RV sites near Highland, Illinois serve as convenient bases for travelers exploring the greater St. Louis area. Located in southwestern Illinois approximately 35 miles from downtown St. Louis, the region features gently rolling terrain with elevations ranging from 500-600 feet. The area experiences distinct seasonal changes with hot summers where temperatures regularly exceed 90°F and mild winters with occasional snow.
What to Do
Historic exploration in St. Charles: From Sundermeier RV Park, access the Katy Trail for biking. "You are literally be parked right at the Katy Trail. Through the gate at the rear of the campground, and you can bike for miles. Easy ride in to St. Charles a wonderful historic river town on the Missouri River," notes one visitor.
Gateway Arch National Park visits: Many campgrounds offer easy access to downtown St. Louis attractions. "Stayed two nights passing through to visit Gateway Arch National Park. Casino has a metro stop that takes you into St Louis over the river," reports a traveler at Draft Kings at Casino Queen RV Park.
Fishing opportunities: Several campgrounds maintain small fishing ponds on their properties. At Cahokia RV Parque, one camper mentioned a "gazebo to fish off of" near the primitive camping area by the pond, providing a relaxing activity option without leaving the campground.
What Campers Like
Urban convenience with security: Safety measures are important to campers in the metro area. "Security is proactive in patrols and are friendly and helpful. No frills but a great view of the arch. Centrally located and across the bridge from downtown," writes one Draft Kings at Casino Queen RV Park visitor.
On-site dining options: Several campers appreciate not having to cook after a long travel day. "Our favorite part of this park is the onsite Sawmill BBQ restaurant. While we prepare most of our meals, we were so tired; we decided to give the joint a try and, wow, are we glad we did! Delicious food for a reasonable price!" commented a visitor at Cahokia RV Parque.
Clean facilities: Well-maintained amenities receive consistent praise. At Archway RV Park, "Clean, reasonable and the staff/owners were great!!! Would stay again! Easy on and off to 64 and 57!!!" according to one reviewer who appreciated the overall cleanliness and convenient location.
What You Should Know
Train and airport noise: Many campgrounds in the area experience transportation-related noise due to their urban locations. "On Lambert international airports flight path, next to a major train trestle, right next to Highway 370. Very industrial around the park," notes one Covered Bridge RV Park visitor, highlighting common noise factors.
Urban setting considerations: The metropolitan location means different camping conditions than rural parks. "This is not a rural campground. 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 a camper at Cahokia RV Parque.
Water hookup positioning: Setup logistics can vary between parks. At Draft Kings at Casino Queen RV Park, "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," advises one visitor who discovered this utility arrangement.
Tips for Camping with Families
Playground access: Several campgrounds offer play areas for children. According to a Cahokia RV Parque visitor, "There is a playground, pool and pond area to walk around. We were pleased with the cleanliness of the bathrooms and showers and had no major complaints."
Pet-friendly considerations: Many families travel with pets and appreciate designated areas. "We really enjoyed Kamper Companion! We stay there every time we pass through Litchfield. Quiet, family friendly, and great for our dogs. We love the dog yard!" shares one repeat visitor.
Recreation opportunities: Look for campgrounds with built-in activities. "The outside area is made for families to play and relax and enjoy time together, and the indoor spaces are cozy and designed for the comfort of the guests," writes a camper about the communal spaces at Archway RV Park.
Tips from RVers
Site layout awareness: At Kamper Kompanion RV Park, "Easy pull thru site with 40' and toad. Basically a big open flat field with sites and building spread throughout. Cute little fenced in pet area with benches for the pups to stretch," according to one RVer who appreciated the spacious layout.
Check-in processes vary: Some parks have automated systems while others offer personal service. "Just off the highway, but minimal noise. Clean. Well maintained. Pleasant staff. We had a long pull through, but there are a limited number of those," notes a visitor at Kamper Kompanion.
Electrical safety: When staying at urban RV parks, verify electrical connections. "DO NOT use the 30A receptacles here unless you have a surge protector with an Electrical Management System (EMS) that explicitly confirms correct wiring before connecting your RV," warns one experienced camper who identified potential safety issues.
