Campgrounds near Earth City, Missouri sit at elevations averaging 450-500 feet in the Mississippi River floodplain, where summer temperatures typically range from 75-90°F. The area's position at the confluence of the Missouri and Mississippi Rivers creates a network of camping options within 30-45 minutes of Earth City, with many sites requiring elevation considerations during spring flooding months.
What to do
Fishing access: At Pere Marquette State Park Campground, anglers can utilize the covered accessible fishing dock. "The sites for full hook ups are separate from the other sites," notes Kayla S., making it convenient to bring fishing gear and still enjoy full amenities.
Biking opportunities: The Katy Trail access from St. Louis West / Historic Route 66 KOA provides extensive cycling options. "Quick one night stop along our road trip. Decent tent sites, standard ones are definitely more private than those with electric and water," reports Danielle C., highlighting the trail-adjacent camping benefits.
Gateway Arch viewing: From Draft Kings at Casino Queen RV Park, campers can see the St. Louis skyline. "Secure overnight park just outside of STL. Phenomenal views of downtown and the arch, and fairly easy access to I-55/64/70," explains Scott C., noting this urban camping option offers concrete pads with this iconic view.
What campers like
Proximity to metropolitan amenities: Sundermeier RV Park places campers within walking distance of historic downtown areas. "You are a stones throw away from Katy trail which will take you to downtown St. Charles. The trail is about 1.5-2 miles to get to downtown. You can bike or walk there," shares Brian A.
Lake activities: At St. Peters' 370 Lakeside Park, the lake provides recreational opportunities beyond camping. "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!" explains Barbie B., highlighting the multi-use nature of the park.
On-site food options: Campers at Cahokia RV Parque appreciate the convenience of dining options. "Our favorite part of this park is the onsite Sawmill BBQ restaurant. While we prepare most of our meals, we were so tired; we decided to give the joint a try and, wow, are we glad we did! Delicious food for a reasonable price!" shares Jenni W.
What you should know
Noise considerations: Train and airport noise affects multiple campgrounds near Earth City. At Sundermeier RV Park, one camper noted, "You are on the final approach for the airport, so I'll could be a lil noisy for some."
Seasonal closures: Some facilities have limited shoulder-season availability. "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," explains Archie S. about Dr. Edmund A. Babler Memorial State Park Campground.
Electrical safety issues: Check electrical connections at campgrounds. At Sundermeier RV Park, a camper with engineering experience warned, "DO NOT use the 30A receptacles here unless you have a surge protector with an Electrical Management System (EMS) that explicitly confirms correct wiring before connecting your RV."
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Several campgrounds offer dedicated play areas. "There is a pool, bike rentals, dog park, movie night, basketball court, and more," notes Crystal H. about St. Louis West / Historic Route 66 KOA, making it suitable for active families.
Wildlife viewing opportunities: Cuivre River State Park offers nature encounters for kids. "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!" reports Maria E.
Security considerations: For families concerned about safety in urban camping areas, Casino Queen RV Park offers security features. "Very clean and secure overnight park...Facilities lacked some amenities (only vending machines, convenience store has shut down), but clean, paved, level sites with full hookups throughout," explains Scott C.
Tips from RVers
Pad construction: St. Peters' 370 Lakeside Park offers varying pad types. "Beautiful area next to a man-made lake. Concrete pads with full hookups, as well as dirt pads with full hookups," notes Ernest G., giving RVers options based on their preferences.
Utility placement: At Casino Queen RV Park, utilities have unique positioning. "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," warns Josh F.
Gate code systems: Multiple RV parks use coded entry systems. At Casino Queen RV Park, "You need a code to get in the gate, so you must register in advance," explains Richard H., underscoring the importance of advance reservations.
