Best Dispersed Camping near Lake St. Louis, MO
Dispersed camping near Lake St. Louis, Missouri concentrates primarily on two notable sites: Lone Spring Trail Backpacking Campsite and Silo Access Area along O'Neil Creek. Both locations offer primitive camping experiences with minimal facilities on public land. The Lone Spring Trail site provides designated backpacking campsites with tent setup areas and metal fire pits, while Silo Access Area sits directly on the Mississippi River with approximately 13 informal sites suitable for both tent and RV camping without hookups.
Access to these primitive sites varies by location. Silo Access Area features a newly paved access road about one mile north of Route 79 from Calumet Creek access, with several curved pull-in sites that accommodate larger vehicles. The area includes a boat ramp, though it may have debris during certain seasons. Neither location provides drinking water, electric hookups, or sewer connections. Both sites permit fires in designated areas, and pets are allowed. Silo Access Area includes basic toilets and trash collection, while Lone Spring Trail lacks these amenities.
These remote camping areas provide distinctive experiences centered on natural surroundings. Silo Access Area offers direct Mississippi River access with views of passing barges and river traffic. The campground sits near active railroad tracks with trains passing 3-4 times daily. The area is undergoing reforestation with newly planted trees and designated restoration zones. According to one visitor, "This site is a great place to watch that amazing river pass by. You sit and watch the barges and various things float by." Another camper noted, "Mosquitoes are prevalent," indicating insect protection is advisable during warmer months.
