Greensfelder County Park is one of several equestrian-friendly camping options in the western St. Louis metro area near Florissant, Missouri. Located at the edge of the Ozark foothills, this region features wooded terrain with elevation changes between 500-700 feet. Camping facilities for horse owners are concentrated within a 30-mile radius of Florissant, with most sites open year-round despite the region's humid continental climate that brings hot summers and moderate winters.
What to do
Trail riding at Cuivre River State Park: The park offers extensive trail networks for horseback riders about 40 minutes north of Florissant. "The trails are well marked and a pretty walk. They have a large lake to swim in and you can kayak as well," notes Tracie S., who adds that "the bathrooms are well maintained and the campsites are fairly large and provide lots of shade."
Wildlife viewing at Horseshoe Lake State Park: Just 30 minutes east across the Mississippi River, this park provides excellent bird watching opportunities. "This is a great place when the geese are migrating thru," says Kent B. Annie C. describes it as a "nice little campground close to down town St Louis (when the leaves are down I bet you can see the Arch)."
Mountain biking at Greensfelder County Park: Besides equestrian facilities, the park maintains trails for multiple uses. Lucas M. explains, "The park is known for its well-groomed trails, which are used by hikers, mountain bikers, and equestrians alike. Plenty of stables surround the area, where you may rent a horse and go for a stroll through the woods."
What campers like
Affordable camping at Horseshoe Lake: Budget-conscious campers appreciate the value. Travis notes, "Self service pay system makes it simple, easy, and fast. Camping can be reserved but no need. Just pick your spot go to the office building, and fill out the form, pay and slide in envelope and drop in box." He adds that it costs "$8 a night" with "clean and well kept up spots, water spickets never far from your camp also nice cast iron fire pits."
Proximity to attractions at St. Louis West / Historic Route 66 KOA: Located minutes from Six Flags, this campground offers convenience. "Stayed here for trip to six flags, well taken care of. People are friendly, has a nice and clean pool. Little shop with all sorts of stuff," writes Nik B. Mary D. adds that it's a "Thirty minute drive into see Gateway Arch. Not a bad swap for some peace and quiet."
Natural surroundings at McCully Heritage Project: This lesser-known option offers seclusion. Eric describes it as "Super inexpensive for the space that you get. Free firewood. We have only stayed at the largest site as it has good fishing and a place for us to launch our paddleboards and kayaks."
What you should know
Horse facilities can get crowded: During peak times, the equestrian areas fill quickly. At Greensfelder, Alicia B. advises, "Kinda busy maybe make reservations when it's a holiday. Trails are well marked maps available Awsome views and a cool trail by six flags this park is busy with hikers and bikers."
Some sites accommodate large horse trailers: When selecting a site at Greensfelder County Park, Matthew H. explains, "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)." He adds that "site 29 where we stayed can fit a 40' fifth wheel" and notes there's "a lot of room to back in."
Be prepared for wildlife: Local fauna includes more than horses. Lucas M. cautions, "The place has A LOT of deer which means that ticks are everywhere-which is not a big deal if you know what you're doing." At McCully Heritage Project, Eric suggests, "Watch for ticks. Don't be alarmed if you see cats or the neighbors dogs roaming around the site. They are friendly."
Tips for camping with families
Choose sites away from busy areas: For quieter family camping near horse trails, be selective with site locations. Kayla B. says Greensfelder offers a "Pretty nice wooded campground close to St. Louis! Each site has a picnic bench, a fire pit and grill. It was very quiet when we stayed there on a Friday night."
Consider amenities at Cuivre River State Park: This park balances natural setting with kid-friendly facilities. "This is a perfect place to enjoy with the family. Plenty of gorgeous campsites and a lake to swim and kayak!" reports J K., who appreciates that it's "Close to St. Louis but far enough out to enjoy peace and quiet!"
Plan activities for non-riders: Not everyone in the family may want to ride horses. Dr. Jim R. mentions that "Cuivre River State Park Campground delivers a lovely, rustic camping experience framed by woods, wildlife, and water. With a variety of site types and decent amenities, it's ideal for families or solo campers seeking tranquility."
Tips from RVers
Check electrical service types: At equestrian campsites near Florissant, electrical options vary. Matthew H. notes Greensfelder has "2-20 amp plugs and 1-30amp plug" at most sites, but warns "site 29 only have 2-20 amp plugs no 30 didn't realized till we parked. Only this one doesn't have 30." He adds there's "no 50 amps."
Consider water access: While many horse campgrounds offer water, hookups aren't universal. Matthew H. points out Greensfelder has "frost free water at both ends of the campground" but "no water at sites." He adds there's "no dump but KOA and RV dealer 5-7 mins away."
Look for pull-through sites at Route 66 KOA: For easier parking with large rigs, Jan S. notes, "Nice, clean campground, level pull-through sites - ours had a paver-patio and grill, a lot of shade throughout, dog park, and a creek to explore."
