Camping opportunities around Labadie, Missouri extend beyond the immediate area to nearby counties where sites range from primitive to full-service. The region sits at elevations between 400-800 feet with rolling terrain creating natural drainage patterns that help campsites dry quickly after rain. Weather patterns typically include higher humidity in summer months with temperatures reaching 90°F regularly between June and August.
What to do
Hiking trails for all levels: The trails at Dr. Edmund A. Babler Memorial State Park Campground provide options suitable for families and solo hikers. The park features shorter trails that can still challenge inexperienced hikers. "The trails are not too long but can be challenging for small kids or folks that are not used to hiking," notes Scott M. Although the park lacks water features, trails wind through wooded areas providing good wildlife viewing opportunities.
Mountain biking near campgrounds: Technical mountain biking sections at Klondike Park offer challenges for cyclists looking to test their skills. "Bring your mountain bike and have a go! It's also a great campground for a stayover if you are bikepacking the Katy Trail," explains Megan K. The park serves as an excellent base for both casual riders and more serious cyclists.
Winery tours from camp: When staying at Beyond the Trail RV Park, campers can access multiple wineries within a short distance. "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 Jamie C. The campground's proximity to the Katy Trail makes biking to wineries a popular option for campers who want to avoid driving.
What campers like
Quiet weekday camping: Visitors appreciate the peaceful atmosphere at Greensfelder County Park during weekdays. "We happened to be there during the week in the fall so there were not many other campers. This gave the park the quiet feel we like so much," reports Nancy W. Most weekday visitors note significantly reduced noise and traffic compared to weekends.
Clean shower facilities: Many campers highlight the shower quality at Robertsville State Park Campground. "Super staff and nice day use areas and boat ramp," notes Jeff L., who mentions the park remains his wife's favorite camping spot. Another camper comments, "The shower house is newer and well taken care of," showing that maintenance standards remain consistent.
Evening entertainment options: The St. Louis West / Historic Route 66 KOA provides scheduled activities that continue into evenings. "There is a pool, bike rentals, dog park, movie night, basketball court, and more," explains Crystal H. Families particularly value having organized evening options when daylight activities end.
What you should know
Site elevation concerns: Some campgrounds in the region have significant elevation changes within individual sites. At Pin Oak RV Park, campers should check site details carefully. During busy Halloween weekends, "It is tight you need to reserve a premium spot for a little room," advises Tim K. The campground layout features varying site sizes with premium spots offering more level ground.
Railway noise factors: Train tracks near several campgrounds create noise disruptions, particularly at night. At St. Louis West / Historic Route 66 KOA, one visitor notes, "It will be even better when they invent silent trains," while another camper mentions, "Close to train tracks and highway, but didn't notice with AC on in the camper." For light sleepers, requesting sites furthest from tracks provides the best experience.
Road access limitations: Some campsites require walking from parking areas rather than allowing direct vehicle access. At Klondike Park, campers report, "Campsites are walk in, but a short walk." Site selection matters significantly as "Site 22 is a long ways from the bathroom and parking lot" while "Site 26 [allows you to] pull right up to the spot."
Tips for camping with families
Swimming alternatives: The lake at Yogi Bear's Jellystone Park Resort At Six Flags provides a popular water activity spot for children. "We stayed here last minute for Labor Day Weekend and the staff were great with finding us a good tent site available. This is not a rugged style campground as there are many amenities such as a pool, putt putt golf, volleyball, and more," states Lindsey R. The park schedules regular kids activities making it ideal for families seeking structured recreation.
Playground proximity: When camping with young children, select sites near play areas to allow for easier supervision. "There is a visitor center with exhibits and an amphitheater in the campground where interpretive programs are held," notes one camper about Dr. Edmund A. Babler Memorial State Park Campground. Families often recommend sites 13-33 for their open areas suitable for kids' games.
Wildlife education opportunities: Children often enjoy the wildlife encounters available throughout area campgrounds. A visitor to Meramec State Park Campground shares, "The State Park has a great canopy of trees located next to a stream as a setting for the campground that bounds with wildlife. We saw deer and raccoons here that entered our campsite." These encounters provide learning experiences when properly supervised.
Tips from RVers
Hookup extensions needed: RVers should pack extension cords and longer hoses when camping at Beyond the Trail RV Park. "The site services, electric, water and sewer, are located to the front of the site and extensions were needed for both the electric and sewer," warns Craig H. Several review comments mention similar challenges with hookup placements.
Leveling requirements: Many campgrounds in the region have uneven sites requiring substantial leveling equipment. At Robertsville State Park Campground, one camper advises, "The lots are pretty uneven so make sure you bring plenty of cribbing." RVers recommend carrying extra leveling blocks and wheel chocks for most area campgrounds.
Site length verification: RV owners should confirm actual site lengths before booking. At Greensfelder County Park, "Not all sites are long enough for large RVs and the roads in some loops prevent you from turning around. The camp hosts we encountered are very helpful and have a list of site lengths and can tell you which ones are appropriate for large RVs."
