Tent camping options within a 30-mile radius of Ballwin, Missouri range from primitive forest sites to more developed campgrounds with shower facilities. The area's camping season typically extends from April through October, with some sites remaining open year-round but with limited amenities during winter months. Average summer temperatures range from 65°F to 88°F, making late spring and early fall the most comfortable camping periods.
What to do
Hiking trails connection: Dr. Edmund A. Babler Memorial State Park offers miles of hiking and biking trails directly accessible from campsites. According to one camper, "The hiking trails are plentiful and quiet. The campground was updated and the facilities were clean." Another reviewer noted, "There are miles of hiking/paved biking/equestrian trails, picnic shelters, a playground, and ball fields."
Wine country exploration: Klondike Park provides access to Missouri's wine region. "Klondike park is a gorgeous park along the Katy Trail in Augusta, MO... There is a winery nearby," reports one camper. The park's location makes it ideal for wine enthusiasts: "This Campground places you in the heart of Missouri Wine Country and there's a perfect base for visiting the wineries and restaurants along highway 94."
Water activities: St. Charles County Klondike Park offers fishing and water recreation opportunities. "We had a great time on the trails and near the Mighty Missouri River," shares one reviewer. Another notes, "A nice little park near the Katy Trail. Great fishing pond by the campground."
What campers like
Privacy variations: Campsites at Babler State Park offer different levels of seclusion. One reviewer reports, "Sites 52-75 are much more treed and have a private feel to them. It seems this is where most of the tent campers like to be." For those seeking privacy, note that "Sites at the ends of cul-de-sacs provide the most seclusion from neighboring campers."
Natural settings: Brazil Creek provides a secluded environment for primitive camping. "Beautiful clear water creek runs directly behind this 'pull off' campground," says one camper. Another explains, "One of the sites is the 'Creme De'la Creme' with tie out areas for your horses, plenty of tent and trailer parking space and a short walk to a crystal clear steam just deep enough to dangle your tired legs in."
Family-friendly amenities: McCully Heritage Project offers affordable family camping with amenities. "Super inexpensive for the space that you get. Free firewood. We have only stayed at the largest site as it has good fishing and a place for us to launch our paddleboards and kayaks," notes one visitor. Another adds, "I just love the bridge across the pond. We had a picnic and the kids got to play on the playground equipment."
What you should know
Seasonal facility changes: At Babler State Park, amenities vary by season. "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, regardless of when the last freeze is was inconvenient for a spring break trip," reports one visitor. During winter months (November-March), sites are less expensive but have fewer amenities.
Wildlife encounters: Raccoons are active in several campgrounds near Ballwin. One camper at Babler State Park notes, "I would say the only issue is the raccoons. They dont give a darn who you are. They will walk right up to, smile, and take your chips. Scandalous!" At McCully Heritage Project, a reviewer advises, "Watch for ticks."
Access limitations: Little Lost Creek Conservation Area has specific closures and no facilities. "The conservation area is closed to camping during various hunting seasons (I ran into a hunter scoping out his turkey hunting spot for the following week's hunt)," cautions a camper. They add, "There is a great hike down into a valley with the actual Lost Creek at the bottom, completely worth the hard hike back up out of the valley."
Tips for camping with families
Group camping options: For larger family gatherings, consider specialized sites. Old Cove offers designated group camping: "If you are looking for a place for a group to go and have a fun float trip, this is it. They are only open on weekends and by reservation. They only offer group campsites, which is why the camping rate is so high. It is $50/night for 10 people."
Kid-friendly activities: McCully Heritage Project offers child-oriented amenities. "Ten dollars a night helps maintain land and natural area, all donation, very family oriented," says one camper. Another mentions, "I just love the bridge across the pond. We had a picnic and the kids got to play on the playground equipment."
Security considerations: Some of the best tent camping near Ballwin, Missouri feels surprisingly remote despite proximity to urban areas. At Klondike Park, a reviewer noted, "Amazing park close to the city. Great lake and hiking trails." This balance of accessibility and natural setting makes for convenient family camping without lengthy travel times.
Tips from RVers
Site selection guidance: At Babler State Park, RV sites have specific characteristics to consider. "The camp hosts we encountered are very helpful and have a list of site lengths and can tell you which ones are appropriate for large RVs," shares one RVer. Another notes, "All campsites and patios are paved and level with a comfortable amount of space between sites."
Hookup information: William R. Logan Conservation Area offers primitive camping suitable for small RVs. "Free primitive campground near a lake in William Logan. No frills camping at about 8-10 sites near the main entrance off Route RA, with most being in an open circle configuration with the main road cutting through the middle," explains a reviewer. For those needing hookups, Babler State Park offers electric sites with 30-amp or 50-amp service at different price points.
Road access considerations: Some campgrounds have challenging access roads. At Babler State Park, a visitor warns, "The signage is not great and the visitor center was closed so there was no one to ask directions. We ended up dragging our camper through the whole park before we found the road to the campgrounds."
