RV camping near Jerseyville, Illinois offers convenient access to the Mississippi and Missouri River valleys, with most campgrounds situated within a 30-mile radius of the city. The region experiences hot, humid summers with temperatures often exceeding 90°F from June through August, while spring and fall provide milder temperatures ideal for outdoor activities. Many camping areas in this region are situated along historic transportation corridors including the Katy Trail, a converted railroad bed now serving as a recreational trail.
What to do
Kayaking at man-made lakes: St. Peters' 370 Lakeside Park offers kayak rentals for use on their lake, providing an accessible water recreation option. "We love going here and watching the sunsets. This is a great place to kayak and camp if you don't want to drive that fare and live in the city," notes Lindsey C.
Biking the Katy Trail: Beyond the Trail RV Park provides immediate access to the Katy Trail, perfect for cycling enthusiasts. "The Katy trail borders the park for easy access to town. Beautiful views across a large farm field (soy beans when we were here) to the hills beyond with incredible sunsets," reports Sam C. Visitors can either bring their own bikes or rent from nearby outfitters.
Visiting historic districts: Several campgrounds provide easy access to historic riverfront towns. "Easy ride in to St. Charles a wonderful historic river town on the Missouri River. Great shops, great restaurants," shares one camper about Sundermeier RV Park's proximity to historic areas.
What campers like
Urban camping convenience: Draft Kings at Casino Queen RV Park offers close proximity to downtown St. Louis attractions. "Close to the arch, that's why we chose this place to stay overnight... the view of the arch and downtown St Louis and access to both is fantastic," explains Meghan T.
On-site dining options: Campers appreciate parks with food service on premises. "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!" shares Jenni W. about Cahokia RV Parque.
Security features: Several parks in the area emphasize safety measures. "Security is proactive in patrols and are friendly and helpful. No frills but a great view of the arch," notes Greg S. about staying at the Casino Queen RV Park. Gated access with security codes provides peace of mind for campers with valuable equipment.
What you should know
Weather and flooding concerns: Seasonal flooding can affect campgrounds in this region. "While we were there they had a record rainfall amount and the park apparently already has flooding issues so it was flooding pretty bad... The staff came out while this was happening to warn us of the potential flooding and offered to let us move to another site away from the creek," reports Charlie & Danielle B. about their stay at Covered Bridge RV Park.
Noise factors: Air traffic, trains, and highways create ambient noise at several parks. "Only downside is the train and airplane noise. Otherwise would be a 5 star for me," mentions Laura M. about Sundermeier RV Park. Another camper notes, "On Lambert international airports flight path, next to a major train trestle, right next to Highway 370."
Limited shade at newer parks: Recently developed campgrounds often lack mature trees. "This will change over the subsequent years, however, as there are many relatively newly planted trees," explains Suzie S. about St. Peters' 370 Lakeside Park's developing landscape.
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: St. Peters' 370 Lakeside Park features recreational facilities for children. "Kids had a blast riding bikes. Even finding a few little frogs jumping around and fireflies at night," reports Joseph F. The park also includes a "small playground" that provides entertainment options for younger campers.
Rental options for group activities: Several parks offer specialized equipment rentals. "They rent out peddle boats, bikes and peddle cars/buggies as well. We rented a peddle buggy. Those are a lot harder to get moving then they look. Awesome workout for the whole family!" shares Barbie B.
Check for seasonal activities: Some parks offer programming during specific times 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. regarding seasonal offerings at lakeside parks.
Tips from RVers
Hookup placements: Pay attention to utility configurations when selecting sites. "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. about Draft Kings at Casino Queen RV Park.
Reservation timing: Kamper Kompanion RV Park and other facilities in the area can fill quickly during peak seasons. "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," reports Jessica T., highlighting the park's accommodation of large rigs when space is available.
Weather preparedness: The area's variable weather conditions require planning. "A park ranger went around to every site and notified every camper of where the shelters were (the restrooms/showers) and gave out a flyer about the specific weather forecast!" shares one camper about the staff's communication during stormy conditions at a local campground.
