The Mascoutah region sits at approximately 420 feet elevation in southwestern Illinois, where the terrain transitions between the Mississippi River floodplain and gentle hills. The area experiences hot, humid summers with temperatures often exceeding 90°F and mild winters with occasional freezing conditions. RV camping near Mascoutah offers convenient access to both natural areas and metropolitan attractions with most campgrounds maintaining operations year-round despite seasonal weather variations.
What to do
Water recreation at 370 Lakeside Park: Located about 45 minutes from Mascoutah in St. Peters, Missouri, this park offers paddleboat, kayak and canoe rentals with a 3-mile paved trail circling the lake. "They have paddle boats and bikes and group bikes for rental. Located right next to a lake with a lot of RV and tent camping spots. Kids had a blast riding bikes," notes one camper at St. Peters' 370 Lakeside Park.
Historic St. Charles exploration: Several campgrounds provide access to this charming river town with colonial architecture and shops. "Getting in after a long drive and seeing the on-site BBQ restaurant was a huge positive. Facilities are clean and orderly. We have booked a return trip already," writes a reviewer about Cahokia RV Parque, which offers a convenient base for exploring the region.
Gateway Arch National Park: Campgrounds east of the Mississippi River provide views and easy access to this iconic monument. "Centrally located and across the bridge from downtown. No frills but a great view of the arch," comments a visitor at Draft Kings at Casino Queen RV Park. The park's proximity to downtown St. Louis makes day trips straightforward for campers.
What campers like
Convenient urban camping locations: Several parks offer strategic positioning for city exploration. "Just minutes across the river from St. Louis. They have a shuttle to the various tourist attractions, just ask the staff at the office for details," explains a camper at Cahokia RV Parque, highlighting the logistical advantages.
On-site dining options: Some RV parks feature restaurants that campers consistently praise. "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 a visitor about Cahokia RV Parque's amenity.
Clean facilities and security features: Many campgrounds maintain high cleanliness standards with security measures. "Security is proactive in patrols and are friendly and helpful," notes a camper at Draft Kings at Casino Queen RV Park. Another camper at Archway RV Park states, "I called a day in advance and was able to schedule a reservation, the lady on the phone was very nice. Upon arrival I was greeted nicely and checked in quickly."
What you should know
Traffic and noise considerations: Urban-adjacent parks experience varying noise levels. "There is train noise, quite a bit. But large trash bins and a great bbq restaurant on the grounds!" reports one camper about Cahokia RV Parque. Another notes at Sundermeier RV Park: "If you don't want to see trains going by on an elevated trestle in the distance, or be on a flight path from Lambert Field, it's not for you."
Weather and flooding issues: Some areas experience seasonal flooding. A reviewer at Covered Bridge RV Park explains: "While we were there they had a record rainfall amount and the park apparently already has flooding issues so it was flooding pretty bad but also our RV was right next to a creek that had risen really high."
Limited shade at newer facilities: Several campgrounds are relatively new with young trees. "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," notes a camper at Cahokia RV Parque, reflecting the urban character of many area campgrounds.
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Several parks offer play areas for children. "Oh and an awesome playground for the kids!" mentions a reviewer at Cahokia RV Parque, while another camper at St. Peters' 370 Lakeside Park notes, "There is a walking trail around the lake (4+ miles). There is fish in the lake and you are allowed to fish."
Educational opportunities: Proximity to historic areas and museums provides learning experiences. "We parked our RV, summoned an Uber, and were at the top of the arch in an hour!" explains a visitor at Cahokia RV Parque, describing the accessibility of cultural attractions from camping areas.
Wildlife viewing possibilities: Several parks offer nature observation opportunities. A camper at St. Peters' 370 Lakeside Park describes: "You can see all kinds of wildlife in and around the lake- deer, bald eagles, pelicans, ducks, snakes. In the summers they have live music in the large pavilion."
Tips from RVers
Utility connections positioning: Check hookup locations before arrival. At Draft Kings at Casino Queen RV Park, one RVer notes: "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."
Electrical safety awareness: Some parks have electrical issues requiring safety equipment. As one experienced camper at Covered Bridge RV Park observed: "Friendly and quiet, concrete pads, easy hook-ups, good internet, and paved streets. IMO's Pizza delivers. Don't plan to sleep late during the work week though because mowing, weed whacking and leaf blowers may start at 8:00am."
Reservation systems vary: Parks have different booking procedures. At Draft Kings at Casino Queen RV Park, "Reservations are online and they email you the gate code and WiFi code." Meanwhile, a visitor at Archway RV Park notes: "We chose this on the road, and even though the office was closed, a site had been reserved and marked for us."
