Frequently Asked Questions
Still have questions about Big Cedar Lodge? Check out our frequently asked questions for our different attractions and departments.
If you need further assistance, contact us at 1 (800) 225-6343.
General Resort Questions
Do you allow pets at Big Cedar?
Big Cedar Lodge is mostly a pet-free resort. However, we do allow pets in a limited number of our Lakeside Cottages with a pet deposit. Please review our pet policy and verify your accommodation needs with a member of our vacation planning team. Service animals are welcome in all our accommodations. For information on what constitutes a service animal, see the American Disabilities Act website.
Do you allow pets at Payne's Valley Cottages?
The Payne's Valley Cottages are pet-free. However, we do allow service animals. For information on what constitutes a service animal, see the American Disabilities Act website.
Do you allow pets at Camp Long Creek?
Yes, we do with a pet deposit. Click HERE to download and review the pet policy information.
Deposit Policy
All reservations will require a deposit equaling (2) night’s stay at the time of booking. If you are staying only one (1) night, you will be charged in full (one night) at the time of booking. The deposit is refundable, less a $100 cancellation fee, up to twenty-one (21) days prior to your arrival.
Cancellation Policy
Cancellations made less than twenty-one (21) days prior to your arrival will result in forfeiting one hundred (100%) of your deposit. You will be charged for any missed date, no show or early departure at the nightly rate of your original reservation. If you are making consecutive or multiple reservations, a separate deposit will be required for each reservation and the cancellation/refund/change policy set forth, in this policy, will apply to each reservation separately.
If you make changes to your reservation at any time after booking (including changing stay dates, reducing the number of nights stayed, and changing accommodation types), you will be assessed a $100 change fee.
What are the check-in and check-out times?
Check-in: 4:00 PM
Check-out:11:00 AM
How old do you have to be to check in?
You must be 21 years or older to check in at Big Cedar. The only exception made is for active-duty personnel, in which case you can be 18.
Where do you check-in for Big Cedar?
You will check-in at our registration building.
612 Devil’s Pool Road
Ridgedale, MO 65739
Where do you check-in for Camp Long Creek?
1368 Long Creek Rd
Ridgedale, MO 65739
Do you have laundry facilities?
Yes, we have laundry facilities at both our Valley View Lodge and Falls Lodge. Both are located on the 2nd floor of each building.
Are the laundry facilities complimentary to guests?
Our laundry machines are complimentary for our guests. We recommend that you bring your own laundry detergent. Laundry detergent is also available from the vending machines located near the laundry machines and can be purchased with either cash or coins.
Do you have ice machines at your facility?
Yes, we have ice machines on the 2nd floor of Falls Lodge and on the 1st floor of Valley View Lodge.
Do you have vending machines at Big Cedar?
Yes, we have vending machines at both our Falls Lodge on the 1st, 2nd and 3rd floor and at our Valley View Lodge on the 1st and 2nd floors.
Do you provide firewood for the wood-burning fireplaces?
Yes, firewood will be stocked daily for cabins and cottages with wood-burning fireplaces. Firestarter kits, kindling and matches are also provided upon request.
Does Big Cedar supply the gas for grills?
Yes.
Where do you go to check out equipment for Pickle Ball, Volleyball, Shuffleboard, games and DVDs?
You can get all of that equipment at our Guest Services desk in the registration building.
What are the hours to rent Pickle Ball, Volleyball, Shuffleboard?
Guest Services rents out Pickle Ball, Volleyball, and Shuffleboard from 8 am - 7 pm. Guests renting that equipment will need to be 18 years of age or older.
What are the hours to rent DVDs or board games?
DVDs and board games are rented 24/7.
Do Big Cedar Lodge guests have access to Camp Long Creek?
Big Cedar Lodge guests can gain access to the park by stopping at the welcome booth and providing their room number, however, Big Cedar Lodge guests will not be permitted to use the Camp Long Creek swimming pool.
Can I tip my shuttle driver?
Yes, shuttle drivers may accept cash tips or with the driver QR code onboard every shuttle. Tipping is not required or expected of those who ride our complimentary shuttle service.
What shuttle service is provided complimentary to Big Cedar Lodge Guests?
