RV camping near Arnold, Missouri provides access to both urban amenities and outdoor recreation along the Mississippi and Missouri rivers. The area sits at approximately 600 feet elevation in the eastern Ozark foothills, with humid continental climate bringing hot summers and mild springs and falls. Year-round camping options exist throughout the region with varying levels of amenities depending on proximity to St. Louis.
What to Do
Historic exploration: The Katy Trail connects to several campgrounds in the region, offering miles of recreational paths. Beyond the Trail RV Park puts you right on the trail. "Immediate access to Katy trail. Bring your bikes or rent e-bikes in town. Lots of wineries nearby and several pub type restaurants nearby," notes Joshua R.
Water recreation: Paddle sports are available at lakeside campgrounds with rental options. St. Peters' 370 Lakeside Park offers "paddleboats, kayaks, and canoes in addition to different kinds of bikes. There is a walking trail around the lake (4+ miles). There is fish in the lake and you are allowed to fish," according to Mats.
Urban attractions: Gateway Arch National Park is accessible from several area campgrounds with transportation options. "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," reports Roger G. about staying near city attractions.
What Campers Like
Security features: Gated access provides peace of mind at campgrounds near urban areas. At Draft Kings at Casino Queen RV Park, "Security rolled through frequently. Your gate code can be used for the pool and gym at the casino in addition to the bathroom and laundry area," mentions Robert F.
Campground amenities: Swimming pools offer relief during hot summer months. The Route 66 KOA offers "a heated pool, bike rentals, basketball courts, a country store for firewood, supplies, and gift shop. Needless to say this was not a 'roughing' it type campground," according to Lindsey R.
Local food options: On-site restaurants save campers from cooking after a day of activities. "Definitely wouldn't stay here more than an overnight stay, but it did the job just fine for what we needed," reports Meghan T. about convenience-focused campgrounds near Arnold.
What You Should Know
Weather considerations: Flooding risks affect some campgrounds in low-lying areas. "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," notes Charlie & Danielle B.
Site spacing: Proximity to neighbors varies widely between campgrounds. Pin Oak RV Park "spaces are tight but the overall camp ground is decent. Nice pool and an arcade area with plenty of room to hangout inside. There is a pond with some decent sized fish in it," according to Chad H.
Ambient noise: Transportation corridors create sound issues at many locations. "The park is in an industrial area so you can hear trains occasionally as well as the METRA rail," explains Robert F., though many reviewers note that running air conditioning masks most noise.
Tips for Camping with Families
Playground access: Kid-friendly facilities make family camping more enjoyable. Sundermeier RV Park is "a very nice park. The spaces are a bit close together and not many trees but I've been to worse. The not many trees is do to it still being a fairly new campground," according to Jack G.
Water activities: Swimming options keep children entertained during hot months. "This park is beautiful. Located about 25 minutes from St Louis. 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," says Joseph F.
Seasonal events: Halloween celebrations draw families during fall. At Pin Oak, "We go every October for Halloween. It is tight you need to reserve a premium spot for a little room. Staff and owners are great lots to do for the kids," reports Tim K.
Tips from RVers
Electrical safety: Surge protectors are recommended at some parks with wiring issues. "DO NOT use the 30A receptacles here unless you have a surge protector with an Electrical Management System (EMS) that explicitly confirms correct wiring before connecting your RV," advises Jeff C.
Site selection: Pull-through availability varies by campground location. RV Self-Park offers "large level spots (no need unhook for an overnight stay). Very clean. Lots of interstate noise as it's very close," explains Never Sitting S.
Check-in procedures: Self-service options exist at several rv sites near Arnold, Missouri. "Reservations are online and they email you the gate code and WiFi code. Security is proactive in patrols and are friendly and helpful. No frills but a great view of the arch," notes Greg S.
