The Dyrt – find campgrounds for tents, RVs, cabins, glamping and more.
Open in App

Best Campgrounds near St. Louis, MO

451 Reviews

Several state parks with good camping can be reached from St. Louis in under two hours. Hawn State Park Campground has well-marked hiking trails that wind through pine and oak forests. Anglers camp at Cuivre River State Park Campground for the quiet fishing spots along the shoreline. Washington State Park Campground stands out because it has a swimming pool that many families use when creek temperatures aren't ideal. All these parks maintain clean facilities with flush toilets and drinking water stations. Meramec State Park Campground sits along the river, where campers can put in kayaks right from the campground. Babler Memorial State Park Campground lies just 30 minutes west of St. Louis, making it possible to set up camp even after work on Friday. Spring and fall bring the most comfortable camping weather around St. Louis. The summer heat and humidity can be intense, so bring extra water and shade structures. Winter camping works at some parks, though water systems might be shut down. St. Louis campers appreciate being able to head into nature but still get back to the city quickly if needed.

Map showing campgrounds near St. Louis, MissouriExplore the Map

Best Camping Sites Near St. Louis, Missouri (63)

    1. Cahokia RV Parque

    18 Reviews
    Columbia, IL
    6 miles
    Website
    +1 (618) 332-7700

    "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."

    "It's a centrally located campground in the Metro St. Louis area. It's close to interstates and it's a short drive across the river to Missouri attractions."

    2. Draft Kings at Casino Queen RV Park

    18 Reviews
    Granite City, IL
    4 miles
    Website
    +1 (800) 777-0777

    $65 / night

    "Close to the arch, that’s why we chose this place to stay overnight."

    "Some small areas of grass and trees with a dog walking area around the perimeter. Small play area for kids. Clean restroom/showers, but only a few of them."

    3. St. Louis NE-Granite City KOA

    13 Reviews
    Granite City, IL
    10 miles
    Website
    +1 (618) 931-5160

    "Conveniently located just outside of St Louis. We camped here for a trip to the city for St Louis cardinals game and zoo. My kids loved the jumping pillow at the park."

    "It's not in the prettiest location, very industrial and the train tracks run close. First night one came through blowing its horns around 5am."

    4. Horseshoe Lake State Park Campground

    10 Reviews
    Collinsville, IL
    10 miles
    Website
    +1 (618) 931-0270

    "Great spot in a beautiful area close to St. Louis. No power but access to drinking water and waste water dump for just 8$."

    "Horseshoe Lake is one of my most visited parks and most favorite park in the STL and surrounding areas. First off absolutely beautiful land and peace is easily achieved."

    5. St. Peters' 370 Lakeside Park

    26 Reviews
    St. Charles, MO
    21 miles
    Website
    +1 (636) 387-5253

    $35 - $60 / night

    "Located about 25 minutes from St Louis. They have paddle boats and bikes and group bikes for rental. Located right next to a lake with a lot of RV and tent camping spots."

    "It is not "in the woods," which I usually prefer, but will stay there again next time I am passing through St. Louis. You do have to call to make a reservation."

    6. Sundermeier RV Park

    13 Reviews
    Earth City, MO
    16 miles
    Website
    +1 (636) 940-0111

    $56 - $61 / night

    "We were able to park next to our 5th wheel with enough room to not feel crowded while using the picnic bench. Also the site was level.

    We stayed for a week to enjoy St. Louis, St."

    "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."

    7. Dr. Edmund A. Babler Memorial State Park Campground

    27 Reviews
    Wildwood, MO
    24 miles
    Website
    +1 (636) 458-3813

    "site: shaded. medium sized. semi-private. amenities: older. clean. attractions: less than an hour from St. Louis. hiking. I would go camping here again/ get out of city."

    "Tucked away, not far from St. Louis, you wouldn't know you were that close to a big city. It is clean and feels extremely safe. There aren't many sites, but the ones they have are quiet and spacious."

    8. St. Louis West / Historic Route 66 KOA

    30 Reviews
    Eureka, MO
    26 miles
    Website
    +1 (636) 257-3018

    "This was our first campground in the St. Louis area and proved to be in a fantastic location. We tent camp and the setting was great with a nice stream and cliff walls close to the campground."

    "We actually didn’t hang out in the campground very much because we spent a lot of time in St. Louis. The campsite was very nice with lots of trees."

    9. MGM Campground

    2 Reviews
    Granite City, IL
    10 miles
    Website
    +1 (618) 797-2820

    "Nice little lake(catch and release I believe). Surrounded by nature, lots of grass and trees, great for dog owners. Spacious spots."

    10. Covered Bridge RV Park & Storage

    6 Reviews
    Fenton, MO
    16 miles
    Website
    +1 (636) 349-2292

    $50 / night

Show More
Showing results 1-10 of 63 campgrounds

Recent Camping Photos near St. Louis, MO

115 Photos of 63 St. Louis Campgrounds

Recent Reviews near St. Louis, MO

451 Reviews of 63 St. Louis Campgrounds

Guide to St. Louis

Camping near St. Louis, MO, offers a great mix of outdoor fun and relaxation. With several campgrounds to choose from, you can find the perfect spot for your next adventure.