We provide shuttle service on-demand from your location at Big Cedar Lodge to any location on the main resort campus of Big Cedar Lodge. We also offer Complimentary Shuttle Service to all off-site Nature Golf locations, Top of the Rock, Anglers Lodge Hollister, Mountain Top Grill, Tall Tales Bar and Grill, and Camp Long Creek.
What shuttle service is provided complimentary to Camp Long Creek Guests?
We offer an on-demand shuttle service to and from Camp Long Creek. Please download the “JM Shuttle” App to request a shuttle at your convenience. With this service, you can see where shuttles are in relation to your location, get estimated wait times, request a ride, and more. You may also call our shuttle dispatch office at 417-339-5104 to request a ride.
What schedule do your complimentary shuttles run on and how do I get one?
Courtesy shuttle services for the Big Cedar property are offered daily from 6:00 am to Midnight. To request a complimentary shuttle pickup, please download the “JM Shuttle” App to request a shuttle at your convenience. With this service, you can see where shuttles are in relation to your location, get estimated wait times, request a ride, and more. You may also call our shuttle dispatch office at 417-339-5104 to request a ride.
Can my children ride the shuttle?
Yes, children may ride the shuttle, however, to ride without an adult, they must be at least 13 years old.
Do you provide a shuttle service to Top of the Rock?
We provide shuttle service on-demand from your location to Top of the Rock. To request a complimentary shuttle pickup, please download the “JM Shuttle” App to summon a shuttle at your convenience. With this service, you can see where shuttles are in relation to your location, get estimated wait times, request a ride, and more. You may also call our shuttle dispatch office at 417-339-5104 to request a ride
While visiting Top of the Rock we offer a complimentary shuttle transportation loop between the Johnny Morris Cave and Nature Trail and the Top of the Rock Dining, Museum, and Golf.
*Sign-up is not required. Check out our Big Cedar Shuttle App to see wait times for these loop transportation services!
Do you provide a shuttle from the Springfield (SGF) and Branson (BKG) Airports?
Yes, we do. A shuttle from both airports can be arranged. Book private transportation or please call our dispatch office at 417-339-5104 for details at least 10 days prior to your arrival.
Can I preschedule a shuttle ride from my cabin for a specific pickup time?
This is not available through our complimentary on demand transport, however, by booking private transportation, you may assign a pick up time in advance.
What hours do you operate the complimentary shuttle?
6:00 AM to Midnight daily.
Are your Big Cedar Lodge and Camp Long Creek shuttles ADA accessible?
Yes, we can offer ADA-accessible vehicles at either location, we do ask, if possible, to have the guest provide their agenda to us upon check-in so as to not encounter a wait.
Are your Top of the Rock complimentary shuttles ADA accessible?
Top of the Rock shuttles that operate between the Top of the Rock Welcome Center and the Mammoth Room are not ADA equipped, however, we do offer complimentary valet parking at the mammoth room, so no walking is involved.
Do you provide transportation to the offsite locations operated by Big Cedar Lodge?
We currently offer complimentary shuttle service to all off-site golf locations, Top of the Rock, Anglers Lodge Hollister, and Camp Long Creek. You can request rides to any of these off-site locations by downloading the “JM Shuttle” App or calling the shuttle dispatch office at 417-339-5104.
Photographers wishing to take photos at Big Cedar Lodge or Top of the Rock must submit the photoshoot inquiry form. After checking availability, a team member will be in touch to schedule your session.
Passes start at $150. Photography is strictly prohibited inside any buildings. No video is allowed on-site without marketing approval. Drones are not allowed on property.
Top of the Rock
Top of the Rock Entry Fee: In order to gain access to Top of the Rock amenities and attractions, there is a $10 entry fee. Special entry fees may apply during holidays and special events.
Is there an entry fee into Top of the Rock?
Yes, there is a $10 entry fee per vehicle. Card payment only. $15 entry fee will apply for special events after 5pm.
Do I have to pay an entry fee again if I leave and come back on the same day?
You will not be required to pay a second entry fee on the same day. Please keep your receipt for reentry.
What kind of discounts do you have?
We offer a 10% discount military/veteran discount and a 10% senior discount.
Are the Lost Canyon Cave & Nature Trail golf carts handicap accessible?
