Glamping sites near Wildwood offer a range of accommodations from basic to premium within St. Louis County. Positioned at elevations around 600-800 feet above sea level, these sites experience four distinct seasons with humid summers reaching into the 90s and winters that regularly drop below freezing. Most sites remain accessible year-round, though winter camping requires additional preparation for potentially icy conditions on the region's rolling terrain.
What to do
Trail exploration: The 3-mile loop trail at St. Louis West / Historic Route 66 KOA provides scenic walking opportunities. "This was such a nice and serene setting. Close to the city and local attractions, yet surrounded by nature none the less," notes Todd P. The trails accommodate various experience levels with moderate elevation changes.
Archery practice: Available year-round at St. Peters' 370 Lakeside Park with designated ranges. "This park is beautiful. Located about 25 minutes from St Louis. They have paddle boats and bikes and group bikes for rental," explains Joseph F. The archery ranges feature multiple target distances for beginners through experienced archers.
Cave tours: Educational underground excursions at Meramec Caverns Natural Campground. "The cave tour is a bit hokey, but if you can look past the mannequins and silliness, the caves themselves are really spectacular. You can definitely see why Jesse and Frank James used this as a hideout," says Annie C. Tours last approximately two hours and maintain a consistent 60-degree temperature regardless of outdoor weather.
What campers like
Quiet seclusion: Despite urban proximity at Cuivre River State Park Campground, campers enjoy relative isolation. "This is truly a hidden gem. 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," writes Lahree C. The park's location 45 minutes from Wildwood creates a buffer from city noise.
Family-friendly amenities: Multiple activities keep children entertained at nearby sites. "This campground has a great set-up for family reunions, celebrations, group camping, etc.," notes Michelle S. about Meramec Caverns. Campgrounds typically offer structured activities during summer weekends when family attendance is highest.
Off-season camping: Winter availability increases solitude opportunities. "We stayed only one night passing through on a road trip but would stay again if we end up in the area," says Maria E. about winter camping. Many campgrounds maintain bathroom facilities through winter months, though water hookups may be restricted during freezing temperatures.
What you should know
Accessibility challenges: Terrain variations affect mobility at some sites. "The campground was updated and the facilities were clean," explains Chad K. about Dr. Edmund A. Babler Memorial State Park Campground, but elsewhere notes that "not having water available except at the camp host, and no open restrooms and showers until after April 1, regardless of when the last freeze is was inconvenient for a spring break trip."
Wildlife encounters: Raccoons and deer frequent many campsites. "They dont give a darn who you are. They will walk right up to, smile, and take your chips. Scandalous!" reports April D. about raccoons at Babler State Park. Food storage containers are essential at all sites in the region.
Seasonal flooding: Water level changes affect site availability. "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 Randy H. Spring camping carries the highest flooding risk at riverside locations.
Tips for camping with families
Reserve early: Weekend spots fill quickly at family-oriented campgrounds. "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," explains Kayla S. about Cuivre River State Park. Most family-friendly sites begin accepting reservations 6 months before arrival dates.
Pack extra clothing: Temperature variations occur even in summer. "Great for taking long walks or bike rides, although very steep hills," one reviewer noted about trail conditions that can lead to unexpected exertion and weather exposure.
Consider cabin options: Luxury glamping at Greensfelder County Park offers family-friendly amenities. "Small campground ground ram by saint louis county parks. Heavy equestrian park, it's not required (to have a horse) to stay here," explains Matthew H. Cabin reservations often require 50% deposits and have stricter cancellation policies than tent sites.
Tips from RVers
Leveling challenges: Site grades vary significantly across campgrounds. "The site we were in was very small and there are train tracks that run near by the campground so it can be quite noisy," explains Charles S. about KOA sites. Most campgrounds provide limited leveling assistance, so bring blocks and stabilizers.
Electrical hookup variations: Outlet types differ between older and newer sites. "Most sites are great for trailers 26' or less and 1 slide (sites 24-26 can fit a fifth wheel probably no bigger than 36-38 ft)," notes Matthew H. about Greensfelder County Park. Many sites offer only 30-amp service, requiring adapters for larger RVs.
Water access restrictions: Winter camping often means limited hookups. "Only sites 20-29 have electric and 28 can't be reserved," explains one reviewer about winter conditions. RVers should arrive with full freshwater tanks during cold months when freeze protection measures limit water access points.
