Campgrounds near Earth City, Missouri primarily cluster along the Missouri and Mississippi Rivers, offering a range of accommodations from RV parks to tent camping areas. St. Peters' 370 Lakeside Park provides tent sites, RV hookups, cabin rentals, and glamping options just north of Earth City, while Sundermeier RV Park in St. Charles offers convenient access to the historic downtown area and the Katy Trail. Many of these mixed-use campgrounds feature level concrete pads for RVs alongside more primitive areas for tent camping, creating diverse options for overnight stays within 30 minutes of St. Louis.
Many campgrounds in the Earth City area require advance reservations, particularly during warmer months when riverside locations become popular. "The park is beautiful and a very short walk over to the cave and ziplines. There is easy access to the river and you are able to easily put in your kayak or small boat," noted one visitor about a nearby campground. Flooding presents a significant seasonal consideration, with several reviewers mentioning campground closures during high water periods. The region's proximity to St. Louis International Airport and major highways also impacts the camping experience, with several reviewers mentioning noise from planes, trains, and traffic at sites closest to the city, particularly at Sundermeier RV Park and Casino Queen RV Park.
Campgrounds with Katy Trail access receive consistently high marks from visitors seeking both outdoor recreation and urban amenities. Several parks position campers within walking distance of wineries, breweries, and historic downtowns. A recent review highlighted this benefit: "Loved this location, clean, micro brewery outside the gate. Immediate access to Katy trail. Bring your bikes or rent e-bikes in town." For those seeking quieter surroundings, Dr. Edmund A. Babler Memorial State Park Campground provides a more secluded setting despite its proximity to the metropolitan area. As one camper observed, "Tucked away, not far from St. Louis, you wouldn't know you were that close to a big city." Many reviewers note the trade-off between convenience and atmosphere, with waterfront sites offering scenic views but sometimes lacking shade due to their newer development status.
$35 - $60 / night
"I've been to 370 Lakeside Park many times to walk around the huge lake and to hear concerts in the summer, but I had never camped there. Still haven't. I'll explain."
"All hookups were conveniently located. Shower house and restrooms were clean and well maintained/cleaned every day. Had a lakefront site but didn’t get to fish this time."
$56 - $61 / night
"We were able to park next to our 5th wheel with enough room to not feel crowded while using the picnic bench. Also the site was level. We stayed for a week to enjoy St. Louis, St."
"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."
$10 - $20 / night
"Pere Marquette Campground is a little gym, just past Grafton, Missouri. It is located in the Great River Road, and within 10 minutes to restaurants and bars."
"Great little campground just outside of Grafton, Illinois, on the Mississippi River. The campground is located in an open grove of old trees. There were owls when we were there."
$15 - $35 / night
"Tucked away, not far from St. Louis, you wouldn't know you were that close to a big city. It is clean and feels extremely safe. There aren't many sites, but the ones they have are quiet and spacious."
"Great for taking long walks or bike rides, although very steep hills. Close to St Louis, so you can do some urban exploring."
"Our site was gravel to park on with grass around it. Close to train tracks and highway, but didn’t notice with AC on in the camper. Close to 6 flags."
"This campground is fairly close to downtown and very close to lots of shopping. A great place to stay to stock up on supplies before heading west."
$65 / night
"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."
"Close to the arch, that’s why we chose this place to stay overnight."
"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."
"Lots of dogs tied up, but with owners nearby. Some still “bolt” at you when you walk by. Could be less littered. Our site had lots of litter when we pulled in."
"Conveniently located just outside of St Louis. We camped here for a trip to the city for St Louis cardinals game and zoo. My kids loved the jumping pillow at the park."
"It's not in the prettiest location, very industrial and the train tracks run close. First night one came through blowing its horns around 5am."
$25 / night
"Lakeside is down the road to fill up. No shade and smaller sights great access to the rivers. Site 17 accommodate a 38ft fifth wheel will just hang over the back a little to fit."
ScoutStaff is very friendly and great at their jobs. Bathroom was clean and nice. Gets a little crowded but it's still fairly small so not too crowded. Can't speak much for RV camping, but tent/car camping was better than some other state park sites.
LegendWe enjoyed the family site with another friend. It was good for a tent and 26 foot rv. Not a good big rig campground. It has tight turning and narrow roads. We took out kayak on the river for a float. Dirty water. Good hiking.
LegendI love this park for the dogwood trees in the spring. Reservations are highly recommend especially if you have a large rig and during summer river floating season. Don't use the back loop with a rig larger than 25 feet. You have to thread the needle between wiggly trees. Great hiking here too and a cave!
ScoutTicks are soooo bad, def bring bug spray. There's also a DG and a gas station within 5 mins so that's a huge plus
LegendI love this campground for its wooded and more rugged feel. It is beautiful in early spring when the dogwood trees are in bloom. It has a nice lake for kayaks and paddle boards. Campaigns are great with nice amenities.
LegendWe have stayed at this campground so many times and love it. Cell service is excellent enabling me to work from my rv. It is close to anything you would need, but secluded enough and surrounded by huge trees and hiking trails. I have also rented a pavillion for a party.
ScoutPower / water at sites, single dump site available, at far end of runway, trees around all sites. Has a bathroom / shower / laundry bld. Nice for short visits. Annoying for more than a week.
TravelerSecluded campsites. Even though they are close together, the dense trees isolate them visually from each other. We did have a neighbor with loud dogs that were very annoying
ScoutWe spent a week at this location. It has a great level slab to park your camper. They also have a wonderful fenced in area for horses as well as a fenced in area where you park your camper. Let your dogs run free!
Sarah and Justin were very attentive hosts. They live on the property but are not so close that you know they are there. They also raise chickens and sell their fresh eggs! If you need a secure place for your dogs or horses, this spot is perfect!
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.
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.
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.
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."
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.
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.
Frequently Asked Questions
What camping is available near Earth City, MO?
According to TheDyrt.com, Earth City, MO offers a wide range of camping options, with 73 campgrounds and RV parks near Earth City, MO and 1 free dispersed camping spot.
Which is the most popular campground near Earth City, MO?
According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular campground near Earth City, MO is St. Peters' 370 Lakeside Park with a 4.6-star rating from 26 reviews.
Where can I find free dispersed camping near Earth City, MO?
According to TheDyrt.com, there is 1 free dispersed camping spot near Earth City, MO.
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