Dog-Friendly Camping near Silex, MO

Cuivre River State Park offers diverse camping experiences near Silex, Missouri. Located approximately 20 miles southwest of Silex, the park features multiple camping loops with sites ranging from basic tent-only areas to full hookup RV spaces. The park encompasses over 6,400 acres of forested Ozark-like terrain with limestone bluffs and prairie areas. Lincoln Lake forms the centerpiece of the park, providing boating and fishing opportunities with kayak rentals available on-site.

What to do

Explore Lincoln Lake trails: The park offers trails beyond the main lake loop, with varying difficulty levels. "This park has plenty of well groomed trails and facilities spread out nicely. You could camp here for a weekend and stay busy. We live in Wentzville so it's an easy jog up 61 to get away," notes Tony M. from Cuivre River State Park Campground.

Rent watercraft: Visitors can enjoy the water without bringing their own equipment. "This campground has a lake you can rent kayaks for. They have a small store at the check in booth. It also has an accessible fishing dock that is covered," says Kayla S. of Cuivre River.

Visit historic sites: Explore nearby attractions when staying at parks like Pere Marquette State Park Campground just across the Mississippi River. "There are great hiking trails and the scenic drive to the park by the Mississippi and Illinois rivers is worth the trip alone," reports Michael M., noting the area's rich history and CCC-built structures.

Bring fishing gear: Multiple areas offer accessible fishing spots. "The best sites are at the opposite ends of the flat circle where there are large gravel areas ideal for parking RV's," explains Annie C. at Silo Access Area, adding, "This is primitive camping on the Mississippi River... with great views of the big river."

What campers like

Natural wildlife encounters: Many campers appreciate the abundant wildlife viewing opportunities. "Campground is beautiful and very woodsy. We saw bunnies hopping around and when we first arrived to our site a deer was grazing nearby, such a bonus!" shares Maria E. about Cuivre River State Park Campground.

Varied site options: The region offers everything from full-facility sites to primitive camping. "The campground has 88 sites total 1-85 are either 30 amp or 50 amp electric sites. These are the class A sites $20 a night, they also have about 15 Class C sites for tents with no electric for $8 a night," notes Michael M. about Pere Marquette State Park.

Water recreation: Lakes and rivers provide multiple recreation options. "Great well maintained state park right outside of St Louis. Park has an awesome trail system around the lake, and it looks like you can rent canoes/kayaks in the summer (was not open in the winter)," writes Kyle R.

Spacious campsites: Many campgrounds in the region provide adequate room between sites. "Campground is quiet and has big campsites. The campground is close to Lincoln Lake for kayaking," notes Cody S. about Cuivre River State Park.

What you should know

Weather considerations: The region can experience rapid weather changes and occasional flooding. "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. about St. Peters' 370 Lakeside Park.

Varying amenity levels: Facilities range widely between campgrounds. "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," reports Annie C.

Noise factors: Some campgrounds experience noise from nearby transportation. "You will be very close to active train tracks, so bring your earplugs. Be sure to be self contained as there is no vault toilet or porta potty currently," warns Annie C. about Silo Access Area.

Site leveling challenges: Some campgrounds require equipment for leveling. "NICE, But Unlevel. Stayed 10/29/2020 with only a few other campers in the campground. Close to the freeway but not really noticeable noise except on hikes. Paid $21 for 30 amp electric site, water and dump are available but not at individual sites," notes Laura M. about Graham Cave State Park.

Tips for camping with families

Look for educational opportunities: Several parks offer nature programs. "We have been backpack camping here twice and RV camping once. It's close to our house and there's always something new to do each time," reports Tracie S. about Pere Marquette State Park Campground, adding, "Their trails are well marked and a pretty walk."

Consider activity centers: Some parks have recreational facilities beyond natural features. "There is a lot to do here. They have an archery range. They rent out peddle boats, bikes and peddle cars/buggies as well," explains Barbie B. about St. Peters' 370 Lakeside Park.

Check wildlife safety protocols: Families should know proper wildlife protocols. "Don't leave anything out at night or raccoons will scavenge, we accidentally left our trash bag hanging (ugh!) but that was our fault," advises Maria E. about Cuivre River State Park.

Look for playground access: Some campgrounds provide playground equipment. "Kids had a blast riding bikes. Even finding a few little frogs jumping around and fireflies at night," notes Joseph F. about St. Peters' 370 Lakeside Park.

Tips from RVers

Note hookup variations: RV sites offer different connection options. "The sites for full hook ups are separate from the other sites," notes Kayla S. about Cuivre River State Park. At William R. Logan Conservation Area, Annie C. cautions, "There is an active shooting range in the middle of the conservation area and it was BUSY when I was there."

Water pressure considerations: RVers should check water systems. "The water pressure was so strong that I could barely open the water pump!" warns Susan L. about St. Peters' 370 Lakeside Park.

Check site specifications: Confirm site dimensions before arrival. "The spaces 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," explains Barbie B.

Consider seasonal shade availability: Tree coverage varies by location and season. "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.