Camping options near St. Charles, Missouri include several year-round facilities within 30 minutes of the city. Most campgrounds in this area sit at elevations between 400-600 feet above sea level, with summer temperatures frequently reaching 95°F from June through August. Winter camping remains available at several locations with temperatures occasionally dropping below freezing from December through February.
What to do
Hiking with dogs on natural trails: Klondike Park offers pet owners multiple trail options through wooded terrain. "Great hikes! Very strenuous in some locations, but well worth the effort for the views!" notes Hannah S., who recommends the bluff trails for more adventurous hikers and their dogs.
Kayaking with the family: St. Peters' 370 Lakeside Park provides kayak rentals right on site. "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)," reports Mats, highlighting the multiple water recreation options.
Wine trail access: Beyond the Trail RV Park places campers in proximity to multiple wineries. "The park is located in a sleepy little winery town. It is just a few minutes from the main part of town with multiple beautiful wineries within a few miles," explains Jamie C., making it perfect for those who want to combine camping with wine tasting.
What campers like
Railroad and river views: Some campers enjoy the transportation corridor views at Sundermeier RV Park. "My train and airplane loving husband loves it," reports Cheryl K., noting that "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."
Naturalist programming: Cuivre River State Park Campground offers educational opportunities for wildlife observation. "The trails are fantastic and have different levels for all. The best spot is over looking the lake and offers a clear view of the night sky," according to Chad K., highlighting the park's natural setting.
On-site food options: Cahokia RV Parque features dining facilities uncommon at most campgrounds. "Do NOT miss the BBQ place in the parking lot... fantastic food and a 10% discount for park customers," advises Lee T., pointing out a convenient option for meals during your stay.
What you should know
Security considerations: Several campgrounds provide enhanced security measures. Sundermeier RV Park maintains good security while offering quick access to historic areas. "We love it and have camped there many times. Full hookups, great pull through sites. It's small, right in town, but immaculate and the office folks are great," reports Cheryl K.
Seasonal flooding impacts: Campgrounds near rivers may experience closures during high water. "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," Annie C. notes about 370 Lakeside Park.
Noise levels: Pere Marquette State Park Campground offers a quieter setting than city-adjacent options. "Wonderful park on the Great River Road along the Illinois River. Great hiking in the park, and a bike trail passes by the front. Lots of historical buildings built by the Civilian Conservation Corps in the 1930's," reports Annie C.
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Several pet-friendly campgrounds include play facilities for children. "There is a playground, pool and pond area to walk around. We were pleased with the cleanliness of the bathrooms and showers and had no major complaints," explains Carlyne F. about Cahokia RV Parque.
Multi-person rental equipment: 370 Lakeside Park offers unique recreational options. "They have an archery range. They rent out peddle boats, bikes and peddle cars/buggies as well. We rented a peddle buggy. Those are a lot harder to get moving then they look. Awesome workout for the whole family!" shares Barbie B.
Walk-in tent sites: Klondike Park provides more secluded tent options for families seeking privacy. "Campsites are walk in, but a short walk. Some are more private and shaded than others... sites like #19 and 20 were more secluded, offered more trees and privacy," recommends Shawn M.
Tips from RVers
Site size considerations: Beyond the Trail RV Park accommodates various RV sizes. "Full hookups with both back in and pull through sites," notes Sam C., while adding that "Beautiful views across a large farm field (soy beans when we were here) to the hills beyond with incredible sunsets."
Winter camping availability: Many local campgrounds remain open year-round. "Camp sites are a bit close together and not many trees but I've been to worse. The not many trees is due to it still being a fairly new campground," Barbie B. mentions about 370 Lakeside Park, which remains accessible during winter months.
Utility placement: Some campgrounds have unusual hookup configurations. "The 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," warns Josh F. about Casino Queen RV Park, an important consideration for RV planning.
