Camping options within 30 miles of Arnold, Missouri include state parks, county facilities, and private campgrounds across eastern Missouri and western Illinois. The area sits at elevations between 400-800 feet with a humid continental climate that brings hot summers and mild winters. The region's proximity to major waterways including the Meramec, Mississippi, and Big Rivers shapes the camping experience with seasonal flooding concerns at some locations.
What to do
Outdoor activities at Robertsville State Park: Visitors can fish in the Meramec River that runs alongside the park. "There's also a lake within a few minutes walking, although the current was too strong to swim we were told it's home to many large catfish," reports one camper at Robertsville State Park Campground. The park also features hiking trails with riverside views.
Biking and water recreation at Lakeside Park: This St. Peters facility offers equipment rentals for water and land activities. "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!" notes a visitor to St. Peters' 370 Lakeside Park. The park features a 4+ mile paved trail around the lake.
Historical sites at Washington State Park: The park contains Native American petroglyphs and CCC-era structures. "Washington State Park is a hidden gem in Missouri! The prehistoric Petroglyphs nearby are a must see," writes a camper who stayed at Washington State Park for a week in March. The park offers three hiking trails of varying difficulty levels.
What campers like
Views and access to St. Louis attractions: Many campers choose locations based on proximity to city sights. "This is not a rural campground. 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," explains a visitor at Cahokia RV Parque. The campground offers a shuttle to various tourist attractions in St. Louis.
Wooded seclusion near urban areas: Despite being close to the city, several parks offer forest settings. "You would never know how close you are to a metropolis. This is truly a hidden gem. Tucked away, not far from St. Louis, you wouldn't know you were that close to a big city," describes a camper at Dr. Edmund A. Babler Memorial State Park Campground. The park features both open sunny sites and more secluded wooded options.
Well-maintained facilities: Campers frequently mention the quality of facilities as a key factor. "The grounds are clean and pleasant, if a bit sparse with little shade. This will change over the subsequent years, however, as there are many relatively newly planted trees," notes a reviewer about St. Peters' 370 Lakeside Park. Many campgrounds in the region have recently upgraded their bathroom and shower facilities.
What you should know
Train noise at some locations: Several campgrounds near Arnold experience railroad disruptions. "There is train noise, quite a bit. But large trash bins and a great bbq restaurant on the grounds!" reports a camper at Cahokia RV Parque. Similarly, at St. Louis West / Historic Route 66 KOA, a reviewer notes, "Close to train tracks and highway, but didn't notice with AC on in the camper."
Seasonal flooding concerns: Low-lying campgrounds may experience closures. "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," mentions a visitor about St. Peters' 370 Lakeside Park. Always check campground status during spring and early summer.
Limited grocery options near some parks: Some locations are isolated from stores. "I was planning on grabbing a gallon of milk when we got there...there really is nothing around the rv park! Maybe a couple gas stations at best, but if you need groceries or anything, stop and get them before you get close," advises a camper about Cahokia RV Parque.
Tips for camping with families
Kid-friendly activities at Jellystone Park: This themed campground offers numerous structured activities. "This is a nice little hidden gem outside St Louis in a great county park. If you are a Six Flags kinda person, the amusement park sits at the southern entrance to Greensfelder," explains a visitor at Greensfelder County Park. The park offers multiple trail options suitable for different ability levels.
Playgrounds and recreation areas: Several parks have dedicated children's facilities. "There's swimming, games, lots of activities and you can go from rustic rent a tent to a really nice cabin with lots amenities!!" notes a visitor at Yogi Bear's Jellystone Park Resort. Many campgrounds offer organized weekend activities during peak season.
Pool access during hot months: Swimming options help during humid summers. "Nice spots and facility. Great place to just drop in for a short 1 night stay. Well maintained facility," writes a camper at Casino Queen RV Park, where access to the casino's pool is included with your stay code.
Tips from RVers
Site length and access considerations: RV campers should check site specifications before booking. "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)," details an RVer at Greensfelder County Park. Many older campgrounds have limited large rig access.
Hookup configurations: Water and electrical connections vary significantly between parks. "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," warns a visitor to Casino Queen RV Park. Some campgrounds only offer 30-amp service rather than 50-amp.
Dump station availability: Not all parks have on-site dump facilities. "No dump but KOA and RV dealer 5-7 mins away," notes a camper at Greensfelder County Park. Plan accordingly for longer stays or check nearby options for dumping services.
