RV campgrounds around Lake St. Louis offer access to both urban attractions and natural areas. Most sites are within 20-30 miles of downtown St. Louis, providing a convenient base for exploring the region. Several parks sit along the Katy Trail, a 240-mile converted railway path that runs through the area, making it popular with cycling enthusiasts visiting the nearby wineries.
What to do
Katy Trail access: Beyond the Trail RV Park borders the Katy Trail, giving campers direct access to miles of cycling and walking paths. "The Katy trail borders the park for easy access to town. Beautiful views across a large farm field (soy beans when we were here) to the hills beyond with incredible sunsets," shares Sam C. The trail connects to numerous wineries and small towns.
Winery tours: Hermann City RV Park puts you in the heart of Missouri wine country with several wine-focused attractions nearby. A visitor notes, "Hermann is right in the heart of Missouri wine country with two stunning wineries within walking distance of the campground; Stone Hill and Hermannhof...these are not to be missed." Most wineries offer tastings for $5-15 per person.
City exploration: Sundermeier RV Park provides easy access to historic St. Charles. "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. Charles a wonderful historic river town on the Missouri River," writes Cheryl K.
What campers like
Views of St. Louis: Draft Kings at Casino Queen RV Park offers unique city views. "Even though this RV park is in a city, we felt safe. And its view of the Gateway Arch can't be beat," notes Dennis P. Sites have full hookups with asphalt pads that accommodate larger vehicles.
Brewery access: Many campers appreciate the proximity to local breweries. At Beyond the Trail RV Park, "Just on the other side of the trail is a great brewery with a fantastic patio and rooftop deck. We walked there a few times to enjoy pizza," says Jamie C. Several breweries offer discounts to campers.
Clean facilities: St. Peters' 370 Lakeside Park receives consistent praise for maintenance. One camper explains, "This campground, a City of St Peters park and campground, is as excellent as a campground comes. The campsites are 'state-park-size', especially the back-in sites which all have plenty of lawns behind them." The park includes kayak rentals and fishing access.
What you should know
Weather challenges: Flooding can affect camping plans in this region. At Beyond the Trail RV Park, Adam F. notes, "My only complaint is they have some drainage issues if it rains a lot." Many campgrounds are located near waterways that may rise during heavy rain periods.
Noise considerations: Urban campgrounds often have noise from transportation. "You are on the final approach for the airport, so it could be a lil noisy for some," explains Brian A. about Sundermeier RV Park. Train tracks near many campgrounds also create periodic noise, especially at night.
Reservation timing: Hermann City RV Park requires advance planning during peak seasons. "If you are going, book early. We visit the area 1 to 2 times per year and book as we leave for the next year," advises Chris Y. Festival weekends often sell out months in advance.
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Several campgrounds feature family-friendly amenities. St. Peters' 370 Lakeside Park visitor Nathaniel B. shares, "The lake was pretty and the playground was good for the kiddos. Five minutes from food and stores." The park also offers bike rentals suitable for different ages.
Water activities: Families can take advantage of water recreation at certain parks. "This park is beautiful. Located about 25 minutes from St Louis. They have paddle boats and bikes and group bikes for rental. Located right next to a lake with a lot of RV and tent camping spots. Kids had a blast riding bikes," notes Joseph F.
Safety features: Cahokia RV Parque provides secured facilities families appreciate. "We had a great experience in the 4 nights we spent here. The grounds, pool, laundry, and bathrooms were all in excellent repair and clean. The park was quiet, but very family friendly," explains Lee T.
Tips from RVers
Site extensions: Some campgrounds require additional equipment. Craig H. from Beyond the Trail RV Park advises, "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."
Big rig access: Covered Bridge RV Park accommodates larger vehicles. "Back in sites are paved and level with additional space for vehicle parking," notes Jen K. Most sites can handle rigs up to 40 feet, though some parks have limited turning radius.
Utility variations: Water pressure differences exist between parks. Jack G. at Sundermeier RV Park shares, "30 pound water pressure. Nice level concrete pad with a picnic table." Bringing a pressure regulator is recommended for most RV campgrounds in Lake St. Louis, Missouri.
