Cabin camping near Washington, Missouri offers visitors waterfront access to popular rivers like the Meramec and Missouri. This eastern Missouri region features limestone bluffs, hardwood forests, and elevations ranging from 500 to 700 feet above sea level. Winter temperatures typically drop to the 20s, while summer averages reach the high 80s with significant humidity.
What to do
Fishing opportunities: At Pin Oak RV Park, visitors can catch fish in their private pond. "Nice little lake to fish in and areas to walk around in," notes reviewer Robyn C. The family-friendly fishing pond is popular with younger campers as one visitor explains, "Fishing pond was a blast for the kids!"
Cave exploration: Meramec State Park Campground offers guided tours through Fisher Cave. "Pay the extra for the caves tour! Down the road there's an old iron foundry and a historic cemetery to explore," advises Lynn G. The park rangers provide informative tours describing the area's history and geological features.
Water activities: Paddling and floating trips are popular during warmer months. "There is a place nearby that rented tubes and kayaks for floating down the Meremec River," shares Carrie A. about her experience near Pin Oak RV Park. Several campgrounds provide water access for swimming, fishing, and boating.
What campers like
Natural settings: Daniel Boone Conservation Area provides primitive camping surrounded by nature. "There's a little pond with wildlife like rabbits and frogs," writes Tee C. Campers appreciate the peaceful environment: "Enjoy the sound of owls and silence. Plenty of dead/down trees for firewood," adds Alexis M.
Family entertainment: St. Peters' 370 Lakeside Park offers recreational equipment rentals for families. "The park/campground rents paddleboats, kayaks, and canoes in addition to different kinds of bikes," shares Mats. Another visitor adds, "We rented a peddle buggy. Those are a lot harder to get moving than they look. Awesome workout for the whole family!"
Clean facilities: Multiple campgrounds maintain well-kept bathrooms and shower facilities. At Yogi Bears Jellystone Park Resort at Six Flags, visitors note, "Pool and bathrooms were clean, staff were very friendly." The park also offers numerous cabin options for those seeking more comfort than tent camping provides.
What you should know
Reservation requirements: Many campgrounds require advance planning, especially for cabin rentals. At St. Charles County Klondike Park, "Reservations are required and the sites are in high demand," reports Marty C. Sites with water views and premium cabins fill quickly during peak season.
Cell service considerations: Coverage varies significantly between campgrounds. "There is WiFi available but it is not reliable. The cell phone service is virtually non-existent," reports Mats about Meramec State Park. In contrast, Daniel Boone Conservation Area offers "2 bars w/Verizon" according to multiple reviewers.
Seasonal flooding: Some campgrounds experience closures due to water levels. St. Peters' 370 Lakeside Park "was out of commission for most of the summer of 2019 as the entire area was flooded," according to Annie C. Always check conditions before traveling, especially in spring.
Tips for camping with families
Water recreation: Kids enjoy swimming and playing in the Meramec River. "The river was amazing. We got down early to ensure we had a spot for our chairs and umbrella. Our kiddos played (with life vests) for 8 hours straight," shares Jamie C. about Meramec Caverns Natural Campground.
Activity planning: Schedule plenty of time for organized recreation. "They really do pack in the campers though, extremely crowded and tight. The family atmosphere was incredible here, lots for the kiddos to do in this park," writes Russ G. about Halloween events at Pin Oak RV Park.
Wildlife viewing: Bring binoculars for wildlife spotting opportunities. Around St. Peters' 370 Lakeside Park, "You can see all kinds of wildlife in and around the lake - deer, bald eagles, pelicans, ducks, snakes," notes one reviewer. Many parks provide nature trails for observing local flora and fauna.
Tips from RVers
Site selection: Choose spots carefully based on your needs and equipment. At Yogi Bear's Jellystone Park Resort At Six Flags, "Our site was on a slope, some are close to a road, choose carefully," advises Lynn G. Many parks have online maps showing site dimensions and features.
Hookup positioning: Note the layout of utilities when selecting cabin or RV sites. "Your neighbors sewer sat right by your picnic table (nasty)," warns Shane E. about Stanton-Meramec KOA. At Pin Oak RV Park, "sites are gravel and close together so not much privacy. They come with water, sewer & electric."
Leveling challenges: Bring leveling blocks for uneven terrain. "Sites at the back of the property are large. Sites in the middle seemed more crowded," advises Chad H. about Pin Oak RV Park. Campgrounds with older infrastructure may require additional equipment for comfortable setup.
