Tent camping near Richmond Heights, Missouri includes opportunities for overnight stays in natural settings within a 25-40 mile radius. The region sits at elevations between 400-700 feet above sea level in the eastern Missouri Ozark foothills, with humid continental climate patterns bringing hot summers and mild winters. Camping conditions vary seasonally with summer temperatures regularly reaching 90°F while spring and fall provide more moderate camping weather in the 60-80°F range.
What to do
Fishing opportunities: McCully Heritage Project offers accessible fishing ponds where campers can cast a line without traveling far from their sites. "We had a picnic and the kids got to play on the playground equipment," notes one visitor, highlighting the family-friendly amenities available alongside fishing opportunities.
Mountain biking: St. Charles County Klondike Park features technical mountain bike sections right within the park boundaries. "I have bike-packed along the Katy and this is an excellent spot for an overnight stay. It is a tough, but short, climb from the trail," explains one cyclist who appreciates the accessibility for bikers.
Floating trips: Old Cove campground specializes in group camping with float trips on the Meramec River. "For float trips they pick you up from your campsite and bus you to your put in point. You can float the Meramec for 4 or 9 miles and you end back at the campsite," explains one reviewer who appreciated the convenience of this arrangement.
What campers like
Privacy options: Dr. Edmund A. Babler Memorial State Park Campground offers varying levels of seclusion depending on site location. "Sites 52-75 are much more treed and have a private feel to them. It seems this is where most of the tent campers like to be," notes one experienced camper who appreciated the different environment options within the same campground.
Affordable rates: McCully Heritage Project provides budget-friendly camping options just across the Mississippi River. "Ten dollars a night helps maintain land and natural area, all donation, very family oriented," explains one camper who appreciated the value. Another adds, "Super inexpensive for the space that you get. Free firewood."
Peaceful environment: Despite proximity to urban areas, many campgrounds offer surprisingly quiet settings. "A small and not crowded place to camp with all you need and hospitality. Great for tent camping and hiking," notes one visitor about McCully Heritage Project, reflecting the quieter experience many campers seek.
What you should know
Seasonal bathroom access: At Babler Memorial State Park, facility availability changes with the seasons. "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," mentions one camper, highlighting the importance of checking amenity availability before visiting.
Site terrain considerations: Many tent sites in the region have specific surface characteristics to note. "Sites are a mix of shaded, partial-shade, and full sun. Sites 13-33 are popular open and sunny campsites with nice grassy areas between them," explains one camper about Babler State Park.
Walk-in requirements: Klondike Park features sites requiring various levels of walking to access. "Last time we were in spot 22. 22 is a long ways from the bathroom and parking lot," notes one camper, contrasting with their more accessible spot during a subsequent visit. Understanding walk-in distances helps with planning equipment transportation.
Tips for camping with families
Look for playgrounds: Some campgrounds offer built-in entertainment for children beyond hiking trails. At McCully Heritage Project, one visitor mentioned, "I just love the bridge across the pond. We had a picnic and the kids got to play on the playground equipment."
Consider shower accessibility: World Shooting and Recreational Complex receives praise for family-friendly facilities. "Lake, wilderness, always clean bath houses," notes one repeat visitor who camps there annually with their son's shooting team, adding, "Huge campground with a lake to boat, kayak or fish from the bank."
Wildlife awareness: Parents should prepare children for potential wildlife encounters. "They dont give a darn who you are. They will walk right up to, smile, and take your chips. Scandalous!" warns one camper about the raccoons at Babler State Park, suggesting proper food storage is essential for family camping.
Tips from RVers
Site length considerations: At Dr. Edmund A. Babler Memorial State Park, RV campers should research specific sites before arrival. "Not all sites are long enough for large RVs and the roads in some loops prevent you from turning around. The camp hosts we encountered are very helpful and have a list of site lengths," advises one RVer who found the information valuable.
Utility access variations: Babler State Park offers different hookup options depending on site selection. "There is no sewer or water at individual sites but water spigots are scattered throughout the campground and there is a dump station with potable water fill-up," explains an RVer who stayed at the park, noting that "a $2 discount is given to seniors" on the reasonable pricing for electric sites.
Leveling requirements: RVers should prepare for varied terrain at regional campgrounds. "The roads are paved and big rig-friendly (with the exception of one loop that is clearly marked 'short turning radius')," notes a reviewer about Babler State Park, adding "All campsites and patios are paved and level with a comfortable amount of space between sites."
