If you are planning a golfing excursion, make sure you consider Branson, Missouri. While Branson is not located in southern Florida or on the California coastline, Branson matches these golfing hotspots with its ideal climate and lengthy list of incredible courses. Located in the scenic Ozark Mountains, this area in Southwest Missouri is home to some of the country’s top golf courses. Each year, groups plan their trips here to experience the challenging courses in Branson.

Whether it is your first time on the links, or you are an experienced golfer, there are courses in Branson to match any skill level. From corporate event packages to leisure trips for friends, thousands of golfers choose Branson for their vacation each year.

Home to various outdoor activities, Branson’s seasonal shifts are ideal for the golf lover because they make a trip to the links possible almost any day of the year.

Summer is the most popular season for Branson golfers, offering plenty of sunshine and temperatures warm enough to allow shorts on the course. With mild spring and autumn seasons, temperatures typically range from 50 to 80 degrees in April, May, September and October. High temperatures in November can approach 60 degrees, which gives holiday vacationers an excuse to fit in another 18 holes before the frost of the winter. Most courses are open year-round, too, so don’t be surprised to find yourself on the course in the middle of December.

With dramatic elevation shifts in the Ozark Mountains, many of these courses offer especially challenging holes for advanced players. Regardless of experience, the views of the surrounding lakes and mountain peaks provide a beautiful backdrop for each round.

From the John Daly-endorsed, 18-hole Murder Rock to Jack Nicklaus’ Top of the Rock 9-hole, par 3 course, some of the PGA’s top names recognize Branson as one of America’s premier golfing communities. Payne Stewart Golf Club is also in Branson, which is another excellent course to include on your tour of the area’s fairways. Golf Digest noted Ledgestone Country Club as “a masterpiece of mountain golf architecture", and its beautiful 18 holes live up to this name.

If your trip to Branson marks your first time on the course, there is no need to worry. With dozens of PGA professionals that work at the area courses, enrolling in private lessons is easy and affordable. You can learn from the best golfers in Branson at practice facilities that feature expansive driving ranges, chipping areas and putting greens to master the game before you tee off.

Be sure to explore all of your options when booking a golf vacation to Branson, Missouri. Many of these courses are clubs with hotels, and they offer discounted packages when booking tee times and accommodations together. While green fees can be very expensive, you will celebrate Branson’s affordable golf courses. Travel and Leisure Golf named Branson Creek Golf Course one of the “Top 100 Courses Under $100." With prices that fit any budget, a trip to Branson allows you to increase your level of play without increasing the money you normally spend to play 18 quality holes of golf.