Lake of the Ozarks is known for boating and days on the water, but it is also one of Missouri’s top golf destinations.
The area features courses with rolling Ozark terrain, wooded fairways, elevation changes, and challenging layouts for a range of skill levels. The Cove, The Oaks, Bear Creek Valley, Osage National, and Deer Chase are five courses worth considering.
Adding a round of golf to your stay is one of the most popular things to do in Lake of the Ozarks when you want some time away from the water.
The Cove Golf Course
The Cove Golf Course at The Lodge of Four Seasons is an 18-hole championship course designed by Robert Trent Jones Sr. The layout uses the area’s natural hills and terrain to create a round that rewards smart shot selection.
Golfers can expect tree-lined holes, elevation changes, and water that comes into play throughout the course. Its location in Lake Ozark also puts golfers close to restaurants, marinas, and other attractions, making it convenient for groups combining golf with a full Lake vacation.
The Oaks Golf Course
Also part of The Lodge of Four Seasons, The Oaks offers another strong option for golfers visiting the Lake. The course was designed by Ken Kavanaugh and features narrow approaches, rolling terrain, and plenty of trees.
The Oaks provides a different experience from The Cove, so playing both can be a great choice during a multi-day golf trip. When comparing Lake of the Ozarks lodging, consider staying close enough to your preferred courses to make early tee times easier.
Bear Creek Valley Golf Club
Bear Creek Valley Golf Club in Osage Beach is a locally owned, public 18-hole course that deserves a spot on your golf itinerary. The course stretches through 250 acres of Ozark terrain and includes Bear Creek, which comes into play on several holes.
The layout offers a good balance of challenge and playability, with multiple sets of tees for different skill levels. Bear Creek Valley also has an on-site restaurant, making it easy to grab breakfast before your round or a meal afterward.
Osage National Golf Resort
Osage National Golf Resort is one of the area’s standout golf destinations. The property features 27 holes designed by Arnold Palmer, divided into the Mountain, River, and Links nine-hole courses.
The three layouts allow golfers to experience different combinations during their visit. With elevation changes, views of the surrounding Ozark landscape, and the Osage River nearby, Osage National is an excellent choice for golfers who want to make a full day of their round.
Old Kinderhook Golf Course
Old Kinderhook Golf Course in Camdenton is an 18-hole championship course designed by Tom Weiskopf. The par-71 layout stretches 6,726 yards from the championship tees and is open to the public year-round.
The course makes use of the Ozarks’ natural terrain, with rolling hills, elevation changes, tree-lined fairways, water hazards, and lake views. Zoysia fairways and bentgrass greens add to the playing experience, while multiple tee options make the course approachable for different skill levels.
Tips for Planning a Lake of the Ozarks Golf Trip
Golf is popular at the Lake, especially during spring, summer, and fall. Booking your rounds in advance can help you get the courses and starting times you prefer. If golf is a major part of your vacation, consider building your trip around two or three courses. That still leaves plenty of time for boating, swimming, dining, shopping, and relaxing at your rental.
Tee Times, Transportation, and What to Bring
Reserve tee times before arriving, particularly for weekend rounds and busy travel periods. Check each course directly for current rates, dress requirements, rental clubs, and cart policies.
Bring golf shoes, sunscreen, a hat, sunglasses, and plenty of water during warmer months. If your group plans to visit several courses, map out drive times in advance so you aren’t rushing between your rental and the first tee.
Plan Your Visit
Ready to dive into your Lake of the Ozarks getaway? Browse our complete collection of vacation rentals and book the perfect homebase for your next trip.
Final Thoughts
The best golf courses at Lake of the Ozarks offer something for many types of golfers. The Cove and The Oaks deliver two distinct championship layouts, Bear Creek Valley combines value with challenging Ozark terrain, Osage National offers 27 Arnold Palmer-designed holes, and Deer Chase provides another enjoyable public course.
Pairing great golf with boating and other Lake activities makes it easy to build a trip everyone can enjoy. Reserve your tee times, choose your Lake of the Ozarks lodging, and start planning your golf getaway.
Book Your Lake of the Ozarks Vacation Rental with Your Lake Vacation
Your Lake Vacation offers vacation homes and condos throughout the Lake of the Ozarks area, giving golf groups, families, and couples a comfortable place to relax after a day on the course.
Our local team can help you find a rental that fits your group and keeps you close to the Lake experiences that matter most. Ask us about Lake of the Ozarks golf packages and accommodations for your next golf getaway.
