St. Louis RV parks and campgrounds offer direct access to metropolitan attractions while providing practical amenities in both Missouri and Illinois. Located at the confluence of the Mississippi and Missouri Rivers, the elevation ranges from 450 to 600 feet above sea level, creating varying camping conditions with seasonal flooding concerns in some areas. Most campgrounds remain accessible year-round with summer temperatures averaging 85-95°F and winter lows often dropping below freezing.
What to do
Visit historic St. Charles: Located near Sundermeier RV Park, this river town offers shops and dining options. "There is a park and lots of trails. Clean facility, store and nice paved spots... 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."
Explore wineries and breweries: The Defiance area near Beyond the Trail RV Park provides multiple options for wine enthusiasts. "A short 5 minute walk to 'downtown' Defiance, the campground 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. Need a cold beer or hot coffee, it's right next door at the local brew pub and coffee house."
Water recreation activities: Parks with lake access provide paddling opportunities. "St. Peters' 370 Lakeside Park rents 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."
What campers like
Security measures: Safety is a priority at several St. Louis area RV parks. "Very clean and secure overnight park just outside of STL. Phenomenal views of downtown and the arch, and fairly easy access to I-55/64/70. Facilities lacked some amenities, but clean, paved, level sites with full hookups throughout," notes a camper at Draft Kings at Casino Queen RV Park.
Proximity to attractions: Many parks provide convenient bases for exploring. "This is not a rural campground. It's a centrally located campground in the Metro St. Louis area. It's close to interstates and it's a short drive across the river to Missouri attractions. Getting in after a long drive and seeing the on-site BBQ restaurant was a huge positive."
Quality utilities: Reliable hookups matter to frequent campers. "Level gravel sites with FHU near downtown St. Louis. Sites are close together, with some shade," reports a visitor at Cahokia RV Parque. Another camper adds, "The water pressure was so strong that I could barely open the water pump!"
What you should know
Train and airport noise: Many St. Louis RV parks experience transportation noise. "Close to the arch, that's why we chose this place to stay overnight. Lots of noise from the interstate and there's a train that goes by a couple times in the middle of the night, but the view of the arch and downtown St Louis and access to both is fantastic." Another camper notes, "You are on the final approach for the airport, so it could be a lil noisy for some."
Flooding concerns: Several parks experience periodic flooding. "While we were there they had a record rainfall amount and the park apparently already has flooding issues so it was flooding pretty bad but also our RV was right next to a creek that had risen really high and was in danger of flooding our site completely," reports a camper at Covered Bridge RV Park.
Urban environments: Most St. Louis area campgrounds have an urban feel. "Spots are concrete and gravel, very urban camping. Casino is pretty old looking on the outside. Park is not staffed, you get a gate code in your email to access the park." Another camper shares, "It seems to be new, and there are trees planted, but it will be awhile before they provide any shade."
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Several parks offer play areas for children. "The grounds are clean and pleasant, if a bit sparse with little shade. There is boating and archery on site, a dog run, and a small playground," notes a visitor at St. Peters' 370 Lakeside Park.
Recreational equipment rentals: Bike and boat rentals provide family activities. "We rented a peddle buggy. Those are a lot harder to get moving then they look. Awesome workout for the whole family!" Another camper adds, "This is a great place to kayak and camp if you don't want to drive that fare and live in the city. We love going here and watching the sunsets."
Pool facilities: Some parks offer swimming options. "There is a pool, bike rentals, dog park, movie night, basketball court, and more. 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. The bathrooms were clean and well maintained."
Tips from RVers
Utility connection locations: Pay attention to hookup placement. "Utilities are set up weird on all sites - Water and electric are at the very rear of the site by the sewer, so you will need a decent sized hose to reach if your water intake is in the front of your camper." Another RVer notes, "The site services, electric, water and sewer, are located to the front of the site and extensions were needed for both the electric and sewer."
Big rig considerations: Several parks accommodate large rigs but vary in space. "Excellent little RV park behind a brewery. The Katy trail borders the park for easy access to town. Beautiful views across a large farm field to the hills beyond with incredible sunsets. Full hookups with both back in and pull through sites," notes a camper at Beyond the Trail RV Park.
On-site amenities: Some RV parks provide unexpected conveniences. "Full hookup sites on a mostly paved RV park. Big rigs fit easily. Some small areas of grass and trees with a dog walking area around the perimeter. Small play area for kids. Clean restroom/showers, but only a few of them. Your gate code can be used for the pool and gym at the casino in addition to the bathroom and laundry area."
