The best big rig friendly campgrounds near St Louis, Missouri

Known as the Gateway to the West, St. Louis is more than a stopping point for travelers. This energetic Missouri city has a rich history showcased in parks, architecture, and museums. The elegant Gateway Arch rises over the city skyscrapers and the Mississippi River, serving as an iconic backdrop. Head to The Hill, a historic Italian neighborhood for some of the city’s best eats. The quirky City Museum is a must-see. The regions around St. Louis are surprisingly rural, with outdoor adventures to be found not too far from the city lights. From urban RV parks to serene public camping, this region has accommodations to fit your camping style.

94% (265)

Top-rated campgrounds

Known as the Gateway to the West, St. Louis is more than a stopping point for travelers. This energetic Missouri city has a rich history showcased in parks, architecture, and museums. The elegant Gateway Arch rises over the city skyscrapers and the Mississippi River, serving as an iconic backdrop. Head to The Hill, a historic Italian neighborhood for some of the city’s best eats. The quirky City Museum is a must-see. The regions around St. Louis are surprisingly rural, with outdoor adventures to be found not too far from the city lights. From urban RV parks to serene public camping, this region has accommodations to fit your camping style.

94% (265)

Top-rated campgrounds

1. The Farm Girl and Friends

98%

(87)

44mi from St Louis · 2 sites · Tents, RVs · Litchfield, IL

This land is a working animal farm. There are many farm animals to see here. You can pet goats, donkeys, rabbits, and many more. Located off of the Litchfield exit on interstate 55 just 52 miles from STL... Bring your Camper or pitch a tent on site of a working animal farm. If you like panoramic views of gorgeous sunsets, petting farm animals, relaxing in a peaceful setting this place is for you. Just minutes from shopping and restaurants in Litchfield. It’s about a 5 minute drive to Gillespie lake where the fishing is excellent also they have a really nice beach roped off for swimming and it’s free of charge. Experience taking a nice hot shower in an outdoor shower. Also there is a sink with running water available and a private porta-potty. There is one 50 amp electric outlet for a camper Available for an additional $10 a night fee. Which can be reduced to 30 amps if needed. Please let us know at the time of booking to reserve the electrical outlet otherwise we cannot guarantee availability. This is a delightful place to be if your searching for that farm experience! Come visit for a night or stay a few days I’ve been told by many of my visitors that they want to live here! Warning if you are not fond of animals or if you are allergic to cats or dogs this probably isn’t a good choice for you. Update due to social distancing and Covid-19 we have widened our campsites to create more privacy. We are honored to be chosen for Illinois and featured in the October 1 edition of Outside magazine. Like us on Facebook on The Farm Girl and Friends Petting Zoo page

2. Hawks Bluff Farm Campground

97%

(232)

47mi from St Louis · 57 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging · Tiff, MO

Escape the city! We have a very special property that nourishes the soul and provides space to roam and breathe fresh air. We have 460 acres to explore. A beautiful creek running through our property. We have cows, mules, goats, dogs and cats. We are on a bluff so if you are rock hunters you have come to the right place. We offer rock hunting. and we have extra buckets. We have the best Drusy (lots of colors), Crazy Lace Agate, Calcite, Chalcedony, Quartz, Chert, Barite, Bladed Barite, Iron Ores and more. Check us out on Facebook Hawks Bluff Farm Rocks and Drusy. We have firewood, ice, eggs, ground beef, propane exchange and new propane tanks available. Ask us about our kayaking options!

3. I-55 RV Park

100%

(4)

23mi from St Louis · 20 sites · RVs · Edwardsville, IL

Welcome to I-55 RV Park We are a brand new, big-rig friendly RV park right off the highway where we will do our utmost to make your stay relaxing and memorable. Please note, we do not have a bathhouse or bathroom at this time. We have a strict leash rule for your pets. We look forward to having you stay with us! Come enjoy a nice and relaxing stay at our brand new RV park. We are big rig friendly with 20 full-hook up sites (water, electric, sewer). We are located right off Highways I-55 and 143 at Exit 23. Edwardsville, Plummer Family Park, World Wide Technology Raceway, Nickel Plate Bike Trail, Downtown St. Louis, and many other tourist destinations are nearby.

