Primitive camping near Lake St. Louis, Missouri offers direct access to the Mississippi River ecosystem and surrounding conservation areas. Dispersed camping options are situated primarily on public lands maintained by the Missouri Department of Conservation and the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers. Sites range from designated backpacking areas to informal riverbank locations with varying levels of accessibility depending on seasonal river conditions.
What to do
River fishing opportunities: At Silo Access Area - O'Neil Creek, campers can fish directly from the Mississippi riverbank. "You sit and watch the barges and various things float by," notes a visitor who appreciated the riverside location.
Wildlife observation: The area supports diverse river ecosystem wildlife viewing. According to one camper at Silo Access Area, "The site is right on the Mississippi River!" making it ideal for observing river birds and passing wildlife.
Boat launching: Silo Access Area provides a boat ramp for river access, though seasonal conditions may affect usability. One reviewer mentioned, "There is a large boat ramp," though another noted it "was a bit of a mess with logs and sandbars" during their visit.
Conservation area hiking: The surrounding public lands offer seasonal hiking opportunities. A camper at Lone Spring Trail Backpacking Campsite(s) commented, "The site has several areas to setup a tent has a metal fire pit. I will be going back next year."
What campers like
Direct river access: Campers consistently mention the Mississippi River proximity as a primary draw. "Very impressed with this beautiful location. The site is right on the Mississippi River!" reports one visitor to Silo Access Area.
Minimal development: The primitive nature appeals to those seeking less crowded camping. As one camper described it as a "Hidden Gem! No facilities, short drive into town."
River traffic viewing: The Mississippi River commercial traffic provides continuous entertainment. A camper noted, "This site is a great place to watch that amazing river pass by," adding that watching barges pass is "really great."
Free camping: All dispersed sites in the area are available without fees. "Can beat free and great views," commented one camper about their experience at Silo Access Area.
What you should know
Limited facilities: Prepare for true primitive camping conditions. According to one review, "No water, no electrical hookups, and no bathrooms. There is 1 small trash bin."
Transportation noise: Railroad tracks border some camping areas with regular train traffic. "You are close to the RR tracks but there aren't that many trains," notes one camper, while another specified, "You won't miss the train as it comes by 3-4 times a day."
Navigation challenges: Finding exact locations can require additional research. One camper clarified that Silo Access Area "is not exactly where The dyrt sends you. On Google maps it's listed as Oneil Creek, though the entrance is marked as Silo Access. It's about 1 mile north off RT 79 from Calumet Creek access."
Insects: Prepare for seasonal mosquito activity near the river. One camper directly stated, "Mosquitoes are prevalent," indicating proper insect protection is necessary.
Tips for camping with families
Vehicle accessibility: Some sites accommodate family vehicles better than others. At Silo Access Area, "There are 13 sites for RVs and Travel Trailers. Three sites are curved to pull in and out easily. Site 13 is large enough for 2 RVs."
Safety considerations: The Mississippi River current requires water safety awareness for families with children. Multiple reviews mention the direct river access, and families should take appropriate precautions near the water.
Nature education: Ongoing conservation efforts provide learning opportunities. One camper observed that the "area is freshly paved and undergoing reforestation. However, there are a lot of trees."
Weather preparation: River proximity can create variable conditions requiring appropriate gear. Several reviews mention the exposure to elements along the river, suggesting families bring suitable protection from sun and wind.
Tips from RVers
Self-containment necessary: No hookups exist at any primitive sites. One RVer advised, "bring your rv, water and a generator" when staying at Silo Access Area.
Site selection: Some locations better accommodate larger vehicles. "The best sites are at the opposite ends of the flat circle where there are large gravel areas ideal for parking RV's," according to one visitor.
Road conditions: Access roads vary in maintenance level. One camper noted that "the road through the campground is nicely graded," though conditions may change seasonally.
Length restrictions: Not all sites accommodate larger RVs. While specific reviews don't mention maximum lengths, the "curved to pull in and out easily" sites mentioned suggest some accommodation for various vehicle sizes.
