Tent campsites near St. Ann, Missouri range from primitive options to those with basic amenities, all within a 45-minute drive radius. The area experiences humid continental climate with hot summers where temperatures can reach above 90°F and mild winters with occasional snow. Most campgrounds in this region sit at elevations between 400-800 feet above sea level, creating varied terrain for hiking and camping.
What to do
Hiking trails: Dr. Edmund A. Babler Memorial State Park Campground offers several trail options for day hiking. "There are miles of hiking and biking trails right outside your doorstep and plenty of woods to explore," notes Nancy W., who appreciates the park's accessibility.
Mountain biking: Technical mountain bike sections are available at Klondike Park for riders of various skill levels. "One other really cool thing about Klondike is there are several technical mountain bike sections that are located in the park. Bring your mountain bike and have a go!" advises Megan K.
Fishing: While not all parks have fishing options, several camping areas provide access to stocked lakes. "Great fishing pond by the campground," mentions Annie C. about Klondike Park, making it a convenient option for anglers staying overnight.
Wine country exploration: Campsites near Augusta serve as excellent bases for exploring Missouri wine country. "This Campground places you in the heart of Missouri Wine Country and there's a perfect base for visiting the wineries and restaurants along highway 94," explains Marty C. about St. Charles County Klondike Park.
What campers like
Privacy options: Some tent sites offer more seclusion than others. "Sites 52-75 are much more treed and have a private feel to them. It seems this is where most of the tent campers like to be," reports Nancy W. about Babler State Park.
Cost effectiveness: Many campgrounds near St. Ann provide affordable camping options. "Ten dollars a night helps maintain land and natural area, all donation, very family oriented," says Michele G. about McCully Heritage Project, highlighting the value.
Proximity to Katy Trail: Cyclists especially appreciate camping locations with direct access to this popular trail. "I have bike-packed along the Katy and this is an excellent spot for an overnight(s) stay. It is a tough, but short, climb from the trail," shares Mike L. about the convenience of St. Charles County Klondike Park.
Clean facilities: Well-maintained bathroom and shower facilities matter to tent campers. "The shower house wash disappointingly dirty for as new as it was, but it was a busy holiday weekend," notes Annie C., providing a realistic assessment of Klondike Park during peak times.
What you should know
Site selection matters: Choose camping spots based on your priorities and 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," explains Nancy W. about the variety available at Babler State Park.
Seasonal facility limitations: Winter camping has reduced amenities at most locations. "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," shares Archie S. about his experience at Babler Memorial State Park.
Wildlife encounters: Be prepared for local wildlife at tent sites near St. Ann. "Fair warning- there is an active shooting range in the middle of the conservation area and it was BUSY when I was there," warns Annie C. about William R. Logan Conservation Area, highlighting unexpected activity.
Gate closures: Some parks have strict entrance policies. "The main gate closes at 9 p.m. but if you call ahead there is a code you are given....or you can contact the camp host," advises Lahree C. about access procedures at Babler State Park.
Tips for camping with families
Choose basic amenities: Families often need certain facilities for comfortable camping. "Plenty of tent spots with tree cover and fire pits. Lighting bugs came out at night," notes Kelly C. about Logan Wildlife, describing features that enhance family camping.
Consider site proximity to bathrooms: With children, bathroom access can be important. "The sites are farther from the main bathhouse but there is a pit toilet in that loop," mentions Nancy W. about certain sites at Babler State Park.
Look for playground access: Some parks offer additional recreation for children. "We had a picnic and the kids got to play on the playground equipment," shares Leo S. about McCully Heritage Project, highlighting kid-friendly features.
Check trail difficulty: Assess hiking options based on children's abilities. "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," notes Scott M. about Babler Memorial State Park.
Tips from RVers
Tent pads can be challenging: Many sites designed for both RVs and tents have concrete pads. "You might end up pitching your tent on a parking pad as many tent sites don't have level grassy spots for your tent," warns Annie C. about tent camping at Babler State Park.
Site length restrictions: Larger vehicles face limitations at some campgrounds. "Not all sites are long enough for large RVs and the roads in some loops prevent you from turning around. The camp hosts we encountered are very helpful and have a list of site lengths and can tell you which ones are appropriate for large RVs," advises Nancy W.
No-frills options: Some locations offer basic camping with limited amenities. "Free primitive campground near a lake in William Logan. No frills camping at about 8-10 sites near the main entrance off Route RA, with most being in an open circle configuration with the main road cutting through the middle," describes Annie C., providing a realistic assessment.