4. Kaskaskia River Camping & RV Park

81%

(16)

29mi from St Louis · 41 sites · Tents, RVs · New Athens, IL

Welcome to the Village of New Athens RV Park! We sincerely appreciate your choice to stay with us. As you settle in, we're thrilled to invite you to immerse yourself in the natural beauty of our campgrounds and the warmth of our community. Our park offers a range of amenities to ensure a comfortable and enjoyable stay. You'll find convenient water hookups and sewer connections, along with waterfront views that promise a serene and picturesque experience. Embrace the outdoors at our picnic area and explore the surrounding landscapes, as we happily welcome pets, making your stay pet-friendly. For the adventurous souls, we have hike and bike campsites, providing opportunities for thrilling exploration on our gravel roads. Should you require any essentials during your stay, rest assured, we have gasoline available nearby. And as the evening settles in, gather around the fire pit, where cherished memories are created, fostering camaraderie among fellow travelers. While you're here, don't miss out on the various activities we offer. Cast a line and indulge in the art of fishing, or take to the waters for a boating adventure that promises to be both invigorating and unforgettable. Once again, thank you for being our guest. We look forward to making your time with us truly memorable as you embrace the wonders of our Village of New Athens RV Park. Happy exploring!

Stories from the community

J

Justin

November 2025

With kids

Weekend Trip to Hawks Bluff Farm Campground

The farm and staff are absolutely fantastic! We had an issue with charges, which they resolved with some investment of time on their part. They all I’ve and beyond in service. Helping us find our site in the dark, making sure we had enough supplies and even throwing a pair of jeans in the dryer for our teenager 😁 Truly kind people!

Zoe

November 2025

Tent

2 nights at Hawks Bluff Farm Campground

Always a great time at hawks bluff! This land is truly a blessing and I am grateful Elizabeth shares it with us ! Much comfortability in knowing I’m safe and if I need anything I can always ask :) also, awesome rocks!!

A

Andros

November 2025

Tent

Weekend Trip to Hawks Bluff Farm Campground

The owners are amazing, the property is very cool, and close enough to town to get supplies. Breathtaking views and a welcoming community at this location!

B

Brian

November 2025

30 ft travel trailer

With kids

Weekend Trip to Hawks Bluff Farm Campground

Great place! Tons of stuff to do. Owners are very sweet and hospitable. I plan to go back and would recommend everyone to stay. Camping or RV. I pulled a 35’er and had zero issues.

N

Nathan

November 2025

25 ft Class C

Weekend Trip to Hawks Bluff Farm Campground

Secluded location. Several options are available for sites depending on services. Rock hunting is fantastic.

Alan

November 2025

Tent

Weekend Trip to Hawks Bluff Farm Campground

Stayed here for a second time, so beautiful in the Fall. Highly recommend! Elizabeth is so helpful and accommodating, and answered all my questions very quickly.

H

Hope

October 2025

Tent

With pets

Weekend Trip to Hawks Bluff Farm Campground

Our host was so kind and generous. The land was well-kept and peaceful. Rock hunting as part of the stay was delightful. It was so fun to be around the farm animals and be greeted by the dogs and cats. Definitely a spot worth visiting!!

T

Taylirre

October 2025

16 ft car

1 night at Hawks Bluff Farm Campground

This was the most beautiful camp site I have stayed at. I've been an avid user of Hipcamp for a few years and frequented many camp sites but this one surpasses all others. First, the hospitality of the owners, they are super responsive and the kitchen area has everything needed to make it comfortable stay. Our tent site was private and quiet and very beautiful to observe the meteor shower. It's set on the side of a large hill where there is a scenic view and grounds full of crystals that can be collected. It felt safe and we did not observe any wild animals other than the farm animals they have onsite. The host was welcoming and knowledgeable of the land and we will be returning with our whole family next time.