Yes, if guests can be transferred to a golf cart, they can easily access the Lost Canyon Cave & Nature Trail.
Is the cart included in the price for Lost Canyon Cave & Nature Trail?
Yes.
What kind of carts do you have?
We have four passenger golf carts.
Can babies/toddlers ride in the golf cart without a car seat?
Babies and toddlers can ride with an adult without a car seat. It is up to the discretion of the guest.
Are pets allowed?
Only service animals are allowed. Not pets or ESAs.
Can we bring a cooler?
Coolers are not premitted. However, Top of the Rock offers many convenient snack and dining options.
Are you open year-round?
Yes, weather permitting.
Are reservations required for Lost Canyon Cave & Nature Trail?
Reservations are not required. Single Day Tickets are priced at variable rates so that you can visit on a day that best fits your budget. Prices increase daily, so the earlier you purchase, the more you'll save!
What is the best time to visit the Lost Canyon Cave & Nature Trail?
For a shorter wait time, consider visiting in the afternoon when crowds tend to be smaller. The busiest times at the Lost Canyon Cave & Nature Trail are typically in the mornings.
Do I have to do the Lost Canyon Cave & Nature Trail at the time it shows on my ticket/confirmation?
No, you are not required to attend The Lost Canyon Cave & Nature Trail at the exact time listed on your ticket. Please note, your ticket must be used on the date selected.
Do you have a refund policy for inclement weather?
The trail only closes for inclement weather such as lightning and ice. In the event of inclement weather, guests can reschedule their reservation or be refunded. If a reschedule option is given, tickets purchased that day will be honored for any future day. Guests do not have to repurchase new tickets.
When did The Lost Canyon Cave & Nature Trail open?
We opened after Bass Pro Shops Legends of Golf in 2014.
How many waterfalls are on the trail?
There are nine waterfalls on The Lost Canyon Cave & Nature Trail. We have many more on the property.
How long is the Lost Canyon Cave & Nature Trail?
The Lost Canyon Cave & Nature Trail is 2.5 miles and returns you back to where you started, at the Welcome Center.
Can I also visit the Ancient Ozarks Natural History Museum?
Your admission to The Lost Canyon Cave & Nature Trail also included admission to the Ancient Ozarks Natural History Museum! Please note, both visits must be used on the date selected.
How long does it take to see both the Lost Canyon Cave & Nature Trail and Ancient Ozarks Natural History Museum?
You need to allow yourself at least three hours to enjoy both theThe Lost Canyon Cave & Nature Trail and Ancient Ozarks Natural History Museum. Please note, both visits must be used on the date selected.
Were all of the arrowheads in the display case at the Top of the Rock Welcome Center found in the Ozarks?
They were donated to us by collectors from all over the country.
Can you go into the sinkhole?
At this time, the Catheral of Nature is under construction but we will post updates on our Facebook page if it opens to the public!
Is there lodging?
Top of the Rock does not offer lodging, but is conveniently close to Big Cedar Lodge and other lodging options in the Branson area.
Is there an entry fee into Top of the Rock?
Yes, there is a $10 entry fee per vehicle. Card payment only.
What is in the Ancient Ozarks Natural History Museum?
There is a wide variety of Civil War, prehistoric animals, American wild west and Native American artifacts representing a walk through the Ozarks. It is one of the most significant collections of Native American and Civil War artifacts ever assembled.
Were all of the artifacts found locally?
The artifacts in the museum were found all across America, and our woolly mammoth came from Siberia, Russia.
How long does it take to complete the Lost Canyon Cave & Nature Trail and the Ancient Ozarks Natural History Museum?
You need to allow yourself at least three hours to enjoy both the Ancient Ozarks Natural History Museum and the Lost Canyon Cave and Nature Trail. Please note, both visits must be used on the date selected.
Photographers wishing to take photos at Big Cedar Lodge or Top of the Rock must submit the photoshoot inquiry form. After checking availability, a team member will be in touch to schedule your session.
Passes start at $150. Photography is strictly prohibited inside any buildings. No video is allowed on-site without marketing approval. Drones are not allowed on property.
Other Attractions
What is the average pace of play?
- Payne's Valley: 5 hours
- Ozarks National: 4 hours and 30 minutes
- Buffalo Ridge: 4 hours and 30 minutes
- Top of the Rock: 1 hour and 45 minutes
- Mountain Top: 2 hours
Do you have a caddie program?
