RV campgrounds near Union, Missouri provide access to both city attractions and natural areas along the Missouri River valley. Many parks are situated within a short drive of I-44, making them convenient stopover points for travelers heading between St. Louis and the Ozarks. The terrain in this region combines river bottomlands with rolling hills, creating diverse landscapes surrounding each campground.
What to do
Visit wineries and breweries: Beyond the Trail RV Park in Defiance sits adjacent to the Katy Trail with easy access to local wineries. "Brewery just on the other side of the campground with good beer and food. 5/5 if they every paved the campground," notes Matthew H. The park serves as a gateway to Missouri wine country.
Explore historic towns: From Sundermeier RV Park, visitors can access historic river towns. "Easy ride in to St. Charles a wonderful historic river town on the Missouri River. Great shops, great restaurants," writes Cheryl K. The park connects directly to the Katy Trail for cycling into town.
Water recreation: The 370-acre lake at St. Peters' 370 Lakeside Park offers multiple water activities. "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. Fishing is permitted in the lake with proper licensing.
What campers like
Direct trail access: The placement of Beyond the Trail RV Park gives campers immediate entry to the Katy Trail. "The Katy trail borders the park for easy access to town. Beautiful views across a large farm field (soy beans when we were here) to the hills beyond with incredible sunsets," shares Sam C.
Urban convenience with nature: RV Self-Park in Sullivan balances accessibility with comfort. "Very well lit, very clean and very easy to get in and very secure with a ton of cameras. Also has a really nice dog area," says Grant. The park offers quick highway access while maintaining security features.
Late check-in options: Many Union area RV campgrounds accommodate travelers arriving after hours. "Easy to book online even the day of. Choose your spot ahead of time and pull in, easy as that! Had no problem booking around 7pm the day of and arrived around 1 am quietly set up in my previously reserved spot," explains Brooklyn G. about Beyond the Trail RV Park.
What you should know
Highway noise levels: Several campgrounds sit close to Interstate 44, creating varying noise conditions. One camper at RV Self-Park noted: "You will hear some highway noise, but honestly, after years in trucking, it just felt like home."
Weather considerations: The region experiences seasonal flooding risks. At St. Peters' 370 Lakeside Park, staff provide weather updates: "A park ranger went around to every site and notified every camper of where the shelters were and gave out a flyer about the specific weather forecast!"
Limited shade at newer parks: Many RV campgrounds in the Union area lack mature trees. "This will change over the subsequent years, however, as there are many relatively newly planted trees," explains Suzie S. about 370 Lakeside Park. Consider bringing portable shade structures during summer months.
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Several parks offer dedicated play areas for children. "The grounds are clean and pleasant, if a bit sparse with little shade. There is boating and archery on site, a dog run, and a small playground," notes a camper at 370 Lakeside Park.
Fishing opportunities: Pin Oak RV Park provides family-friendly fishing. "A nice private catch and release pond, an old little mini golf setup, a small (but adequate) swimming pool kept the kids busy," writes Carrie A. No fishing license required for the private pond.
Halloween events: Seasonal activities attract families to certain campgrounds. "We go every October for Halloween. It is tight you need to reserve a premium spot for a little room. Staff and owners are great lots to do for the kids," shares Tim K. about Pin Oak RV Park's annual Halloween bash.
Tips from RVers
Site selection strategy: At Cahokia RV Parque, site placement affects experience quality. "The 50 amp spaces were the only ones with firepits. RVs are close to one another but I was completely okay with that," advises Kelsey R. Request spots farther from highways when possible.
Utility connections: Check hookup locations before arrival. "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.
Water pressure variations: Water systems can run stronger than expected at some parks. Susan L. noted at 370 Lakeside Park: "The water pressure was so strong that I could barely open the water pump!" Consider using a pressure regulator at Union area RV campgrounds.
