Tent campsites near Portage Des Sioux, Missouri offer overnight options in a region where the Mississippi and Missouri Rivers converge. The area sits at approximately 440 feet above sea level with seasonal temperature variations from below freezing in winter to humid 90°F days in summer. During peak camping season from April through October, many campgrounds implement fire restrictions during dry periods.
What to do
Hiking trails and technical biking: Klondike Park features several technical mountain bike sections for riders seeking challenges. "Trails are beautiful and perfect for families wanting to just come to a park for a day and hikers. Can't go wrong for a 10$ a night campsite with restrooms and water available," notes one St. Charles County Klondike Park visitor.
Water activities and fishing: Multiple camping areas provide water access for paddlers and anglers. At McCully Heritage Project, visitors appreciate the fishing opportunities. "Super inexpensive for the space that you get. Free firewood. We have only stayed at the largest site as it has good fishing and a place for us to launch our paddleboards and kayaks."
Wine country exploration: The camping areas place visitors near regional wineries. "This Campground places you in the heart of Missouri Wine Country and there's a perfect base for visiting the wineries and restaurants along highway 94," comments a St. Charles County Klondike Park camper.
What campers like
Spacious sites with shade options: The region offers a mix of open and forested camping spots. At Dr. Edmund A. Babler Memorial State Park Campground, "Sites 13-33 are popular open and sunny campsites with nice grassy areas between them. In contrast sites 52-75 are much more treed and have a private feel to them."
Clean facilities: Many campgrounds maintain well-kept restrooms and shower buildings. One Babler visitor noted, "There is one main bathhouse with free showers that was very clean. There are also two vault toilets located in the campground."
Affordable rates: Most tent camping in the region remains reasonably priced. A Klondike Park visitor mentioned, "Ten dollars a night helps maintain land and natural area, all donation, very family oriented."
What you should know
Reservation requirements: Most established campgrounds require advance booking. At Klondike Park, demand runs high: "The campground is located in a gym of a park located along the Missouri River. Reservations are required and the sites are in high demand."
Wildlife encounters: Expect wildlife interactions, particularly at night. "They dont give a darn who you are. They will walk right up to, smile, and take your chips. Scandalous!" warns one camper about raccoons at Babler State Park.
Limited services at primitive sites: William R. Logan Conservation Area offers more rustic conditions. "Free primitive campground near a lake in William Logan. No frills camping at about 8-10 sites near the main entrance off Route RA, with most being in an open circle configuration with the main road cutting through the middle."
Seasonal facility limitations: Some campgrounds reduce services outside peak season. A Babler State Park visitor shared, "Not having water available except at the camp host, and no open restrooms and showers until after April 1, regardless of when the last freeze is was inconvenient for a spring break trip."
Tips for camping with families
Choose campgrounds with playground access: Some locations include play equipment for children. At Waverly Lake City Park, families can enjoy a "quiet and pleasant" experience with open space for children to explore.
Look for walk-in sites for more privacy: More secluded tent camping options exist a short distance from parking. At Klondike Park, "Campsites were great. Stayed at a walk-in site for a night and enjoyed it."
Prepare for insects: Bug protection remains essential, especially near water. "Be mindful of field roaches and raccoons at night, as we had to learn the hard way the morning after our first night. Oh, and the mosquitoes are BRUTAL. Come prepared," advises a Waverly Lake visitor.
Consider noise factors: Highway proximity affects some camping spots. "Some sites are closer to the highway and cars flying down the road can make it hard to sleep but after midnight, they stopped," notes a Klondike Park visitor.
Tips from RVers
Check site dimensions before booking: RV site lengths vary significantly across campgrounds. At Old Cove, groups find "a nice open area with a pavillion, picnic tables, and a firering" but space limitations exist for larger vehicles.
Plan for minimal hookups: Most tent-focused campgrounds offer limited RV amenities. At Babler State Park, "If this campground had sewer and water, it would get 5 stars," indicating the limitations for RVers seeking full hookups.
Consider parking orientation: Site configurations affect comfort for RVers. A Babler visitor notes, "The roads are paved and big rig-friendly (with the exception of one loop that is clearly marked 'short turning radius'). Sites 13-33 are popular open and sunny campsites with nice grassy areas between them."
