Camping around Silex, Missouri spans the unique terrain where Missouri's northern plains transition into rolling hills near the Mississippi River floodplain. Most sites sit at elevations between 500-650 feet above sea level, offering a mix of wooded and open settings across conservation areas and developed facilities. Summer nights typically cool to the mid-60s even during July and August, when daytime temperatures frequently exceed 90°F with significant humidity.
What to do
Kayaking and paddling options: The small lake at Cuivre River State Park Campground provides easy water access for beginners with rental equipment available on-site. "This campground has a lake you can rent kayaks for. They have a small store at the check in booth. It also has an accessible fishing dock that is covered," notes Kayla S.
Archery practice: St. Peters' 370 Lakeside Park features a dedicated archery range among its recreational facilities. "There is a lot to do here. They have an archery range. The rent out peddle boats, bikes and peddle cars/buggies as well," shares Barbie B.
Bike riding: Several campgrounds offer bike-friendly environments with paved trails. "The park has an awesome trail system around the lake, and it looks like you can rent canoes/kayaks in the summer," mentions Kyle R. about Cuivre River State Park. At St. Peters' 370 Lakeside Park, the paved trail around the lake spans over 4 miles and connects to longer regional trails.
Wildlife observation: The Mississippi River corridor near Silex supports diverse wildlife viewing opportunities. "We saw bunnies hopping around and when we first arrived to our site a deer was grazing nearby, such a bonus!" reports Maria E. who camped at Cuivre River State Park.
What campers like
Spacious campsite layouts: Campers consistently mention the generous spacing between sites at several area campgrounds. "Campground is quiet and has big campsites. The campground is close to Lincoln Lake for kayaking," writes Cody S. about Cuivre River State Park.
Nature immersion: Despite being within a short drive of St. Louis, many campgrounds maintain a natural setting. "Campground is beautiful and very woodsy. We saw bunnies hopping around and when we first arrived to our site a deer was grazing nearby," reports Maria E.
River access for fishing: Silo Access Area - O'Neil Creek provides direct Mississippi River frontage for anglers. "This site is a great place to watch that amazing river pass by. You sit and watch the barges and various things float by," notes Jill, adding that "it's about 1 mile north off RT 79 from Calumet Creek access."
Night sky viewing: Several camping areas offer minimal light pollution for stargazing. "The best spot is over looking the lake and offers a clear view of the night sky," remarks Chad K. about Cuivre River State Park.
What you should know
Flooding risk: Campgrounds in lowland areas near rivers face periodic closures due to high water. Annie C. notes that St. Peters' 370 Lakeside Park "was out of commission for most of the summer of 2019 as the entire area was flooded."
Train noise: Some riverside camping areas experience regular train traffic. At Silo Access Area, "you are very close to active train tracks, so bring your earplugs," advises Annie C.
Primitive facilities: William R. Logan Conservation Area offers basic camping with minimal amenities. "The only vault toilet was closed and a porta potty was set next to that," reports Annie C., who also mentions "a lollipop loop with some really primitive and obviously rarely used campsites in the woods behind the main camp area."
Shooting range proximity: Be prepared for potential noise if visiting William R. Logan Conservation Area. "Fair warning- there is an active shooting range in the middle of the conservation area and it was BUSY when I was there," cautions Annie C.
Tips for camping with families
Kid-friendly recreation: Pere Marquette State Park Campground offers diverse activities for children. "Have been to Pere Marquette State Park with Scouts. The camp sites were sandy grassy ground, kind of hilly, and the sites were kind of close together but not bad," shares Leah H., adding, "The lodge has a restaurant and giant chess board!"
Weather emergency plans: Park staff at some facilities provide weather safety information during severe conditions. At St. Peters' 370 Lakeside Park, "There was some rough springtime weather expected one day. 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," reports Mats.
Wildlife encounters: Prepare children for potential animal sightings at campgrounds near Silex. "We saw bunnies hopping around and when we first arrived to our site a deer was grazing nearby, such a bonus!" shares Maria E. about her experience at Cuivre River State Park.
Food storage: Take precautions with food items at night. "Don't leave anything out at night or raccoons will scavenge," warns Maria E. based on personal experience at Cuivre River State Park.
Tips from RVers
Water pressure awareness: Some campgrounds have extremely high water pressure that requires regulation. Susan L. notes that at St. Peters' 370 Lakeside Park, "The water pressure was so strong that I could barely open the water pump!"
Site leveling challenges: Graham Cave State Park Campground requires preparation for uneven sites. "There are a few flat sites but many were not level," reports Laura M., who stayed there in late October.
Full hookup availability: For RVers seeking complete services, Cuivre River State Park offers dedicated areas. "The sites for full hook ups are separate from the other sites," explains Kayla S.
Seasonal flooding impacts: Be aware that access roads and campgrounds may close during high water periods. Annie C. observed that after flooding at St. Peters' 370 Lakeside Park, "the City of St Peters did a great job getting this place back to usable with new sod, a new bathhouse, and some general sprucing up."
