Camping spots near Washington, Missouri range from riverside sites along the Meramec River to forested campgrounds with varying terrain. The region sits at approximately 500-600 feet elevation in Missouri's eastern Ozark foothills, creating diverse camping environments. Late spring through early fall often sees humidity levels above 70%, which affects camping comfort and equipment needs at most local campgrounds.
What to do
River recreation access: Meramec Caverns Natural Campground offers direct Meramec River access with on-site canoe rentals. "The campground is large and shaded, right on the river. There are hook up sites and tent sites," notes one camper. Another visitor shared, "We love it! The campgrounds are clean and beautiful, and even during peak times the people that stay are usually very friendly."
Cave exploration: Several campgrounds feature cave systems worth exploring. "Pay the extra for the caves tour! Down the road there's an old iron foundry and a historic cemetery to explore," recommends a visitor at Meramec State Park Campground.
Cycling the Katy Trail: Campgrounds near Augusta provide direct access to this historic rail-trail. "Beyond the Trail RV Park is bordered by the Katy Trail which will take you into town and many other scenic places so bring your bikes!" A different camper noted, "If you need to rent bikes, walk 3 minutes away and rent one. Want to float the Missouri? They have a canoe outfitter on site."
Vineyard tours: The Washington area contains numerous wineries within short driving distance. "This campground places you in the heart of Missouri Wine Country and provides a perfect base for visiting the wineries and restaurants along Highway 94," explains a visitor at Klondike Park.
What campers like
Privacy levels vary: Some campgrounds offer more secluded sites. At Robertsville State Park Campground, campers appreciate the seclusion: "The area is immaculately clean, showers are private, bathrooms are plentiful. Campsites are great. It's in the tall trees with lots of shade and greenery you kind of feel like you're in a jungle."
Water features: Lakes and ponds provide additional recreation. "Nice lake and hiking trails. Access to the Katy and bike trails," notes a camper about Klondike Park. Another visitor shared, "Klondike park is a gorgeous park along the Katy Trail in Augusta, MO. The campsites are very quiet, very family friendly park. On site restrooms, hiking trails, and a small lake with overlooking bluffs."
Convenience to attractions: Several campgrounds position visitors near regional highlights. "Close to Six Flags, shopping, and restaurants. They even have a cute caboose cabin you can stay in," notes a visitor at the St. Louis West KOA. One camper at Beyond the Trail RV Park shared, "Excellent little RV park behind a brewery. The Katy trail borders the park for easy access to town. Beautiful views across a large farm field to the hills beyond with incredible sunsets."
Fishing opportunities: Multiple campgrounds offer fishing access. "There is a great pond with some decent sized fish in it," notes a Pin Oak RV Park camper. Another visitor mentioned, "Fishing pond was a blast for the kids!"
What you should know
Seasonal challenges: Flooding impacts river-adjacent campgrounds. "The only reason I didn't rate it 5 stars is because sometimes the park closes or they have to evacuate due to the quick rise of the river. Easy fix though, just call ahead to see if they're open," advises a camper at Meramec Caverns.
Cell service variability: Reception differs significantly between locations. "The campground is great. Most of the sites are flat and paved. The campground is right next to the Meramec River. There is WiFi available but it is not reliable. The cell phone service is virtually non-existent," warns a visitor at Meramec State Park.
Terrain considerations: Some campgrounds have challenging terrain. At Yogi Bear's Jellystone Park, a camper noted, "The site was ok, tricky to level. There was a steep drop just past our steps, and not a lot of room to set up chairs, etc."
Noise factors: Highway and railroad proximity affects some locations. "Decent campground. The site we had was very small and there are train tracks that run near by the campground so it can be quite noisy," explained a St. Louis West KOA visitor. Another camper mentioned, "Beautiful location friendly staff great facilities! Cell service is sketchy but it's perfect for getting off the grid."
Tips for camping with families
Kid-focused activities: Pin Oak RV Park offers family-friendly amenities. "Facility was clean, owners and staff were friendly. Fishing pond was a blast for the kids!" shared one visitor. Another noted, "Nice pool and an arcade area with plenty of room to hangout inside. There is a pond with some decent sized fish in it."
Theme park adjacency: Some campgrounds cater specifically to Six Flags visitors. "We spent a weekend here because we wanted to be close to Six Flags. I swear this place was more fun!!! There's swimming, games, lots of activities," enthused a Jellystone Park camper.
Special events: Holiday weekends often feature extra activities. "We go every October for Halloween. Staff and owners are great, lots to do for the kids," explained a Pin Oak RV Park visitor. Another camper mentioned, "The family atmosphere at this campground brings a smile to your face and the amenities are clean and in order."
Tips from RVers
Site selection strategy: Choose sites carefully based on size requirements. "Sites at the back of the property are large. Sites in the middle seemed more crowded," advises a St. Charles County Klondike Park visitor.
Infrastructure challenges: Some parks have outdated facilities. "This is an older RV park and campground, and the age shows. The sites are level, and there is plenty of shade. But everything is just a little run down," notes a Pin Oak RV Park visitor who still gave the park a positive rating.
Hookup positioning: Be prepared for unusual utility layouts. "Our site was gravel to park on with grass around it. The site services, electric, water and sewer, are located to the front of the site and extensions were needed for both the electric and sewer," explained a Beyond the Trail RV Park visitor.
