Greensfelder County Park accommodates equestrian campers through specialized sites with horse amenities while also providing facilities for tent campers. Each campsite includes access to fire pits and basic amenities, though reservation planning is recommended for busy periods. The park's trail system connects to various terrain types, with most trail users practicing appropriate yielding etiquette. Primitive camping sites offer a more rustic experience, while family tent sites position campers near essential facilities.
What to do
Horseback riding trails: At Cuivre River State Park, equestrians find extensive trail options through varied terrain. "If you need a place to camp with your horse they have an entire equestrian section. Close to St. Louis but far enough out to enjoy peace and quiet!" notes J K.
Kayaking and water activities: Several parks offer water-based recreation on nearby lakes and rivers. "The campground is close to Lincoln Lake for kayaking," mentions Cody S. about Cuivre River State Park. At Blue Spring Ranch, "We did a 5 mile float which was amazing! They bus you up river and then you end up back at the campground," reports Caitlin F.
Trail hiking: Multiple conservation areas provide hiking opportunities for non-equestrian visitors. At Daniel Boone Conservation Area, "The 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.
Fishing: Many campgrounds offer fishing access in stocked ponds or natural lakes. "The campground is beautiful and very woodsy. We saw bunnies hopping around and when we first arrived to our site a deer was grazing nearby," says Maria E. about Cuivre River, highlighting the wildlife viewing opportunities while fishing.
What campers like
Privacy and spacing: At Whetstone Conservation Area, campers appreciate the well-maintained grounds with adequate spacing. "Super well maintained conservation area, 5 camp sites with fire pits and picnic tables," notes Kayla W.
Natural surroundings: Many campers value the wooded settings found at area campgrounds. At Daniel Boone Conservation Area, "We camped in the RV area. There were a couple of other tents and a popup and aside from the popup running his generator 24hrs a day, it was very quiet and relaxing," shares Erik R.
Clean facilities: Campers consistently mention the maintenance of bathrooms and showers. "Clean and well maintained. We live in Wentzville so it's an easy jog up 61 to get away," reports Tony M. about nearby camping options.
Affordable rates: Several conservation areas offer camping at reasonable prices. At Horseshoe Lake State Park, "Great spot in a beautiful area close to St. Louis. No power but access to drinking water and waste water dump for just 8$," comments Helge Vandel J.
What you should know
Reservation requirements: During peak seasons, securing spots in advance is essential at most equestrian-focused campgrounds near New Melle. "It's close to Six Flags. Sites 20-29 have electric service with 20-amp and 30-amp connections, though site 29 notably only offers 20-amp service," a visitor notes.
Limited amenities at conservation areas: Some sites offer minimal services. At Daniel Boone Conservation Area, "This is entirely primitive camping. No services at all but the grounds are neat and clean," explains Erik R.
Site selection matters: Choosing appropriate sites impacts your experience. For McCully Heritage Project, "We have only stayed at the largest site as it has good fishing and a place for us to launch our paddleboards and kayaks. We easily fit a dozen people over the 4th of July," shares Eric.
Seasonal crowds: Area campgrounds experience varying usage patterns. "The park gets busy with equestrian traffic on weekends and holidays, making reservations advisable," notes a regular visitor to area equestrian facilities.
Tips for camping with families
Water recreation spots: Kids enjoy water activities at multiple locations. At Cuivre River State Park, "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," reports Kayla S.
Accessible facilities: Families value campgrounds with appropriate amenities. "We have been backpack camping here twice and RV camping once. The bathrooms are well maintained and the campsites are fairly large and provide lots of shade. They have a large lake to swim in and you can kayak as well!" explains Tracie S. about Cuivre River State Park.
Wildlife viewing opportunities: Children appreciate nature encounters at area campgrounds. "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.
Beach access: Several campgrounds offer beach areas ideal for children. At Blue Spring Ranch, "Highly recommend going to the 'Upper Beach'! It's up by the cabins/cottages and you definitely need to drive there. Get there early in the morning to set up your chairs in the river to get a good spot," advises Caitlin F.
Tips from RVers
Electric service specifications: Check amperage requirements before booking. At some parks, "Sites 20-29 have electric service with 20-amp and 30-amp connections, though site 29 notably only offers 20-amp service," warns a regular visitor.
Site leveling challenges: RVers should prepare for potentially uneven terrain. "Most sites are great for trailers 26' or less and 1 slide (sites 24-26 can fit a fifth wheel probably no bigger than 36-38 ft)," advises Matthew H. about site selection.
Limited hookup options: Many conservation areas lack full hookups. "No water at sites, no 50 amps, no dump but KOA and RV dealer 5-7 mins away," notes Matthew H. about some camping options near New Melle.
Strategic site selection: RVers recommend specific sites for larger vehicles. "Site 29 where we stayed can fit a 40' fifth wheel, a lot of room to back in," shares Matthew H. about his experience at a local park.
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