The best camping near Gateway Arch National Park

Discover the most magical spots to pitch your tent or park your rig on your next Gateway Arch National Park adventure.

This urban national park offers an utterly unique experience.  

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Community favorites near Gateway Arch National Park

Top-rated campgrounds reviewed by the Hipcamp community.

Top-rated campgrounds near Gateway Arch National Park

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Hummingbird Hollow Outdoors

30 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents27 acres · Saint Clair, MO
Hummingbird Hollow Outdoors is a not for profit Farm Animal Sanctuary. You will be able to camp with the horses, goats, potbellied pigs and more. We open up our farm so that people can enjoy the outdoors, animals and nature, and the animals can enjoy people! We are a sanctuary for all creatures on earth, including humans. "Today, whatever is good for your soul, do that."
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$25
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Hawks Bluff Campground

56 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents460 acres · 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!
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Grove On Top Possum Hill

4 sites · Tents4 acres · Worden, IL
The Legend of Possum Hill is an old one. Most likely named thus even before the settlers arived in St. Louis. Before the great expansion west and before the Gateway Arch graced the sky. Wild was the west and animals roamed at will never having seen a man. The acient Indian tribe of Cahokia once had its own travelers who left their mounded cities of pyramids to explore and hunt for new adventure. It was on one of these travels a great storm arose from the spring sky bringing ice down from the heavens. The Indian party was hard pressed to find shelter from such turbulent winds, rain and it was even claimed they witnessed some snow blended in as well well! This particular spring the waters had risen quite high . With this latest storm the creeks and rivers were rushing over their banks. The Indians knew they had to find high ground. They knew they would only be safe in a shelter high enough the raging waters could not breach. Just when they were giving up hope for a suitable place they passed through a low lands grove treading through ankle deep waters when the land started to rise. And rise it did! Up they went up a steep climb and as they crested they found a large grove of hickories, Sycamore and Oak trees. The Indians prized such trees for their strong hard wood and towering hight. They found safety within them and upon chance several hollows in the ancient trees and quickly sheltered themselves in pairs. They weathered until the suns golden rays stretched accross the small pond. In one hollow a young Indian stirred and and he and his companion left their shelter. Reaching back into the tree they grabbed their packs and found hidden behind them, a family of possums who also hIad hid from the storm. Upon return to Cahokia the young Indian told of their travels and remembering the sheltering family of marsupials, he named the place in their honnor because they shared their shelter. And that is the Legend of Possum Hill.Learn more about this land:4 acres with scattered hickory and oak trees with a small fruit orchard in front of an acre size pond. Plenty of space to have a private camp site and enjoy the sounds of nature. Have a sit by the pond or relax in the shade. The evening could be spent grilling or sitting around the fire ring. Perfect for travelers just wishing for a place to stay while an event is in town or just a place to rest their head on the way through. 16 mies from SIUE and Edwardsvile 45 minutes from most of St. Louis. Far enough out in the country but close enough to the city to not miss out on the fun.
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$15
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Swim/BBQ/Camp Such and Such Farm

5 sites · RVs, Tents120 acres · De Soto, MO
Learn more about this land: Camp at our beautiful private swimming hole in the middle of a creek. It's fed by a 300,000 gallon/day fresh water spring that runs along the length of the campsite with a community picnic table, two Webber grills, and a huge fire pit. Bring your fishing poles and water shoes! There are fire ring's at each site but be sure to bring your own camp chairs.
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$30
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Happy Trails Farm Resort

6 sites · RVs, Tents20 acres · 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
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Earth, Wind & Solar Farm

4 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents5 acres · 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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Urban Surprise

1 site · RV1 acre · St. Louis, MO
Located just minutes from downtown St. Louis, Urban Surprise is in a secure parking area with 30 amp, water, and sewer. Close to many popular spots including Busch Stadium, Arch, Forrest Park, St Louis City SC and Convention Center. 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 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 and please clean up after your 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. 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
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$40
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(49)

Emerald Acres Farm

3 sites · RVs, Tents10 acres · Worden, IL
Welcome to Emerald Acres, our hobby farm with 2 llamas, Nigerian dwarf goats, 1 pot bellied pig, and a few chickens, cats, and Stella, the livestock guardian dog! Our beautiful peaceful property is just 20 minutes from SIUE. It is a wonderful countryside property with forest and pastureland.
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$20
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Shalom Acres LLC

15 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents10 acres · Winfield, MO
Teresa built Shalom Acres 7 years ago with a dream opening a Party Venue which now seats 100 guests in the Carriage House and 80 guests on the lower level.  Each year brings new upgrades now including BnB, Bunkhouse and campsites.  Her hope is you enter feeling the peace and tranquility Shalom means and leave refreshed and blessed!  Welcome.  
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$35
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The field

4 sites · RVs6 acres · House Springs, MO
Learn more about this land: Name says it all I have a few acres bordering a creek. I keep the field maintained I have a few acres up the hill with some trails you could hike, fairly rough and steep. I did just add electric just need to add a few more hook ups
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St Louis Co private wildwood farm.

3 sites · RVs, Tents8 acres · Wildwood, MO
8 mostly cleared acres 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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$55
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Hidden Waters At Buttercup Ranch

3 sites · Tents30 acres · Millstadt, IL
Camp on our farm! Canoeing, fishing, and farm tour are available while you relax in the great outdoors. Lush greenery, beautiful lakes, and friendly animals will surround you. Secluded primitive campsites also have firepits (wood included) for cooking. Shared flushable porta -potty for your convenience.
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The best camping near Gateway Arch National Park 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.

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