cedar Lodge
    Entrance to the women’s spa area

Top of the Rock at Big Cedar Lodge

Lost Canyon Nature Trail
Lost Canyon Nature Trail

Another newer spot to visit at Big Cedar Lodge is Top of the Rock. One of our favorite spots on Top of the Rock is the Lost Canyon Nature Trail & Cave Tour. This tour will take you on a winding path of nature, water features, and a hidden cave. We’ve done this excursion in both spring and fall and found that the fall foliage is absolutely beautiful, so if you happen to be visiting Big Cedar Lodge during autumn, don’t miss this!

  • Lost Canyon Nature Trail - Big Cedar Lodge
    Cave at Lost Canyon Nature Trail
  • Covered Bridge at the Lost Canyon Nature Trail at Big Cedar Lodge
    Covered Bridge on the Lost Canyon Nature Trail

While you’re at the Top of the Rock you’ll also need to check out the golf course and the driving range. Although neither of us is phenomenal at golf, we really enjoyed hitting some golf balls at the driving range of this signature Par 3 course. Honestly, we might have even pretended we were at the Masters for a moment. 😉

  • Top of the Rock golf course at Big Cedar Lodge
  • Top of the Rock golf course at Big Cedar Lodge

After playing a round of golf you can relax and dine at one of three restaurants at Top of the Rock (more on these in a moment!) or you could grab a drink at the End of the Trail All-American Wine Cellar – stay until sunset, the views are worth it!

A glass of white wine at the Buffalo Bar at Big Cedar Lodge
Buffalo Bar
A Native American statue at Big Cedar Lodge
End of the Trail All-American Wine Cellar

Big Cedar Lodge Main Area

In the main area of Big Cedar Lodge, you can shop at the gift store, grab a coffee at the Truman Coffee Shop, or dine at the Buzzard Bar which also has terrific live entertainment nightly. But before we cover the restaurants at Big Cedar Lodge, let’s talk about the activities!

Spring at Big Cedar Lodge
Spring at Big Cedar Lodge.

Table Rock Lake

Big Cedar Lodge is located on Table Rock Lake so of course, they have a marina where you can rent boats for a nominal fee or use one of their complimentary kayaks, paddleboards, or paddleboats. There is also a sandy beach area where you can lounge by the water.

A wooden boat docked on water at Big Cedar Lodge
We enjoyed going out on this 1930’s replica Chris Craft

One of our favorite activities at Big Cedar Lodge was renting a 1930’s Chris Craft replica to cruise on Table Rock Lake! Although you cannot drive this boat yourself (it’s a classic after all) you still get plenty of time to enjoy a ride on the lake taking you from Missouri to Arkansas.

DCIM100GOPROGOPR0179.
Crusin’ on Goin’ Jesse

If you’d prefer to drive a boat or pontoon yourself, that is available too! Just make sure you book your time and date in advance to ensure availability.


Restaurants at Big Cedar Lodge

Big Cedar Restaurants

Buzzard Bar

Buzzard Bar is located below Devil’s Pool and is a bit more casual atmosphere. Each evening from 8:30 PM – 11:30 PM there is live entertainment.

  • Sunday | 10:00 AM – Midnight
  • Monday – Saturday | 11:00 AM – Midnight
  • No reservations accepted, seating is first come first serve.

Devil’s Pool

Devil’s Pool Restaurant offers Southern-style cooking surrounded by rustic, cozy decor. It’s one of our favorites for larger family gatherings because they do accept reservations!

  • Daily Breakfast | 7:00 AM – 11:00 AM
  • Lunch | 11:00 AM – 2:00 PM
  • Dinner | 5:00 PM – 9:30 PM
  • Daily Early Bird Sunset Dinner | 4:00 PM – 5:00 PM
  • Sunday Brunch | 10:00 AM – 2:00 PM

Truman Cafe

In a 1920s Tudor-style home is the Truman Cafe. It is our go-to spot for a coffee or quick breakfast or lunch at Big Cedar Lodge.

  • Daily | 6:30 AM – 5:00 PM

The Worman House

The Worman House is only available for private functions but I thought it was worth mentioning because a number of weddings and events are hosted by Big Cedar Lodge each year.

  • Only available for private functions, to make a reservation contact the Big Cedar Conference Services Team at (800) 225-6343.

Uncle Buck’s Fish Bowl & Grill

Uncle Buck’s Fish Bowl & Grill is located inside Fun Mountain and has classic favorites like pizza, burgers, and sandwiches.

  • Sunday – Thursday | 12:00 PM – 8:00 PM
  • Friday & Saturday | 12:00 PM – 9:00 PM

Top of the Rock Restaurants

Buffalo Bar

Buffalo Bar is probably my favorite restaurant at Big Cedar Lodge because of the menu options and the ambiance. It has the best sunset view too!

  • Daily | 4:00 PM – 9:00 PM

End of the Trail

End of the Trail offers high-end wines by the glass, whiskey, and cigar humidor.

  • Daily | 5:00 PM – 10:00 PM

Arnie’s Barn

Arnie’s Barn was originally a barn in Latrobe, Pennsylvania, the hometown of Arnold Palmer but was moved to Big Cedar Lodge and filled with golf memorabilia. It is located right by the driving range and has contemporary Mexican cuisine.

  • Daily | 11:00 AM – 4:00 PM

Osage Restaurant

If you’re looking for a romantic restaurant at Big Cedar Lodge, Osage Restaurant takes the cake. It has stunning views of the Ozark Mountains and a fabulous menu and wine selection. They also have a great Sunday brunch!

