Dog-friendly campgrounds near Chesterfield provide access to many outdoor recreation options within a 45-minute drive. The area sits at approximately 500 feet above sea level in the rolling hills along the Missouri River, with moderate Midwest seasonal temperatures. Many local campgrounds experience high weekend occupancy rates during summer months, with some sites booking 2-3 months in advance.
What to do
Hiking trails at Pere Marquette State Park: The park features multiple difficulty levels of hiking trails with river overlooks. "This park has great hiking for Illinois. The campground has 88 sites total 1-85 are either 30 amp or 50 amp electric sites. These are the class A sites $20 a night, they also have about 15 Class C sites for tents with no electric for $8 a night," notes Michael M. about Pere Marquette State Park Campground.
Katy Trail access: Several pet-friendly campsites provide direct trail connections. "Beyond the Trail RV Park is right next to the Katy Trail. Forgot your bike? Walk 3 minutes away and rent one. Want to float the Missouri? They have a canoe outfitter on site," explains Annie C. about Beyond the Trail RV Park.
Fishing opportunities: Several campgrounds offer stocked ponds or river access. "Great fishing pond by the campground. Pay the extra $3 for a basic site- they have really nice covered picnic tables," says Annie C. about Klondike Park.
What campers like
Proximity to attractions: Many campgrounds serve as convenient bases for exploring St. Louis attractions. "Best campsite we've found to explore STL. Well maintained and well managed park. Staff on duty at all hours is awesome! We called ahead but didn't need a reservation," writes Nathaniel B. about St. Peters' 370 Lakeside Park.
Water recreation options: Several parks offer boating, kayaking and swimming. "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," reports Joseph F.
Historic towns access: Many campgrounds sit near charming river towns with dining and shopping. "Just a place to park the camper and sleep. Big rig friendly for sure. Went back to see the Arch Natl park and down into historic St. Charles. Beautiful historic town with plenty to see and do, with a casino past that," notes Fred R. about Sundermeier RV Park.
What you should know
Reservation requirements: Most campgrounds require advance booking during peak season. "Lucky to get spot on Friday night. Nice level concrete pads but definitely a bit crowded. Lots of big rigs. Very nice folks who checked us in," reports Beachy about Sundermeier RV Park.
Weather considerations: Low-lying campgrounds may experience flooding issues. "A few of the campsites will flood, not bad enough to get to your camper, but just enough to be annoying," warns Adam F. about Beyond the Trail RV Park.
Noise levels: Many campgrounds experience road, train or airport noise. "It is near a highway, there a railroad bridge right next to it, and it is under the airport flight path. The planes and trains stopped after about 10-11pm I think. The lower# sites are closer to the trains, and the higher# sites were further away," explains Bea.
Tips for camping with families
Kids activities: Several parks offer family-oriented programming. "We stayed here last minute for Labor Day Weekend and the staff were great with finding us a good tent site available. This is not a rugged style campground as there are many amenities such as a pool, putt putt golf, volleyball, and more. They also host daily kids activities and crafts," recommends Lindsey R. about Yogi Bear's Jellystone Park Resort At Six Flags.
Swimming options: Many parks feature swimming areas suitable for children. "370 Lakeside Park has a nice bathhouse with free showers for the campers and pay laundry. If you are lucky, you can get a site close to the water, but it means the walking trail is right next to your unit," explains Annie C.
Playground access: Several pet-friendly campgrounds include playground facilities. "There is boating and archery on site, a dog run, and a small playground. My only complaint is the poorly thought out sink situation in the bathrooms," shares Suzie S.
Tips from RVers
Site selection: Carefully research site specifications before booking. "Only sites 20-29 at Greensfelder County Park 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)," advises Matthew H. about Greensfelder County Park.
Water pressure management: Some parks have very strong water systems. "The water pressure was so strong that I could barely open the water pump," notes Susan L. about St. Peters' 370 Lakeside Park.
Hookup locations: Several parks have unusual utility placement. "Our water hook up and electric hookup was significantly far apart. May be site specific," warns GW C. about camping at Jellystone Park.
