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Best Campgrounds near University City, MO

398 Reviews

Campgrounds surrounding University City, Missouri primarily consist of established facilities rather than dispersed camping areas. St. Peters' 370 Lakeside Park, located approximately 20 miles northwest of University City, offers diverse accommodation options including tent camping, RV sites with hookups, cabins, and glamping facilities. Several private RV parks dot the region, including the Draft Kings at Casino Queen RV Park just across the Mississippi River in Illinois and the St. Louis West / Historic Route 66 KOA to the southwest. Most campgrounds feature amenities such as electric hookups, water access, and designated tent pads or RV sites.

Reservations are strongly recommended for most campgrounds in the area, particularly during summer months when facilities reach capacity quickly. The camping season varies by location - Draft Kings at Casino Queen RV Park operates from April through September, while others like Pere Marquette State Park Campground remain open year-round. Many facilities require entrance or camping fees, and almost all prohibit backcountry or dispersed camping. Full hookup sites for RVs are widely available, though tent camping options are more limited at certain locations. A camper staying at the Casino Queen RV Park noted, "Place was clean and well organized and would recommend to anyone. However they do only allow RVs to stay there which is ridiculous."

Several visitors highlight proximity to St. Louis attractions as a primary benefit of camping in this region. The Casino Queen RV Park provides views of the Gateway Arch, while St. Peters' 370 Lakeside Park offers water recreation opportunities. Urban noise affects many campgrounds, with train sounds frequently mentioned in reviews. A visitor to Casino Queen RV Park described it as having "lots of trains every 15-30 minutes all day long." Campgrounds in the region generally maintain good security measures, with gated access common at facilities closer to urban areas. For those seeking more natural surroundings, Dr. Edmund A. Babler Memorial State Park Campground, located about 20 miles west of University City, provides a more traditional outdoor camping experience with forested sites, though still with basic amenities like showers and toilets.

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Best Camping Sites Near University City, Missouri (60)

    1. Cahokia RV Parque

    18 Reviews
    Columbia, IL
    10 miles
    Website
    +1 (618) 332-7700

    "It's a centrally located campground in the Metro St. Louis area. It's close to interstates and it's a short drive across the river to Missouri attractions."

    "Lots of dogs tied up, but with owners nearby. Some still “bolt” at you when you walk by. Could be less littered. Our site had lots of litter when we pulled in."

    2. Draft Kings at Casino Queen RV Park

    18 Reviews
    Granite City, IL
    9 miles
    Website
    +1 (800) 777-0777

    $65 / night

    "Very clean and secure overnight park just outside of STL. Phenomenal views of downtown and the arch, and fairly easy access to I-55/64/70."

    "Close to the arch, that’s why we chose this place to stay overnight."

    3. St. Peters' 370 Lakeside Park

    26 Reviews
    St. Charles, MO
    17 miles
    Website
    +1 (636) 387-5253

    $35 - $60 / night

    "I've been to 370 Lakeside Park many times to walk around the huge lake and to hear concerts in the summer, but I had never camped there. Still haven't. I'll explain."

    "All hookups were conveniently located. Shower house and restrooms were clean and well maintained/cleaned every day. Had a lakefront site but didn’t get to fish this time."

    4. Sundermeier RV Park

    13 Reviews
    Earth City, MO
    12 miles
    Website
    +1 (636) 940-0111

    $56 - $61 / night

    "We were able to park next to our 5th wheel with enough room to not feel crowded while using the picnic bench. Also the site was level.

    We stayed for a week to enjoy St. Louis, St."

    "You can literally be parked right at the Katy Trail. Through the gate at the rear of the campground, and you can bike for miles. Easy ride in to St."

    5. Dr. Edmund A. Babler Memorial State Park Campground

    27 Reviews
    Wildwood, MO
    20 miles
    Website
    +1 (636) 458-3813

    "Tucked away, not far from St. Louis, you wouldn't know you were that close to a big city. It is clean and feels extremely safe. There aren't many sites, but the ones they have are quiet and spacious."

    "Great for taking long walks or bike rides, although very steep hills.

    Close to St Louis, so you can do some urban exploring."

