Equestrian camping near Arnold, Missouri requires travel outside the immediate area, with the closest dedicated facilities located 30-45 minutes away. The region sits at approximately 700 feet elevation and experiences humid continental climate with hot summers and mild winters. Most camping facilities near Arnold maintain seasonal operation from March through November, with limited winter accessibility.
What to do
Trail riding opportunities: At Greensfelder County Park, equestrian activities dominate with specialized facilities. "There's tie stalls under a roof and a round pen mounting blocks shower and bathrooms in camp. Electricity at each site and water nearby. Trails are well marked maps available," notes Alicia B. The park offers 5-8 mile trail combinations.
Lake activities: St. Francois State Park Campground provides water recreation options along the river. "The park is big and has several picnic and swimming areas," writes Kristen R. Campers can fish or cool off in designated swimming areas during summer months.
Family adventures: Cuivre River State Park Campground combines outdoor recreation with family-friendly amenities. "This park has plenty of well groomed trails and facilities spread out nicely. You could camp here for a weekend and stay busy," notes Tony M. The park includes a lake for kayaking and multiple trail systems.
What campers like
Natural surroundings: The wooded environment creates a sense of seclusion at many sites. At Greensfelder County Park, Lucas M. observed, "The whole park is rather pretty with plenty to do and see. 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." Mature trees provide shade at most sites.
Wildlife viewing: Many campsites offer opportunities to observe local fauna. At Cuivre River State Park Campground, Maria E. reported, "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!" Morning and evening hours provide best viewing chances.
River access: Blue Spring Ranch features direct water access for equestrian campers. "We have stayed at Blue Springs for three consecutive years in a row. We love all of the amenities. We park close to the creek, we drive to the Meramec River and sometimes enjoy petting a horse or goat," writes Leslie G. The property combines river recreation with horse-friendly facilities.
What you should know
Limited dedicated equestrian facilities: Most campgrounds near Arnold lack specialized horse amenities. At St. Joe State Park Campground, "The site also offered amenities for those with horses. We had a spot with electric and no water, water is located close by the vault toilets," reports Olivia S. Call ahead to confirm current equestrian policies.
Variable site quality: Campsite conditions vary significantly between parks and within individual campgrounds. At Horseshoe Lake State Park Campground, Jennifer R. found that "There is a homemade sign that says no camping. I wish we would have known that before we got here." Always verify current operations before traveling.
Seasonal considerations: The best time for equestrian camping runs from April through October. St. Francois campers note that "The campground is close to some motorsports arena which had loud events (drag racing?) during the entire weekend we were there. If you appreciate peaceful days and nights, check out the racing schedule first," advises reviewer Mats.
Tips for camping with families
Accessible recreation: Horseshoe Lake State Park Campground offers activities suitable for all ages. "Horseshoe Lake is one of my most visited parks and most favorite park in the STL and surrounding areas. First off absolutely beautiful land and peace is easily achieved," writes Travis. The park charges just $8 per night.
Shower facilities: When camping with children, clean bathroom access matters. At St. Louis West / Historic Route 66 KOA, Mary D. found that "Separate handicap shower facilities are always a huge plus for us. Bathrooms were clean." Most family-friendly campgrounds maintain shower houses from April through October.
Site selection: Choose sites strategically when camping with kids. At Cuivre River State Park, one camper recommends, "The best spot is over looking the lake and offers a clear view of the night sky." Reserve lake-view sites 3-6 months in advance for weekend stays during peak season.
Tips from RVers
Hookup variations: RV campers should verify electrical capacity before booking. At Blue Spring Ranch, Caitlin F. advises, "Would definitely recommend sites 106-108. Some friends of ours stayed there and had tons of space!" Most RV sites near Arnold offer 30-amp service, with limited 50-amp availability.
Navigation challenges: Some campgrounds present access difficulties for larger rigs. At Greensfelder County Park, Matthew H. notes specific site limitations: "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)." Check individual campground road conditions and turning radius requirements.
Seasonal utility access: Water availability changes seasonally at many parks. According to Matthew H., Greensfelder provides "frost free water at both ends of the campground," but individual site hookups vary. Most campgrounds winterize water systems from November through March.