C

Camiel

October 2025

Tent

With pets

Weekend Trip to Hawks Bluff Farm Campground

I absolutely love this place!! The property is amazing and the people are great. My site was level and even with heavy rain there was only minimal mud. The farm animals are friendly and if you’re lucky the mule will serenade you while you use the facilities :) I look forward to going back many more times!!

S

Sarah

October 2025

Tent

With kids

Weekend Trip to Hawks Bluff Farm Campground

Beautiful place to camp. Kids loved all the animals. The rock hunting was so much fun and everyone was so knowledgeable. My husband took the rock cutting class and had good things to say. They had an outdoor kitchen and served meals.

W

Whitney

October 2025

Tent

With kids

Weekend Trip to Hawks Bluff Farm Campground

What a great place. Everyone we encountered who lived or worked there was so nice and helpful and we never felt like they were bothered by us. (We had a group of 13, 6 adults and 7 kids ages 8 and younger so we were a lot). We loved getting to visit the farm animals all day. It was nice to just let the kids run around visiting the dogs, cows, goats, the very chatty donkey. We had 3 large tents and easily found space to accommodate them. Elizabeth was kind enough to set our group up next to the pavilion which helped tremendously in the rain! My only big note that I wish someone would have told me prior to going is the creek access is hard to get to. Most people go for rocks so not a big deal but my kiddos love to play in water. We had to drive a couple minutes but then we had to hike down a steep hill to get to the creek. And hike back up. My 5 year old had zero problems with it so no issues for bigger kids and adults. But it took me 25 minutes to get back to my car with my 2 year old and it wasn’t fun for either of us. Great creek area to play! Just wish it was easier to get to. Would definitely recommend to others to stay.

W

WAYNE

October 2025

25 ft travel trailer

With pets

4 nights at Hawks Bluff Farm Campground

I’ve been on the road for about 4 months and Elizabeth’s place was a very welcome break from the state parks and private campgrounds I’d been staying at. Nice, quiet (not crowded) farm atmosphere and a great place to rockhound with other places to go rock collecting nearby. Everyone was friendly and helpful. Can’t wait to go through the 50+ pounds of really nice druzy quartz I’m bringing home.

J

Jaime

October 2025

Tent

With kids

Weekend Trip to Hawks Bluff Farm Campground

Loved the views and the campsites were spacious and very well kept. Kiddos enjoyed all of the animals and the rock hunting here is amazing. We also enjoyed the creek, it was crystal clear. The atmosphere was relaxed and the helpers were super friendly. We will definitely be adding this to our list of places for quick weekend family getaway.

Full overview of camp on my YouTube channel: KarterChanelle

E

Ebony

October 2025

Tent

Weekend Trip to Hawks Bluff Farm Campground

Do not hesitate to book! This is the most efficient way of camping! She has everything you need from kayaking to an outside kitchen! Yes.. an outside kitchen with stoves refrigerators cups plates bbq grill and bbq sauce! Peaceful with adorable livestock. As a solo female camper I felt safe and I’m returning this weekend!

D

Donna A

October 2025

Tent

With pets

7 nights at Hawks Bluff Farm Campground

Liked it so much I extended it another week! Great for kids! Especially if their first time.

E

Elizabeth

October 2025

32 ft travel trailer

With kids

Weekend Trip to I-55 RV Park

We loved our stay. The park was great with wonderful hosts!

