Make this your best summer ever at Big Cedar Lodge

Summer in the Ozarks is all about making memories that last a lifetime and there’s no better place to do that than at Big Cedar Lodge. Nestled in the heart of the Missouri Ozark Mountains, the 4,600-acre world-class wilderness resort offers the perfect blend of outdoor adventure, lakeside leisure and unforgettable family fun. Whether you’re splashing into Table Rock Lake, exploring scenic trails, or relaxing poolside, this is where summer comes to life.

Here’s your guide to experiencing the Best Summer Ever at Big Cedar Lodge.

Glamping at Big Cedar (Photo submitted)

World-class accommodations

Big Cedar Lodge offers a range of unique lodging experiences that combine rustic charm with luxurious comfort. Whether you’re relaxing in a private log cabin, cozying up in a lakeside cottage, or taking in sweeping mountain views from a grand lodge room, every detail is designed to bring you closer to nature without sacrificing comfort. For those seeking a more adventurous overnight, Camp Long Creek combines camping with comfort through unique accommodations including dog-friendly glamping tents, shepherd huts and camp cabins.

Lake life and water adventures

Make the most of summer days with thrilling lake excursions and water activities on Table Rock Lake:

• Lady Liberty Cruises: Hop aboard our 62-foot luxury yacht for a daytime cruise, brunch, dinner, or an unforgettable Fourth of July or Labor Day fireworks voyage. After-hours cocktail cruises are also available for guests 21-plus.

  • Day Cruise: $70/adult, $35/kids (4–11)

  • Brunch Cruise: $70/adult, $35/kids (4–11)

  • Dinner Cruise: $120/adult, $70/kids (4–11)

  • After Hours Cocktail Cruise: $70/person (21+ only)

• Goin’ Jessi Table Rock Lake Tour: Relax aboard a replica 1934 Chris Craft named after Waylon Jennings’ wife, Jessi. Cruise the lake with a Big Cedar guide on this exclusive one-hour outing. $199 weekdays, $250 weekends (based on two people; $15/additional guest, up to six). Open to the public.

• Pedal boats, canoes and Kkayaks: Explore the shoreline with complimentary non-motorized rentals.

• Pedal boat fishing: Catch the big one from your own boat. $30/hour per boat (fishing license required).

• Stand-up paddleboards: Glide across 43,000 acres of crystal-clear water with rentals from Bent Hook Marina.

• Private poolside cabana fireworks viewing: Enjoy front-row seats to the fireworks from your own poolside cabana. Includes a snack basket, ice bucket and beverages. $250 per cabana (up to six adults).

Outdoor celebrations and iconic Ozarks moments

• Sunset Ceremony at Top of the Rock: experience a Civil War cannon firing and glass-raising toast as the sun dips below the horizon. Dine at Osage Restaurant, Buffalo Bar, or the “End of the Trail” Wine Cellar. Daily at sunset (entry fee applies for non-resort guests).

• Sunset Celebration Dinner: Enjoy the sunset ceremony with a four-course meal, house wine pairings, and the signature Sunset Cannonball Cocktail. $138 per person. Open to the public.

Top of the Rock Lost Canyon Cave & Nature Trail

Take an unforgettable journey through Top of the Rock’s Lost Canyon Cave & Nature Trail. This self-guided electric cart tour winds through dramatic rock formations, waterfalls and lush landscapes, leading into a stunning four-story cave complete with a cascading waterfall and drive-up bar. Whether you're sipping a cocktail as you drive through the cave or snapping photos along the scenic overlooks, this is one Ozarks experience you don’t want to miss.

Signature summer events and experiences

• Big Cedar Hoop-Dee-Doo: Board a boat from Bent Hook Marina, ride a tram to Swimmin’ Hole Lawn and enjoy a summer BBQ, bonfire, games and more. $65/adult, $30/kid (3–12), kids two and under free. Open to the public.

• Ozark Olympics: Compete in archery, BB guns, spam carving and more down-home games behind Fun Mountain. $15 per person. Open to the public

• Camp-themed activities: Channel your inner camper with tie-dye ($15–$22), Kids’ Bingo ($10), Paint & Play ($32), Pottery Painting ($22–$26), Cozy Critters Workshop ($25), and more. Open to the public.

• Kids Adventure Club: Kids (ages 4–12) enjoy four hours of fun, crafts, outdoor games, fishing, archery, a cozy critter, Jr. Ranger vest and dinner. $85 per child. Open to the public.

• Family movie on the lawn: Relax under the stars with a family-friendly flick. Free for overnight guests.

Creative culinary fun

• Summer Date Night: Sip two drinks and make edible crafts with your special someone. $160 per couple. Open to the public

• Family Date Night: Feast on a full Italian meal before playing family-style games. $95 per family; includes two drinks per person. Open to the public

• Charcuterie and Wood Burning: Craft your own charcuterie and wood-burn a board to take home. Includes two boards and drinks. $130 per pair. Open to the public.

• Fun for the Whole Family: Join the Minute to Win It challenge ($10pp),  Bakery Wars ($60/team), Blacklight Family Bingo(complimentary), Glow in the Dark Scavenger Hunt ($17pp), a Summer Dance Party (complimentary) and more family fun. Open to the public.

From sunrise adventures on the water to sunset toasts high above the Ozarks, summer days here are filled with nature, connection and joy.