Best Campgrounds near Manchester, MO
Campgrounds surrounding Manchester, Missouri provide convenient access to outdoor experiences while remaining close to urban amenities. Dr. Edmund A. Babler Memorial State Park, located in nearby Wildwood, offers tent and RV camping with electric hookups and water available seasonally. Other options include St. Louis West/Historic Route 66 KOA and Greensfelder County Park, which provide a mix of accommodation types from traditional tent sites to glamping and yurts. Most established campgrounds in the area feature paved pads with picnic tables and fire rings, though amenities vary considerably between locations.
The camping season generally runs year-round at several campgrounds, though services may be limited during winter months. "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," noted one visitor. Weather conditions can change rapidly, particularly during spring when heavy rainfall may cause flooding issues at some locations like Covered Bridge RV Park. Most campgrounds require reservations, especially during peak summer months when sites fill quickly. Cell service is generally reliable throughout the region, with strong coverage reported at most established campgrounds.
Several mixed-use campgrounds in the area maintain paved roads and concrete pads ideal for RVs while still accommodating tent campers. Visitor feedback highlights the contrast between more developed options and natural settings: "Babler SP is one of those state parks that you just don't expect to see so close to a major city. The hiking trails are plentiful and quiet." Wildlife encounters are commonly mentioned in reviews, particularly at more wooded locations where raccoons and ticks can be problematic. Proximity to St. Louis attractions represents a significant advantage for campers wanting to combine outdoor experiences with urban activities, with most campgrounds being within 30-45 minutes of downtown attractions. Many camping areas provide hiking trails and basic amenities, though some sites offer more seclusion than others depending on their location and design.
