Cuivre River State Park offers primitive and basic camping accommodations set within a 6,394-acre wilderness area northwest of St. Louis. The park features distinct camping sections including a walk-in tent camping area separate from the RV loop. Multiple trail systems cross through oak-hickory forests that provide seasonal shade for campers, while Lincoln Lake serves as the park's 55-acre centerpiece for water activities during warm months.
What to do
Kayaking on Lincoln Lake: Rent equipment at Cuivre River State Park for exploring the 55-acre lake. "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," notes Kayla S. in her review of Cuivre River State Park Campground.
Cycling the Katy Trail: Access this 240-mile rail-trail system from several nearby campgrounds for day rides. "The Katy trail borders the park for easy access to town. Beautiful views across a large farm field to the hills beyond with incredible sunsets," shares Sam C. about Beyond the Trail RV Park.
Fishing opportunities: Find designated fishing areas with accessible docks at several parks in the region. "The park has a nice bathhouse with free showers for the campers and pay laundry. If you are lucky, you can get a site close to the water," notes Annie C. about St. Peters' 370 Lakeside Park.
What campers like
Spacious campsites: Many campers appreciate the room between sites at several parks near Foristell. "Campground is quiet and has big campsites. The campground is close to Lincoln Lake for kayaking," writes Cody S. about Cuivre River State Park Campground.
Well-maintained trails: Hikers find diverse terrain options throughout the region. "Great well maintained state park right outside of St Louis. Park has an awesome trail system around the lake, and it looks like you can rent canoes/kayaks in the summer," says Kyle R. in his review of Cuivre River State Park.
Wildlife viewing: Observe natural habitats with frequent animal sightings. "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!" Maria E. shares about her experience at Cuivre River.
What you should know
Seasonal conditions: Summer heat affects camping comfort, while spring brings flooding risks to some areas. "The park has plenty of well groomed trails and facilities spread out nicely. You could camp here for a weekend and stay busy," notes Tony M. about Cuivre River State Park.
Reservation requirements: Most dog friendly campgrounds near Foristell require advance bookings, especially during peak seasons. "Reservations are required and the sites are in high demand. Tent camping only. There is water available in the park," Marty C. explains about St. Charles County Klondike Park.
Varying amenities: Facilities differ significantly between parks in the region. "The campground is divided up into an RV section, tents only section, and group tent camping. One shower house serves all, but it is well maintained even though it is an older building," points out Annie C. regarding Pere Marquette State Park.
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Several pet-accommodating campgrounds also feature dedicated play areas. "This park is beautiful. Located about 25 minutes from St Louis. They have paddle boats and bikes and group bikes for rental. Kids had a blast riding bikes," shares Joseph F. about St. Peters' 370 Lakeside Park.
Educational activities: Look for nature programs offered at state parks during summer months. "We have been backpack camping here twice and RV camping once. They have a large lake to swim in and you can kayak as well! Their trails are well marked and a pretty walk," recommends Tracie S. about Cuivre River.
Site selection strategy: Choose locations based on bathroom proximity and shade coverage. "Our site was fairly spacious and not super close to others which we liked. The sites by the vault toilet looked closer together so I could see that being a cool spot for multiple families or friend groups," advises Maria E. about camping at Cuivre River.
Tips from RVers
Hookup variations: Full-service sites are limited at some dog friendly campgrounds near Foristell. "This park has plenty of well groomed trails and facilities spread out nicely. The campground offers several different loops and are spread out well," Chad K. notes about Lazy Day Campground.
Access considerations: Some parks have restrictions for larger rigs due to narrow roads or limited turning areas. "Great well maintained state park right outside of St Louis. Park has an awesome trail system around the lake, and it looks like you can rent canoes/kayaks in the summer (was not open in the winter)," Kyle R. mentions about Cuivre River.
Weather preparation: Several campgrounds have periodic drainage issues during rainstorms. "The sites for full hook ups are separate from the other sites," Kayla S. points out regarding Cuivre River's camping layout, which helps some RV sites avoid potential drainage problems.
