Best Tent Camping near Arnold, MO
Tent campers near Arnold, Missouri can find established sites at Dr. Edmund A. Babler Memorial State Park Campground, located about 30 minutes west of St. Louis. This park offers spacious tent sites with concrete pads in both shaded and open areas. Klondike Park in Augusta provides another option for tent camping, with sites available through reservation. Most tent areas are drive-in accessible, though some locations offer walk-in sites for those seeking more privacy.
Tent sites at Babler Memorial State Park feature concrete pads with picnic tables and fire rings. Potable water is available throughout the grounds, though not at individual sites. Showers and flush toilets are accessible during the main season (April-October), while only vault toilets remain open during winter months. The park gates close at 9 pm with an access code provided for late arrivals. Many tent sites are positioned on level ground, though some areas may be on slight slopes, making site selection important for comfort.
Tent camping experiences vary across seasons, with summer weekends being the busiest periods. The wooded environment provides good shade coverage at many sites, particularly in the 52-75 site range which offers more privacy and tree cover. Hiking trails throughout the parks provide daytime activities, with Babler featuring several miles of trails suitable for various skill levels. During spring and fall, temperatures can fluctuate significantly between day and night. A camper noted, "The sites at the end of cul de sacs give you the most privacy." Wildlife sightings are common, with some visitors reporting raccoon activity that can be persistent around campsites. Most tent areas are relatively quiet despite proximity to St. Louis, creating a wilderness feel without extensive travel.
