RV camping near Belleville, Illinois provides convenient access to outdoor recreation while staying close to urban amenities. The Mississippi River floodplain creates relatively flat terrain around Belleville, with an average elevation of 515 feet. Most campgrounds in this area are open year-round, though summer temperatures regularly exceed 90°F with high humidity, making spring and fall the most comfortable camping seasons.
What to Do
Visit historic St. Charles: Only 40 minutes from Belleville, this charming river town offers shops and restaurants along the Missouri River. "We parked our RV, summoned an Uber, and were at the top of the arch in an hour!" notes a camper from Scott AFB FamCamp.
Explore the Katy Trail: This converted rail trail offers miles of flat, scenic biking. "The Katy trail is right next to the campground for walking or biking. Within walking distance is a really nice winery and a couple bars," explains a visitor at Beyond the Trail RV Park.
Water activities at 370 Lakeside Park: "The park/campground rents paddleboats, kayaks, and canoes in addition to different kinds of bikes. There is a walking trail around the lake (4+ miles)," reports a camper about the recreation options available.
What Campers Like
Urban proximity with rural feel: Many campgrounds balance city access with quieter surroundings. "Full hook-up sites with FHU near downtown St. Louis. Sites are close together, with some shade," notes a visitor to Cahokia RV Parque.
Public transportation options: Several campgrounds offer convenient access to public transit. "Casino has a metro stop that takes you into St Louis over the river," explains a camper at Draft Kings at Casino Queen RV Park.
Local breweries and wineries: The region offers numerous options for adult beverages. "Just on the other side of the trail is a great brewery with a fantastic patio and rooftop deck. We walked there a few times to enjoy pizza," shares a visitor about facilities near Beyond the Trail RV Park.
What You Should Know
Security varies significantly: Some parks have extensive security measures while others are more open. "The park is gated, you need a code to get in the gate, so you must register in advance," reports a camper at Draft Kings at Casino Queen RV Park.
Weather and seasonal challenges: Spring flooding can affect campgrounds in this region. "The park already has flooding issues so it was flooding pretty bad... our RV was right next to a creek that had risen really high," explains a visitor at Covered Bridge RV Park.
Varying bathroom facilities: Quality and availability of restrooms differ between parks. "Beautiful coded bathrooms with showers. They were heated and warm and very well marked," notes one camper, while others mention limited availability at some locations.
Tips for Camping with Families
Playgrounds and recreation: Several campgrounds offer dedicated facilities for children. "There is a nice bathhouse with free showers for the campers... One couple I talked to was camping long term and they got a free membership to the St Peter's RecPlex recreation center," shares a visitor at St. Peters' 370 Lakeside Park.
Kid-friendly activities: Look for campgrounds with organized events. "We go every October for Halloween... lots to do for the kids. Lot of campers there that are weekend getaways," notes a visitor at Pin Oak RV Park.
Swimming options: During hot summer months, pool access becomes important. "A nice private catch and release pond, an old little mini golf setup, a small (but adequate) swimming pool kept the kids busy," reports a camper at Pin Oak RV Park.
Tips from RVers
Hookup placement challenges: At several campgrounds, utilities are positioned awkwardly. "Utilities are set up weird on all sites - Water and electric are at the very rear of the site by the sewer, so you will need a decent sized hose," advises an RVer about Draft Kings at Casino Queen RV Park.
Leveling requirements: Not all sites offer level pads. "A lot of spots are not level, so come prepared. Some spots are shaded. Some spots are in full sun," notes a visitor at Scott AFB FamCamp.
Size considerations: While most parks accommodate large RVs, site configurations vary. "Spots are concrete and gravel, very urban camping... spaces were a little close together, but that was expected being closer to a city," explains a camper about the typical setup at RV parks near Belleville.
