Quick answer: the best months to play Big Cedar Lodge (Payne’s Valley) are September, October & November, based on 10-year weather averages measured at the course in Ridgedale, MO.
Tiger Woods’s first public design anchors the Ozarks’ booming golf scene near Branson. Spring and fall are spectacular in the hills; July and August bring Missouri humidity that makes morning tee times essential.
| Month | Avg High | Avg Low | Rainy Days | Avg Wind | Season |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| January | 46°F | 29°F | 11 | 10 mph | Variable |
| February | 51°F | 31°F | 11 | 11 mph | Shoulder |
| March | 62°F | 42°F | 13 | 11 mph | Peak |
| April | 67°F | 47°F | 15 | 12 mph | Shoulder |
| May | 76°F | 58°F | 20 | 10 mph | Shoulder |
| June | 87°F | 67°F | 14 | 8 mph | Shoulder |
| July | 90°F | 71°F | 15 | 8 mph | Shoulder |
| August | 88°F | 70°F | 15 | 8 mph | Shoulder |
| September | 83°F | 63°F | 9 | 8 mph | Peak |
| October | 72°F | 52°F | 10 | 10 mph | Peak |
| November | 60°F | 41°F | 9 | 10 mph | Peak |
| December | 53°F | 36°F | 11 | 11 mph | Shoulder |
Our playability scoring treats highs of 60–80°F as ideal, wind under 8 mph as calm, and fewer rainy days as more bookable mornings. January typically brings the most challenging weather at Big Cedar Lodge (Payne’s Valley).
Day-to-day conditions vary, especially in shoulder season. Learn how our playability score works and what wind speeds mean for scoring before you book.