Whether you're an RVer or tent camper, Lake St. Louis, MO is a great place to post up for the weekend—or longer. Aside from great camping spots, you'll find hiking and many more outdoor experiences. Thinking of traveling with kids? You're in luck—Lake St. Louis is surrounded by family-friendly activities. You're sure to find the perfect spot for your Missouri camping adventure.
$15 - $38 / night
"Our site, though, was the smallest in the loop, tucked away in the weeds, and the only area to pitch our tent was on a slight slope."
"It’s close to our house and there’s always something new to do each time. The bathrooms are well maintained and the campsites are fairly large and provide lots of shade."
$35 - $60 / night
"I've been to 370 Lakeside Park many times to walk around the huge lake and to hear concerts in the summer, but I had never camped there. Still haven't. I'll explain."
"All hookups were conveniently located. Shower house and restrooms were clean and well maintained/cleaned every day. Had a lakefront site but didn’t get to fish this time."
"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."
"Great for taking long walks or bike rides, although very steep hills.
Close to St Louis, so you can do some urban exploring."
$25 - $58 / night
"A short 5 minute walk to “downtown” Defiance, the campground is right next to the Katy Trail. Forgot your bike? Walk 3 minutes away and rent one. Want to float the Missouri?"
"Excellent little RV park behind a brewery. The Katy trail borders the park for easy access to town."
$10 - $65 / night
"The views are spectacular with some sandy shores of a small pond in the middle of the campground and some great trails. Augusta is a nice place away from St. Louis and a short drive down 94."
"Amazing park close to the city. Great lake and hiking trails. Access to the Katy and bike trails. Camp site are large, warning that some are hike in and not car camping."
"Our site was gravel to park on with grass around it. Close to train tracks and highway, but didn’t notice with AC on in the camper. Close to 6 flags."
"This campground is fairly close to downtown and very close to lots of shopping. A great place to stay to stock up on supplies before heading west."
$10 - $20 / night
"Great little campground just outside of Grafton, Illinois, on the Mississippi River. The campground is located in an open grove of old trees. There were owls when we were there."
"Campgrounds close to Pere Marquette Lodge. Is located just north of Grafton that has many food and drink and antique shops. Campground is on the Illinois River with the Mississippi River nearby."
$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."
"The campground is located in a gym of a park located along the Missouri River. Reservations are required and the sites are in high demand. Tent camping only. There is water available in the park."
"We had a great time on the trails and near the Mighty Missouri River."
$40 / night
"A portable toilet is available to keep the area sanitary for urgent needs; the flush toilets, laundry, and fitness center at the main entrance are also available for a longer walk or short drive."
TravelerCuivre River State Park Campground delivers a lovely, rustic camping experience framed by woods, wildlife, and water. With a variety of site types and decent amenities, it’s ideal for families or solo campers seeking tranquility. Just be selective about your site—some offer better privacy and facilities than others.
RangerStayed the week for the PWD National Specialty trials. Convenient, clean, and solid FHUs.
"Please note that RV reservations are only accepted for those entered(or those who have dogs/cats entered) in an event that has contracted space, which includes the overnight camping lots."
RangerWe arrived on a Saturday and the park was packed, but were able to have a spot with electric. Campground probably has well over 200 sites with electric, electric and water, and tent camping. Right on the Merrimack river where one could go hang out in the river or float or tube down the river. Cave that is situated in the park that one can pay for a tour Fisher cave. We actually went to the Meramec Caverns tour about 15 miles away. Road into park is fairly narrow and has a pretty good grade going up and down. Park is actually almost 3 miles from the visitor center. Even though the park was very full when we arrived, it emptied out to almost no one on Sunday afternoon. You are nicely spaced apart from other people for the most part. Showers were adequate.
ScoutThey were so accommodating. Even on the phone I didnt feel like a burden
GuideGreat park close to hwy 44 (5ish minutes + drive to campground) Lots of spots to choose from even though it was a Saturday in August. All are pretty flat and open with not much privacy. Showed up at 5pm and chose an open spot but had to call to reserve because I had no cell service (phone worked, internet didn’t). Phone reservation was super easy and efficient. Our spot (#86) had a lot of broken glass under the picnic table and the fire out was filthy. Convenient potable water and dump station areas. We just stopped for the night while driving through the area so didn’t use the park which seems to have tons to do.
TravelerSecond time camping here. Much better spot this time, since I could pull right up to the spot, site 26. Last time we were in spot 22. 22 is a long ways from the bathroom and parking lot. The trails are great, the shower house is really nice, lake is beautiful. Will definitely be back.
ScoutWe’re still here and love it!
RangerJust 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. The staff are friendly, the facility is clean and professional. Will stay again since I am in St. Louis every month.
Price is comparable. Yes, it is an urban campground in a sort of run down area. It is what it is. But it was safe, clean and professionally ran.
TravelerLevel gravel sites with FHU near downtown St. Louis. Sites are close together, with some shade
Camping near Lake St. Louis, Missouri, offers a variety of experiences for outdoor enthusiasts. From scenic parks to family-friendly campgrounds, there’s something for everyone looking to enjoy nature.
Camping near Lake St. Louis, Missouri, has its perks and quirks. With the right preparation, you can enjoy a fantastic outdoor experience!
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the best campgrounds with lake access near St. Louis?
For excellent lake access near St. Louis, consider St. Peters' 370 Lakeside Park which offers camping with direct access to a 140-acre lake perfect for fishing and boating. Another great option is Cuivre River State Park Campground, located about an hour from St. Louis, featuring two lakes (Lincoln Lake and Lake Cuivre) with swimming beaches, fishing opportunities, and boat rentals. Both parks provide a peaceful lake experience while keeping you within reasonable driving distance to St. Louis attractions. For those willing to drive a bit further, Meramec State Park also offers river access with some calm water areas suitable for swimming and paddling.
Are there RV camping options available at Lake St. Louis?
Yes, there are several quality RV camping options in the Lake St. Louis region. Cahokia RV Parque offers full hookup sites with concrete pads, fire pits, and picnic tables. Though spaces are somewhat tight, the park includes amenities like a playground, pool, and pond. Sundermeier RV Park provides spacious double-wide concrete sites with ample room for both your RV and vehicle. This park offers direct access to the Katy Trail for biking enthusiasts. Both locations are strategically positioned for easy access to St. Louis attractions while providing comfortable RV accommodations.
Can I go fishing while camping at Lake St. Louis?
Absolutely! Fishing opportunities abound when camping near Lake St. Louis. Meramec Caverns Natural Campground offers excellent fishing access along the Meramec River, where you can catch bass, catfish, and other freshwater species. The campground staff is known for being helpful, and setup is convenient with accessible water and electrical hookups. Klondike Park provides another great fishing option, located along the Missouri River in wine country. The park features tent camping with nearby water access. Many local fishing spots require a Missouri fishing license, which can be purchased online or at local sporting goods stores before your trip.
What amenities are available at Lake St. Louis campgrounds?
Campgrounds in the Lake St. Louis area offer a variety of amenities to enhance your stay. St. Louis West / Historic Route 66 KOA provides level spots with benches, cable TV hookups, good water pressure, and electrical connections. Their camp store, WiFi, and proximity to attractions like Six Flags make it a convenient option. Beyond the Trail RV Park offers full hookups, both back-in and pull-through sites, and unique amenities like an on-site canoe outfitter and easy access to the Katy Trail. Many area campgrounds also feature basic facilities like clean restrooms, shower facilities, picnic areas, and fire rings for campfires.
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