The best camping near Dr. Edmund A. Babler Memorial State Park

Just outside of St. Louis, Babler Memorial State Park provides a home base for exploring the city—or a respite from its urban landscapes. With towering trees and rolling hills, it is one of the oldest Missouri state parks and features structures constructed by the Civilian Conservation Corps. Today’s visitors come to explore the interpretive center, old-growth forests, and 13 miles of trail. Hiking, biking, and horseback riding are popular activities. RVers and tent campers will find 75 campsites, mostly nestled under a canopy of trees. Both basic and electric sites available.

• For weekends and holidays, advanced reservations are recommended, especially in peak seasons
• Reservations can be made up to 12 months in advance on the Missouri State Park website or phone line.
• Walk-up reservations are accepted on non-book reservable campsites.
• The restrooms and a shower house are available April 1 through October 31. 
• During the off-season of November through March, potable water is available at a single frost-free spigot.

Peak seasons for Missouri camping include late spring, early summer, and early fall. As spring temperatures warm in May, the trees will fill with leaves and the fields fill with wildflowers. Through summer, expect temperatures to peak in the high 80s or 90s though July and August. As the temperatures cool in the fall, the forest erupts in color. Campgrounds are generally emptier in winter, as occasional snows and ice and freezing temperatures make it less amenable for camping.

• The park’s gate locks at a designated time, depending on the season. Campers do not have access when the gate is locked.
• Cell signals may be limited, depending on your carrier.
• Those with big rigs should be aware of the possibility of rough roads and tight turns.
• Campers using the park as a base for visiting St. Louis will generally find a 40-minute drive to downtown; however, during rush hour, the drive may take significantly longer.