We currently offer forecaddies at all Big Cedar courses by request. To request your forecaddie, please contact our caddie manager at caddiereservations@big-cedar.com.
What is your dress code for men?
Proper golf attire, including collared shirts, is required for men over 12 years old.
What is your dress code for women?
Proper golf attire, no bathing suits, or tank tops.
Do the carts have built-in GPS monitors?
Yes, all golf carts have built-in GPS units. Please note: Mountain Top is a walking-only course and does not offer golf carts. Digital range finders are provided, at no charge, in the respective pro shop. Players may check out range finders in exchange for their I.D.
I'm playing golf but I have someone coming with me who just wants to ride along, is that ok?
Riders are allowed for a rider fee for anyone not playing golf. At Mountain Top, they may walk with you at no charge. We ask that anyone who will be hitting shots on the course pay a greens fee to limit any confusion there may be with someone who has not paid playing golf on the course.
- Paynes Valley Rider Fee: $45
- Ozark National Rider Fee: $45
- Buffalo Ridge Rider Fee: $45
- Top of the Rock Rider Fee: $30
Is Mountain Top hilly and difficult to walk?
The course is mostly along a ridgeline, and there are a couple of uphill walks at the beginning and end of the round. However, the majority of the course is relatively flat or downhill with less than 2 miles of total walking.
Are there carts or special accommodations for players with disabilities at Mountain Top?
Mountain Top does not allow carts on the course, other than walking pushcarts. We are happy to offer carts and accommodations for individuals with disabilities at our other courses (Payne's Valley, Ozarks National, Buffalo Ridge, and Top of the Rock) when weather and course conditions allow.
How fast are your greens? What is Stimp speed?
Our green speeds average between 9.5 and 11 on the Stimpmeter depending on the day and weather conditions.
Can multiple people use the same golf clubs?
For pace of play purposes and standard course etiquette, all players must play out of their own bag. Rental clubs are available for purchase in the pro shop.
What kind of grass do you have on the course?
Payne's Valley, Buffalo Ridge, Mountain Top, and Ozarks National all have Zoysia fairways and bentgrass greens. Top of the Rock features bentgrass tee boxes and bentgrass greens.
When does your grass go dormant?
Our fairway zoysia is typically dormant and yellow from the last week of October through March. It will typically green back up towards the beginning of April and stay green through most of October. Weather and soil temperatures will affect the exact dates.
Can I wear metal spikes, boots, high heels, etc.?
We are a soft spike golf shoe facility; you may also wear tennis shoes.
We have five players. Can we all play together?
We allow a maximum of four players per group. You may have three players in one group and two in another.
Can I bring my own alcoholic beverages?
Outside alcoholic beverages are not allowed, but we offer beverages for purchase at the pro shop.
Do I have to stay overnight at Big Cedar to use Fun Mountain?
Fun Mountain is open to the public, and we encourage everyone to visit!
What are the age and height requirements for the ropes course?
There is no age minimum. Participants must be over 48" tall and less than 285 pounds. Shoes with a closed back are required.
What are the age and height requirements for drivers and riders for go-carts?
10 years old and 56” to drive. 5-9 years old and 38” to ride with an adult.
What are the requirements to ride Flip Zone?
7 years old and 48” to drive. Shoes with a closed back are required.
How does bowling work?
Bowling is priced for the lane per hour. Each lane can fit up to 6 people.
How many people can play Laser Tag at the same time?
We can have up to 10 players at a time.
Do I have to use everything on the game card the day I purchase it?
Everything you purchase on the card is good for two years from the date of purchase.
Do I need to make reservations for anything at Fun Mountain?
All attractions are first come, first served.
How do tickets and prizes work?
Arcade games work in three ways: some games are played for fun such as the racing game and you do not win any tickets, some are prize games such as claw machines will dispense the prize, and lastly, some are ticket counting games will load the tickets won onto the game card electronically.
All prizes in the redemption area can be redeemed with tickets won in the arcade.
Is there a minimum that I need to load onto a game card?
There is not a minimum but there are bonuses available for purchases over $50. Please check with Fun Mountain staff on the most current information regarding bonuses.
