Top Free Dispersed Camping near St. Louis, MO

Camping near St. Louis, MO, offers a great mix of outdoor fun and relaxation. With several campgrounds to choose from, you can find the perfect spot for your next adventure.

What to do:

• Hiking: Explore the beautiful trails at Hawn State Park Campground. One camper mentioned, "The hiking is some of the best in Missouri," highlighting the scenic views and well-maintained paths.
• Fishing: Enjoy fishing at Cuivre River State Park Campground. A visitor noted, "The park did have nice trails, fishing areas, breathtaking riverside views."
• Swimming: If you're looking to cool off, check out Washington State Park Campground, which has a swimming pool. One reviewer said, "There is even a swimming pool if the river isn’t your thing."

What campers like:

• Clean facilities: Campers appreciate the cleanliness of the parks. At Meramec State Park Campground, a visitor remarked, "Park was clean, and very pretty."
• Friendly staff: Many campers enjoy the helpfulness of the staff. A reviewer at Cuivre River State Park Campground said, "Good campground. Be aware some bathrooms might be locked up depending upon time of year so plan your spot accordingly."
• Secluded spots: Campers often seek out quieter areas. One camper at Hawn State Park Campground mentioned, "It’s a little smaller than, say, Meramec, and I think because of that it’s pretty quiet."

What you should know:

• Site proximity: Some campgrounds have sites that are close together. A visitor at St. Louis West / Historic Route 66 KOA noted, "The sites were too close together (very small sites) and the park was too noisy for us."
• Limited amenities: Not all campgrounds have full amenities. At Dr. Edmund A. Babler Memorial State Park Campground, a camper shared, "The sites themselves are very clean and well kept. Our site, 32, was huge and grassy!"
• Wildlife encounters: Be prepared for wildlife. A family camping at Meramec State Park Campground mentioned, "Our site had skunks and raccoons each night."

Tips for camping with families:

• Choose the right site: Look for sites that are spacious and family-friendly. A camper at Cuivre River State Park Campground said, "The tent camping side is well shaded with a lot of room between sites."
• Plan for activities: Make sure to have a list of activities. One family at Hawn State Park Campground enjoyed the "Natural Wonders Trail" and the visitors’ center.
• Bring games and toys: Keep the kids entertained. A camper at St. Peters' 370 Lakeside Park mentioned, "Lots of things to rent - bikes, paddle boats, etc., for daytime activities."

Tips from RVers:

• Check site size: Make sure your RV fits the site. A visitor at Washington State Park Campground noted, "I only had 30 amp electric and no water or sewer hookup."
• Level your rig: Some sites may not be perfectly level. A camper at St. Louis West / Historic Route 66 KOA said, "The site was not level front to back and we had to build a sizable pyramid with our blocks to get the rig leveled out."
• Plan for power outages: Be prepared for potential power issues. One RV traveler at Dr. Edmund A. Babler Memorial State Park Campground mentioned, "Other than the entire campground losing power Sunday morning and frying my coffee maker, it was a good stay."

Camping near St. Louis, MO, has something for everyone, whether you're looking for a family getaway or a peaceful retreat.