Glamping options near Richmond Heights, Missouri sit within the Mississippi River valley where elevations range from 450-600 feet. The region experiences moderate seasonal changes with summer highs averaging 89°F and winter lows around 24°F. Several camping facilities remain operational year-round, though amenities vary significantly between peak and off-season months.
What to do
Hiking trails: Dr. Edmund A. Babler Memorial State Park Campground offers multiple hiking options for various skill levels. "The park has a lot to offer. The trails are not too long but can be challenging for small kids or folks that are not used to hiking," notes Scott M. The park maintains year-round accessibility with some seasonal limitations.
Water activities: St. Peters' 370 Lakeside Park provides kayaking and paddleboating opportunities on their man-made lake. "This is a great place to kayak and camp if you don't want to drive that fare and live in the city," reports Lindsey C. The park rents various watercraft including "paddleboats, kayaks, and canoes in addition to different kinds of bikes."
Archery: For target practice enthusiasts, St. Peters' 370 Lakeside Park maintains an archery range open to visitors. "There is a lot to do here. They have an archery range. The rent out peddle boats, bikes and peddle cars/buggies as well," explains Barbie B. The range operates during regular park hours with minimal additional fees.
Wildlife viewing: Horseshoe Lake State Park Campground offers significant wildlife observation opportunities. "First off absolutely beautiful land and peace is easily achieved," notes Travis. The park's location creates ideal conditions for seasonal bird migrations and year-round woodland species.
What campers like
Budget-friendly options: Horseshoe Lake State Park Campground offers exceptional value with basic sites. "Great spot in a beautiful area close to St. Louis. No power but access to drinking water and waste water dump for just 8$," writes Helge Vandel J. The self-service payment system makes check-in straightforward.
Clean facilities: Greensfelder County Park maintains well-kept shower and restroom facilities. "Has everything you need. Even got a hot shower while tent camping," reports Jonathan P. The park keeps these amenities operational year-round, unusual for parks in this region.
Security measures: St. Peters' 370 Lakeside Park implements comprehensive security procedures. "The staff is SUPER NICE AND CARING. Example 1: There was some rough springtime weather expected one day. A park ranger went around to every site and notified every camper of where the shelters were (the restrooms/showers) and gave out a flyer about the specific weather forecast!" shares Mats.
Level sites: Pere Marquette State Park Campground provides carefully maintained camping spaces. "The campground is doing some upgrades as of October 2017 and probably will be adding more 50 amp, water and sewer to some sites," reports Michael M. Most sites feature concrete pads for easier setup.
What you should know
Train noise: Several locations experience railroad disruptions. At St. Louis West / Historic Route 66 KOA, "Close to train tracks and highway, but didn't notice with AC on in the camper," notes Craig F. Similar reports come from St. Louis NE-Granite City KOA.
Flooding concerns: St. Peters' 370 Lakeside Park has experienced flood 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," explains Annie C. Check park status before planning visits during spring months.
Industrial surroundings: St. Louis NE-Granite City KOA sits within commercial areas. "Not a long stay location in my opinion, but for what we needed it was great!" notes Russ G. The campground provides a functional base despite its setting.
Limited tree cover: Newer glamping close to Richmond Heights, Missouri often lacks mature shade trees. "The only real complaint was that it was a bit of a wind tunnel. I don't know if that is because of were it sits between the river/lake and a levee for the river or because it was spring time and windy anyway," shares Barbie B. about St. Peters' 370 Lakeside Park.
Tips for camping with families
Activity options: Yogi Bears Jellystone Park Resort at Six Flags specializes in child-friendly programming. "Great kids activities! Good breakfast and nice store. Really enjoyed our trip bundled with a Six Flags trip," mentions Erin P. The park runs themed events throughout their operating season.
Playground facilities: St. Peters' 370 Lakeside Park offers recreational structures for various age groups. "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," reports Annie C. The playground areas include equipment for toddlers through pre-teens.
Educational opportunities: Dr. Edmund A. Babler Memorial State Park incorporates learning elements. "There is a visitor center with exhibits and an amphitheater in the campground where interpretive programs are held," explains Nancy W. Programs typically run weekends during summer months.
Rental equipment: Multiple locations provide family-friendly equipment. "We rented a peddle buggy. Those are a lot harder to get moving then they look. Awesome workout for the whole family!" notes Barbie B. about St. Peters' 370 Lakeside Park. Rental prices typically range from $10-25 per hour.
Tips from RVers
Site dimensions: Marquette Mobile Village accommodates extended stays. "We stayed here for 10 months. The place did nothing but improve the entire time. Rent is cheap, and the people are nice," shares Eugene P. The facility maintains standardized site dimensions with some variation.
Hookup locations: Electrical and water connections may require extended hoses at some parks. "Our water hook up and electric hookup was significantly far apart. (1st world problems I know but handy info for those with campers) may be site specific," notes GW C. about Yogi Bear's Jellystone Park.
Campground access: Several locations have challenging entrance points. At Greensfelder County Park, "Only sites 20-29 have electric and 28 can't be reserved... sites 24-26 can fit a fifth wheel probably no bigger than 36-38 ft," explains Matthew H. Many sites have specific length restrictions not always listed online.
Water pressure concerns: St. Peters' 370 Lakeside Park has notably high water pressure. "The water pressure was so strong that I could barely open the water pump!" reports Susan L. RVers should bring pressure regulators to protect their systems.
