RV camping near O'Fallon, Illinois provides options within 15-30 miles of this eastern St. Louis suburb. The area sits at approximately 600 feet elevation with humidity levels reaching 70-80% during summer months. Camping facilities range from military-only options to public parks with most sites featuring concrete or gravel pads.
What to do
Visit historic St. Charles: Located across the Missouri River, this area is accessible from St. Peters' 370 Lakeside Park. "The walking trail around the lake (4+ miles) offers exercise opportunities after setting up camp," notes Mats. "They have an archery range. The rent out peddle boats, bikes and peddle cars/buggies as well," adds another camper.
Explore Katy Trail: The popular biking path runs adjacent to Beyond the Trail RV Park in Defiance, Missouri. "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," writes Sam C. The trail provides direct access to local establishments without driving.
Visit wineries: The western corridor toward Defiance features multiple vineyards within a few miles of camping areas. "Within walking distance is a really nice winery and a couple bars. All of these places have cold beer and live music on the weekends," reports Adam F., highlighting the accessibility of local attractions without driving.
What campers like
Urban-adjacent camping: Cahokia RV Parque offers convenience without complete isolation. "This is 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. The balance of accessibility and amenities appeals to travelers wanting civilization nearby.
Security features: Many area campgrounds prioritize safety measures. "Security is proactive in patrols and are friendly and helpful," explains Greg S. about one facility. Similarly at Cahokia, campers appreciate professional management despite industrial surroundings: "It is what it is. But it was safe, clean and professionally ran."
Weather communications: Lakeside Park receives praise for staff communications during inclement conditions. "There was some rough springtime weather expected one day. A park ranger went around to every site and notified every camper of where the shelters were and gave out a flyer about the specific weather forecast," reports one reviewer, highlighting proactive management.
What you should know
Noise considerations: Train sounds affect multiple campgrounds in the area. "There are trains every 15-30 minutes all day long," notes Josh F. at Draft Kings at Casino Queen RV Park. Another camper adds: "There is a train that goes by a couple times in the middle of the night, but the view of the arch and downtown St Louis and access to both is fantastic."
Site setup variations: Utilities placement requires planning at some locations. "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," explains one camper about the Casino Queen location.
Weather impacts: Drainage issues affect some properties during heavy rains. "A few of the campsites will flood, not bad enough to get to your camper, but just enough to be annoying," notes Adam F. about Beyond the Trail RV Park. The Mississippi River floodplain location makes this a regional consideration.
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Kamper Kompanion RV Park offers family-friendly spaces. "Quiet, family friendly, and great for our dogs. We love the dog yard!" reports Larry B. The designated pet areas provide contained spaces for children and animals to enjoy outdoor time.
Recreation options: Multiple activities appeal to different age groups. "Kids had a blast riding bikes. Even finding a few little frogs jumping around and fireflies at night," shares Joseph F. about the lakeside environment. Rental equipment allows families to try new activities without bringing their own gear.
Bathroom facilities: Shower access varies significantly between properties. "Very clean and secure, friendly, professional campground. Full service, pull through site. Excellent park, lots of amenities," notes Tom B. about one location, while another camper describes "Brand new laundry facility" as a helpful family feature.
Tips from RVers
Gate access systems: Covered Bridge RV Park & Storage and several other locations use code-based entry. "You need a code to get in the gate, so you must register in advance," explains Richard H. This security measure requires planning ahead rather than expecting walk-up availability.
Hookup specifications: Many sites offer both 30 and 50 amp service, though not all. "Full hookup sites on a mostly paved RV park. Big rigs fit easily," notes Robert F. Water pressure varies significantly between parks, with one camper noting, "The water pressure was so strong that I could barely open the water pump!"
Reservation timing: Weekends fill quickly at popular locations, especially during spring and fall. "We were checking out right before a weekend. Our site, previously not available that weekend, had opened up. The staff called to tell us that the site had opened up over the weekend," reports one grateful camper about proactive management at a local park.
