Greensfelder County Park specializes in equestrian camping with facilities designed for horse owners and riders. Located 30 minutes west of University City, Missouri, the park sits within a dense woodland area that covers 1,614 acres. Trail elevation changes range from 500 to 800 feet, creating varied terrain for both horse and foot travel. During summer months, temperatures typically reach 85-90°F with high humidity, making early morning rides most comfortable.
What to do
Trail riding with challenges: At Greensfelder County Park, equestrian trails connect to a broader network used by multiple groups. According to a visitor, "trails are well marked with maps available at the campground" and "Awsome views and a cool trail by six flags." The park experiences significant horse traffic, particularly on weekends.
Kayaking on Lincoln Lake: Cuivre River State Park offers water recreation about an hour from University City. As one camper notes, "Park has an awesome trail system around the lake, and it looks like you can rent canoes/kayaks in the summer." Another mentions, "They have a large lake to swim in and you can kayak as well!"
Six Flags outings: Take advantage of proximity to major attractions when equestrian camping near University City, Missouri. "Campground is close to Six Flags" and it's "basically across the street from Six Flags so can be very convenient." This makes Greensfelder ideal for combining amusement park visits with horse-centered camping.
What campers like
Spacious trailer sites: The equestrian camping area provides ample room for vehicles and equipment. One visitor 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)" and "a lot of room to back in." This makes maneuvering large horse trailers considerably easier.
Horse-specific amenities: Beyond standard camping facilities, Horseshoe Lake State Park offers additional options for equestrian camping near University City, Missouri. One camper enjoyed "peaceful tent camping on Walkers Island at $8 per day," noting the exceptional value for equestrians on a budget.
Year-round facilities: The shower and bathroom buildings remain open throughout all seasons. A visitor confirms, "showers and restrooms year around" and "frost-free water at both ends of the campground." This makes off-season equestrian camping more comfortable when fewer riders are on the trails.
What you should know
Weekend congestion: Plan for increased trail and campground activity on certain days. A camper warns, "horses traffic on Saturday eventually from what the ranger told me" indicating scheduled busy periods. Weekdays remain comparatively quiet for those seeking solitude.
Power limitations: Electrical service has specific constraints. As one camper discovered, "site 29 only have 2-20 amp plugs no 30 didn't realized till we parked. Only this one doesn't have 30." Sites 20-29 offer electrical hookups, but verify amperage before booking.
Noise factors: Despite the natural setting, St. Louis West / Historic Route 66 KOA and surrounding campgrounds experience some sound disturbances. A visitor reports, "Close to train tracks and highway, but didn't notice with AC on in the camper." Another notes you should "be prepared for a lot of noise from the busy main road and passing trains in the near distance."
Tips for camping with families
Wildlife viewing opportunities: Children particularly enjoy animal sightings around the campsites. At McCully Heritage Project, a visitor enjoyed "A day out with the kiddos" and specifically loved "the bridge across the pond. We had a picnic and the kids got to play on the playground equipment."
Swimming access: Several parks provide water recreation for children. Cuivre River State Park offers swimming options as mentioned by a camper who appreciated "a large lake to swim in." This gives children alternative activities when they need breaks from equestrian activities.
Playground facilities: Look for campgrounds with play areas for younger children. One family noted enjoying "a picnic and the kids got to play on the playground equipment." These facilities provide entertainment options during downtime between trail rides.
Tips from RVers
Backing space considerations: RV sites vary considerably in size and accessibility. An experienced camper notes that "sites 24-26 can fit a fifth wheel probably no bigger than 36-38 ft" and "site 29 where we stayed can fit a 40' fifth wheel." Larger rigs should specifically request these spaces when booking.
Utility configurations: Know what hookups are available before arrival. A camper details that "2-20 amp plugs and 1-30amp plug" are standard at most sites, but "no water at sites" and "no dump but KOA and RV dealer 5-7 mins away." Plan accordingly for water conservation and tank management.
Seasonal availability: Cuivre River State Park offers year-round camping with varying amenities. One visitor confirms the "Campground is beautiful and very woodsy. We saw bunnies hopping around and when we first arrived to our site a deer was grazing nearby." Wildlife sightings enhance the camping experience throughout different seasons.
