Camping near Columbia, Illinois offers options ranging from urban campsites to lakeside parks within 30-45 minutes of the metro area. The terrain features rolling hills around the Mississippi River basin with elevations between 400-600 feet. Summer temperatures regularly exceed 90°F between June and August, while spring camping often contends with rain and seasonal flooding issues.
What to do
Kayaking and biking: 370 Lakeside Park has boat and bike rentals directly at the campground. "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). There is fish in the lake and you are allowed to fish," notes Mats, who appreciated the recreational variety.
Archery activities: St. Peters' 370 Lakeside Park maintains an on-site archery range for beginners and experienced archers. "There is a lot to do here. They have an archery range. They rent out peddle boats, bikes and peddle cars/buggies as well," explains Barbie B.
Historic exploration: Several campgrounds provide access to historic sites. "Easy ride in to St. Charles a wonderful historic river town on the Missouri River. Great shops, great restaurants," writes Cheryl K. about the proximity to historic districts from Sundermeier RV Park.
Trail access: Many local campgrounds connect to extensive trail networks. "You can literally be parked right at the Katy Trail. Through the gate at the rear of the campground, and you can bike for miles," mentions a reviewer about Sundermeier RV Park's direct trail access.
What campers like
Budget-friendly primitive camping: Horseshoe Lake State Park Campground offers basic sites at affordable rates. "Great spot in a beautiful area close to St. Louis. No power but access to drinking water and waste water dump for just 8$," writes Helge Vandel J. about the value.
Secure environments: Many urban campgrounds prioritize security. "Security is proactive in patrols and are friendly and helpful. No frills but a great view of the arch," notes Greg S. about Draft Kings at Casino Queen RV Park, where safety measures help offset urban concerns.
On-site amenities: Local campers appreciate food options at campgrounds. "Getting in after a long drive and seeing the on-site BBQ restaurant was a huge positive," explains Roger G. about Cahokia RV Parque's dining option, eliminating the need to cook after arrival.
Pool facilities: During hot summer months, swimming options become important. "The grounds, pool, laundry, and bathrooms were all in excellent repair and clean," notes Lee T. about campground maintenance at Cahokia RV Parque.
What you should know
Train noise impacts: Railroad lines cross through the metro area, affecting several campgrounds. "There is train noise but we couldn't hear it with the air conditioners running," mentions Richard H. about the ambient noise at Casino Queen RV Park.
Airport proximity: Several dog friendly campgrounds near Columbia are located under flight paths. "It is on path of airport it seems but plane noise does not bother us. It was not too bad," writes Gayle A. about Greensfelder County Park.
Seasonal flooding concerns: Low-lying areas along the rivers experience regular flooding issues. "The park is prone to flooding. It was out of commission for most of the summer of 2019 as the entire area was flooded," explains Annie C. about 370 Lakeside Park's vulnerability.
Limited shade at newer parks: Several campgrounds have limited mature trees. "This will change over the subsequent years, however, as there are many relatively newly planted trees," notes Suzie S. about 370 Lakeside Park, where shade is currently minimal.
Tips for camping with families
Jellystone activities: Yogi Bear's Jellystone Park Resort offers dedicated children's programming. "They also host daily kids activities and crafts. A very family friendly campground and would highly recommend if camping with kids!" advises Lindsey R.
Playground access: Look for campgrounds with play structures. "There is a nice bathhouse with free showers for the campers and pay laundry. There is a nice playground for the kids," mentions a reviewer about 370 Lakeside Park's family facilities.
Entertainment bands: Some parks offer activity passes. "You can get a band allowing your kids to do games of mini-golf, free train rides on the Yogi Bear Express Train, two arcade tokens, and a discount on Pizza at the Snack Shack," explains a camper about Jellystone's family options.
Proximity to attractions: Consider distance to family destinations. "We stayed here with a new camper, to be near our RV dealer and hardware stores... If you're visiting Six Flags this is an ideal location," notes Jan S. about Jellystone's strategic location.
Tips from RVers
Site leveling challenges: Some parks require additional work to level larger rigs. "The sites are roomy enough, given that you're situated less than 15 miles from downtown St. Louis. The picnic tables and fire rings are nice additions and the lots appear to be level (ours was)," reports Lee T. about Cahokia RV Parque.
Urban camping realities: Pet-friendly campgrounds near St. Louis often have limited green space. "It's a centrally located campground in the Metro St. Louis area. It's close to interstates and it's a short drive across the river to Missouri attractions," explains Roger G., setting appropriate expectations for urban camping.
Hookup placement: RVers should prepare for varied utility configurations. "Water and electric are at the very rear of the site by the sewer, so you will need a decent sized hose to reach if your water intake is in the front of your camper," warns Josh F. about utility positioning at some sites.
After-hours check-in procedures: Many campgrounds have automated systems. "Reservations are online and they email you the gate code and WiFi code. Security is proactive in patrols and are friendly and helpful," explains a reviewer about the streamlined access at many area RV parks.
