Drive-through streams that make you feel like you are in the wilderness when you are actually at a luxury resort in the Ozark Mountains.
Directional signs shaped like fish and deer and birds and other wildlife found on the walls and ceilings in the cabins and lodge rooms.
Climbing aboard a horse-drawn wagon for a journey into the countryside for a chuck wagon dinner as a cowboy tells some tall tales.
These are among the special features at Big Cedar Lodge, a Bass Pro Shop property located in Branson, Mo., that make for a perfect vacation destination. It’s the attention to detail that makes the property stand out. Visitors will turn memories into traditions and visit again and again.
Two and three-bedroom cabins and rooms in the lodge are among the accommodation choices which provide lots of options when planning a visit. Big Cedar is located near the attractions of Branson, Mo., which makes it a convenient headquarters for a visit. Although there are so many activities and relaxation found on the property that you might find yourself not wanting to leave Big Cedar.
Nature, animals, conservation and history are found throughout the 800 acres at Big Cedar. The landscaping is beautiful whatever season you visit. Whether flowers are in bloom, the landscape is snow-covered or leaves are changing, it s all a wonderful backdrop to your visit to the Ozark Mountains. The lodge has special themed weekends, including Thanksgiving dinner and winter wonderland during the Christmas season.
Walking trails, mini-golf, shuffleboard, pools, tennis, horseback riding, a spa and fitness center, golf course and a marina are among the activities offered. At the marina, guests can take a boat ride or spend some time fishing at Table Rock Lake, which is ranked nationally for its bass and crappie.
You will find many stories based in history as you explore Big Cedar, including the cabins that are themed in honor of people who have made contributions to the preservation of the outdoors or who have stayed at the lodge. Photos and mementoes from the person honored are located in the cabins. Among those named are Tony Stewart, Porter Wagoner and the Osmond Family.
The on-property tram service is fast and friendly. There’s no need to drive yourself as the tram can take you wherever you need to go on the property in just minutes. The drivers, as well as all of the staff, show visitors genuine Ozark hospitality.
Among the dining options on the property are Devil’s Pool Restaurant where you will find traditional American fare with an Ozark twist. A great choice is grilled rockbridge trout, shaved asparagus, snap pea salad and lemon thyme brown butter with new potatoes. For an amazing appetizer, try the pan roasted local mushrooms with grit cake.
Trumans offers a great place for a casual meal. Lunch-time, sandwiches and salads are offered. For a great view, sit outside on the back deck. It’s such a relaxing spot that you will want to spend a few hours.
For a fun meal make arrangements for a chuck wagon dinner. Our group climbed aboard the horse-drawn trailer for a ride across the grounds and into the woods. Steak, baked beans and corn on the cob made for a hearty and tasty meal. With music by Chris Anderson, we had a fun evening.
For more information, go to www.bigcedar.com.