Camping near High Ridge, Missouri centers around St. Louis County's eastern Ozark foothills, with elevations averaging 700-800 feet above sea level. The region experiences hot summers with temperatures frequently reaching 90°F and humid conditions from June through August. Winter camping requires preparation for occasional freezing temperatures, particularly in December and January when overnight lows can drop below 30°F.
What to do
Fishing opportunities: Robertsville State Park Campground offers access to the Meramec River where campers can catch catfish. "Its right along the river," notes one visitor, while another adds, "There's also a lake within a few minutes walking, although the current was too strong to swim we were told it's home to many large catfish."
Archery practice: St. Peters' 370 Lakeside Park provides dedicated archery facilities alongside other activities. "There is a lot to do here. They have an archery range. The rent out peddle boats, bikes and peddle cars/buggies as well," explains one camper.
Mountain biking trails: Greensfelder County Park features technical mountain bike sections throughout the property. "The park is known for its well-groomed trails, which are used by hikers, mountain bikers, and equestrians alike," states one reviewer who appreciates the multi-use paths.
Winery visits: Near Beyond the Trail RV Park, explore local vineyards. "It is located in a sleepy little winery town. It is just a few minutes from the main part of town with multiple beautiful wineries within a few miles," shares a visitor who enjoyed the proximity to these attractions.
What campers like
Convenient river access: Campers appreciate the strategic location of Klondike Park which connects to the Katy Trail. "Klondike park is a gorgeous park along the Katy Trail in Augusta, MO. The campsites are very quiet, very family friendly park. On site restrooms, hiking trails, and a small lake with overlooking bluffs."
Year-round availability: While many campgrounds close seasonally, Robertsville State Park Campground remains open throughout winter. "Winter stop for me so I have only seen the shower house from the outside but I would expect it to also be well maintained," notes one camper about the off-season experience.
Spacious campsites: Despite being near urban areas, St. Peters' 370 Lakeside Park offers generous site dimensions. "The campsites are 'state-park-size', especially the back-in sites which all have plenty of lawns behind them. All sites have a view of the small lake," reports a satisfied visitor.
Laundry facilities: For extended stays, some campgrounds provide washing machines. "Shower house was disappointingly dirty for as new as it was, but it was a busy holiday weekend. Close enough to wineries to bike to," mentions a Klondike Park visitor who appreciated the amenities despite minor cleanliness issues.
What you should know
Weather alerts: Staff at St. Peters' 370 Lakeside Park actively monitor severe conditions. "There was some rough springtime weather expected one day. A park ranger went around to every site and notified every camper of where the shelters were and gave out a flyer about the specific weather forecast!"
Flooding concerns: Low-lying areas near rivers can experience water issues. "One of the downsides to this location is that it is prone to flooding. It was out of commission for most of the summer of 2019 as the entire area was flooded," cautions a visitor about St. Peters' 370 Lakeside Park.
Site elevation differences: Pin Oak RV Park has terrain variations that affect camping comfort. "Our site was ok, tricky to level. There was a steep drop just past our steps, and not a lot of room to set up chairs, etc," explains a recent visitor.
Limited grocery access: Stock up before arriving at some locations. "I was planning on grabbing a gallon of milk when we got there...there really is nothing around the rv park! Maybe a couple gas stations at best, but if you need groceries or anything, stop and get them before you get close."
Tips for camping with families
Kid-friendly activities: Yogi Bears Jellystone Park Resort at Six Flags caters specifically to children. "This is not a rugged style campground as there are many amenities such as a pool, putt putt golf, volleyball, and more. They also host daily kids activities and crafts," reports one family.
Rental equipment options: St. Peters' 370 Lakeside Park offers various recreational rentals. "The park/campground rents paddleboats, kayaks, and canoes in addition to different kinds of bikes. There is a walking trail around the lake (4+ miles)," notes a visitor who enjoyed the diverse options.
Playground accessibility: Pin Oak RV Park provides play areas for children. "A nice private catch and release pond, an old little mini golf setup, a small (but adequate) swimming pool kept the kids busy," shares a camper who brought children along.
Halloween celebrations: Consider fall camping for special events. "We go every October for Halloween. It is tight you need to reserve a premium spot for a little room. Staff and owners are great lots to do for the kids," explains a Pin Oak RV Park visitor who recommends booking early for holiday weekends.
Tips from RVers
Hookup specifics: Understand the electrical capabilities before arriving. "Site 29 only have 2-20 amp plugs no 30 didn't realized till we parked. Only this one doesn't have 30," warns a Greensfelder County Park visitor who encountered unexpected power limitations.
Water pressure variations: Be prepared for strong municipal water connections at certain parks. "The site I was in had full hook ups. The water pressure was so strong that I could barely open the water pump!" cautions a camper at St. Peters' 370 Lakeside Park who recommends using a pressure regulator.
Site dimensions: At some pet-friendly campgrounds near High Ridge, Missouri, space can be tight. "The sites are level, and there is plenty of shade. (One advantage of being an older park.) But the sites are gravel and close together so not much privacy," notes a Pin Oak RV Park visitor who still enjoyed their stay despite the close quarters.