Camping options near Florissant, Missouri provide access to both urban and rural experiences with several campgrounds situated along the Mississippi and Missouri Rivers at elevations between 400-700 feet. The region experiences four distinct seasons with hot, humid summers where temperatures often exceed 90°F and mild winters with occasional freezing temperatures. Most RV parks remain accessible year-round though flooding can affect availability, particularly in low-lying areas during spring rainy seasons.
What to do
Bike the Katy Trail: Access this popular cycling path directly from Beyond the Trail RV Park in Defiance, where the trail borders the campground. "The Katy trail is right next to the campground for walking or biking. Within walking distance is a really nice winery and a couple bars," notes one camper who appreciated the immediate trail access.
Explore historic downtown: Visit St. Charles' historic district, accessible via the Katy Trail from several area campgrounds. "You can bike for miles. Easy ride in to St. Charles a wonderful historic river town on the Missouri River. Great shops, great restaurants," shares a visitor who enjoyed the combination of outdoor activity and urban exploration.
Paddle the lakes: Rent boats at St. Peters' 370 Lakeside Park where water recreation options abound. "The park/campground rents paddleboats, kayaks, and canoes in addition to different kinds of bikes. There is a walking trail around the lake (4+ miles). There is fish in the lake and you are allowed to fish," explains a regular visitor.
What campers like
Convenient urban camping: Campgrounds like Sundermeier RV Park offer easy access to metropolitan attractions while maintaining camping comforts. "Just a place to park the camper and sleep. Big rig friendly for sure. Went back to see the Arch Natl park and down into historic St. Charles. Beautiful historic town with plenty to see and do, with a casino past that," notes a traveler using the campground as a home base.
Clean, modern facilities: Several RV parks in the region maintain high standards for bathrooms and common areas. "You need a code to get in the gate, so you must register in advance. It was hot in late July and with no trees on the larger sites, it seemed hotter. But the full hookups worked great with no issues," explains a summer visitor to Draft Kings at Casino Queen RV Park.
Brewery and winery access: Multiple campgrounds position campers within walking distance of breweries and wineries, particularly in the Defiance area. "There is a really nice brewery right at the entrance. Within walking distance is a really nice winery and a couple bars. All of these places have cold beer and live music on the weekends," reports a satisfied camper at Beyond the Trail RV Park.
What you should know
Weather and flooding concerns: Low-lying campgrounds experience occasional closures due to flooding, particularly along river areas. "My only complaint is they have some drainage issues if it rains a lot. A few of the campsites will flood, not bad enough to get to your camper, but just enough to be annoying," explains a camper about Beyond the Trail RV Park.
Noise levels vary: Many RV parks Florissant, Missouri and surroundings experience noise from highways, trains, and airports. "Positives: Really nice people at check in. It does have 30 amp service even though this app shows it doesn't. 30 pound water pressure. Nice level concrete pad with a picnic table. Right off highway 370. Opportunities for Improvement: Expensive for what you get. On Lambert international airports flight path, next to a major train trestle, right next to Highway 370," notes a reviewer about noise levels.
Limited shade at newer parks: Several campgrounds have young trees that don't yet provide significant shade. "I have to preface my review by saying that this isn't my kind of campground. I like trees and nature around. This park had very little of that. It seems to be new, and there are trees planted, but it will be awhile before they provide any shade," comments a visitor to St. Peters' 370 Lakeside Park.
Tips for camping with families
Look for playgrounds and recreation: Cahokia RV Parque offers family-friendly amenities including a playground and pool. "We had a great experience in the 4 nights we spent here. The grounds, pool, laundry, and bathrooms were all in excellent repair and clean. The park was quiet, but very family friendly," shares a family that stayed multiple nights.
Consider security features: Gated campgrounds provide additional safety for families. "Security is proactive in patrols and are friendly and helpful. No frills but a great view of the arch. Centrally located and across the bridge from downtown," notes a visitor to Draft Kings at Casino Queen RV Park about the security measures.
Research seasonal activities: Summer months offer expanded recreation options at many parks. "This is a very nice park. The spaces are a bit close together and not many trees but I've been to worse. There is a lot to do here. They have an archery range. 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!" reports a family visitor to St. Peters' 370 Lakeside Park.
Tips from RVers
Utility placement varies: Check hookup locations when selecting sites at Draft Kings at Casino Queen RV Park. "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," advises an RVer who visited in November.
Weekend vs weekday differences: Be aware of maintenance schedules if planning to sleep in. "Don't plan to sleep late during the work week though because mowing, weed whacking and leaf blowers may start at 8:00am," warns a visitor to Covered Bridge RV Park who was surprised by early morning maintenance.
Level sites are standard: Most Florissant, Missouri RV parks feature concrete pads that require minimal leveling. "We loved how spacious it was. The roads within the campground were double-wide so we had no trouble turning and getting into our spot. The sites were double-wide concrete. 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," shares a big rig owner about their experience at Sundermeier RV Park.
