Camping options within 30 miles of New Melle provide travelers access to more than just RV sites. The Missouri River Valley terrain creates flood-prone lowlands with an average 600-foot elevation throughout the area. Sites typically open March through November, with several locations offering year-round availability despite occasional winter precipitation that averages 25 inches annually.
What to do
Bike the Katy Trail: Beyond the Trail RV Park borders directly on the 240-mile Katy Trail with easy access for cyclists. "This is a great park. 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. The park is bordered by the Katy Trail which will take you into town (and many other scenic places) so bring your bikes!" notes Jamie C.
Visit historic towns: Sundermeier RV Park provides direct access to St. Charles' historic district. "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. Great shops, great restaurants," writes Cheryl K.
Explore local wineries: The Defiance area features multiple wineries within minutes of camping areas. "The location of the campground is ideal being located adjacent to the Katy bike trail and within walking distance from restaurants, a brewery and wineries," reports Craig H. about Beyond the Trail RV Park.
What campers like
Direct brewery access: Beyond the Trail RV Park has on-site beverage options. "Excellent little RV park behind a brewery. 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," says Sam C.
Water activities: St. Peters' 370 Lakeside Park offers lake recreation options right on the property. "This is a great place to kayak and camp if you don't want to drive that fare and live in the city. We love going here and watching the sunsets," shares Lindsey C.
Late check-out times: Flexible scheduling makes travel days less rushed. "Easy to book online even the day of. Choose your spot ahead of time and pull in, easy as that! There are RV & tent sites, bathrooms with hot showers. Had no problem booking around 7pm the day of and arrived around 1 am quietly set up in my previously reserved spot. Check out is at 2 pm," explains Brooklyn G.
What you should know
Drainage concerns: Some sites experience water issues during heavy rainfall periods. "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," warns Adam F. about Beyond the Trail RV Park.
Noise levels: Casino Queen RV Park experiences transportation noise. "Close to the arch, that's why we chose this place to stay overnight. Lots of noise from the interstate and there's a train that goes by a couple times in the middle of the night, but the view of the arch and downtown St Louis and access to both is fantastic," explains Meghan T.
Limited shade: Newer parks in the region have young trees that don't yet provide coverage. "It seems to be new, and there are trees planted, but it will be awhile before they provide any shade. I stopped here because it was the closest location to an RV repair shop that I unfortunately needed to visit on my way to Chicago," notes Susan L. about St. Peters' 370 Lakeside Park.
Tips for camping with families
On-site recreation: St. Peters' 370 Lakeside Park offers multiple outdoor options. "The park/campground rents paddleboats, kayaks, and canoes in addition to different kinds of bikes. There is a walking trail around the lake (4+ miles). There is fish in the lake and you are allowed to fish," explains Mats.
Playground facilities: Campgrounds with play structures provide important amenities for younger travelers. "Very well maintained and well managed park. Staff on duty at all hours is awesome! It is a city park and had that feel... not many trees for shade but the lake was pretty and the playground was good for the kiddos," describes Nathaniel B.
Try unique rental bikes: Beyond the Trail RV Park's location makes specialty cycles accessible. "This new little (and fast expanding) campground has it all. A short 5 minute walk to 'downtown' Defiance, the campground is right next to the Katy Trail. Forgot your bike? Walk 3 minutes away and rent one," suggests Annie C.
Tips from RVers
Water pressure variations: Hermann City RV Park offers different utility sites. "Spot 36. Full hook up — 30/50 electric, water, sewer. Literally located in the middle of the city park, between the community pool, the soccer fields and the baseball diamond. All concrete," reports Angie N.
Mixed surface types: Area parks feature different site bases depending on location. "Loved this location, clean, micro brewery outside the gate. Immediate access to Katy trail. Bring your bikes or rent e-bikes in town. Lots of wineries nearby and several pub type restaurants nearby. Walmart is 17 mins away," notes Joshua R.
Check extension requirements: Birch Creek RV Park provides concrete pads with full hookups. "This is a small RV park just off I-44 about 20 minutes from Meramec Caverns. It's very close to the highway so there is lots of highway noise. Some sites are farther away so not so bad. There is easy access from I-44. 30 & 50-Amp Electrical, Water & Sewer Hook-ups. Concrete pads," advises Joel R.
