Camping opportunities around Troy, Missouri span from developed state park facilities to primitive conservation areas within 30 miles. The region sits at elevations between 400-600 feet above sea level in the eastern Missouri foothills, where limestone bluffs and rolling woodland characterize the landscape. Weather conditions range from freezing winters with occasional snow to humid summers where overnight temperatures rarely drop below 65°F between June and August.
What to do
Kayaking on Lincoln Lake: Cuivre River State Park offers rental kayaks for exploring the park's lake. "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. about Cuivre River State Park Campground.
Archery practice: St. Peters' 370 Lakeside Park includes an archery range among its recreational facilities. "There is boating and archery on site, a dog run, and a small playground," according to Suzie S.'s review of St. Peters' 370 Lakeside Park.
Explore prehistoric sites: Graham Cave State Park centers around its namesake archaeological site. "Hikes were nice, lots of deer, the cave itself is blocked by chainlink but still pretty cool," reports Laura M. about Graham Cave State Park Campground.
What campers like
Spacious sites for privacy: Many campgrounds offer well-spaced sites that provide separation from other campers. "Campground is quiet and has big campsites. The campground is close to Lincoln Lake for kayaking," writes Cody S. about Cuivre River State Park.
Wildlife encounters: The wooded settings create opportunities for wildlife viewing. "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. from her camping experience at Cuivre River.
Lake activities: Many campgrounds feature lake access for swimming, fishing, and boating. "We love going here and watching the sunsets. This is a great place to kayak and camp if you don't want to drive that fare and live in the city," says Lindsey C. about St. Peters' 370 Lakeside Park.
What you should know
Weather challenges: The Troy area experiences seasonal flooding that can affect campground operations. "One of the downsides to this location is that it is prone to flooding. It was out of commission for most of the summer of 2019 as the entire area was flooded," cautions Annie C. about 370 Lakeside Park.
Site leveling issues: Several campgrounds have uneven terrain requiring equipment for leveling. "There are a few flat sites but many were not level," warns Laura M. about Graham Cave State Park Campground.
Limited bathroom facilities: Basic campgrounds may have restricted bathroom options. "The only vault toilet was closed and a porta potty was set next to that," reports Annie C. about her stay at William R. Logan Conservation Area.
Tips for camping with families
Kid-friendly attractions: Several campgrounds offer amenities specifically for children. "This is a perfect place to enjoy with the family. Plenty of gorgeous campsites and a lake to swim and kayak!" recommends J K. at Cuivre River State Park.
Diverse outdoor activities: Parks with multiple recreation options keep children engaged. "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. from Cuivre River.
Playground access: Some campgrounds include play areas for children. "This campground is right across the street from the Mississippi. Predominantly RV campers and families, along with some local fisherman," notes Mike M. about his stay at Pere Marquette State Park Campground.
Tips from RVers
Concrete pads available: Some campgrounds offer more stable parking surfaces for RVs. "Concrete pads with full hookups, as well as dirt pads with full hookups," reports Ernest G. about St. Peters' 370 Lakeside Park.
Full hookup options: Most developed campgrounds provide complete utility connections. "The sites for full hook ups are separate from the other sites," explains Kayla S. about the layout at Cuivre River State Park.
Security considerations: Enhanced security features at certain campgrounds provide peace of mind. "Well maintained and well managed park. Staff on duty at all hours is awesome!" shares Nathaniel B. about his experience at St. Peters' 370 Lakeside Park.
Traveler