  • Early Bird Sunset Dinner: Monday – Saturday | 4:00 PM- 5:00 PM
  • Daily Dinner Service | 5:00 PM – 9:00 PM
  • Sunday Brunch | 9:30 AM – 2:00 PM

Dogwood Canyon

Dogwood Canyon
Dogwood Canyon

If you are into visiting the great outdoors another place to visit is nearby Dogwood Canyon, a 10,000-acre nature preserve that is open for hiking, fishing, biking, tram tours and more.

Waterfalls at Dogwood Canyon
Waterfalls at Dogwood Canyon.

Some recommended activities at Dogwood Canyon:

  • Stables: there are a variety of different options when it comes to horseback riding. They offer romantic carriage rides ($25 per person) and trail rides (price depending on the length of time).
  • Trout Fishing: Dogwood Canyon offered self-guided fishing for a $20-25 (adult price) depending on if you catch and release or catch and keep. They also offer guided fishing tours for 4 hours at $250 (only eligible for catch and release).
Close encounter with elk during our guided tram tour stop at Dogwood Canyon
Close encounter with elk during our guided tram tour stop
  • Guided Tram Tours: We typically enjoy doing our own tour and exploring on our own but this was one that we were glad we took. Our tour guide was very knowledgeable about the history of this preserved nature park. He also allowed us to stop and get off the tram on multiple occasions in order to explore our surroundings. You can see in the photos below the magnificent beauty of this park. We were even able to get up close and personal with bison, elk, and some truly amazing natural springs and water features.
  • Golden trout at Dogwood Canyon.
    Golden trout at Dogwood Canyon.
  • Waterfall at Dogwood Canyon.
    Waterfall at Dogwood Canyon.

Big Cedar Lodge and Dogwood Canyon will always hold a special place in our hearts and we try to get there as often as we can! Have you been to Big Cedar Lodge?


Plan your visit to the rustic, romantic and family-friendly Big Cedar Lodge, Dogwood Canyon, and more!

posted in: Missouri, North America, United States

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    Comments & Reviews

  1. SpendLifeTraveling says

    October 30, 2016

    Wow I love your pictures! That Cedar Creek Spa looks amazing!

    Reply
    • kallsypage says

      October 31, 2016

      Thank you so much! It was really nice to relax at. 🙂

      Reply
  2. Paula - Gone with the Wine says

    October 30, 2016

    Wow! Looks so nice and inviting. I never knew Missouri would look like something like this. I especially like the corridor with trees. Reminds me of my home country Finland.

    Reply
    • kallsypage says

      October 31, 2016

      Paula, I never knew that Missouri could be so beautiful either. This resort area in the Ozark Mountains definitely goes above and beyond in details and small touches. I also love the corridor of trees leading into the spa! I hope to visit Finland someday so I can see what you mean. 🙂

      Reply
  3. Galia Vu says

    October 30, 2016

    Fantastic! Your gallery about Ridgedale, Missouri really really wonderful. I like the way you show the landscape at Missouri. Thanks

    Reply
    • kallsypage says

      October 31, 2016

      Thank you Galia. Missouri can be an overlooked state. I know that I never thought of Missouri as “beautiful” until I moved here a few years ago. Makes me realize that beauty is everywhere when you are looking!

      Reply
  4. 100cobbledroads says

    October 31, 2016

    Big Cedar Lodge is a dreamworld…what a place to escape to, for a few days! Beautiful collection of nature pictures, and the lodge…wow!

    Reply
    • kallsypage says

      October 31, 2016

      Glad you felt the same! It’s hard to capture such beauty sometimes. I highly recommend a visit if you’re in the midwest.

      Reply
  5. [email protected] says

    October 31, 2016

    Beautiful pictures! And that spa is set in such a stunning place – very inviting (I could definitely see myself there right now)!

    Reply
    • kallsypage says

      October 31, 2016

      Thank you Lydia! The spa was so relaxing I spent quite a few hours lounging there!

      Reply
  6. Gareth says

    October 31, 2016

    Wow, this really looks like an incredible place. At one moment, it might seen as though you are in the Scottish Highlands whilst a little later in Pre-colonial America and the next, you might feel you’re in Monte Carlo or some other high brow location. The spa looked exquisite and while I’m not a golfer, the golf course looked pretty damned cool. Looked like it was a sensational trip and thanks for sharing

    Reply
    • kallsypage says

      November 2, 2016

      Gareth, I’ve been hearing that this looks similar to the Scottish Highlands lately so it sounds like I need to head there to check it out for myself. It is a very unique place to visit, especially being in a Midwestern state that is typically so flat and lacking in luster (sorry Missouri!). Thanks so much for reading. 🙂

      Reply
  7. [email protected] says

    November 1, 2016

    Love your pictures and tips. And yes, agree with you. We also mostly plan our own trips but sometimes, taking a guided tour proves to be best!

    Reply
    • kallsypage says

      November 2, 2016

      Thanks so much! Yes, the Guided Tram Tour is one that I definitely was glad we did. It was very informative and fun! 🙂

      Reply
  8. sudiptode says

    November 2, 2016

    This place looks so majestic. What massage therapy did you guys try out?? What all did you guys eat??

    Reply
    • kallsypage says

      November 2, 2016

      It was a beautiful and relaxing area for sure. We did each did a 60 minute Swedish massage and it was GLORIOUS. As for food, Big Cedar Lodge has many terrific restaurants on site that serve a variety of cuisines. I highly recommend taking a look. Here is their website: http://www.bigcedarlodge.com

      My personal favorite is the Buzzard Bar or the Osage for a fancier dinner. 🙂

      Reply
  9. Vanessa and Steve says

    November 3, 2016

    Gorgeous! Ridgedale is so gorgeous. We never knew Missouri had that kind of natural beauty. Thanks for sharing this jewel and the tips about renting on eBay.

    Reply
    • kallsypage says

      November 3, 2016

      It’s hard to believe isn’t it? Thank you so much Vanessa and Steve.

      Reply

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