RV campgrounds near Imperial, Missouri provide varying levels of amenities and accessibility depending on seasonal conditions. Most parks are within 15-40 minutes of downtown St. Louis, with average winter temperatures around 40°F and summer temperatures often exceeding 90°F. The camping season typically runs from April through October, though several parks remain open year-round for RVers needing winter accommodations.
What to do
Lake recreation: 15-minute drive from St. Peters' 370 Lakeside Park with boat access and fishing. The park includes a walking trail around the lake spanning over 4 miles. "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 camper Lindsey C.
Historic attractions: 25-minute drive to St. Charles historic district from Sundermeier RV Park. "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. Easy ride in to St. Charles a wonderful historic river town on the Missouri River," explains camper Cheryl K.
Winery tours: Multiple locations within walking distance of Beyond the Trail RV Park. "This is just a great park. 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," writes Jamie C.
What campers like
Train watching opportunities: Some visitors enjoy the transportation views at Draft Kings at Casino Queen RV Park. "The park is in an industrial area so you can hear trains occasionally as well as the METRA rail. Security rolled through frequently," notes Robert F. While train noise can be disruptive for some, train enthusiasts appreciate the regular passing of freight and passenger trains.
Urban amenities with security: Many campgrounds implement strict security protocols with gated access systems. "Reservations are online and they email you the gate code and WiFi code. Security is proactive in patrols and are friendly and helpful. No frills but a great view of the arch," shares Greg S.
Off-site transportation options: Public transportation access from some parks provides car-free travel into downtown. "Casino is pretty old looking on the outside. Park is not staffed, you get a gate code in your email to access the park. Casino has a metro stop that takes you into St Louis over the river," mentions Josh F.
What you should know
Weather-related challenges: Drainage issues affect several campgrounds during heavy rain periods. "We had a record rainfall amount and the park apparently already has flooding issues so it was flooding pretty bad but also our RV was right next to a creek that had risen really high," reports Charlie at Covered Bridge RV Park. Staff typically monitor conditions and may offer site relocation during significant rain events.
Industrial surroundings: Many parks are located in commercial or industrial zones rather than natural settings. "Save your money! This place is a dump, in a dumpy area… hence the gate passcode and giant fence around the 'park.' It's very expensive ($58) for essentially large parking lot with hookups and gravel 'sites,'" warns one reviewer about a downtown location.
Limited amenities at budget options: Some parks operate with minimal staffing and facilities. "No bathroom which they let you know when you book. Nice water and sewer hook up. You can get in and out really quick," notes Russell K. about one self-service park. These locations typically offer lower rates but expect fewer amenities.
Tips for camping with families
Fishing opportunities: Kids enjoy fishing at several parks with stocked ponds. "Nice little lake to fish in and areas to walk around in," mentions Robyn C. about Pin Oak RV Park. Children have reported catching a variety of fish including bluegill and bass at multiple park ponds.
Playground accessibility: Look for campgrounds with updated play equipment. "The grounds are clean and pleasant, if a bit sparse with little shade. There's boating and archery on site, a dog run, and a small playground," reports Suzie S. Families should note that many playgrounds lack shade during summer months.
Arcade and recreation facilities: Indoor entertainment options provide rainy-day activities. "Nice pool and an arcade area with plenty of room to hangout inside. There is a pond with some decent sized fish in it," describes Chad H. Game rooms typically operate during office hours only.
Tips from RVers
Electrical safety concerns: Some parks have reported electrical issues. "DO NOT use the 30A receptacles here unless you have a surge protector with an Electrical Management System (EMS) that explicitly confirms correct wiring before connecting your RV," warns Jeff C. at Cahokia RV Parque. Experienced RVers recommend using surge protectors at all locations regardless of advertised electrical service.
Site utility placement: Check hookup locations before selecting specific sites. "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.
Staffing variations: Many rv campgrounds in Imperial, Missouri vicinity operate with limited staff or self-service systems. "You need a code to get in the gate, so you must register in advance. No staff on site, book via camplife and they send you a gate code," explains Nick W. Call ahead to verify check-in procedures if arriving outside normal business hours.
