The best camping in Gateway Arch National Park, MO

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85% (187)

This urban national park offers an utterly unique experience.  

The best camping near Gateway Arch National Park, MO

No matching sites in the park — explore these options nearby.
Matt's Place at Meramec n Labarque

2. Matt's Place at Meramec n Labarque

100%
(68)
28mi from Gateway Arch National Park · 5 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging · Eureka, MO
Located at the confluence of the Meramec River and Labarque Creek, my place (Matt's Place) is a ridge above a bottomland bowl of sorts. The old iron truss bridge here is likely built in 1910 and it has a survey marker from 1932. The creek has a nice little swimming hole, and a beach that is sometimes sand, sometimes, gravel, and sometimes a mix of both with some silt or even mud after a storm. It's peaceful down there to explore in the creek, wade while looking outward to an opening into the Meramec River. It's also fun to stand just at the mouth of the creek in the Meramec River. It's an awesome view upstream or downstream of tree lined banks, rock bluffs, and every now and then, passing boats, canoes, paddle boards, or kayaks. The old iron truss bridge hovers above the meeting of two waters. The water is cool and clean. Some fifty species of fish have been recorded in this creek, the most in all of Jefferson County and St Louis County. The bottomland has two levels, the lower bottoms down by the creek and the upper bottoms about a hundred feet from the creek. The upper bottoms has a clearing like a meadow with mowed grass. My favorite things to do here include gazing up at a cottonwood tree that must be sixty feet tall. It's leaves in a breeze are like a thousand hands waving hello. The bottomland meadow offers just enough sky to see bats dance in the dusk air between the trees, then fireflies as it gets darker yet. Up top is where I live. Just five miles off HWY 44 and HWY 109, at Eureka, MO, (30 minutes west of downtown St Louis, 18 minutes from Six Flags) this place sits on a ridge with great views above the Meramec River.
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$20
 / night
Happy Trails Farm Resort

5. Happy Trails Farm Resort

94%
(189)
8.6mi from Gateway Arch National Park · 6 sites · Tents, RVs · Granite City, IL
Happy Trails farm is a beautiful refreshing place that you can relax, and connect with the family farm life. We were established Oct. 27th, 2007, and it's our "Acres of Diamonds" (Earl Nightengale). There are 20.11 acres of farm life to share with you. We do many things to help keep the farm going, and moving towards being self supporting. Such as pony rides, birthday parties, weddings, camp outs, and so much more. We sell fresh laid farm eggs for $5 cash a dozen. To purchase eggs, call or text Nancy (618)601-4645 Pony rides are $30 cash, and by appointment only. They are hand led, and approximately 20-30 minute. The child will be hand led around the farm. If you would like to schedule a ride please message Maryann @ (618)610-9282. We also house and run Happy Trails Horse Rescue (501c3) non for profit, and accept donations. Some of the things you will experience and see are: volunteers helping out; horses, mules, donkeys, chickens, ducks, geese, turkey, goats, llama, and many others. We are a small and important resource to the overall well being of the community. We look forward to seeing you on the farm! Check-in is between 2pm-9pm. No late night check-ins. Cancellations must be made by 2pm the day before your reservation. Happy Trails Farm Resort is a great place to get lost and find a connection.  We are a small homestead family farm with many farm animals. Come pitch a tent under the farm stars. Happy Trails :)
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$36
 / night
View from one of many tent locations

6. Earth, Wind & Solar Farm

98%
(89)
42mi from Gateway Arch National Park · 5 sites · Tents, RVs · Foristell, MO
Earth, Wind and Solar Farm is 5 acres. You can book multiple sites if you want to stay as a group. We do our best to allow 1 reservation to stay on site at a time. If only 1 site is requested the others are then blocked to allow guests privacy during their stay. If another person requests to stay and it is booked, we will check with the current reservation for approval. We also allow groups to book and camp together if needed (use both rv pads, or tent camp). We do offer 50amp and 30amp power options (2 different RV parking sites). Some people have commented that our driveway entrance seems narrow for larger rigs (Class A's and 5th wheels). We've had 53' long rigs (5th wheels)and 45' (Class A's) pull in and get parked with no issues. You will need to be able to back into a spot for either 50a or 30a service. We do have additional parking available for extra vehicles. If you have a tow vehicle/toad, you will need to detach prior to arrival. There are 2 trucks stops less than 5 miles away (TA and Pilot) or there is a park with a large parking area off of David Hoekel Parkway you can utilize. We do offer 20amp power and extension cord for tent campers (either in our tent or can be used in your own tent. Free cold showers available. A bundle of firewood is now included for use in provided fire pits in needed/requested. Outdoor Hot showers available at a charge of $5/person. This includes the use of propane and a portable hot water heater. Wi-Fi is available during your stay. Will provide network name and password in confirmation email. 3 firepits are available for use (firewood can be purchased). Easy access to our place via Hwy 70 (take the David Hoekel Parkway Exit). We are 5 miles from Wentzville which offers a Walmart, Target, Sams Club, Lowes, Home Depot, multiple grocery stores, Rural King, Charlies and multiple restaurants. We have a stocked pond with catfish, bluegill, sunfish, largemouth bass, black crappie, carp and turtles. There is a Windmill that aerates the pond (do not climb on it). You can fish the pond must practice CPR (catch photo release). Or you can feed the pond fish & feed out chickens. We will provide the fish food and chicken treats. There is plenty of wildlife (deer, fox, raccoons, armadillo's, birds, etc.). Deer will walk by the pond and driveway a couple of times a day. We also have a group of free-range chickens and French guineas (eggs may be available during your stay). There are bike trails in the area, paved roads you can ride on to explore, wineries nearby, a petting zoo and pumpkin patch. Things to do nearby: Horsehoe Hall of Fame, Big Joels Safari, Multiple wineries in Wright City/Augusta/Defiance, Wacky Warriors Paintball, Busch Wildlife, Katy Trail, Pumpkin Patches and so much more.
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$29
 / night
Grand Army Farm

