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.
"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."
"The spots are roomy enough, given that you’re situated less than 15 miles from downtown St. Louis. The picnic tables and fire rings are nice additions and the lots appear to be level (ours was.)"
$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."
$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."
$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."
$15 - $35 / night
"Tucked away, not far from St. Louis, you wouldn't know you were that close to a big city. It is clean and feels extremely safe. There aren't many sites, but the ones they have are quiet and spacious."
"Great for taking long walks or bike rides, although very steep hills. Close to St Louis, so you can do some urban exploring."
"Conveniently located just outside of St Louis. We camped here for a trip to the city for St Louis cardinals game and zoo. My kids loved the jumping pillow at the park."
"It's not in the prettiest location, very industrial and the train tracks run close. First night one came through blowing its horns around 5am."
"Our site was gravel to park on with grass around it. Close to train tracks and highway, but didn’t notice with AC on in the camper. Close to 6 flags."
"This campground is fairly close to downtown and very close to lots of shopping. A great place to stay to stock up on supplies before heading west."
"Great spot in a beautiful area close to St. Louis. No power but access to drinking water and waste water dump for just 8$."
"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."
$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."
RangerWe have stayed at this campground so many times and love it. Cell service is excellent enabling me to work from my rv. It is close to anything you would need, but secluded enough and surrounded by huge trees and hiking trails. I have also rented a pavillion for a party.
ScoutPower / water at sites, single dump site available, at far end of runway, trees around all sites. Has a bathroom / shower / laundry bld. Nice for short visits. Annoying for more than a week.
TravelerSecluded campsites. Even though they are close together, the dense trees isolate them visually from each other. We did have a neighbor with loud dogs that were very annoying
ScoutWe spent a week at this location. It has a great level slab to park your camper. They also have a wonderful fenced in area for horses as well as a fenced in area where you park your camper. Let your dogs run free!
Sarah and Justin were very attentive hosts. They live on the property but are not so close that you know they are there. They also raise chickens and sell their fresh eggs! If you need a secure place for your dogs or horses, this spot is perfect!
ScoutThis campground is nice for March, when it's a little cool. But there is no shade, so mid-summer would be hot! Level sites, full hookups, pretty nice.
GuideAs the pictures on the Dyrt show, it’s a large area of white gravel. It’s clean, has very wide spaces for rv’s which are very level and has water and electricity. The Dyrt definitely doesn’t have the location correct, it’s about 4-5 miles north of 70 and your drive through some narrow winding roads to get here. Overall quiet though I heard some loud truck at night.
GuidePlenty of space between spots. Not a lot of flat spots, though. Off-season pit toilet was available. Campground has shower house in-season. Nice and quiet. There was no host but a ranger came around.
LegendVery well maintained. Everything looks new, works well, is clean and organized. Nicest thing is the park is quiet. No road noise which is wonderful. Winter stop for me so I have only seen the shower house from the outside but I would expect it to also be well maintained.
GuideWe only booked 1 night. Location was great but we had to make lot spaces a few times due to the uneven conditions of the lot spaces. Fortunately there was a nice gentleman who worked here and found a space that suited us better. The sites to the back are much better than the ones to the front! The view of the Arch is amazing but a little sketchy … especially at night! But it worked for the night!
Camping sites near University City, Missouri are predominantly established facilities within 15-30 miles of the city center. The region sits at approximately 535 feet above sea level with moderate seasonal variations that affect camping conditions. Most campgrounds remain accessible year-round, though winter temperatures in the 20-40°F range can limit water availability at some locations from November through March.
Paddle sports at lakeside parks: St. Peters' 370 Lakeside Park offers kayak, canoe, and paddleboat rentals for exploring its 140-acre lake. "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," notes Lindsey C.
Historic exploration in St. Charles: Sundermeier RV Park provides direct access to historic districts. "Just a place to park the camper and sleep. Big rig friendly for sure. Went back to see the Arch Natl park and down into historic st. Charles. Beautiful historic town with plenty to see and do, with a casino past that," reports Fred R.
Family recreation options: Several campgrounds feature playground facilities and recreational amenities. At St. Louis NE-Granite City KOA, "My kids loved the jumping pillow at the park. Minimal playground but they still enjoyed it," according to Sarah S., who adds they used this location specifically for "a trip to the city for St Louis cardinals game and zoo."
Urban proximity with park-like settings: Despite being close to the city, several campgrounds maintain natural environments. At Dr. Edmund A. Babler Memorial State Park Campground, "You would never know how close you are to a metropolis. Tucked away, not far from St. Louis, you wouldn't know you were that close to a big city," writes Lahree C.
Budget-friendly options: Some campgrounds near University City offer remarkable value. Horseshoe Lake State Park Campground receives praise for affordability: "Great spot in a beautiful area close to St. Louis. No power but access to drinking water and waste water dump for just 8$," notes Helge Vandel J.
On-site dining services: Several University City area camping facilities feature food options. The Cahokia RV Parque offers an on-site restaurant that impresses campers. "Do NOT miss the BBQ place in the parking lot... fantastic food and a 10% discount for park customers," recommends Lee T.
Noise considerations: Train tracks and airport flight paths affect multiple campgrounds. At Pere Marquette State Park Campground, a camper advises it's "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."
Limited tent options: Many facilities primarily accommodate RVs with fewer tent-specific sites. According to Travis, at Horseshoe Lake, "Self service pay system makes it simple, easy, and fast. Camping can be reserved but no need. Just pick your spot go to the office building, and fill out the form, pay and slide in envelope and drop in box."
Seasonal flooding concerns: Some campgrounds experience water issues during heavy rains. One camper at Covered Bridge RV Park noted: "While we were there they had a record rainfall amount and the park apparently already has flooding issues so it was flooding pretty bad... the staff came out while this was happening to warn us of the potential flooding."
Reserve specific site types: Families should book campsites near recreational facilities. At St. Louis West / Historic Route 66 KOA, families appreciate that "There is lots to do at this park. 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," according to Crystal H.
Consider shade availability: Many newer campgrounds have limited mature trees. One visitor to 370 Lakeside Park observed: "The spaces are a bit close together and not many trees but I've been to worse. The not many trees is do to it still being a fairly new campground. The lake is nice and they have some spots close to it."
Look for educational opportunities: Some parks offer nature programs for children. At Babler State Park, "There is a visitor center with exhibits and an amphitheater in the campground where interpretive programs are held," making it suitable for families seeking educational components.
Electrical safety precautions: Some RV parks have wiring issues that require attention. One RVer at Sundermeier RV Park warned: "DO NOT use the 30A receptacles here unless you have a surge protector with an Electrical Management System (EMS) that explicitly confirms correct wiring before connecting your RV."
Location-specific conveniences: RVers value proximity to urban attractions. According to Robert G. at Cahokia RV Parque, "This is not a rural campground. 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."
Urban security considerations: RV campers appreciate security features at campgrounds near University City. At Casino Queen RV Park, "Security rolled through frequently. Your gate code can be used for the pool and gym at the casino in addition to the bathroom and laundry area," reports Robert F.
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 67 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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