Searching for a camping spot close to Ellisville? You’ll find a variety of camping options close to home. Campgrounds near Ellisville span a range of levels, so whether your family is interested in basic camping or experiences with more amenities, you’ll find the ideal campground without traveling far. You can easily plan a trip that lets you visit other fun attractions while camping or just enjoy the natural world that surrounds you.
Crème de la Crème of Ellisville put together this list of some of the best campgrounds in our area for a variety of needs. Get inspired for your next adventure with these amazing camping spots.
Cuivre River State Park
“orange camping tent near green trees” used with permission via Unsplash by scottagoodwill
As one of the largest, most rugged parks in the state, Cuivre River State Park offers the perfect getaway for Ellisville-area families looking for an escape into nature. This park has a wilder feel than the typical agricultural landscape you’ll find throughout northern Missouri. Your kiddos will love spending time outdoors in this park? — it’s truly a paradise for nature lovers.
If you visit in the spring, you’ll get to treat your family to the flowering dogwoods. Fall trips translate to vibrant trees showing off their autumn hues. All in all, you can’t go wrong with a visit to this state park no matter when you plan a camping trip. Cuivre River State Park is ideal for a short visit or for a camping adventure that spans a few days. You’ll find both primitive and modern campsites here as well, so you can easily tailor the experience to meet your family’s needs.
Reservable basic, electric, and sewer/electric/water campsites are all available. The park also offers three organized group camps, a special-use camping area, and an equestrian campground. The family campsites are perfect if you need some extra space, while the platform tent site makes for a unique adventure.
You’ll have plenty to do during the days here, too. Lake Lincoln offers opportunities for boating, fishing, and swimming. You can go for hikes through the wild and natural areas in the park, taking gorgeous pictures or observing the wildlife. There’s something for everyone at Cuivre River State Park.
Dr. Edmund A. Babler Memorial State Park
Located just a short distance from St. Louis, Dr. Edmund A. Babler Memorial State Park in Wildwood makes camping fun and accessible for Missouri families. In fact, generations have passed through the massive stone gateway of the park to enjoy cookouts, gatherings, and camping. In addition to camping facilities, the park boasts Civilian Conservation Corps architecture, opportunities for hiking and biking, and even some equestrian trails.
The park features both electric and basic campsites, making it easier than ever to plan a fun camping trip close to home. You’ll find an organized group camp and special-use camping areas at Dr. Edmund A. Babler Memorial State Park as well.
The Jacob L. Babler Outdoor Education Center is one unique feature this park offers. This area was designed to create access to enjoying the outdoors in a barrier-free setting. Operated by the Rockwood School District, the center is open throughout the year and provides facilities for an afternoon, a day trip, or longer visits.
The unique facility was built for accessibility to people with disabilities, and it includes a dining hall, recreation center, conference and meeting rooms, and heated cabins with fireplaces. The building has extra-wide doorways and grab bars and benches in the bathrooms. Outdoors, you’ll find a swimming pool with a ramp, an accessible trail, and more. The center was designed for organized groups as well as families with children with disabilities, though other groups are considered as space allows. If you’re looking for an accessible camping experience, you’ll want to have this place on your list.
Meramec State Park
If tree-shaded campgrounds and cabins sound like the ideal escape, look to yet another Missouri state park located close to Ellisville: Meramec State Park. You’ll get to watch the Meramec River flow past breathtaking bluffs and serene wooded areas, not to mention a dramatic cave entrance.
With more than 13 miles of hiking trails, this park provides the perfect experience if your family enjoys hiking. You can also boat, fish, raft, or swim in the river. Don’t forget to check out the exhibits in the visitor center interpreting the park’s natural and cultural features. Of course, you’re sure to delight the kids with a tour of Fisher Cave, complete with handheld lights.
Meramec State Park offers a modern campground, cabins, and a motel to make it easy to find the right accommodations for your family. Campsite options include basic, electric, electric/water and sewer/electric/water sites. You can also make use of the group tent area here. Forgot something essential? Just stop by the park store, which carries a range of necessities for your camping trip.
St. Louis West / Historic Route 66 KOA
Picturesque camping comes together with easy access to top St. Louis attractions at St. Louis West / Historic Route 66 KOA. Conveniently situated just a mile from Six Flags, this camping site makes planning your next family trip a breeze. The best part? Kids camp for free here!
The site includes pull-through RV sites, deluxe cabins, patio RV sites, and premium tent sites. You’ll find plenty of amenities ideal for kids, too, including a gem mining station and heated seasonal pool.
After a busy day enjoying the rides at Six Flags St. Louis or touring attractions like the Gateway Arch or Saint Louis Zoo, settle in with a campfire under a starlit sky. The setting delivers with tons of trees, a babbling creek, and fireflies to set the scene. It’s located on Historic Route 66 and less than a mile away from I-44, so it’s easy to fit camping at St. Louis West KOA into your plans.That concludes Crème de la Crème of Ellisville’s list of great camping spots close to Ellisville. Does your family have a favorite kid-friendly campground other locals shouldn’t miss? If we didn’t include your go-to spot here, drop us a line so we can add it!