Cuivre River State Park offers both primitive and electric campsites across different camping areas. The main campground provides 43 electric sites with paved pads ranging from 40-60 feet in length. Toilets and hot showers are available in the main camping area, with vault toilets located in the primitive camping section. During peak season (April through October), reservations are recommended as weekend availability can be limited, especially for electric sites. Basic sites start at $13 per night, with electric sites at $23 per night.
What to do
Kayaking on Lincoln Lake: The 55-acre lake at Cuivre River State Park offers calm waters perfect for beginner and intermediate paddlers. Rental kayaks are available during summer months at the check-in booth. "This campground has a lake you can rent kayaks for. They have a small store at the check in booth. It also has an accessible fishing dock that is covered," notes Kayla S.
Hiking opportunities: The trail system at Cuivre River includes shorter loops and longer connecting trails through diverse terrain. "This park has plenty of well groomed trails and facilities spread out nicely. You could camp here for a weekend and stay busy," shares Tony M., who specifically recommends "the trail around the lake."
Wildlife viewing: The woodland setting at Greensfelder County Park creates excellent opportunities for wildlife spotting. "Neat look out points" are mentioned by Alicia B., while Lucas M. notes "the place has A LOT of deer," making early morning and evening ideal times for wildlife observation.
What campers like
Private, spacious sites: Many horse campgrounds near Lake St. Louis, Missouri feature campsites with ample room for equipment. At Cuivre River State Park, Cody S. appreciates that the "campground is quiet and has big campsites." Similarly, Maria E. found her site "fairly spacious and not super close to others which we liked."
Natural surroundings: Daniel Boone Conservation Area offers a more rustic camping experience with natural features. "Gravel roads to the campsites are well maintained. Campsites are clean and well maintained," reports Timmy C., while another camper notes "Great spot. Enjoy the sound of owls and silence. Plenty of dead/down trees for firewood."
Water access: Several campgrounds provide fishing and water recreation opportunities. Jessica describes Daniel Boone Conservation Area as having "a little pond with wildlife like rabbits and frogs," while at Horseshoe Lake State Park Campground, campers enjoy "good fishing, trails and memories waiting to be made," according to Travis.
What you should know
No amenities at primitive sites: Primitive camping areas lack modern conveniences. At Daniel Boone Conservation Area, Erik R. notes, "This is entirely primitive camping. No services at all but the grounds are neat and clean." Similarly, AC mentions "No amenities at the end of the road, but there is a toilet at the first camping area."
Cell service varies: Connectivity differs significantly between campgrounds. Timmy C. reports "At&t gets decent service" at Daniel Boone, while Alexis M. confirms "2 bars w/Verizon." For those needing better connectivity, Blue Spring Ranch offers WiFi, though Erin G. notes "basic WiFi is free 1 hour at a time and this year we have noticed a major upgrade to their system."
Reservation requirements: Peak season demands advance planning. At St. Louis West / Historic Route 66 KOA, weekends fill quickly during summer months. Horseshoe Lake State Park offers a simpler system as Travis explains: "Self service pay system makes it simple, easy, and fast. Camping can be reserved but no need. Just pick your spot go to the office building, and fill out the form."
Tips for camping with families
Look for multiple activities: Equestrian campgrounds near Lake St. Louis often provide diverse recreation options. At Lost Valley Lake Resort, Joshua R. describes how they are "extremely family friendly, they have an indoor pool, hot tubs, and sona, an outdoor pool and hot tubs, inflatable jump pillows, concerts almost every weekend."
Consider shower access: Family camping is more comfortable with shower facilities. Tracie S. at Cuivre River appreciated that "bathrooms are well maintained and the campsites are fairly large and provide lots of shade." For shorter stays at primitive sites, plan accordingly as Erik R. notes at Daniel Boone Conservation Area: "no services at all."
Pack for wildlife encounters: Prepare for local wildlife, especially ticks. Lucas M. advises at Greensfelder County Park that while there are "A LOT of deer which means that ticks are everywhere—which is not a big deal if you know what you're doing." Bring appropriate repellent and conduct regular tick checks after hiking.
Tips from RVers
Site selection matters: At Greensfelder County Park, Matthew H. recommends specific sites for larger rigs: "sites 24-26 can fit a fifth wheel probably no bigger than 36-38 ft" while "site 29 where we stayed can fit a 40' fifth wheel." He also notes practical amenities: "2-20 amp plugs and 1-30amp plug" though "site 29 only have 2-20 amp plugs no 30."
Check hookup availability: RVers should verify exact hookup configurations before booking. Matthew H. at Greensfelder County Park notes "no water at sites" and "no 50 amps," but mentions "frost free water at both ends of the campground" and the convenience of having "a dump but KOA and RV dealer 5-7 mins away."
Consider parking surfaces: Site conditions affect leveling and stability. Matthew H. advises at Greensfelder that you can "park campers on grass to be closer to one side or another of your site," and the campground has "a lot of room to back in" with "not to many trees hanging over your camper that would drop branches."
