Equestrian campgrounds in the O'Fallon region provide year-round access to trail systems spanning varied terrain. The area sits at approximately 500-600 feet above sea level with moderate seasonal temperature fluctuations. Frost-free water access remains available through winter months at several horse camping facilities, allowing for extended riding seasons beyond typical summer months.
What to do
Kayaking at Lincoln Lake: Cuivre River State Park offers lake activities 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," notes Kayla S. from her experience at Cuivre River State Park.
Hiking connected trails: Multiple parks feature intersecting trail systems with varying difficulty levels. "This park has plenty of well groomed trails and facilities spread out nicely. You could camp here for a weekend and stay busy. We live in Wentzville so it's an easy jog up 61 to get away," reports Tony M. about his visits to Cuivre River State Park.
Fishing at stocked ponds: Conservation areas provide fishing opportunities in maintained ponds. "There's a little pond with wildlife like rabbits and frogs. You get there after about 5 miles on a well maintained, wide gravel road," explains Tee C. about Daniel Boone Conservation Area.
What campers like
Private, spacious sites: Many campgrounds offer well-separated camping spots with natural barriers. "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! No electricity but water was conveniently located right across from our site," reports Maria E. about her stay at Cuivre River State Park.
Year-round water access: Frost-free water stations remain operational through colder months. "Frost free water at both ends of the campground," notes Matthew H. about Greensfelder County Park.
Budget-friendly options: Some locations offer affordable camping with basic amenities. "Great spot in a beautiful area close to St. Louis. No power but access to drinking water and waste water dump for just $8," states Helge Vandel J. about Horseshoe Lake State Park.
What you should know
Train noise at some locations: Proximity to railroad tracks affects noise levels at certain campgrounds. "This was such a nice and serene setting. Close to the city and local attractions, yet surrounded by nature none the less. The family atmosphere at this campground brings a smile to your face. It will be even better when they invent silent trains," mentions Todd P. regarding his experience at St. Louis West / Historic Route 66 KOA.
Limited availability at popular sites: Some campgrounds fill quickly, especially during peak seasons. "The park provides water access for horses and maintains clean facilities year-round."
Site selection impacts privacy: Location within campgrounds affects noise and visibility. "The Family tent sites are very close to the road, as in 10ft from it, so traffic to and from the stables are rather annoying. Being very close, the freeway noise is still present," cautions Lucas M. about his Greensfelder County Park experience.
Seasonal wildlife considerations: Deer populations affect tick prevalence in warmer months. "The place has A LOT of deer which means that ticks are everywhere-which is not a big deal if you know what you're doing."
Tips for camping with families
Indoor recreation options: Some sites offer activities for weather contingencies. "Lost valley happens to be one of our favorite camp grounds. They are extremely family friendly, they have an indoor pool, hot tubs, and sona, an outdoor pool and hot tubs, inflatable jump pillows, concerts almost every weekend," shares Joshua R. about Lost Valley Lake Resort.
Lake activities for children: Multiple parks feature lake-based recreation specifically designed for families. "We had a picnic and the kids got to play on the playground equipment," mentions Leo S. about McCully Heritage Project.
Affordable day-use amenities: Several parks offer low-cost activities beyond camping. "Ten dollars a night helps maintain land and natural area, all donation, very family oriented," explains Michele G. about the McCully Heritage Project.
Wildlife viewing opportunities: Designated areas provide supervised nature experiences. "I just love the bridge across the pond."
Tips from RVers
Site dimensions and maneuverability: Understanding specific site measurements helps with proper rig placement. "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). A lot of room to back in," advises Matthew H. about Greensfelder County Park.
Electric options and limitations: Power connections vary across campgrounds. "2-20 amp plugs and 1-30amp plug. No 50 amps."
Dump station alternatives: Some campgrounds lack onsite dump stations but provide nearby options. "No dump but KOA and RV dealer 5-7 mins away."
Backing requirements: Site orientations affect vehicle positioning. "Most sites back up to main road (mostly light traffic and none at night)."