    6. St. Louis NE-Granite City KOA

    13 Reviews
    Granite City, IL
    13 miles
    Website
    +1 (618) 931-5160

    "Conveniently located just outside of St Louis. We camped here for a trip to the city for St Louis cardinals game and zoo. My kids loved the jumping pillow at the park."

    "It's not in the prettiest location, very industrial and the train tracks run close. First night one came through blowing its horns around 5am."

    7. St. Louis West / Historic Route 66 KOA

    30 Reviews
    Eureka, MO
    22 miles
    Website
    +1 (636) 257-3018

    "Our site was gravel to park on with grass around it. Close to train tracks and highway, but didn’t notice with AC on in the camper. Close to 6 flags."

    "This campground is fairly close to downtown and very close to lots of shopping. A great place to stay to stock up on supplies before heading west."

    8. Horseshoe Lake State Park Campground

    10 Reviews
    Collinsville, IL
    15 miles
    Website
    +1 (618) 931-0270

    "Great spot in a beautiful area close to St. Louis. No power but access to drinking water and waste water dump for just 8$."

    "Horseshoe Lake is one of my most visited parks and most favorite park in the STL and surrounding areas. First off absolutely beautiful land and peace is easily achieved."

    9. Pere Marquette State Park Campground

    24 Reviews
    Brussels, IL
    24 miles
    Website
    +1 (618) 786-3323

    $10 - $20 / night

    "Pere Marquette Campground is a little gym, just past Grafton, Missouri. It is located in the Great River Road, and within 10 minutes to restaurants and bars."

    "Great little campground just outside of Grafton, Illinois, on the Mississippi River. The campground is located in an open grove of old trees. There were owls when we were there."

    10. Covered Bridge RV Park & Storage

    6 Reviews
    Fenton, MO
    14 miles
    Website
    +1 (636) 349-2292

    $50 / night

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Recent Camping Photos near University City, MO

104 Photos of 60 University City Campgrounds

Recent Reviews near University City, MO

398 Reviews of 60 University City Campgrounds

  • JThe Dyrt PRO User
    Sep. 8, 2025

    Pere Marquette State Park Campground

    Fun Little Getaway

    Pere Marquette Campground is a little gym, just past Grafton, Missouri. It is located in the Great River Road, and within 10 minutes to restaurants and bars. There is a Lodge located next door which also serves a wonderful breakfast.

  • DThe Dyrt PRO User
    Sep. 5, 2025

    Cuivre River State Park Campground

    Quiet and Peaceful

    Cuivre River State Park Campground delivers a lovely, rustic camping experience framed by woods, wildlife, and water. With a variety of site types and decent amenities, it’s ideal for families or solo campers seeking tranquility. Just be selective about your site—some offer better privacy and facilities than others.

  • Chip
    Sep. 2, 2025

    World Shooting and Recreational Complex

    Lot's of full hookups

    This was our first camp in our new to us travel trailer. Not many trees.  Site has tons of camping sites so finding a spot should not be an issue.  This is the site of the American Trap Shooters Association "Grand" Event.  During that event the first couple weeks in August the campground is full.  We were here last weekend in August. Only one other camper within sight of our spot Friday night and they were gone Saturday morning.  There is a shower house I believe but could not access a couple of the doors I tried.  I imagine they had some unlocked but I didn't try all the doors when I was there.

  • Eleanor the Airstream R.The Dyrt PRO User
    Aug. 27, 2025

    Purina Farms

    PWD National Specialty

    Stayed the week for the PWD National Specialty trials. Convenient, clean, and solid FHUs.

    "Please note that RV reservations are only accepted for those entered(or those who have dogs/cats entered) in an event that has contracted space, which includes the overnight camping lots."

  • Natasha T.
    Aug. 21, 2025

    Cahokia RV Parque

    Very clean place with reasonable prices. price

    They were so accommodating. Even on the phone I didnt feel like a burden

  • Julie F.The Dyrt PRO User
    Aug. 17, 2025

    Love's RV Hookup-Hamel IL 578

    Good for a truck stop, busy and loud

    Easy reservation system online. $60 is a bit pricey for one night. Electricity and water at each spot which are concrete slabs. Typical super busy truck stop with bright lights and lots of action but safe and convenient.

