Dog-Friendly Camping near Hazelwood, MO

Camping options near Hazelwood, Missouri offer varying experiences within 40 miles of the city. The area sits at approximately 450 feet above sea level, with relatively mild winters and humid summers typical of the Midwest region. Most campgrounds remain open year-round, though facilities may be limited during winter months when temperatures can drop below freezing.

What to do

Kayaking on lakes and rivers: St. Peters' 370 Lakeside Park offers kayak rentals with a 3-mile paved trail circling the lake. "We love going here and watching the sunsets. This is a great place to kayak and camp if you don't want to drive that fare and live in the city," notes Lindsey C. from St. Peters' 370 Lakeside Park.

Hiking diverse terrain: Cuivre River State Park features multiple trail options around Lincoln Lake. "This park has plenty of well groomed trails and facilities spread out nicely. You could camp here for a weekend and stay busy," says Tony M. from Cuivre River State Park Campground.

Historic exploration: St. Charles historic district is accessible from camping areas. "Easy ride in to St. Charles a wonderful historic river town on the Missouri River. Great shops, great restaurants," reports Cheryl K. who stayed at Sundermeier RV Park.

Wildlife viewing: Several campgrounds offer opportunities to spot local wildlife. "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.

What campers like

Family activities: Many campgrounds provide recreational options for children. "They have paddle boats and bikes and group bikes for rental. Located right next to a lake with a lot of RV and tent camping spots. Kids had a blast riding bikes. Even finding a few little frogs jumping around and fireflies at night," says Joseph F. from St. Peters' 370 Lakeside Park.

Staff responsiveness: Several campgrounds maintain security and staff presence throughout day and night. "Staff on duty at all hours is awesome! We called ahead but didn't need a reservation," notes Nathaniel B. about his stay at 370 Lakeside Park.

Connectivity to trails: Katy Trail access allows for extended bike rides from campsites. "You can literally be parked right at the Katy Trail. Through the gate at the rear of the campground, and you can bike for miles," explains Cheryl K. from Sundermeier RV Park.

Cost-effective options: Budget-conscious campers appreciate several affordable options. "Great spot in a beautiful area close to St. Louis. No power but access to drinking water and waste water dump for just 8$," reports Helge Vandel J. about Horseshoe Lake State Park Campground.

What you should know

Train and airport noise: Several campgrounds experience noise from transportation corridors. "On Lambert international airports flight path, next to a major train trestle, right next to Highway 370... Very urban environment," warns Jack G. about Sundermeier RV Park.

Fire restrictions: Not all campgrounds allow fires due to local ordinances. "The only bad thing which isn't the campgrounds fault, is you can't have a camp fire due to the city ordinances," notes Brian A. about Sundermeier RV Park.

Space considerations: Some sites offer limited privacy between spaces. "The spaces are a bit close together and not many trees but I've been to worse. The not many trees is do to it still being a fairly new campground," explains Barbie B. from Pere Marquette State Park Campground.

Urban surroundings: Several campgrounds have industrial or urban settings. "It's a city park and had that feel... not many trees for shade but the lake was pretty and the playground was good for the kiddos," explains Nathaniel B. about 370 Lakeside Park.

Tips for camping with families

Playground access: Choose campgrounds with dedicated play areas. "My kids loved the jumping pillow at the park. Minimal playground but they still enjoyed it," says Sarah S. from St. Louis NE-Granite City KOA.

Wildlife viewing opportunities: Lincoln Lake at Cuivre River State Park offers wildlife sighting chances. "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.

Swimming options: Some parks offer designated swimming areas. "Plenty of gorgeous campsites and a lake to swim and kayak!" recommends J K. about Cuivre River State Park Campground.

Proximity to attractions: Consider distance to major attractions. "Close to historic St. Charles and the bike trail," notes Susan L. about Sundermeier RV Park, making it convenient for families wanting to explore beyond the campground.

Tips from RVers

Water pressure variances: Be prepared for varying water pressure at hookup sites. "The water pressure was so strong that I could barely open the water pump!" warns Susan L. about 370 Lakeside Park.

Site selection for large rigs: Research specific sites that accommodate larger vehicles. "Site 17 accommodate a 38ft fifth wheel will just hang over the back a little to fit," advises Matthew H. about Riverside Landing.

Reservation practices: Some campgrounds require advance booking while others allow flexibility. "Stayed here most of the several weeks we needed to be in St. Louis for family matters. Definitely our favorite place in the area," shares Suzie S. about 370 Lakeside Park.

Dining options: Some campgrounds feature on-site restaurants. "Do NOT miss the BBQ place in the parking lot... fantastic food and a 10% discount for park customers," recommends Lee T. from Cahokia RV Parque.