Tent camping near Hazelwood, Missouri offers year-round options within a 30-40 minute radius, with seasonal considerations affecting amenities. Summer temperatures typically range from 70-90°F while winter nights often drop below freezing. Most area campgrounds sit between 450-650 feet elevation, with terrain varying from riparian zones along the Missouri River to the sandstone bluffs characteristic of St. Charles County parks.
What to do
Hiking trails with varying difficulty: St. Charles County Klondike Park features multi-terrain trails with connections to the Katy Trail. A reviewer noted, "Trails are beautiful and perfect for families wanting to just come to a park for a day and hikers. Can't go wrong for a 10$ a night campsite with restrooms and water available."
Mountain biking opportunities: Klondike Park offers technical mountain bike sections for riders of various skill levels. As one camper explains, "One other really cool thing about Klondike is there are several technical mountain bike sections that are located in the park. Bring your mountain bike and have a go!"
Fishing access: Multiple conservation areas provide fishing opportunities not found at Babler State Park. A camper at William R. Logan Conservation Area shares, "Free primitive campground near a lake in William Logan. There are some larger stocked lakes with another primitive camping area."
Wine country exploration: Campers can access Missouri's wine region from certain campgrounds. "This Campground places you in the heart of Missouri Wine Country and there's a perfect base for visiting the wineries and restaurants along highway 94," reports a visitor to St. Charles County Klondike Park.
What campers like
Affordable primitive options: For budget-conscious tent campers, Little Lost Creek Conservation Area offers free camping with basic amenities. A reviewer commented, "The campsite has room for a couple tents (no RV's here), some great trees for hammocks, a primitive fire ring, and a picnic table."
Proximity to Katy Trail: Several campgrounds provide direct access to the popular Katy Trail. One cyclist noted about Klondike Park, "I have bike-packed along the Katy and this is an excellent spot for an overnight(s) stay. It is a tough, but short, climb from the trail."
Unique geological features: McCully Heritage Project showcases distinctive natural formations. A visitor mentioned, "Very well maintained. Neat look out points," while another shared, "I just love the bridge across the pond."
Group camping facilities: For larger gatherings, Old Cove offers specialized group sites. "If you are looking for a place for a group to go and have a fun float trip, this is it. You get a nice open area with a pavilion, picnic tables, and a fire ring. Each group site is serviced by its own port-a-potty."
What you should know
Wildlife encounters beyond raccoons: While raccoons are common at many sites, other wildlife requires preparation. At William R. Logan Conservation Area, campers should note, "There is an active shooting range in the middle of the conservation area and it was BUSY when I was there."
Gate closure policies: Several campgrounds restrict nighttime access. A visitor to Dr. Edmund A. Babler Memorial State Park stated, "The main gate closes at 9 p.m. but if you call ahead there is a code you are given....or you can contact the camp host."
Walk-in site distances: Some campgrounds require hiking to reach tent sites. At Klondike Park, a reviewer advised, "Some campsites are walk-in, but a short walk. Some are more private and shaded than others."
Limited seasonal facilities: Bathroom availability varies by season at most parks. "Not having water available except at the camp host, and no open restrooms and showers until after April 1, regardless of when the last freeze is was inconvenient for a spring break trip."
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: McCully Heritage Project offers family-friendly amenities alongside camping. One family mentioned, "We had a picnic and the kids got to play on the playground equipment."
Shorter trail options: Family-friendly hiking trails exist at several parks. A reviewer at Klondike Park said, "The campground is located in a gym of a park located along the Missouri River," while another family noted, "Did a 2 night tent camp with my family and it was awesome. We had a great time on the trails."
Site selection for privacy: Families can find more secluded options at certain campgrounds. At Klondike Park, one camper advised, "Other sites like #19 and 20 were more secluded, offered more trees and privacy."
Food storage solutions: Wildlife encounters require proper food management. A camper warned, "Make sure to store your food securely overnight - the raccoons are pretty thick and hungry at night."
Tips from RVers
Site limitations: Many area campgrounds have restrictions for larger vehicles. At Klondike Park, a camper noted, "Our site, 35, like its neighbor sites was small and pretty close to others," while another mentioned the campground is "NO big-rig-friendly."
RV pad specifications: Concrete pads at some campgrounds help with leveling but may impact tent setup. One camper observed at Dr. Edmund A. Babler Memorial State Park, "You might end up pitching your tent on a parking pad as many tent sites don't have level grassy spots for your tent."
Water access points: Without individual hookups, knowing water locations is crucial. A reviewer at Dr. Edmund A. Babler Memorial State Park shared, "There is no sewer or water at individual sites but water spigots are scattered throughout the campground and there is a dump station with potable water fill-up."
Off-season challenges: Winter camping requires additional preparation. A camper noted, "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."
