Camping options near Portage Des Sioux, Missouri span beyond river-oriented sites to include state parks with diverse terrain features. The region ranges in elevation from 400-600 feet, with low-lying areas near the waterways susceptible to seasonal weather patterns. Unlike the Mississippi and Missouri River corridors, inland campgrounds often feature rolling hills and oak-hickory forests that provide natural windbreaks during spring storms.
What to do
Hike challenging terrain: Pere Marquette State Park offers strenuous hiking trails with panoramic views. "Great hikes! Very strenuous in some locations, but well worth the effort for the views! Overall well kept and have have an incredible lodge!" notes Hannah S. about Pere Marquette State Park Campground.
Paddling opportunities: St. Peters' 370 Lakeside Park provides equipment rentals for water activities on their man-made lake. "We love going here and watching the sunsets. This is a great place to kayak and camp if you don't want to drive that fare and live in the city," writes Lindsey C. about St. Peters' 370 Lakeside Park.
Biking adventures: Access to multiple trail networks allows cyclists to explore the countryside. "You are a stones throw away from Katy trail which will take you to downtown St. Charles. The trail is about 1.5-2 miles to get to downtown. You can bike or walk there," reports Brian A.
Wildlife viewing: Cuivre River State Park provides opportunities to spot local fauna in a natural setting. "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 to do dishes and whatnot," shares Maria E. about her experience at Cuivre River State Park Campground.
What campers like
Historical attractions: The region's rich history draws visitors to nearby historic districts. "Easy ride in to St. Charles a wonderful historic river town on the Missouri River. Great shops, great restaurants," mentions Cheryl K. about camping at Sundermeier RV Park.
Urban proximity with natural settings: Many campsites offer a balance between access to city amenities and outdoor experiences. "Well maintained and well managed park. Staff on duty at all hours is awesome! Five minutes from food and stores. 30 minutes from downtown Saint Louis," explains Nathaniel B.
Stargazing opportunities: Clear night skies away from city lights provide excellent star viewing. "The best spot is over looking the lake and offers a clear view of the night sky," notes Chad K. about his experience at Cuivre River State Park.
Diverse bird watching: The confluence of major waterways attracts various bird species throughout the year. "You can see all kinds of wildlife in and around the lake- deer, bald eagles, pelicans, ducks, snakes," observes Annie C.
What you should know
Train and aircraft noise: Several campgrounds experience noise from nearby transportation routes. "On Lambert international airports flight path, next to a major train trestle, right next to Highway 370. Very industrial around the park. Very urban environment," warns Jack G.
Limited shade at newer campgrounds: Recently developed sites often lack mature trees. "The grounds are clean and pleasant, if a bit sparse with little shade. This will change over the subsequent years, however, as there are many relatively newly planted trees," explains Suzie S. about St. Louis NE-Granite City KOA.
Wildlife precautions: Some campgrounds have active wildlife that requires proper food storage. "Don't leave anything out at night or raccoons will scavenge," advises Maria E. from her stay at Cuivre River State Park.
Gate closing times: Certain parks restrict nighttime access. "The main gate closes at 9 p.m. but if you call ahead there is a code you are given...or you can contact the camp host," notes Lahree C.
Tips for camping with families
Playground options: Multiple campgrounds feature facilities designed for children. "There is a nice bathhouse with free showers for the campers and pay laundry. The lake is great to walk around, about a 3 mile walk or bike on a paved trail," describes Annie C.
Educational activities: Some parks provide interpretive programs and exhibits. "The park has planted some trees, but they are really just saplings, so there is no shade yet. There is a nice bathhouse with free showers for the campers and pay laundry," mentions Barbie B.
Recreational equipment rentals: Several parks offer various gear for family activities. "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," shares Mats about Dr. Edmund A. Babler Memorial State Park Campground.
ATV opportunities: For families with older children seeking adventure, some nearby facilities cater to off-road enthusiasts. "The campground is more for toys (dirt bikes and atvs) than camping. It has water and electric (50/30) hookups. They have really awesome trails to ride," explains Joshua Y.
Tips from RVers
Electrical considerations: Some campgrounds have specific electrical configurations. "DO NOT use the 30A receptacles here unless you have a surge protector with an Electrical Management System (EMS) that explicitly confirms correct wiring before connecting your RV," warns Jeff C.
RV site selection: Not all sites accommodate larger vehicles. "The camp hosts we encountered are very helpful and have a list of site lengths and can tell you which ones are appropriate for large RVs," mentions Nancy W.
Water pressure awareness: Varying water pressure may require regulators at some locations. "The water pressure was so strong that I could barely open the water pump!" reports Susan L.
Utility placement: Setup logistics vary between campgrounds. "Utilities are set up weird on all sites - Water and electric are at the very rear of the site by the sewer, so you will need a decent sized hose to reach if your water intake is in the front of your camper," notes Josh F. about his stay at Draft Kings at Casino Queen RV Park.