How far in advance should I book my spa appointment?
Advanced reservations for services are highly recommended. Payment is taken at the time of booking. Before your arrival, you may call 1-800-225-6343 to book reservations. Same-day reservations are welcome, and as always, we will make every effort to accommodate your needs. If you are already a guest at Big Cedar, simply dial extension 5201. If you need to cancel an appointment, you must do so at least 24-hours prior to your scheduled treatment time to avoid being charged for the service.
What payment types are accepted at Cedar Creek Spa?
Cedar Creek Spa is now a cash-free facility. Credit cards and room charges may be accepted for payment of your services, retail purchases, and gratuities.
Who will be performing my spa treatment?
All treatments are provided by male and female licensed professionals. If you have a gender preference, please indicate your preference, but we cannot guarantee we will be able to accommodate. Couples’ massages are limited and made by prior arrangement. Please call the spa front desk at 417-339-5201 to book all couples’ massages.
What time should I arrive for my appointment?
We encourage all guests to complete waivers on line before their arrival. Arrive approximately 30 minutes early. By arriving early, you’ll be able to relax and enjoy your spa experience. Remember that each appointment is precisely timed. As a courtesy to our guests, all appointments begin and end on time. Our co-ed grotto pool and men or women’s steam room, dry sauna and walk-in hot pool amenities may be used before or after your massage facial or body treatment until 6:00 pm daily. Please remember to bring your bathing suit.
Should I disrobe entirely for my spa treatments?
Our staff has been trained to respect the privacy of our guests. During each treatment, the areas of the body not involved will be covered. You can dress down to your comfort level during your session.
Is gratuity included in the cost of the service?
No. There is an automatically added 20% service charge that is split evenly between Big Cedar Lodge and the spa service provider. This isn’t a gratuity for the service provider. You can add a gratuity for the service provider at your discretion.
Should I bring my bathing suit?
We encourage all guests 18 and over to bring a bathing suit. We require bathing suits in the grotto pool area. Bathing suits are also available for purchase at Cedar Creek Spa and The Shoppe. If you are having massage and nail services, we strongly suggest booking nail services after your pool time to prevent chipping and polish issues.
May I use spa pools and amenities?
Spa pools and amenities are reserved for guests 18 and over who have a massage, body treatment or facial service booked that day.
Can I bring my child?
All Spa amenities and pools are reserved for spa guests 18 and over with massage, body treatment or facial services booked that day. Children are permitted in designated areas of the spa if they are receiving a spa treatment and with a parent. If your child is not receiving a spa service, call Guest Services at 1-800-225-6343 to learn about Kids' Club availability.
May I bring my own liquor?
No. Cedar Creek Spa offers a selection of beer and wine options, available for purchase from the spa front desk. There is a limit of two alcoholic beverages per day per adult guest at the spa.
If we are not staying at the resort, can we use Bent Hook Marina?
No. Since Bent Hook is a non-commercial marina, it is sanctioned to only service overnight guests staying at the resort. Guests not staying at Big Cedar Lodge or Wilderness Club are welcome to use Long Creek Marina, our public marina, for boat and slip rentals and other marina activities.
Do you offer fishing licenses? At what age is a fishing license required?
Anyone 16 years and older will need a Missouri fishing license to fish on Table Rock Lake or Lake Taneycomo. Both marinas can issue MO fishing licenses for residents and nonresidents, or you can purchase your permit online at the Missouri Department of Conservation. A one-day license (valid from time purchased to 11:59PM) is $8; annual licenses are $49 for nonresidents and $12 for residents. Trout stamps are also required for anyone fishing on Lake Taneycomo. Youth trout stamps (under 16) are $5 and $10 for residents and nonresidents. Missouri residents 65 and older do not need a license.
Do you offer rod rentals?
We have two types of rental options: spin cast (push button) or open-faced (spinning) reels. Each is $15 and comes with a small tackle box with 2 hooks, weights and a bobber.
Do you have live bait?
Yes, we offer Canadian nightcrawlers (worms) and blackhead crappie minnows. We also have a fully outfitted bait and tackle shop located at Long Creek Marina.
Where can we fish from land at Big Cedar Lodge? What about at Camp Long Creek?
