Glamping options near Waterloo, Illinois span across 40 miles of varied terrain with elevations ranging from 400-700 feet above sea level. The Mississippi River floodplain creates unique camping conditions with temperatures averaging 75-85°F in summer and 30-45°F in winter. Most glamping sites in this region operate from early spring through late fall, though several luxury camping experiences remain available year-round.
What to do
Kayaking on Big River: Washington State Park Campground provides direct access to Big River where visitors can rent equipment on-site. "The park is right across from the big river so you can go canoeing. It started pouring halfway thru our ride, but even still we had a blast!" noted one visitor at Washington State Park Campground.
Hiking diverse trails: Multiple trail systems with varying difficulty levels accommodate different fitness levels. "The hiking in this state park is fantastic. The campground is small but well maintained. The eco-system is something to marvel," remarked a visitor at Hawn State Park Campground, which features pine-filled valleys and rocky terrain.
Exploring prehistoric sites: Native American petroglyphs provide historical interest within a 30-minute drive. "Washington State Park is a hidden gem in Missouri! The prehistoric Petroglyphs nearby are a must see," shared a camper who spent a week exploring the area in early spring.
Wildlife viewing: The region supports diverse wildlife including deer, bald eagles and migratory birds. "This is a great place when the geese are migrating thru, I really hope to be back here some day!" mentioned a visitor at Horseshoe Lake State Park.
What campers like
Privacy options: Many campers appreciate the secluded glamping sites. "The campground has oddly shaped campsites causing a crowded feel," noted one visitor about St. Francois State Park, while another commented about Horseshoe Lake State Park Campground, "The campground is relatively small but has great sites to camp. Very private and clean."
Value pricing: Budget-friendly glamping is widely available. "Horseshoe Lake is one of my most visited parks and most favorite park in the STL and surrounding areas... 8$ a night," shared one frequent visitor, making it an economical luxury camping option compared to premium-priced alternatives.
Proximity to urban amenities: The glamping locations provide nature experiences with quick access to city conveniences. A visitor at St. Peters' 370 Lakeside Park noted, "Well maintained and well managed park. Staff on duty at all hours is awesome! Five minutes from food and stores. 30 minutes from downtown Saint Louis."
Modern facilities: Many glamping sites feature recently updated amenities. "They had just opened a new shower house which was clean and well kept. The campground hosts were especially helpful and friendly," commented a visitor who stayed at Washington State Park for a week.
What you should know
Weather considerations: The region experiences seasonal flooding and variable conditions. "One of the downsides to this location is that it is prone to flooding. It was out of commission for most of the summer of 2019 as the entire area was flooded," explained a visitor about 370 Lakeside Park.
Noise factors: Several glamping locations experience noise from nearby transportation or entertainment venues. "The park is close to some motorsports arena which had loud events (drag racing?) during the entire weekend we were there. If you appreciate peaceful days and nights, check out the racing schedule first," advised one camper at St. Francois State Park Campground.
Site selection importance: Campsite locations vary significantly in privacy and features. "If I camp here the golf cart rental is a must if you're camping in the lower section," noted a visitor at Yogi Bear's Jellystone Park Resort, while another camper mentioned, "the site we were in felt like an afterthought, as we were just pulled off the lower loop road."
Seasonal availability: Most glamping accommodations have limited availability during winter months. "The park is open year-round but the bathhouse with flush toilets closes November 1 and doesn't open until the spring," explained a camper at Dr. Edmund A. Babler Memorial State Park.
Tips for camping with families
Activity planning: Family-friendly amenities vary widely between locations. At Yogi Bear's Jellystone Park Resort, a visitor shared, "This is a great place for family activities. There is a pool, bike rentals, dog park, movie night, basketball court, and more... It is close to Six Flags, shopping, and restaurants."
Playground access: Several glamping sites feature play areas for children. "370 Lakeside has boating and archery on site, a dog run, and a small playground," noted a visitor who stayed multiple weeks, while another mentioned about St. Peters' 370 Lakeside Park, "Kids had a blast riding bikes. Even finding a few little frogs jumping around and fireflies at night."
Educational opportunities: Historical and natural features provide learning experiences. "This park is so rich in Missouri and USA history - from buildings constructed by the African-American CCC stonemasons to Native American petroglyphs, there's some fascinating stuff here," described a visitor at Washington State Park.
Weather preparedness: Staff at some locations provide severe weather assistance. A camper at 370 Lakeside Park shared, "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!"
Tips from RVers
Hookup considerations: Water pressure varies significantly between sites. "The water pressure was so strong that I could barely open the water pump!" reported an RVer at 370 Lakeside Park, highlighting the importance of pressure regulators when glamping in Waterloo area with an RV.
Site leveling challenges: Terrain can present setup difficulties. "The site was ok, tricky to level. There was a steep drop just past our steps, and not a lot of room to set up chairs," explained a visitor at Jellystone Park Resort.
Military options: Service members have dedicated facilities. "This campground is clean and convenient to the St Louis area. The Outdoor Recreation unit is very responsive to needs of campers," noted a visitor at Scott AFB FamCamp, though cautioning, "Most important, if you put Scott FamCamp in google maps, it will take you there, BUT google maps will take you to no longer operational entry gates."
Seasonal facility limitations: Winter camping requires self-sufficiency. "Maybe we are spoiled by Arkansas State Parks and the standard amenities they have. Not having water available except at the camp host, and no open restrooms and showers until after April 1 was inconvenient for a spring break trip," shared an RVer at Dr. Edmund A. Babler Memorial State Park.