What to do:

  • Hiking: Explore the beautiful trails at Hawn State Park Campground. One camper mentioned, "The hiking is some of the best in Missouri," highlighting the scenic views and well-maintained paths.
  • Fishing: Enjoy fishing at Cuivre River State Park Campground. A visitor noted, "The park did have nice trails, fishing areas, breathtaking riverside views."
  • Swimming: If you're looking to cool off, check out Washington State Park Campground, which has a swimming pool. One reviewer said, "There is even a swimming pool if the river isn’t your thing."

What campers like:

  • Clean facilities: Campers appreciate the cleanliness of the parks. At Meramec State Park Campground, a visitor remarked, "Park was clean, and very pretty."
  • Friendly staff: Many campers enjoy the helpfulness of the staff. A reviewer at Cuivre River State Park Campground said, "Good campground. Be aware some bathrooms might be locked up depending upon time of year so plan your spot accordingly."
  • Secluded spots: Campers often seek out quieter areas. One camper at Hawn State Park Campground mentioned, "It’s a little smaller than, say, Meramec, and I think because of that it’s pretty quiet."

What you should know:

  • Site proximity: Some campgrounds have sites that are close together. A visitor at St. Louis West / Historic Route 66 KOA noted, "The sites were too close together (very small sites) and the park was too noisy for us."
  • Limited amenities: Not all campgrounds have full amenities. At Dr. Edmund A. Babler Memorial State Park Campground, a camper shared, "The sites themselves are very clean and well kept. Our site, 32, was huge and grassy!"
  • Wildlife encounters: Be prepared for wildlife. A family camping at Meramec State Park Campground mentioned, "Our site had skunks and raccoons each night."

Tips for camping with families:

  • Choose the right site: Look for sites that are spacious and family-friendly. A camper at Cuivre River State Park Campground said, "The tent camping side is well shaded with a lot of room between sites."
  • Plan for activities: Make sure to have a list of activities. One family at Hawn State Park Campground enjoyed the "Natural Wonders Trail" and the visitors’ center.
  • Bring games and toys: Keep the kids entertained. A camper at St. Peters' 370 Lakeside Park mentioned, "Lots of things to rent - bikes, paddle boats, etc., for daytime activities."

Tips from RVers:

  • Check site size: Make sure your RV fits the site. A visitor at Washington State Park Campground noted, "I only had 30 amp electric and no water or sewer hookup."
  • Level your rig: Some sites may not be perfectly level. A camper at St. Louis West / Historic Route 66 KOA said, "The site was not level front to back and we had to build a sizable pyramid with our blocks to get the rig leveled out."
  • Plan for power outages: Be prepared for potential power issues. One RV traveler at Dr. Edmund A. Babler Memorial State Park Campground mentioned, "Other than the entire campground losing power Sunday morning and frying my coffee maker, it was a good stay."

Camping near St. Louis, MO, has something for everyone, whether you're looking for a family getaway or a peaceful retreat.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the best campgrounds near St. Louis for weekend getaways?

For weekend escapes from St. Louis, Washington State Park Campground offers a perfect retreat less than an hour away with shaded campsites, river access, hiking trails, and even a swimming pool. Another excellent option is Cuivre River State Park Campground, a hidden treasure featuring full hook-ups, hiking trails, and a sandy beach for swimming. Both parks provide a quick nature escape without long travel times. Dr. Edmund A. Babler Memorial State Park is also popular, offering quiet, spacious sites with a feeling of seclusion despite its proximity to the city. Klondike Park presents spectacular views and great trails but be prepared for ticks during warmer months.

Where can I find free camping options in the St. Louis area?

Free camping options near St. Louis are limited, but budget-conscious campers have some alternatives. Greensfelder County Park offers primitive camping with minimal fees. For truly free options, consider dispersed camping in Mark Twain National Forest, though this requires driving 1-2 hours from the city. Some public lands allow free camping for up to 14 days, but always check current regulations. Another approach is to look for campgrounds with first-night-free promotions or joining membership programs like Harvest Hosts or Boondockers Welcome that provide free overnight stays in exchange for patronage or small membership fees.

What private campgrounds are available near the St. Louis Zoo?

St. Peters' 370 Lakeside Park is a beautiful private campground about 25 minutes from St. Louis, making it accessible to the Zoo. It offers both RV and tent camping spots adjacent to a lake with paddle boat and bike rentals available. Cahokia RV Parque is another excellent option just minutes across the river from St. Louis with shuttle service to various tourist attractions including the Zoo. The staff are friendly, and facilities are clean and professional. Other options include St. Louis NE-Granite City KOA, which is conveniently located for city attractions like the Zoo, and features amenities like a jumping pillow that kids love.

Are there any state campgrounds near St. Louis, MO with water access?

Dr. Edmund A. Babler Memorial State Park Campground is a hidden gem near St. Louis, though it doesn't offer direct water access for swimming or boating. For state parks with water features, Cuivre River State Park is an excellent option with a sandy beach for swimming and full hook-ups - unusual for a state park. The park makes for a perfect weekend getaway with great hiking trails complementing the water access. Washington State Park also offers river access along with its many recreational amenities, including hiking trails and a swimming pool as an alternative to the river. Klondike Park features a small pond with sandy shores, providing scenic water views for campers.

Keep Exploring