The High Ridge area offers convenient access to various RV parks within 30 miles. Located in Jefferson County at around 830 feet elevation, this region experiences distinct seasonal changes with humid summers and moderate winters. Most camping areas remain accessible year-round, though wet spring conditions often limit site availability at lower elevations near the Missouri and Meramec rivers.
What to do
Fishing access: 3-mile shoreline: At St. Peters' 370 Lakeside Park, the man-made lake offers good bank fishing options. "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.
Katy Trail exploration: direct access: Beyond the Trail RV Park in Defiance offers immediate trail connection. "The Katy trail borders the park for easy access to town. Beautiful views across a large farm field (soy beans when we were here) to the hills beyond with incredible sunsets," shares Sam C. The trail connects to multiple wineries and dining options.
Historic St. Charles: 1.5 mile walking distance: The Katy Trail provides a direct route from some RV parks to historic areas. One camper mentioned, "You can walk 3 minutes away and rent [a bike]. Want to float the Missouri? They have a canoe outfitter on site. Need a cold beer or hot coffee, it's right next door at the local brew pub."
What campers like
Security features: gated access: Many RV parks near High Ridge prioritize security. The RV Self-Park facility received praise for its safety measures. "Very well lit, very clean and very easy to get in and very secure with a ton of cameras. Also has a really nice dog area," writes Grant.
Proximity to St. Louis attractions: under 30 minutes: Cahokia RV Parque offers quick access to downtown attractions. "Just minutes across the river from St. Louis. They have a shuttle to the various tourist attractions, just ask the staff at the office for details," notes Tom B., who added that despite being in a "sort of run down area... it was safe, clean and professionally ran."
On-site restaurants: discounts for campers: Several RV parks include food options. "Do NOT miss the BBQ place in the parking lot... fantastic food and a 10% discount for park customers," shares Lee T. about Cahokia RV Parque's restaurant.
What you should know
Train noise: frequent schedules: Railroad tracks border several RV campgrounds in the region. At St. Louis West/Historic Route 66 KOA, "the noise from the busy main road and passing trains in the near distance" affects some campers, though another noted, "I only heard the train once at night."
Site spacing variability: check reservations carefully: The spacing between RV sites differs significantly between parks. "The sites are very spacious!" notes a camper about one park, while others mention "extremely crowded and tight" conditions. Some parks identify premium sites with better spacing.
Seasonal flooding risk: check forecasts: Low-elevation campgrounds face periodic closures. One camper at Beyond the Trail RV Park mentioned, "A few of the campsites will flood, not bad enough to get to your camper, but just enough to be annoying." Call ahead during rainy periods to confirm site conditions.
Tips for camping with families
Playground facilities: varying quality: Pin Oak RV Park offers several family-friendly options. "A nice private catch and release pond, an old little mini golf setup, a small (but adequate) swimming pool kept the kids busy," writes Carrie A. The facilities are "older, [but] they are pretty well-kept."
Swimming options: seasonal availability: Several parks offer swimming facilities with limited seasons. "It is 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," notes Nathaniel B. about St. Peters' 370 Lakeside Park.
Wildlife viewing: dawn/dusk best: The lakes and rivers near High Ridge support diverse wildlife. One camper noted seeing "deer, bald eagles, pelicans, ducks, snakes" around the lake areas, particularly during morning and evening hours.
Tips from RVers
Utility placement: bring extension cords: Casino Queen RV Park and others have unusual hookup configurations. "Utilities are set up weird on all sites - Water and electric are at the very rear of the site by the sewer, so you will need a decent sized hose to reach if your water intake is in the front of your camper," advises Josh F.
Electrical wiring concerns: use surge protection: Some parks have problematic electrical systems. One camper reported, "My equipment detected a Line/Neutral Reversal on some 30A receptacles" at an RV park, recommending that others use surge protectors with Electrical Management Systems.
Late arrivals: self-check-in options: Several RV parks near High Ridge offer automated check-in. At RV Self-Park, campers note the convenience: "Booking online was quick, the site was level, and everything was super easy—even after dark" and "I called the number in the confirmation email and [power] was on within seconds."
