There's nothing like getting away from it all, taking long hikes on rugged trails, fishing for rainbow trout or largemouth bass, watching the free-roaming wildlife. Well, the owners of the Big Cedar Lodge understand that some people's idea of roughing it doesn't include getting roughed up. Spread throughout 800 acres of wooded hollow on the shores of Table Rock Lake, the vacation retreat provides the ideal backdrop for hiking, fishing and other outdoor fun with all the amenities and fine food to keep even the most finicky outdoor aristocrat happy. It's a wilderness resort with the rustic look of the early 20th century Adirondack hunting camps, but with modern conveniences,'' said Kim Thrap, assistant director of marketing. Big Cedar Lodge, built in 1988, features a marina, two log lodges and a number of cabins with walls decorated with mounted deer heads, game birds and rainbow trout.
Guests can hire expert guides at the marina for daylong fishing expeditions in Table Rock Lake.
Carriage rides, nature trails, miniature golf and tennis courts are also available. Those who prefer a less intensive getaway might choose to stay behind for a massage or a seaweed wrap in the Cedar spa, take a cooking class or head for nearby Branson to catch a show. The resort spares no expense or detail in embellishing the area's natural beauty, from the waterfall that spills over the rocky entrance down to the wrought-iron switchplates, handrails and toilet roll holders designed by local artisans. The log-cabin decor and animal mounts give the place a rustic feel, while at the same time a very elegant look. Charles Crimson and his wife, Lorene, agree.