  • Sam B.The Dyrt PRO User
    Aug. 5, 2025

    Klondike Park

    Love it

    Second time camping here. Much better spot this time, since I could pull right up to the spot, site 26. Last time we were in spot 22. 22 is a long ways from the bathroom and parking lot. The trails are great, the shower house is really nice, lake is beautiful. Will definitely be back.

  • Teresa J.The Dyrt PRO User
    Aug. 4, 2025

    Pin Oak RV Park

    We’ve been staying since may

    We’re still here and love it!

  • Tom B.The Dyrt PRO User
    Jul. 29, 2025

    Cahokia RV Parque

    Excellent urban RV Park

    Just minutes across the river from St. Louis. They have a shuttle to the various tourist attractions, just ask the staff at the office for details. The staff are friendly, the facility is clean and professional. Will stay again since I am in St. Louis every month.

    Price is comparable. Yes, it is an urban campground in a sort of run down area. It is what it is. But it was safe, clean and professionally ran.

Guide to University City

Camping near University City, Missouri, offers a variety of experiences for outdoor lovers. From scenic parks to family-friendly campgrounds, there’s something for everyone looking to escape the city.

What to do:

  • Hiking: Explore the beautiful trails at Hawn State Park Campground. One camper mentioned, “Hiking is some of the best in Missouri,” highlighting the park's great trails.
  • Fishing: Head to Cuivre River State Park Campground for fishing opportunities. A visitor noted, “The park did have nice trails, fishing areas, breathtaking riverside views.”
  • Swimming: If you’re looking for a splash, 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 cleanliness. At Meramec State Park Campground, one reviewer stated, “Park was clean, and very pretty,” which is a common sentiment among visitors.
  • Friendly Staff: Many campers enjoy the helpful staff. A visitor 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,” showing that staff are attentive to needs.
  • Scenic Views: Campers love the views. One reviewer at Hawn State Park Campground mentioned, “The landscape around the park was very nice,” emphasizing the natural beauty.

What you should know:

  • Privacy Concerns: Some campgrounds have close sites. A camper at Hawn State Park Campground noted, “The sites are very close together, so there is not much privacy.”
  • Limited Amenities: Not all campgrounds have full amenities. A visitor at Dr. Edmund A. Babler Memorial State Park Campground mentioned, “The park had not been mowed the entire 8 days we was here,” indicating some maintenance issues.
  • Wildlife Encounters: Expect wildlife! A family camping at Cuivre River State Park Campground shared, “Our site had skunks and raccoons each night,” so be prepared for animal visitors.

Tips for camping with families:

  • Choose the Right Site: Look for sites that are spacious and family-friendly. One camper at St. Louis West / Historic Route 66 KOA said, “This is a great place for kids and families traveling together.”
  • Plan Activities: Make sure to have activities for kids. A reviewer at St. Peters' 370 Lakeside Park mentioned, “Lots of things to rent - bikes, paddle boats, etc., for daytime activities.”
  • Check for Events: Some parks have special events. A visitor at Washington State Park Campground noted, “The campground hosts were especially helpful and friendly,” which can enhance your family experience.

Tips from RVers:

  • Level Sites: Look for campgrounds with level sites. A camper at St. Louis West / Historic Route 66 KOA mentioned, “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.”
  • Electric Hookups: Ensure your site has electric hookups. A visitor at Dr. Edmund A. Babler Memorial State Park Campground said, “$25 for electric only but with a dump and fresh water fill up stations.”
  • Plan for Noise: Be prepared for noise from other campers. One reviewer 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.”

Camping near University City, Missouri, has its perks and quirks. With the right preparation, you can enjoy a great outdoor experience!

Frequently Asked Questions

What camping is available near University City, MO?

According to TheDyrt.com, University City, MO offers a wide range of camping options, with 60 campgrounds and RV parks near University City, MO and 1 free dispersed camping spot.

Which is the most popular campground near University City, MO?

According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular campground near University City, MO is Cahokia RV Parque with a 4.1-star rating from 18 reviews.

Where can I find free dispersed camping near University City, MO?

According to TheDyrt.com, there is 1 free dispersed camping spot near University City, MO.

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