J

JESSICA

October 2025

Tent

With kids

Weekend Trip to Hawks Bluff Farm Campground

This place is very well kept! I liked the way you could pretty much just pick any spot(with respecting other campers, of course). All the animals are very friendly! Be careful with the gray-ish striped cat! I turned over at one point, and my son had gotten the cat in the tent, and it was passed out between us😅 pretty sure it would've let my son kidnap it honestly, haha! Definitely planning on staying more than just a night when we come back through! By the way, the shower was amazing, and good shower heads! As far as campgrounds go, probably the best I've seen!

S

Steve

September 2025

20 ft travel trailer

Weekend Trip to Hawks Bluff Farm Campground

Keep in mind this is a farm, so you will find equipment and farm stuff about. Beautiful property with access to lots of activities featuring rock hunting. The staff is super friendly and helpful. We will be back when time allows. They offer a variety of festivals and learning opportunities from time to time. Elizabeth has worked to offer all types of camping experiences. The communal outdoor kitchen is an awesome way to meet your fellow campers and enjoy a morning coffee.

A

Amie

September 2025

Tent

With pets

Weekend Trip to Hawks Bluff Farm Campground

I had a rough week at work so made a last minute decision Saturday morning to reserve a campsite not far from home just for the night. I needed to get out of my head and reset my soul, and I found a cute place on this 640 acre working farm . It was my first solo trip and at first I was nervous but the women who greeted me at the farm and the families having a great time around me made me immediately relax. The sounds of nature (hawk, bullfrog, coyotes, hooting owl) mixed with the farm sounds (tractor, train in the distance, rooster, goats, mules, cows, dogs, boys playing hide n seek) got me out of my head and grounded, ready for a new week.

T

Taylor

September 2025

20 ft travel trailer

With pets

Weekend Trip to Hawks Bluff Farm Campground

Lisa was the best host! It’s not crowded and has a few animals to see. :)

Happy farmer sitting in a truck in a grassy field

The best big rig friendly camping near St Louis guide

Where to go

Downtown St. Louis and Forest Park

This is where the action is! Downtown is bustling with restaurants, live entertainment, and bars. Catch a Cardinals game, go up in the Gateway Arch for a bird’s-eye view of the city, or walk along the shores of the epic Mississippi River. Forest Park was the site of the 1904 World’s Fair, and today, some of the architecture remains, with a free zoo, art museum, science center, and more nestled amid the gently rolling green hills. Camping is hard to find close to downtown, but there are a few urban RV parks and private campsites to be had.

Eureka, Missouri

The town of Eureka sits on the city outskirts and has easy access to downtown St. Louis, which is just 20 minutes northeast on Interstate 44. Eureka has attractions of its own to explore, including Six Flags, Route 66 State Park, and several conservation areas. A solid choice for camping near St. Louis, Eureka has some private RV resorts, offering full hookups, free wifi, swimming pools, and family entertainment.

Dr. Edmund A. Babler Memorial State Park

Just 45 minutes from downtown, Babler State Park feels worlds away, with a thick forest of trees, making it a good choice for travelers wanting to camp near St. Louis in a natural landscape. Hit the trails on foot, bike, or horseback. The campground offers tent and RV sites, with 30 and 50-amp electric hookups available.

Meramec State Park

A little over an hour southwest of St. Louis lies Meramec State Park, a good option if you want to combine outdoor adventures with a visit to the city. Located along the Meramec River, this park offers hiking, swimming, paddling, fishing, and cave tours, as well as tent and RV sites with a variety of amenities, including some full hookup sites.

Horseshoe Lake State Park

Head east into Illinois to camp along the banks of the state's second-largest natural lake at Horseshoe Lake State Park, located fewer than 20 minutes from downtown St. Louis. The campground offers primitive tent or trailer camping sites on a first-come-first-serve basis.

When to go

Summers can run quite hot and humid in St. Louis, but this is a popular time to visit. Grab a campsite with electric hookups, if you want to crank the AC. Spring and fall are especially pleasant, with fewer crowds and cooler temperatures. Winter camping can involve freezing temperatures and precipitation, which makes planning somewhat unpredictable.