Camping opportunities near Ballwin, Missouri span across the Mississippi and Missouri Rivers watershed areas at elevations ranging from 400-800 feet. The region experiences hot, humid summers with temperatures averaging 85-90°F and mild winters that rarely drop below 20°F. Most campgrounds remain accessible year-round with spring and fall offering the most comfortable camping conditions, though summer thunderstorms can bring flash flooding to low-lying areas.
What to do
Hiking and biking trails: Greensfelder County Park offers multiple trail systems for various skill levels, with both forested hiking paths and mountain biking routes. "The park has a lot to offer. The trails are well-groomed and the trails are used by hikers, mountain bikers, and equestrians alike," notes a visitor.
Water recreation: St. Peters' 370 Lakeside Park provides lake-based activities within 30 minutes of Ballwin. "They rent out 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," a camper reports.
Historical exploration: Tours of nearby historic towns offer glimpses into Missouri's past. A visitor to Sundermeier RV Park shares, "You can literally be parked right at the Katy Trail. Through the gate at the rear of the campground, and you can bike for miles. Easy ride in to St. Charles a wonderful historic river town on the Missouri River. Great shops, great restaurants."
Winery tours: The region offers access to Missouri's wine country. "The park is bordered by the Katy Trail which will take you into town (and many other scenic places) so bring your bikes! Just on the other side of the trail is a great brewery with a fantastic patio and rooftop deck," mentions a camper who stayed at Beyond the Trail RV Park.
What campers like
Proximity to attractions: Yogi Bear's Jellystone Park Resort At Six Flags earns praise for its location. "We spent a weekend here because we wanted to be close to six flags. I swear this place was more fun!!! There's swimming, games, lots of activities and you can go from rustic rent a tent to a really nice cabin with lots amenities," one camper enthuses.
Clean facilities: Many campers mention well-maintained bathrooms and shower houses. At Cahokia RV Parque, a visitor notes, "We were pleased with the cleanliness of the bathrooms and showers and had no major complaints. The price reflected what we got out of our stay."
Natural scenery: The mix of open fields and wooded areas appeals to many visitors. "Klondike park is a gorgeous park along the Katy Trail in Augusta, MO. The campsites are very quiet, very family friendly park. On site restrooms, hiking trails, and a small lake with overlooking bluffs," shares a reviewer.
Accessibility: Many campgrounds offer convenient access despite feeling remote. "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. It is clean and feels extremely safe," explains a camper about Dr. Edmund A. Babler Memorial State Park Campground.
What you should know
Noise considerations: Several campgrounds experience noise from nearby transportation. A camper at St. Louis West / Historic Route 66 KOA mentions, "Close to train tracks and highway, but didn't notice with AC on in the camper." Another notes, "It will be even better when they invent silent trains."
Weather impacts: Flash flooding affects low-lying campsites during heavy rains. A visitor to Beyond the Trail RV Park states, "My only complaint is they have some drainage issues if it rains a lot. A few of the campsites will flood, not bad enough to get to your camper, but just enough to be annoying."
Site differences: Campground layouts vary significantly. "Babler is located off I-64 in the chesterfield area about 30 minutes from Saint Louis. There are many spots to choose from. Basic and electric/water sites. Tent and Rv set ups are mixed. The site provides wood, ice, water, shower house and outhouses," explains a camper.
Seasonal operations: Operating hours and amenities change throughout the year. A visitor notes, "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."
Tips for camping with families
Activity planning: Campgrounds offering scheduled events enhance family experiences. "Great kids activities! Good breakfast and nice store. Really enjoyed our trip bundled with a Six Flags trip," reports a parent who stayed at Yogi Bear's Jellystone Park.
Wildlife education: Teach children about local fauna while maintaining safety. "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. Even finding a few little frogs jumping around and fireflies at night," shares a family camper.
Playground access: Several campgrounds feature play areas. A visitor to Cahokia RV Parque mentions, "The grounds, pool, laundry, and bathrooms were all in excellent repair and clean. The park was quiet, but very family friendly... Oh and an awesome playground for the kids!!"
Budget considerations: Family camping costs vary significantly between basic sites and premium locations. "Prices were high with the kids love watching Yogi," notes a parent about Jellystone Park, while another mentions, "The site we had was level and spacious. We had to be completely self supported except electricity, which was fine."
Tips from RVers
Hookup variations: Covered Bridge RV Park & Storage offers specialized RV amenities. "For this to be such a small RV park the sites are very spacious! The wi-fi was surprisingly good enough that my wife and I could both work off of it and even stream shows on the Roku the whole week," shares an RVer.
Leveling challenges: Some sites require careful positioning. "The water pressure was so strong that I could barely open the water pump!" notes one RVer about 370 Lakeside Park, while another mentions, "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, etc."
Accessibility for larger rigs: Site dimensions can limit options for big vehicles. "We loved how spacious it was. The roads within the campground were double-wide so we had no trouble turning and getting into our spot. The sites were double-wide concrete," notes an RVer at Sundermeier RV Park.
Utility placement: Hook-up locations vary between campgrounds and can create challenges. "Our water hook up and electric hookup was significantly far apart. (1st world problems I know but handy info for those with campers) may be site specific," advises an RVer at Jellystone Park.
