Greensfelder County Park provides equestrian camping options within St. Louis County, about 30 minutes west of Chesterfield. The park's terrain features wooded hills and valleys with elevations ranging from 500 to 850 feet. Trail difficulty varies from easy access paths to more challenging routes with steep grades, particularly after rainfall when certain trails can become muddy and slippery.
What to do
Hiking at Cuivre River State Park: Located about an hour from Chesterfield, the park offers extensive trail systems through diverse terrain. "Cuivre river is about an hour outside St.Louis and offers a multitude of outdoor options from hiking, biking, boating and fishing. The trails are fantastic and have different levels for all," notes Chad K. in his review of Cuivre River State Park Campground.
Fishing opportunities: Many campgrounds near Chesterfield feature accessible fishing areas. At Daniel Boone Conservation Area, "There's some stocked ponds to fish in and trails to explore. We rode the Katy Trail which is only 3.5 miles down the hill from here," writes Erik R. about Daniel Boone Conservation Area.
Water activities: Several campgrounds offer water recreation beyond fishing. At Blue Spring Ranch, visitors can enjoy "a 5 mile float which is the perfect amount of time on the river," according to Erin G., who adds they "average 3-4 trips a year here!" The river activities complement the equestrian focus found at other campgrounds.
What campers like
Proximity to attractions: Many campgrounds serve as convenient bases for exploring regional highlights. Jan S. notes that St. Louis West / Historic Route 66 KOA is "close to Saint Louis, Six Flags, and hiking," making it ideal for those wanting to combine camping with area attractions.
Spacious sites: Campers frequently mention appreciating ample space at certain campgrounds. At McCully Heritage Project, Eric writes, "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."
Clean facilities: Well-maintained bathrooms and shower facilities rank high on campers' priority lists. Mary D. mentions at Route 66 KOA that "separate handicap shower facilities are always a huge plus for us. Bathrooms were clean," highlighting accessibility features not available at all horse campgrounds near Chesterfield.
What you should know
Seasonal considerations: Campground conditions vary throughout the year. Annie C. notes about Greensfelder County Park: "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."
Reservation requirements: Some campgrounds fill quickly, especially during peak seasons. As Crystal H. explains, "You can bring your RV, travel trailer, tent camp, or stay in a cabin. Most of the sites are in the shade and are fairly level."
Noise factors: Several campgrounds experience noise from nearby roads or attractions. Brian W. warns, "be prepared for a lot of noise from the busy main road and passing trains in the near distance," when staying at certain sites.
Tips for camping with families
Amenities for children: Some campgrounds offer specific features for younger visitors. At Lost Valley Lake Resort, Joshua R. reports, "They are extremely family friendly, they have an indoor pool, hot tubs, and sona, an outdoor pool and hot tubs, inflatable jump pillows, concerts almost every weekend."
Swimming options: Water features provide recreation for families. Cyndi O. describes Lost Valley Lake: "Summer time swimming at 1 outdoor pool and 2 swimming beaches at the lake. You can rent paddle boats, canoes, kayaks and fishing boats."
Educational opportunities: Several parks offer nature education experiences. One visitor at McCully Heritage Project mentions, "We had a picnic and the kids got to play on the playground equipment," making it suitable for a day trip from equestrian campgrounds around Chesterfield.
Tips from RVers
Site dimensions: RVers should check specific site measurements before booking. At Cherokee Landing, reviews indicate it's "good for a lazy float" with sites that accommodate various RV sizes, though some note that "the electrical connection was a bit iffy."
Hookup availability: Different campgrounds offer varying levels of services. Matthew H. notes about Greensfelder, "Only sites 20-29 have electric and 28 can't be reserved... No water at sites, no 50 amps, no dump but KOA and RV dealer 5-7 mins away."
Access considerations: Road conditions impact RV accessibility. Timmy C. writes about Daniel Boone Conservation Area, "Gravel roads to the campsites are well maintained... You could easily get an RV or camper around the roads. The way I came was a little weird with some awkward turns that might be tricky for a less experienced operator."
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