Golfers can indulge themselves at this centrally located turn station, designed with a nod to its rustic surroundings.
Whether guests desire some mid-game sustenance or need to take cover from an unrelenting rainstorm, Big Cedar Lodge’s new comfort station is at the ready. The Ozark Mountains resort unveiled the latest addition to its Payne’s Valley Course this past spring. While the turn station is tucked away in a remote setting, it offers all the basic necessities … and then some.
The layout of the course prompted Big Cedar to provide a conveniently located destination station for its golfers.
“At two points around the middle of your round (tee box No. 8 and No. 10), golfers will pass a comfort station which sits on a lake, offering some of the most scenic views of the golf course, highlighting the scenery of holes No. 5, No. 8 and No. 10,” says Director of Golf Sales & Marketing Matt McQueary.
The new space has been custom designed by Bass Pro Shops (whose founder Johnny Morris also created Big Cedar Lodge) and an in-house fabrication team.
Easy Access to Amenities Aplenty
Outside the 4,000-sq.-ft., two-story comfort station, a sturdy stone-faced structure beckons visitors indoors, where they are immediately ushered into an open floor plan. The spacious, one-floor spot houses a bar, pro shop and restrooms, with a basement reserved for storage. Floor-to-ceiling windows flood the space with natural light, while custom-designed lighting fixtures enhance the overall aesthetics.
Rustic touches are evident throughout, from the restored wood beams overhead, to the stone fireplace adorned by a moose head. If visitors don’t fancy a drink at the bar, they can help themselves to a variety of snacks (free of charge), including fruits, chips, granola bars, ice cream and other grab-and-go options. Also of note is Big Cedar’s signature bison hotdog which, according to McQueary, has become a club favorite.
After refueling, golfers can take a short stroll across the floor into the pro shop, with three racks of select merchandise, including apparel and accessories.
“We offer retail items, offering players a chance to buy additional golf balls if they happen to be running low mid round, rain gear if they are caught in a storm, as well as clubs and clothing if something catches their eye,” says McQueary.
Back outside, visitors can still take in the picturesque view from the outdoor patio, designed to hold up to 45 people.
Furthering the Brand
When designing Payne’s Valley’s comfort station, special attention was given to the lodge’s brand. At the fireplace, a brass emblem showcases the course’s logo, while glass signage at the bar pays homage to the Ozarks native and World Golf Hall of Fame member Payne Stewart.
Appearances aside, construction of this space was not without its challenges. Since the renovation began after the course had opened, the team worked around golfers, so as not to interfere with their playing. The landscape also posed potential hazards.
“Due to the rugged terrain, access to course was quite difficult,” says McQueary. “We had to have a special construction road built temporarily to allow equipment to gain access.”
Despite such hardships, the comfort station has been a tremendous asset. According to McQueary, overall feedback has been positive and has enabled the resort to maintain its reputation within the golfing community.
“Delivering our guests the best experience possible while visiting Big Cedar is truly our No. 1 goal,” he says. C+RB
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