Camping sites near Portage Des Sioux, Missouri are concentrated along the confluence of three major waterways: the Mississippi, Missouri, and Illinois Rivers. The area sits at approximately 450 feet elevation with seasonal flooding concerns affecting campground availability. Most campgrounds in this region operate year-round but experience capacity limits during summer months when temperatures regularly exceed 90°F.
What to do
Kayaking at Lincoln Lake: Lincoln Lake at Cuivre River State Park Campground offers excellent paddling opportunities about 40 minutes from Portage Des Sioux. "Campground is quiet and has big campsites. The campground is close to Lincoln Lake for kayaking," notes Cody S., highlighting the accessible water recreation.
Historic attractions: Downtown St. Charles features well-preserved buildings within walking distance of Sundermeier RV Park. "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," explains Cheryl K.
Evening wildlife observation: Twilight hours provide opportunities to spot native wildlife including owls and deer. "The campground is located in an open grove of old trees. There were owls when we were there," reports Joel R. who camped at Pere Marquette State Park, adding that "in winter there are a lot of eagles feeding in the Illinois and Mississippi Rivers."
What campers like
Waterfront views: Many campers appreciate the lake views available at St. Peters' 370 Lakeside Park, particularly at sunset. "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," shares Lindsey C.
Spacious sites: Campgrounds in this region typically offer generous spacing between sites. "The sites to the back are much better than the ones to the front," advises Angie S. about Draft Kings at Casino Queen RV Park, which offers concrete pads with full hookups.
Affordable rates: Primitive camping options provide economical alternatives with basic amenities. "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... $8 a night," explains Travis, describing the self-service payment system and friendly staff.
What you should know
Noise considerations: Train tracks and airport flight paths affect several campgrounds in the area. "Sundermeier RV Park is on path of airport it seems but plane noise does not bother us. It was not to bad," reports Gayle A., noting that despite this minor issue, the park features "a park and lots of trails."
Limited shade: Many newer campgrounds haven't developed mature tree cover yet. "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. Peters' 370 Lakeside Park.
Seasonal flooding concerns: Low-lying areas near rivers experience periodic closures. "One of the downsides to this location is that it is prone to flooding. It was out of commission for most of the summer of 2019 as the entire area was flooded," shares Annie C., though noting that the city did "a great job getting this place back to usable."
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Several pet-friendly campgrounds include play areas for children. "Kids had a blast riding bikes. Even finding a few little frogs jumping around and fireflies at night," writes Joseph F. about his family's experience at St. Peters' 370 Lakeside Park, which also offers bike rentals.
Interactive water activities: Rentable water equipment provides family entertainment 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)," notes Mats, highlighting amenities perfect for families with children and pets.
Nature exploration opportunities: Horseshoe Lake State Park Campground provides wildlife viewing for educational outings. "You can see all kinds of wildlife in and around the lake- deer, bald eagles, pelicans, ducks, snakes," says Annie C., making this an excellent destination for nature-oriented family camping with pets.
Tips from RVers
Electrical connections: Some campgrounds have reported wiring issues with 30A receptacles. Jeff C. warns about Draft Kings at Casino Queen RV Park: "My equipment detected a Line/Neutral Reversal on some 30A receptacles; the 50A receptacles appeared to be wired correctly." He advises using a surge protector with an Electrical Management System.
Access considerations: Many campgrounds have specific entry requirements. "This campground is right across the street from the Mississippi. Predominantly RV campers and families, along with some local fisherman," notes Mike M. about Pere Marquette State Park, which accommodates a range of RV sizes.
Water pressure variations: RVers should come prepared with pressure regulators. "The water pressure was so strong that I could barely open the water pump!" shares Susan L. about her stay at St. Peters' 370 Lakeside Park, where full hookup sites are available for pet owners traveling with RVs.
