Tiger Woods-designed Payne’s Valley adding a new par-3 golf course

A new par-3 golf course is being built at Payne’s Valley, the first Tiger Woods-designed public golf course located near Branson, Missouri, Bass Pro Shops confirmed to the News-Leader on Wednesday afternoon.

News-Leader reporters recently observed a major construction project in the Ozarks Mountains that is being built west of the clubhouse and the middle of the Woods course that opened in 2020. The construction goes from the top of the mountain down into an area of land that was previously an open field.

Multiple construction vehicles were seen working among the mounds of dirt before wrapping up for the day. Construction is still in its early stages and no timetable for completion was shared.

“We believe what is taking shape will offer one of the most extraordinary Par 3-course experiences anywhere,” Bass Pro said in a statement. “As well, it will be fun! In fact, we are sure it will be one of the most fun experiences in the world!”

Bass Pro did not say whether Woods would be involved with the project. Construction is in the middle of the course that he designed.

Bass Pro Shops noted in its statement that the course will be committed to sustainable conservation practices in both its development and operations practices.

“This approach will be the same diligent process that has earned Audubon Signature Certification for our five other courses,” the statement added. “Additionally, all profits from green fees will directly support conservation efforts here in the Ozarks through the Johnny Morris Conservation Foundation.”

Payne’s Valley, which opened in 2020, is an 18-hole course adjacent to the Buffalo Ridge site and is the newest part of the Big Cedar Lodge stable of courses south of Branson. Woods opened the course with the “Payne’s Valley Cup” event in Sept. 2020 which also featured Rory McIlroy, Justin Thomas and Justin Rose.

The course is named after Ozarks legend Payne Stewart, who attended Greenwood Laboratory School on Missouri State’s campus. He won three major championships in his career and was named to the World Golf Hall of Fame in 2001. The sports world was shocked when he died in an aviation accident at the age of 42.

Payne’s Valley also features a 19th hole that was designed by Bass Pro Shops CEO and founder Johnny Morris that includes a hole on an island and a…