Camping sites near Dutzow, Missouri are nestled in the eastern foothills of the Ozark Mountains with elevations ranging from 500-700 feet above sea level. The area experiences distinct seasons with humid summers reaching 90°F and winters dropping to 20°F, making spring and fall prime camping seasons. Most campgrounds in the region operate in wooded settings that provide natural shade during summer months.
What to Do
Hiking the trail systems: Robertsville State Park features hiking trails that lead down to the Meramec River. "There's also a lake within a few minutes walking, although the current was too strong to swim we were told it's home to many large catfish," notes one camper at Robertsville State Park.
Biking adventures: The Katy Trail connects many campsites, making it ideal for cycling enthusiasts. "This is a nice quiet campground but located in a sleepy little winery town. It is just a few minutes from the main part of town with multiple beautiful wineries within a few miles," shares a visitor to Beyond the Trail RV Park.
Fishing opportunities: Several parks offer fishing in stocked ponds or river access. "Nice little lake to fish in and areas to walk around in," mentions a camper at Pin Oak RV Park, while another visitor to Cuivre River State Park notes, "The campground has a lake you can rent kayaks for. They also have an accessible fishing dock that is covered."
What Campers Like
Proximity to breweries: Many campgrounds are located near craft breweries. "Just on the other side of the trail is a great brewery with a fantastic patio and rooftop deck. We walked there a few times to enjoy pizza," explains a camper at Beyond the Trail RV Park.
Clean shower facilities: St. Charles County Klondike Park receives praise for its amenities. One camper reports, "Best campsite ever! Even has a shared camp kitchen very clean showers house very spacious some campsites are close together but everyone seemed nice."
Weekend activities: Campgrounds frequently host events that appeal to families. "We go every October for Halloween. Staff and owners are great lots to do for the kids," mentions a visitor at Pin Oak RV Park, while another notes, "Saturday night they had a band making noise for 3 hours!"
What You Should Know
Train noise considerations: Several campgrounds are situated near railroad tracks. A visitor to St. Louis West / Historic Route 66 KOA advises, "Close to train tracks and highway, but didn't notice with AC on in the camper," while another mentions "it will be even better when they invent silent trains."
Wildlife encounters: Raccoons are active at many campsites. A camper at Babler Memorial State Park warns, "The only issue is the raccoons. They don't give a darn who you are. They will walk right up to, smile, and take your chips. Scandalous!"
Reservation requirements: Most popular sites require advance booking. "Reservations are required and the sites are in high demand," notes a camper about St. Charles County Klondike Park, especially during peak summer and fall months when winery visitors are most active.
Tips for Camping with Families
Activity planning: Dr. Edmund A. Babler Memorial State Park offers numerous family-friendly options. "The park has a lot to offer. The trails are not too long but can be challenging for small kids or folks that are not used to hiking," explains one visitor.
Site selection: Choose campsites carefully based on privacy needs. "Sites 13-33 are popular open and sunny campsites with nice grassy areas between them. In contrast sites 52-75 are much more treed and have a private feel to them," advises a camper at Babler Memorial State Park.
Kid-friendly attractions: Several campgrounds offer special features for children. A visitor to Jellystone Park describes it as "more fun than Six Flags" with "swimming, games, lots of activities and you can go from rustic rent a tent to a really nice cabin with lots amenities!"
Tips from RVers
Hookup locations: Check utility placement before setting up. At Pin Oak RV Park, one camper noted, "Our water hook up and electric hookup was significantly far apart," which can cause issues depending on cord and hose lengths.
Leveling challenges: Many sites in the region require equipment for leveling. "The sites are level, and there is plenty of shade," mentions a visitor to Pin Oak RV Park, while Robertsville State Park campers caution, "Make sure you bring plenty of cribbing" as "the lots are pretty uneven."
Off-season considerations: Winter camping offers different amenities. "The campground is open year-round but the bathhouse with flush toilets closes November 1 and doesn't open until the spring. During the winter the only water spigot is available near the camp hosts at site #36," advises a Babler Memorial State Park visitor.
