Glamping in St. Louis, Missouri offers unique accommodations within a region dominated by the confluence of the Mississippi and Missouri Rivers, creating distinctive camping environments in both floodplain and bluff areas. The region experiences four distinct seasons, with summer temperatures typically reaching 85-90°F and high humidity levels from June through August. Winter camping remains available at select locations with overnight temperatures often dropping below freezing from December through February.
What to do
Hiking at Pere Marquette State Park: Located about 45 minutes from downtown St. Louis, this park features challenging elevation changes unusual for the Midwest. "This park has great hiking for Illinois. The campground has 88 sites total... The scenic drive to the park by the Mississippi and Illinois rivers is worth the trip alone," notes Michael M., who visited Pere Marquette State Park Campground.
Water activities at Horseshoe Lake: This affordable camping option ($8/night) provides access to non-swimming water activities. "Great spot in a beautiful area close to St. Louis. No power but access to drinking water and waste water dump for just 8$," writes Helge Vandel J. about Horseshoe Lake State Park Campground.
Bike trails at Lakeside Park: The 4-mile paved trail around the lake provides accessible recreation for all skill levels. "They have paddle boats and bikes and group bikes for rental. Located right next to a lake with a lot of RV and tent camping spots. Kids had a blast riding bikes," reports Joseph F. about his experience at St. Peters' 370 Lakeside Park.
What campers like
Budget-friendly sites: Horseshoe Lake offers primitive camping with basic amenities at significant savings. "Very primitive camping. Toilets only, but the campsites are spaced comfortably apart. The grounds are well maintained," explains Wendy in her review of Horseshoe Lake State Park.
Security features: On-site staff presence creates a secure environment at certain campgrounds. "Staff on duty at all hours is awesome! We called ahead but didn't need a reservation. It is a city park and had that feel... not many trees for shade but the lake was pretty and the playground was good for the kiddos," says Nathaniel B. about St. Peters' 370 Lakeside Park.
Wildlife viewing: Multiple campgrounds offer opportunities to observe native species. "We love going here and watching the sunsets. This is a great place to kayak and camp if you don't want to drive that fare and live in the city," shares Lindsey C. about the lakeside camping experience near St. Louis.
What you should know
Train noise impacts: Several campgrounds near transport corridors experience regular noise disruption. "A run down KOA. Sites are mostly level. Nice staff. Appears cabins are going through some refurbishing efforts. In the middle of a commercial area... In the middle of a commercial area," reports James P. about St. Louis NE-Granite City KOA.
Limited shade at newer sites: Recently developed campgrounds lack mature tree cover. "It seems to be new, and there are trees planted, but it will be awhile before they provide any shade. I stopped here because it was the closest location to an RV repair shop that I unfortunately needed to visit on my way to Chicago," explains Susan L.
Seasonal flooding concerns: Low-lying campgrounds experience periodic 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," cautions Annie C.
Tips for camping with families
Entertainment options: Some campgrounds offer dedicated recreation facilities for children. "There is a pool, bike rentals, dog park, movie night, basketball court, and more. You can bring your RV, travel trailer, tent camp, or stay in a cabin. Most of the sites are in the shade and are fairly level," describes Crystal H. about St. Louis West / Historic Route 66 KOA.
Noise considerations: Parents should consider proximity to highways and railways when booking. "The sites we had was very small and there are train tracks that run near by the campground so it can be quite noisy. The pool is nice as well as the bathrooms and showers," warns Charles S.
Wildlife awareness: Local wildlife can approach campsites. "The only issue is the raccoons. They dont give a darn who you are. They will walk right up to, smile, and take your chips. Scandalous!" warns April D. about her experience at Dr. Edmund A. Babler Memorial State Park Campground.
Tips from RVers
Leveling challenges: Prepare for potentially uneven sites at certain locations. "A lot of spots are not level, so come prepared. Some spots are shaded. Some spots are in full sun," advises MGySgt K.
Water pressure variations: Adjust your equipment for potentially strong water connections. "The site I was in had full hook ups. The water pressure was so strong that I could barely open the water pump!" notes Susan L.
Specialty RV campgrounds: The region includes facilities designed specifically for horse trailers and larger vehicles. "Only sites 20-29 have electric and 28 can't be reserved... Most sites are great for trailers 26' or less and 1 slide (sites 24-26 can fit a fifth wheel probably no bigger than 36-38 ft)," explains Matthew H. about Greensfelder County Park.