8. Grand Army Farm

95%
(92)
36mi from Gateway Arch National Park · 2 sites · Tents · Labadie , MO
Grand Army Farm is a family owned working farm. We raise beautiful angora goats for fiber and have chickens, ducks, geese, turkeys and meat goats. We serve local restaurants and participate in many local area farmers market. We pride ourselves in minimizing our carbon footprint, to the extent that we don't own any heavy piece of farm equipment, not even an ATV. The working portion of the game only accounts for 15 % of the land. What this means is that 85% of the wooded acres is available for you HipCampers to hike and explore. Of particular interest is the site of an old moonshine distillery hidden in the woods, a 20 min hike east of your campsite. Legends has it that the moonshine was illicitly produced during Prohibition and sold in the loft of our biggest barn where people would drink and dance the night away. The property boats of gorgeous mature oak trees, hickory trees and newer cedar stands where nature abounds. In the morning you may see the herons fly in or the Canadian geese come in.Learn more about this land:Pitch your own tent by our 5 acres lake. You will hear the frogs croak at night, see sights of blue herons or Canadian geese flying in, and hear our own geese and ducks greet you from across the lake. You will see my goat barn and see the majestic angora goats with shimmering coats come in for their feedings in the morning and leave to go to pasture afterwards. You will be a 10 min walk from our house and have complete privacy.  If you would like to make a fire, there is plenty of wood available to pick up on site.  A map on the patio fridge will show you where water is available and the hiking trail head.
Potable water
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$18
 / night
Timberline Ridge

9. Timberline Ridge

100%
(11)
43mi from Gateway Arch National Park · 3 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging · Carlinville, IL
Welcome to Timberline Ridge-Tiny Living! We host a tiny cabin and two RV spots. Located in an open area, the cabin and camper sites create a warm, communal atmosphere. Enjoy shared amenities like a fire pit and a peaceful pond—with kayaks and a paddle board. A perfect spot to unwind and connect with fellow travelers. Tiny Piney: Escape to our charming tiny log cabin nestled in the heart of nature. Perfect for couples, families and solo travelers seeking a serene retreat, our cozy cabin offers a unique blend of rustic charm and modern comfort. Relax on the spacious deck and soak in the beauty of the surrounding landscape. With nearby hiking trails and quaint local shops, there’s plenty to explore during your stay. Disconnect from the hustle and bustle of everyday life and reconnect with nature in our tranquil hideaway. Please be advised we are in the process of growing our fish population to ensure a thriving ecosystem for everyone to enjoy. The pond currently has hybrid bluegill ready to catch. Our sister property does have a fully stocked pond a short walk away.
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$35
 / night
15’ wide gate

10. Urban Surprise

98%
(26)
2.8mi from Gateway Arch National Park · 1 site · RV · St. Louis, MO
Located just minutes from downtown St. Louis, Urban Surprise is in a secure parking area full hookups 20, 30 and 50 amp, water, and sewer. Close to many popular spots including Busch Stadium 3 miles, Gateway Arch 2.8 miles, Forest Park and Zoo 7.2 miles, St Louis City SC 2 miles, Convention Center 2 miles and Worldwide Technology Raceway 5.3 miles. Whether you're staying for a long visit or just a quick stop, there is lots to see and do nearby. The large gravel lot (22'x60') where you'll be staying is in a fenced area (6' Chain link) with cameras and good lighting. Gate opens to 15'. Must be self-contained as there are no bathrooms on site. Potable water is available via spigot. Wifi is included. No fires. Unfortunately, due to multiple irresponsible pet owners, we no longer allow pets. The location is urban. It's not in a tranquil country setting. Lots of hustle and bustle, city sights and sounds. Located in the neighborhood of Hyde Park. Lots of interesting architecture and history. We offer discounts for stays over 7 days. Just message us your proposed dates. There is also an Airbnb located at this property and can be booked separately. https://www.airbnb.com/rooms/815996783041353041?guests=1&adults=1&s=67&unique_share_id=5012e5e0-3425-4ca5-ac41-51d5afd9f2e8
Potable water
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from 
$50
 / night
The Magic Land Homestead

