Glamping options near Earth City, Missouri offer modern comforts within 30 minutes of urban attractions. The area sits at approximately 450 feet above sea level in the Mississippi River floodplain, creating a flat terrain with scattered wooded areas ideal for year-round camping. Winter temperatures typically range from 20-40°F, while summer months reach 80-95°F with moderate humidity.
What to do
Hiking at Greensfelder County Park: Located 30 minutes west of Earth City, this park features well-marked trails with varying difficulty levels. "The trails are well marked maps available Awsome views and a cool trail by six flags this park is busy with hikers and bikers I'd say 90% of them are polite and yield to horses," notes Alicia B. from Greensfelder County Park.
Fishing at Cuivre River State Park: This state park offers fishing opportunities in its lake about 50 minutes from Earth City. "This campground has a lake you can rent kayaks for. They have a small store at the check in booth. It also has an accessible fishing dock that is covered," explains Kayla S., who visited Cuivre River State Park Campground.
Biking along Pere Marquette trails: The park sits along the Great River Road with biking opportunities. "There is a bike trail passes by the front. Lots of historical buildings built by the Civilian Conservation Corps in the 1930's," mentions Annie C. The park offers a mix of recreation with historical elements.
What campers like
Family activities at Jellystone Park: This family-oriented glamping destination near Earth City provides structured entertainment for children. "They also host daily kids activities and crafts. A very family friendly campground and would highly recommend if camping with kids!" explains Lindsey R., who visited Yogi Bear's Jellystone Park Resort At Six Flags.
Wildlife viewing at Horseshoe Lake: Located 30 minutes east of Earth City, this park offers excellent wildlife observation opportunities. "Horseshoe Lake is one of my most visited parks and most favorite park in the STL and surrounding areas. First off absolutely beautiful land and peace is easily achieved," shares Travis, who appreciates the natural setting at Horseshoe Lake State Park Campground.
Security and amenities at 370 Lakeside Park: The campground offers well-maintained facilities with staff available around the clock. "The staff is SUPER NICE AND CARING. Example 1: There was some rough springtime weather expected one day. A park ranger went around to every site and notified every camper of where the shelters were and gave out a flyer about the specific weather forecast!" reports Mats, highlighting the attentive service.
What you should know
Seasonal flooding concerns: Some campgrounds in the Earth City area are vulnerable to flooding, particularly in spring. "One of the downsides to this location is that it is prone to flooding. It was out of commission for most of the summer of 2019 as the entire area was flooded," shares Annie C. about 370 Lakeside Park.
Limited shade at newer sites: Established in recent years, some glamping areas haven't developed mature tree canopies yet. "It seems to be new, and there are trees planted, but it will be awhile before they provide any shade," notes Susan L.
Train noise at certain locations: Several campgrounds near Earth City experience railroad traffic. "Not to bad. The bathroom down the hill was in dire need of a remodel when we stayed here in 2019 and be prepared for a lot of noise from the busy main road and passing trains in the near distance," warns Brian W. about St. Louis West / Historic Route 66 KOA.
Tips for camping with families
Off-season planning: Consider camping during spring or fall for fewer crowds and moderate temperatures. "We spent a weekend here while visiting my wife's parents who live outside of St. Louis. We were looking for somewhere to do a quick get away, and to do some hiking," shares Andrew S. about his experience at Pere Marquette State Park.
Wildlife viewing opportunities: Earth City's surrounding parks offer excellent wildlife spotting for children. "We saw bunnies hopping around and when we first arrived to our site a deer was grazing nearby, such a bonus!" reports Maria E. after her visit to Cuivre River State Park.
Budget-friendly primitive options: For families comfortable with basic amenities, Horseshoe Lake provides affordable glamping. "Peaceful tent camping on Walkers Island at $8 per day," notes ML W., highlighting the value available at this location.
Tips from RVers
Site selection considerations: When glamping near Earth City in an RV, research site dimensions carefully. "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 Matthew H. from his stay at Greensfelder County Park. He adds, "sites are reservable" but warns that "most sites back up to main road."
Power management awareness: Not all sites provide the same electrical capabilities. "2-20 amp plugs and 1-30amp plug... site 29 only have 2-20 amp plugs no 30 didn't realized till we parked. Only this one doesn't have 30," cautions Matthew H. about the electrical setup at Greensfelder County Park.
Location convenience: Some Earth City area glamping locations offer strategic placement for both city access and outdoor recreation. "Well maintained and well managed park. Staff on duty at all hours is awesome! We called ahead but didn't need a reservation. Five minutes from food and stores. 30 minutes from downtown Saint Louis," reports Nathaniel B. about his experience at 370 Lakeside Park.
