Campgrounds near Lake St. Louis offer diverse outdoor experiences throughout the year. The region sits at elevations between 450-600 feet above sea level with seasonal temperature variations from below freezing in winter to humid 90°F days in summer. Drainage issues affect some camping areas after heavy rainfall, requiring campers to select sites on higher ground during wet weather forecasts.
What to do
Hiking trails from camp: Cuivre River State Park Campground features well-marked paths suitable for all skill levels. "The trails are fantastic and have different levels for all. The best spot is over looking the lake and offers a clear view of the night sky," notes Chad K., who recommends the loop around the lake for beginners.
Kayaking options: Cuivre River State Park maintains a lake with rentable watercraft accessible from the campground. "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," explains Kayla S.
Wine country exploration: Beyond the Trail RV Park serves as a base for exploring local wineries. "It is located in a sleepy little winery town. It is just a few minutes from the main part of town with multiple beautiful wineries within a few miles," according to Jamie C. The park's proximity to the Katy Trail makes it perfect for cycling between vineyard visits.
What campers like
Proximity to lakes: St. Peters' 370 Lakeside Park offers camping with water views. "Beautiful area next to a man-made lake. Concrete pads with full hookups, as well as dirt pads with full hookups," writes Ernest G. The property includes water access for various activities.
Wildlife viewing: Pere Marquette State Park Campground attracts nature enthusiasts for its ecosystem. "In winter there are a lot of eagles feeding in the Illinois and Mississippi Rivers which meet at the park," explains Joel R., highlighting the seasonal bird watching opportunities.
Natural surroundings: Klondike Park provides a woodland camping experience. "Campground is beautiful and very woodsy. We saw bunnies hopping around and when we first arrived to our site a deer was grazing nearby, such a bonus!" shares Maria E., describing the immersive natural setting.
What you should know
Noise considerations: Sundermeier RV Park experiences aircraft and train noise due to its location. "You are on the final approach for the airport, so it'll could be a lil noisy for some. The only bad thing which isn't the campgrounds fault, is you can't have a camp fire due to the city ordinances," Brian A. explains.
Reservation requirements: Campsites at popular locations fill quickly, especially during summer. "Reservations are required and the sites are in high demand," notes Marty C. about St. Charles County Klondike Park, recommending booking several weeks in advance during peak season.
Weather vulnerabilities: Some campgrounds experience drainage issues after heavy rain. "My only complaint is they have some drainage issues if it rains a lot. A few of the campsites will flood, not bad enough to get to your camper, but just enough to be annoying," reports Adam F. about Beyond the Trail RV Park.
Tips for camping with families
Kid-friendly activities: Yogi Bear's Jellystone Park Resort offers structured programming for children. "This is a very family friendly campground and would highly recommend if camping with kids! They also host daily kids activities and crafts," recommends Lindsey R.
Playgrounds and recreation: St. Peters' 370 Lakeside Park features dedicated play areas. "There is a dog run, and a small playground," mentions Suzie S., noting the family-friendly amenities available beyond water activities.
Wildlife education opportunities: Dog friendly campgrounds near Lake St. Louis often provide nature encounters for children. "This park has plenty of well groomed trails and facilities spread out nicely. You could camp here for a weekend and stay busy," explains Tony M. about Cuivre River State Park, noting its educational value for families.
Tips from RVers
Hookup placement: Check utility connection locations before selecting sites. "The site services, electric, water and sewer, are located to the front of the site and extensions were needed for both the electric and sewer," warns Craig H. about Beyond the Trail RV Park.
Site selection for large rigs: Cherokee Lakes Campground offers spacious options for various RV sizes. "The sites are outfitted with a picnic table and brick fire rings. Some have water spickets. There's a central covered picnic area," reports Rick I., highlighting the amenities for RVers.
Pet-friendly accommodations: Most dog friendly campgrounds near Lake St Louis have restrictions about pet supervision. "Tent camping areas offer secluded, spacious sites under tall trees, making them ideal for campers with dogs seeking privacy," according to regular campers who visit with their pets.