11. The Magic Land Homestead

94%
(16)
43mi from Gateway Arch National Park · 4 sites · Lodging · Grubville, MO
The Magic Land Homestead is our 70 acre wooded private retreat. We are about an hour from St. Louis, Missouri, on a beautiful country drive. We rent our Enchanted Treehouse that sleeps up to 9 guests for those who enjoy a more pampered getaway with a real bathroom and shower, and we also rent out a Rustic A-Frame that's a little more primitive with a composting toilet and a hose shower out back. Our four free range lovable dogs, colorful chickens, silly geese and goofy turkey Hammerstein, are usually part of the fun of your stay. We have a 3 acre lake with kayak and paddle boat and dock as well as a spring fed wet weather creek. Our mission is to grow our own organic food and to live as sustainably and mindfully as possible in connection with Mother Nature. So the guests we attract are looking for a sacred more quiet getaway. If you wish to throw a big party another place would be best. There are some trails and open areas to play, along with fun swings and an opportunity to reconnect with your soul. We look forward to seeing you soon!
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$70
 / night
So many campsite locations!

13. Triangle H Farm, LLC

91%
(53)
18mi from Gateway Arch National Park · 8 sites · Tents, RVs · Edwardsville , IL
Once a large cattle operation, Triangle H Farm has evolved through being a corn, soybean and horseradish farm before its present use as a horse boarding, training, and lesson facility. As a matter of fact, depending upon the season, you can schedule a tour of our horseradish farm. We are top 10 producers of horseradish in the nation! Come see our 100 acres of camping possibilities and enjoy nature at its finest! We look forward to having you with us.Learn more about this land:Pitch your tent or plug in your RV (30 or 50 amp, or 110 volt) on our 110 acre horse farm. Choose between staying up closer to the barns or out in the timber. We have a nice primitive spot under a 100+ year old cottonwood tree that is near a stream. There is a picnic table there as well. About 1.25 mile down the trail from the main barn is a walnut grove with a picnic table. The same stream runs past the walnut grove. There is a spot for a fire too. If you want more rustic, feel free to cross the creek to the timber and choose a primitive camping spot there. Enjoy mowed trails to hike or bike. Water (from hydrants and hoses) and portopotty are up near main barns. We have 60 horses on the farm as well as goats, cats, and chickens. We do not offer access to horses unless you're in a riding lesson, or have scheduled a pony riding session. We look forward to sharing our little piece of heaven with you!
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$40
 / night
There's already a hammock. Go enjoy it!

18. The Farm Girl and Friends

98%
(87)
43mi from Gateway Arch National Park · 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
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$27
 / night
Mud Creek RV/Camper Parking

19. Mud Creek RV/Camper Parking

100%
(10)
36mi from Gateway Arch National Park · 2 sites · Tents, RVs · Marissa, IL
Welcome to our rural farm oasis, where two shaded RV/Camper spots await for you to park and enjoy yourself in nature and the fresh country air! Each spot features concrete pads and is shaded by mature trees, providing a comfortable setting for your stay. Please note that spots are available for parking only; camper/RV is not included. Just a short 5-minute drive away, is the Prairie State Power Plant if you're in the area for work. Sparta, IL is about 12 minutes away for any supplies you would need or Marissa, IL is about a 7 minute drive. Enjoy convenient access to electric hookups, including 50 amp, 30 amp, and 110v options. Additionally, a sewer drop is located within 15 feet of each spot, along with a water hookup for your convenience. Both spots are situated in close proximity to our farm and two other Airbnb homes. When booked, you have access to the lake and a small pond down the lane. Please stay to the right of the Y and head across the dam. **No access permitted after dark.** These spots are great for fishing and/or having a picnic enjoying a private wooded area. Just a short 5-minute drive away, is the Prairie State Power Plant if you're in the area for work. Sparta, IL is about 12 minutes away for any supplies you would need or Marissa, IL is about a 7 minute drive. Experience the perfect blend of relaxation and rural charm at our shaded RV/Camper spots, where the beauty of nature meets modern comfort.
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from 
$35
 / night
St Louis Co private wildwood farm.

