Foristell area campgrounds offer diverse options in Missouri's rolling hills, with elevations ranging from 480 to 700 feet throughout the region. The area experiences humid continental climate with four distinct seasons, making spring and fall the most comfortable for tent camping. Summer temperatures frequently exceed 90°F with high humidity, while winter camping requires preparation for occasional snowfall and freezing temperatures.
What to do
Kayaking and fishing at Lincoln Lake: Cuivre River State Park provides kayak rentals and fishing opportunities at Lincoln Lake. "The campground has a lake you can rent kayaks for. They also have an accessible fishing dock that is covered," notes Kayla S. The park features "a large lake to swim in and you can kayak as well," according to Tracie S.
Hiking through diverse terrain: Cuivre River State Park Campground offers well-maintained trails for all skill levels. "This park has plenty of well groomed trails and facilities spread out nicely. You could camp here for a weekend and stay busy," explains Tony M., who adds, "If you stay here, make sure to check out the trail around the lake."
Biking the Katy Trail: Beyond the Trail RV Park provides immediate access to the renowned Katy Trail. "The Katy trail borders the park for easy access to town," explains Sam C. Another camper, Jamie C., suggests, "The park is bordered by the Katy Trail which will take you into town and many other scenic places so bring your bikes!"
Winery tours in Augusta: Multiple campgrounds near Augusta provide access to local wineries. "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," notes Adam F. about options near Defiance.
What campers like
Secluded, wooded sites: Campers frequently mention appreciating more private sites. "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!" shares Maria E. about her experience at Cuivre River State Park.
Sandy shorelines at Klondike Park: Klondike Park offers unique landscape features. "The views around the pond are amazing. There is a sandy beach area surrounding the water, making it a great place either lay in the sun or to go fishing," writes Alisha M. The park includes "spectacular views with some sandy shores of a small pond in the middle of the campground and some great trails."
Walk-to dining and breweries: Campers value the proximity to food and drink options. "Just on the other side of the trail is a great brewery with a fantastic patio and rooftop deck. We walked there a few times to enjoy pizza," says Jamie C. about the brewery adjacent to Beyond the Trail RV Park.
Year-round accessibility: Most campgrounds remain accessible throughout winter, though with reduced services. "The campground is open year-round but the bathhouse with flush toilets closes November 1 and doesn't open until the spring. During the winter the only water spigot is available located near the camp hosts at site #36," reports Nancy W.
What you should know
Flooding affects availability: Multiple riverside campgrounds experience seasonal closures. "The park is prone to flooding. It was out of commission for most of the summer of 2019 as the entire area was flooded," reports one camper about a lakeside park. Another notes, "A few of the campsites will flood, not bad enough to get to your camper, but just enough to be annoying."
Wildlife encounters require precautions: St. Charles County Klondike Park visitors should secure food properly. "Make sure to store your food securely overnight - the raccoons are pretty thick and hungry at night," warns Mike L. Another camper mentions, "Don't leave anything out at night or raccoons will scavenge."
Reservation requirements vary: Most established sites require advance booking, especially during peak seasons. "Reservations are required and the sites are in high demand," notes Marty C. about Klondike Park's tent sites. For cabin accommodations, booking months ahead is recommended, particularly for weekend stays.
Train noise affects certain campgrounds: Sites near railroad tracks experience intermittent noise disruptions. "It will be even better when they invent silent trains," comments Todd P. about one campground, while another camper mentions, "Be prepared for a lot of noise from the busy main road and passing trains in the near distance."
Tips for camping with families
Playground accessibility: St. Peters' 370 Lakeside Park offers family-friendly amenities. "There's a dog run, and a small playground," reports Suzie S., while Joseph F. adds, "Kids had a blast riding bikes. Even finding a few little frogs jumping around and fireflies at night."
Educational opportunities: Several parks provide nature programs for children. "There is a visitor center with exhibits and an amphitheater in the campground where interpretive programs are held," explains one visitor. These programs typically occur weekend evenings during summer months.
Swimming options: Lincoln Lake at Cuivre River State Park provides swimming areas appropriate for families. "This is a perfect place to enjoy with the family. Plenty of gorgeous campsites and a lake to swim and kayak!" shares J K. The swimming areas typically open Memorial Day through Labor Day.
Rental equipment for kids: Several parks offer equipment rentals suitable for families. "The park/campground rents paddleboats, kayaks, and canoes in addition to different kinds of bikes," notes Mats about 370 Lakeside Park. Barbie B. adds, "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!"
Tips from RVers
Site selection for large rigs: Full-hookup sites vary in size and accessibility. "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. Sites 13-33 at Babler Memorial State Park are described as "popular open and sunny campsites with nice grassy areas between them."
Water pressure considerations: St. Peters' 370 Lakeside Park has notably strong water pressure. "The water pressure was so strong that I could barely open the water pump!" reports Susan L., who recommends bringing a pressure regulator.
Hookup configuration challenges: Beyond the Trail RV Park requires extensions for some utilities. "The site services, electric, water and sewer, are located to the front of the site and extensions were needed for both the electric and sewer," notes Craig H.
Cell service reliability: Most established campgrounds maintain reliable connectivity. "Our Verizon 4G phone and hotspot worked great. We were able to get satellite reception at our site (#24) and the antenna picked up a dozen or so local channels including all the major networks," reports one RVer, adding, "This is one of the few state park campgrounds that we have visited that has WiFi (and that actually worked well)."
