RV campgrounds near Hartford, Illinois offer easy access to the Gateway Arch National Park and other St. Louis attractions. Most sites are positioned within 30 minutes of major highways, with elevations ranging from 400-450 feet above sea level in this Mississippi River valley region. Summer temperatures typically reach 85-95°F with high humidity, while spring and fall offer milder conditions with occasional flooding concerns near riverside locations.
What to do
Biking the Katy Trail: Access this extensive trail system directly from several campgrounds. At Beyond the Trail RV Park, campers appreciate the convenient location. "The Katy trail borders the park for easy access to town. Beautiful views across a large farm field to the hills beyond with incredible sunsets," notes Sam C.
Visit historic St. Charles: Located about 25 minutes from Hartford, this river town offers shopping and dining options. "St. Charles' 370 Lakeside Park is located about 25 minutes from St. Louis. They have paddle boats and bikes and group bikes for rental," writes Joseph F., highlighting recreational options near the historic district.
Explore Gateway Arch National Park: Several campgrounds provide convenient access to this national landmark. "We chose Cahokia RV Park because of its close proximity to St. Louis Missouri. We stayed in a gravel site with a concrete pad, fire pit, picnic table and full-hook ups," explains Carlyne F., noting the practical base for city exploration.
What campers like
Security features: Many parks provide gated access and regular patrols. "Easy check in, but the camp host said the shaded spots were too narrow, they were not. Stayed three nights and saw all the sites: The Gateway Arch, Union Station, aquarium, botanical gardens, Anheiser Busch brewery tour," shares Dennis P. about their experience at Draft Kings at Casino Queen RV Park.
Transportation options: Some parks offer access to public transit. "Very nice park. This is a big busy campground they have plenty of staff to handle the rush. Level concrete sites with FHU will definitely stay here again," according to Robert O. about Sundermeier RV Park.
Local dining access: Many campgrounds are within walking distance of restaurants. "Great location to go to all the wineries and restaurants nearby. Brewery just on the other side of the campground with good beer and food," says Matthew H., highlighting the benefits of Beyond the Trail RV Park's location.
What you should know
Seasonal flooding concerns: Low-lying areas near rivers experience occasional flooding. "The park seems to be catered to full time/seasonal campers there so there's not a lot of amenities like you'd normally have at an RV park. While we were there they had a record rainfall amount and the park apparently already has flooding issues," reports Charlie & Danielle B. about Covered Bridge RV Park.
Train noise: Railroad tracks near several rv campgrounds in Hartford, Illinois and surrounding areas create periodic noise. "There is train noise but we couldn't hear it with the air conditioners running," mentions Richard H., offering practical advice for handling the ambient sounds.
Site utilities positioning: Hookup locations vary by park and may require longer cables or hoses. "$70 per night, plus $20 pet fee and $5 reservation fee. 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 to reach if your water intake is in the front of your camper," warns Josh F.
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Several parks feature dedicated play areas. At St. Peters' 370 Lakeside Park, "Kids had a blast riding bikes. Even finding a few little frogs jumping around and fireflies at night," according to Joseph F., highlighting natural discovery opportunities.
Rental equipment options: Bikes, boats, and recreational gear available at some locations. "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)," mentions Mats, describing recreational opportunities for various age groups.
Seasonal activities: Parks offer different amenities depending on time of year. "In the summers they have live music in the large pavilion, and you can rent kayaks and other small boats to take out on the lake as well as bikes to ride around on," notes Annie C., pointing out warm-weather entertainment options.
Tips from RVers
Gate access procedures: Many parks use electronic access systems requiring advance registration. "Very clean and secure overnight park just outside of STL. Phenomenal views of downtown and the arch, and fairly easy access to I-55/64/70. Facilities lacked some amenities, but clean, paved, level sites with full hookups throughout," reports Scott C. about Kamper Kompanion RV Park.
Site leveling considerations: Terrain varies significantly between parks. "Easy on off, right by highway, pulled in after dark and they met us to show us to the site and got us settled. Easy pull thru site with 40' and toad. Basically a big open flat field with sites and building spread throughout," shares Jessica T., noting the accessibility features.
Hookup requirements: Bring appropriate length cords and hoses for utility connections. "We got site 41 and it was perfect with our 31' travel trailer and we did not have to unhook. To hot and tired to walk around but there is a park and access to a walking trail that looks nice," says Gayle A., describing a practical site arrangement.