20. St Louis Co private wildwood farm.

100%
(26)
27mi from Gateway Arch National Park · 5 sites · RVs · Wildwood, MO
8 mostly cleared acre property with great access. Gravel drive throughout. 1/2 acre pond with catfish. Private with great views. 1850 acres of state park on the property. Full water and electric hook up for RVs, campers, and vans. Gravel roads throughout. Property is 5 min from 3 conservation areas for hiking. 10 min to 6 Flags. 30 min to all the amenities of downtown St. Louis. Retreat to the quaint town of wildwood, Missouri, and indulge yourself at this peaceful haven offers the perfect blend of comfort and relaxation. During the day, explore attractions like Six Flags St. Louis, Meramec Caverns, and the breathtaking beauty of Castlewood State Park. Whether you're looking for thrills or tranquility, this Wildwood oasis has it all! Nice, Right off the old old route 66. Property has the old motel on it. Backs to Rockwood reservation state conservation with 1850 wooded acres to hike and explore. Watch deer and other wildlife from anywhere on the property. Close to everything but far enough to make it private. Close to six flags, hidden valley ski resort, babler state park, greensfielder state park, lone elk state park, Castlewood state park, Katy trail and purina event center. Fish in the private 1/2 acre pond. Horses welcome. Plenty of room for trailer. -- THE PROPERTY -- Free WiFi throughout -- THE LOCATION -- OUTDOOR EXPLORATION: Shaw Nature Reserve (5 miles), Rockwoods Reservation (0 miles), Robertsville State Park (11 miles), Babler State Park (12 miles), Castlewood State Park (17 miles), Lone Elk State Park (20 miles), Meramec Caverns (31 miles) FUN FOR EVERYONE: Purina Farms (5 miles), Yogi Bear's Jellystone Park (7 miles), Six Flags St. Louis (8 miles), Hidden Valley Ski Resort (8 miles), The Magic House, St. Louis Children’s Museum (20miles), Missouri Botanical Garden (30miles) EVENT & WEDDING VENUES: Silver Oaks Chateau (2 miles), Westwind Hills (3 miles), Haue Valley (3 miles) AIRPORTS: St. Louis Lambert International Airport (35 miles), St. Louis Regional Airport (45miles) St Albans (5 miles). REST EASY WITH US -- -- POLICIES -- - No events, parties, or large gatherings - Must be at least 25 years old to book - Photo ID may be required upon check-in
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$59
 / night
85% (187)

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The best camping in Gateway Arch National Park, MO guide

Overview

About

A St. Louis icon since the 1960s, the Gateway Arch was reborn as one of the newest U.S. national parks in 2018. This 630-foot silver monument rises gracefully above the Mississippi River, serving as a focal point in photos of the city skyline. Built to commemorate the Westward Expansion, the Arch is now part of a 91-acre national park, encompassing a museum, the nearby Old St. Louis Courthouse, a riverfront promenade, and walking and biking trails. Take a tram to the top for unforgettable views. While you won’t find camping at the St. Louis Arch, you will find a fascinating experience, with camping and rental accommodations not far away.

Tips for snagging a campsite

  1. You will not find camping at the St. Louis Arch. Public campgrounds nearby include Horseshoe Lake State Park, which does not offer reservations, and Babler State Park, which offers reservations year round.
  2. Reservations for Babler State Park open 12 months in advance and can be made online on the Missouri State Parks website or by phone.
  3. Campgrounds near the Arch have accommodations for both tents and RVs, with a variety of hookups and amenities offered onsite.
  4. A number of private RV parks, glamping rentals, Hipcamp locations, and more are located in St. Louis and in the outlying suburbs, providing a variety of sites for all camping styles.

When to go

Gateway Arch National Park is open year round. You may find park grounds covered with a fresh layer of snow in the winter, colorful blooms in the spring and summer, and vibrant fall leaves in October. March through October is baseball season, with the St. Louis Cardinals playing home games at nearby Busch Stadium, which bring a lot of visitors to the downtown area. Winter camping may be prohibited by freezing weather and precipitation, primarily December through February. Take care if you come after heavy rains, as flooding from the Mississippi River limits access to some roadways and locales.

Know before you go

  • Pets are welcome on park grounds but are not allowed into Gateway Arch Visitor Center or in the Old St. Louis Courthouse.
  • The national park does not offer free onsite parking. Visitors will find a variety of private and public parking lots and garages nearby for a fee, as well as some metered street parking. RVs and other large vehicles should investigate options before going downtown. 
  • The St. Louis MetroLink’s Laclede’s Landing station is a 10-minute walk from the Arch.
  • While the park grounds are accessible for visitors with mobility issues, trips to the top of the Arch are not. Wheelchairs, scooters, and strollers are not allowed. 
  • Tram tickets may be booked in advance online.
  • The top of the Arch is visible from Horseshoe Lake State Park in Granite City, Illinois, a short 10-minute drive away.
85%
187 ratings · 151 reviews