Glamping and upscale camping experiences near Valmeyer, Illinois offer outdoor enthusiasts access to unique natural features including the area's limestone bluffs and Mississippi River access points. Located in Monroe County with elevations ranging from 400-700 feet above sea level, the region experiences distinct seasons with humid summers and moderate winters. Many sites provide climate-controlled alternatives to traditional tent camping for visitors seeking comfort in varying weather conditions.
What to do
Hiking through historic terrain: Washington State Park Campground provides access to numerous trails with significant historical value. "Lots to do for all ages, including swimming and hikes of any difficulty/length. Famous for petroglyphs and other history too. Green rolling hills that would be ideal to visit in the fall," notes one visitor. The park's prehistoric petroglyphs are considered a must-see attraction.
Kayaking and river access: St. Francois State Park Campground offers water recreation opportunities that complement upscale camping experiences. "Nice camping area. It was not overly crowded. We went beginning of June during the covid crisis/RV buying crisis. It has decent camping sites and they are right next to the river and swimming holes. The hiking trails are a few of my favorites in MO," reports a camper who visited in summer.
Fishing at lakeside sites: St. Peters' 370 Lakeside Park provides fishing opportunities alongside luxury camping options. "There is fish in the lake and you are allowed to fish. The ATT cell phone signal is good," explains one reviewer. The park also rents paddleboats, kayaks, and canoes for water recreation, with a 4+ mile walking trail around the lake.
What campers like
Pine forest atmosphere: Hawn State Park Campground offers a unique ecosystem not commonly found in the region. "Hawn State Park is a park like no other. Nowhere else in the state of Missouri have I been able to camp and feel like I'm in the middle of the Rocky Mountains. The car camping area is nestled in the middle of a pine filled valley," explains one enthusiast who compares the experience to mountain camping.
Clean modern facilities: Luxury glamping facilities near Valmeyer prioritize cleanliness and maintenance. At St. Peters' 370 Lakeside Park, "because it's new the restrooms/showers were very clean and modern. The site I was in had full hook ups. The water pressure was so strong that I could barely open the water pump!" Another visitor notes the "nice bathhouse with free showers for the campers and pay laundry."
Wildlife viewing opportunities: Horseshoe Lake State Park Campground provides natural habitat observation while maintaining comfortable accommodations. "This is a great place when the geese are migrating thru," notes a wildlife enthusiast. Another visitor explains, "You can see all kinds of wildlife in and around the lake- deer, bald eagles, pelicans, ducks, snakes" at lakeside camping areas.
What you should know
Seasonal availability impacts services: Dr. Edmund A. Babler Memorial State Park Campground maintains different service levels throughout the year. "Not having water available except at the camp host, and no open restrooms and showers until after April 1, regardless of when the last freeze is was inconvenient for a spring break trip," cautions one visitor. The campground's bathhouse with flush toilets closes November 1 and doesn't reopen until spring.
Traffic and noise considerations: Some glamping sites near Valmeyer maintain proximity to roads and transportation corridors. At St. Louis West / Historic Route 66 KOA, a visitor notes, "It was a nice campground with tree cover over most of it. Our site was gravel to park on with grass around it. Close to train tracks and highway, but didn't notice with AC on in the camper."
Reservation requirements vary: Popular glamping sites often fill quickly, especially during peak seasons. "The campground is small but well maintained. The site we had was level and spacious. We had to be completely self supported except electricity," explains one camper. Many luxury camping options require advance booking, especially during holiday periods and summer months.
Tips for camping with families
Activity planning for all ages: Yogi Bear's Jellystone Park Resort At Six Flags offers structured entertainment options for children. "We stayed here last minute for Labor Day Weekend and the staff were great with finding us a good tent site available. This is not a rugged style campground as there are many amenities such as a pool, putt putt golf, volleyball, and more. They also host daily kids activities and crafts," reports a family who visited with children.
Playground access: Multiple glamping locations feature play areas for children. According to one parent, "Decent campground. The site we had was small. This works well for me since I like to talk and meet other campers. However, if you prefer some space while camping, this one may not be for you. The park has a lot to offer. The trails are not too long but can be challenging for small kids."
Supervised water activities: Family-friendly water recreation options exist at several sites near Valmeyer. "Nice stay with river access, friendly people. The site was very peaceful!" mentions one parent. Another notes that "there is a lot to do here. They have an archery range. 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!"
Tips from RVers
Site selection considerations: Greensfelder County Park accommodates various RV sizes with specific limitations. "Only sites 20-29 have electric and 28 can't be reserved. Most sites are great for trailers 26' or less and 1 slide (sites 24-26 can fit a fifth wheel probably no bigger than 36-38 ft). Site 29 where we stayed can fit a 40' fifth wheel," advises an experienced RVer.
Hookup variations: RV sites near Valmeyer offer different connection options depending on location. "A lot of room to back in. Showers and restrooms year around. Frost free water at both ends of the campground. Usual fire pit, picnic table and grill," notes one RV camper, while also cautioning about limitations: "No water at sites. No 50 amps. No dump but KOA and RV dealer 5-7 mins away."
Terrain and leveling: RV pads vary in construction and levelness throughout the region. "The campsites are nice and flat with the standard picnic tables and fire rings," explains an RVer at one location, while another mentions, "The concrete pads with full hookups, as well as dirt pads with full hookups" available at lakeside sites.