Cuivre River State Park offers horse camping opportunities on 6,400 acres of wilderness located 65 miles northwest of St. Louis. The equestrian camping facilities include designated areas for those traveling with horses, plus access to over 25 miles of multi-use trails through oak-hickory forests. The park's terrain varies from rolling hills to creek valleys with elevations ranging from 500 to 780 feet above sea level.
What to do
Trail exploration beyond the lake: Cuivre River State Park connects equestrian campers to multiple trail options. "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. in his review of Cuivre River State Park Campground.
Wildlife viewing: The natural setting provides opportunities to spot native Missouri wildlife. "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!" says Maria E. about her experience at Cuivre River State Park.
Water activities: Lincoln Lake within the park offers fishing and boating options. "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," writes Kayla S. about Daniel Boone Conservation Area, which offers similar water recreation opportunities to those found near Troy.
What campers like
Privacy between sites: Campers appreciate the spacious layout of camping areas. "Campground is quiet and has big campsites. The campground is close to Lincoln Lake for kayaking," according to Cody S. from Cuivre River State Park Campground.
Natural camping experience: The wooded environment creates a sense of seclusion despite being relatively close to St. Louis. "Cuivre river is about an hour outside St. Louis and offers a multitude of outdoor options from hiking, biking, boating and fishing. The trails are fantastic and have different levels for all," shares Chad K.
Family-friendly atmosphere: Multiple reviewers note the welcoming environment for families with children. "This is a perfect place to enjoy with the family. Plenty of gorgeous campsites and a lake to swim and kayak!" says J K. about McCully Heritage Project, which offers similar family-oriented camping about 30 miles from Troy.
What you should know
Seasonal considerations: Summer months can be hot and humid in the Troy area. "Most sites offer good shade coverage, important during summer months when temperatures rise," one camper notes about equestrian camping at Cuivre River.
Wildlife precautions: Ticks are common in wooded areas around Troy. "Watch for ticks," warns Eric in his review of Greensfelder County Park, another equestrian-friendly camping destination in the region.
Reservation planning: Popular weekends fill up quickly, especially for equestrian sites. "Kinda busy maybe make reservations when it's a holiday," advises Alicia B. about horse camping at Greensfelder County Park, which offers similar equestrian facilities to those near Troy.
Trail timing: Allow extra time for trail rides and hikes. "The trail around the lake is particularly popular, though riders should allow extra time beyond map estimates for stops and photography," experienced trail users suggest.
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Some campgrounds offer dedicated play areas. "We had a picnic and the kids got to play on the playground equipment," mentions Leo S. about his day at St. Louis West / Historic Route 66 KOA, located about 45 minutes from Troy.
Water recreation options: Lakes and ponds provide fishing and swimming opportunities. "There's a house to rent or primitive camping trails have a map but need a little more marking on newer sections. Very well maintained. Neat look out points," writes Alicia B. about McCully Heritage Project.
Educational opportunities: The conservation areas around Troy offer learning experiences about local ecosystems. "This is a nice little hidden gem outside St Louis in a great county park. If you are a Six Flags kinda person, the amusement park sits at the southern entrance to Greensfelder," notes Annie C.
Wildlife spotting: Kids enjoy seeing the abundant wildlife in the area. "There's a little pond with wildlife like rabbits and frogs," shares Tee C. about Daniel Boone Conservation Area.
Tips from RVers
Site selection: RV sites vary in size and accessibility. "Only sites 20-29 have electric and 28 can't be reserved," explains Matthew H. about Lost Valley Lake Resort, which offers RV camping options similar to those available near Troy.
Hookup availability: Electrical connections are limited at some campgrounds. "No water at sites, no 50 amps, no dump but KOA and RV dealer 5-7 mins away," Matthew H. adds about Greensfelder County Park.
Accessibility considerations: Some campgrounds have challenging access roads. "The way I came was a little weird with some awkward turns that might be tricky for a less experienced operator," warns Timmy C. about navigating to Daniel Boone Conservation Area.
Advance planning: RVers should check site dimensions before booking. "Site 29 where we stayed can fit a 40' fifth wheel, a lot of room to back in," notes Matthew H., providing useful information for those with larger rigs.
