RV campgrounds around De Soto, Missouri offer varying experiences within the Ozark foothills region, where elevations range from 500 to 1,000 feet. Most campgrounds in this area experience temperature fluctuations of 20-30 degrees between day and night, particularly in spring and fall. Winter camping remains available at several RV parks that maintain year-round operations with concrete pads that help manage the region's occasionally muddy conditions.
What to do
Katy Trail access: Beyond the Trail RV Park sits adjacent to the 240-mile Katy Trail, allowing for direct access to biking and hiking. "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," notes one camper who stayed at the park.
Brewery visits: Several campgrounds position visitors within walking distance of local breweries. "Brewery just on the other side of the campground with good beer and food," reports a visitor at Beyond the Trail RV Park. The proximity eliminates driving concerns when sampling local craft beers.
Fishing opportunities: Pin Oak RV Park maintains a stocked pond for guests. "Nice little lake to fish in and areas to walk around in," mentions one reviewer. The catch-and-release pond provides recreational fishing without requiring a Missouri fishing license.
What campers like
Concrete camping pads: Multiple campgrounds feature concrete sites that remain level regardless of weather. "Level concrete sites with FHU near downtown St. Louis. Sites are close together, with some shade," reports a camper about Cahokia RV Parque, highlighting the stability these surfaces offer during rain.
Gateway Arch views: Casino Queen RV Park provides distinctive views of St. Louis landmarks. "Even though this RV park is in a city, we felt safe. And its view of the Gateway Arch can't be beat," shares a visitor who appreciated the urban camping experience and proximity to downtown attractions.
Clean bathhouse facilities: St. Peters' 370 Lakeside Park maintains well-regarded shower buildings. "Beautiful coded bathrooms with showers. They were heated and warm and very well marked," notes a reviewer who appreciated the quality facilities despite the park having relatively young trees with minimal shade.
What you should know
Highway noise levels: Several campgrounds sit close to major highways, creating ambient noise. "If you love the sound of freeways this is the place for you," cautions a visitor about RV Self-Park, highlighting how proximity to Interstate 44 creates a constant background sound at many area campgrounds.
Airport approach paths: Sundermeier RV Park sits under flight paths for Lambert International Airport. "On Lambert international airports flight path, next to a major train trestle, right next to Highway 370," explains one reviewer, noting the multiple noise sources that affect this otherwise well-maintained facility.
Seasonal flooding concerns: Low-lying areas near rivers occasionally experience flooding issues. "While we were there they had a record rainfall amount and the park apparently already has flooding issues," reports a camper at Covered Bridge RV Park, though they appreciated staff who proactively warned campers and offered alternative sites during high water.
Tips for camping with families
Recreational rentals: St. Peters' 370 Lakeside Park offers equipment rentals that eliminate the need to transport recreation gear. "They have an archery range. They rent out peddle boats, bikes and peddle cars/buggies as well. We rented a peddle buggy. Those are a lot harder to get moving than they look. Awesome workout for the whole family!" shares an enthusiastic visitor.
Playground access: Pin Oak RV Park maintains play areas for children. "A nice private catch and release pond, an old little mini golf setup, a small (but adequate) swimming pool kept the kids busy," notes a reviewer who appreciated the family-friendly amenities despite the somewhat crowded sites.
Wildlife viewing opportunities: The region offers chances to observe diverse animals. "You can see all kinds of wildlife in and around the lake- deer, bald eagles, pelicans, ducks, snakes," reports a visitor to St. Peters' 370 Lakeside Park, providing families with nature observation opportunities without special equipment.
Tips from RVers
Water pressure variations: Water systems at campgrounds in the region can deliver unexpectedly high pressure. "The water pressure was so strong that I could barely open the water pump!" cautions a visitor to St. Peters' 370 Lakeside Park, suggesting RVers should use pressure regulators when connecting to local water supplies.
Hookup placement challenges: Some campgrounds have utilities positioned in ways that require extra preparation. "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," advises a camper who stayed at Casino Queen RV Park.
Big rig accessibility: Certain campgrounds accommodate larger RVs more effectively than others. "Spaces at the back of the property are large. Sites in the middle seemed more crowded," notes a reviewer about Meramec Valley Campground & RV Park, suggesting larger rigs request specific site areas when making reservations.
