Defiance, Missouri sits at the eastern edge of the Ozark Mountain region with an elevation ranging from 400-700 feet above sea level. The area experiences all four seasons with hot, humid summers and mild to cool winters, making camping possible nearly year-round. Most glamping accommodations in the region stay open through mid-October, with a few offering heated options during cooler months.
What to do
Hiking at multiple skill levels: Greensfelder County Park offers well-marked trails used by hikers, mountain bikers, and equestrians. "This is a well maintained park with plenty of activities and close to all the luxuries that a town can offer, lots of amenities nearby or on site," notes a visitor to Greensfelder County Park.
Cave exploration: Located about 90 minutes from Defiance, Meramec Caverns Natural Campground combines camping with unique underground adventures. "The cave tour is a bit hokey, but if you can look past the mannequins and silliness, the caves themselves are really spectacular. You can definitely see why Jesse and Frank James used this as a hideout," explains a reviewer at Meramec Caverns Natural Campground.
Water activities on multiple lakes: Paddleboats, kayaks and canoes are available for rent at several parks. "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 then they look. Awesome workout for the whole family!" shares a camper about St. Peters' 370 Lakeside Park.
What campers like
Year-round accessibility: Several state parks in the region maintain camping operations throughout winter. "Great well maintained state park right outside of St Louis. Park has an awesome trail system around the lake, and it looks like you can rent canoes/kayaks in the summer (was not open in the winter)," notes a visitor to Cuivre River State Park Campground.
Varied glamping options: The region offers multiple cabin and luxury camping styles. "There is 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 a reviewer about St. Peters' 370 Lakeside Park.
Wildlife viewing opportunities: Campsites often provide nature encounters. "Campground is beautiful and very woodsy. We saw bunnies hopping around and when we first arrived to our site a deer was grazing nearby, such a bonus!" shares a camper at Cuivre River State Park Campground.
What you should know
Seasonal considerations: Some facilities close during colder months. "Not having water available except at the camp host, and no open restrooms and showers until after April 1, regardless of when the last freeze is was inconvenient for a spring break trip," advises a visitor to Dr. Edmund A. Babler Memorial State Park Campground.
Noise factors: Highway proximity affects some camping experiences. "Close to train tracks and highway, but didn't notice with AC on in the camper," reports a camper at St. Louis West / Historic Route 66 KOA.
Varying shade availability: Newer campgrounds may lack mature trees. "The park has planted some trees, but they are really just saplings, so there is no shade yet," notes a camper about St. Peters' 370 Lakeside Park.
Tips for camping with families
Activity packages: Many glamping sites offer family entertainment bundles. "You can get a band allowing your kids to do games of mini-golf, free train rides on the Yogi Bear Express Train, two arcade tokens, and a discount on Pizza at the Snack Shack," explains a visitor to Yogi Bear's Jellystone Park Resort At Six Flags.
Swimming options: Several parks feature lakes with designated swimming areas. "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. Kids had a blast riding bikes," shares a camper at St. Peters' 370 Lakeside Park.
Educational opportunities: Historical sites add learning dimensions to camping trips. "The Lewis & Clark expedition started nearby," notes a visitor to Pere Marquette State Park about its historical significance.
Tips from RVers
Site selection strategy: For larger rigs, specific campground areas work better. "Only sites 20-29 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 an RVer about Greensfelder County Park.
Power considerations: Different campgrounds offer varying electrical capabilities. "No 50 amps, no dump but KOA and RV dealer 5-7 mins away," notes a camper about Greensfelder County Park's limitations for larger RVs.
Water pressure variations: Some campgrounds have particularly strong water systems. "The water pressure was so strong that I could barely open the water pump!" warns an RVer about St. Peters' 370 Lakeside Park.