A guest can fish anywhere from the shoreline, aside from the beach and swimming areas. We have two fishing piers in the cove that we encourage guests to use. Fishing is prohibited from boat docks and marinas, as well as from any complementary watercraft (canoes and kayaks). At Camp Long Creek, you must fish 100 feet away from the marina docks.
What are the age requirements for complementary activities like pedal boats, canoes, and kayaks?
We ask that small children are accompanied by an adult, but there is no age requirement. Someone 18 years or older will need to complete a waiver for all parties and be briefed on the rules/safety info. Life jackets are provided for all ages.
How many people fit on pedal boats, canoes or kayaks?
Pedal boats seat 4, kayaks seat 1 and canoes seat 3 people.
What are the age requirements to rent and operate a boat or personal watercraft (Waverunner)?
A guest must be 18 years or older and have a boater’s safety permit from any state to rent a watercraft. Guests born on or before 12/31/1983 require only a driver’s license to rent and operate a watercraft.
What if we do not have a boater's license or forget ours?
Bent Hook and Long Creek Marinas offer a temporary 7-day license that can only be issued once in your lifetime. This costs $9 and requires a valid driver's license and a credit card for payment.
What kind of water accessories do you rent?
We rent three types of towable tubes: premium couch tubes, 3-person deluxe tubes and 2-person standard tubes. We also offer wakeboards, kneeboards, skis and anchors for rent.
Do you have grocery items?
Yes, we offer half gallons of 2%, skim and whole milk, as well as eggs, loaves of bread, various food and snack items, and over-the-counter medicinal items; similar to what you would find in a convenience store.
Can you bring your own drinks on rental boats?
Yes, we also offer a limited number of complimentary coolers for guests to borrow. A variety of coke products, beer and wine are available for purchase at the marina.
Do you offer overnight or multi-day rentals?
Unfortunately, no. Our vessels must be returned each day to ensure asset quality and the safety of our guests.
Are pets allowed onboard?
Of course! We allow our 4-legged friends on all our vessels. We do ask that you be mindful of scratches or claw marks as our guests will be liable for any damages done to upholstery
How far away is Camp Long Creek from Big Cedar?
Camp Long Creek is located 3 miles West of Big Cedar Lodge on Highway 86.
Is there a laundry facility at Camp Long Creek?
There are coin-operated laundry machines at Camp Long Creek.
Is the pool zero entry (no stairs)?
Yes, the infinity pool is zero entry with an ADA lift. The pool is also accompanied with a hot tub.
Does each unit have a grill?
Each unit has a picnic area with a picnic table and fire pit/grill. Please bring your own cooking utensils and supplies as none are provided for the fire pit/grill, however, charcoal is available for purchase at the Marina. There are two covered community gas grill sites with two gas grills in each area. Community grills are offered on a first-come, first-served basis, and you must clean up after yourself. Please note, portable gas grills are not allowed on porches.
Do the community grills come with grill tools?
Yes, all community grills are complete with grilling tools.
Can there be a rollaway in the room?
We do not currently offer rollaway beds.
When does Camp Long Creek open?
Camp Long Creek is now open for reservations. Guests can check in at 4:00 PM and check out at 11:00 AM.
Can we take dogs on boats?
Yes, cleaning or damage fees apply as necessary.
What do annual slip renters receive?
Annual slip renters will receive 2 entry gate keys.
Is there a fee to go to the marina store for souvenirs, fishing license, bait, etc.?
There is an $8 daily entry fee per vehicle.
What if I have an overnight slip reserved but have not checked in?
The welcome booth should have a list of both boat reservations and slip reservations.
Do guests renting camping units need a hang tag?
No, their QR code will get them in the gate.
Do Big Cedar guests have access to Camp Long Creek?
Big Cedar guests can gain access to the park by stopping at the welcome booth and providing their room number, however, Big Cedar guests will not be permitted to use the Camp Long Creek pool.
Do guests staying at the Cliffs, Wilderness and Paradise Point have access to Camp Long Creek?
Cliffs guests may enter with no fee. They will be given a QR code to access Camp Long Creek upon check-in.
Does Camp Long Creek provide firewood?
Yes, we provide firewood for overnight guests only, not daily visitors.
Please visit the venue website at: thunderridgenaturearena.com