Absolutely, St. Louis is not only a fantastic destination in itself but also serves as an excellent starting point for day trips and excursions in the surrounding area. If you’re traveling by RV, you have the flexibility to explore a variety of attractions within a reasonable driving distance. In this article, we’ll highlight some recommended day trips and excursions from St. Louis that are accessible by RV.
- The Gateway Arch National Park:
Distance from St. Louis: Located in downtown St. Louis.
Highlights: The Gateway Arch is an iconic symbol of the city. You can take a tram ride to the top for panoramic views of the Mississippi River and the cityscape. Explore the beautiful park grounds along the riverfront.
RV-Friendly Features: While you can’t park your RV at the Gateway Arch, there are several RV parks and campgrounds in the St. Louis area where you can set up your base camp.
- Katy Trail State Park:
Distance from St. Louis: Approximately 35 miles west of St. Louis in St. Charles, Missouri.
Highlights: The Katy Trail is a 240-mile-long rail trail that spans much of Missouri. It’s perfect for hiking and biking, offering scenic views of the Missouri River and charming small towns along the way.
RV-Friendly Features: You can park your RV in St. Charles and access the trailhead. Consider renting bikes for an enjoyable ride along the trail.
- Cahokia Mounds State Historic Site:
Distance from St. Louis: About 8 miles east of St. Louis in Collinsville, Illinois.
Highlights: Cahokia Mounds is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and the remnants of a prehistoric Native American city. Explore the mounds, visitor center, and museum to learn about this ancient civilization.
RV-Friendly Features: There are RV parks in the St. Louis area where you can stay while visiting Cahokia Mounds.
- St. Charles Historic District:
Distance from St. Louis: Located in St. Charles, Missouri, about 25 miles west of St. Louis.
Highlights: St. Charles is a charming historic town with cobblestone streets, shops, restaurants, and beautiful architecture. Explore the historic district, visit the Lewis and Clark Boat House and Nature Center, and enjoy the scenic riverfront.
RV-Friendly Features: St. Charles has RV parks that offer a convenient base for exploring the town.
- Meramec Caverns:
Distance from St. Louis: Approximately 60 miles southwest of St. Louis in Stanton, Missouri.
Highlights: Meramec Caverns is a vast underground cave system with impressive formations and guided tours. It’s known as the “Cave State” and offers an exciting underground adventure.
RV-Friendly Features: There’s an RV park adjacent to Meramec Caverns where you can park your RV and enjoy the caves.
- Alton, Illinois:
Distance from St. Louis: Located across the Mississippi River, about 25 miles north of St. Louis.
Highlights: Alton is a charming riverfront town known for its historic districts, antiques, and scenic views of the river. Visit the Alton Visitor Center and explore the Great Rivers Museum.
RV-Friendly Features: There are RV parks and campgrounds in the Alton area that cater to RV travelers.
- Shaw Nature Reserve:
Distance from St. Louis: Located in Gray Summit, Missouri, approximately 35 miles southwest of St. Louis.
Highlights: Shaw Nature Reserve is a 2,400-acre oasis of natural beauty. Enjoy hiking through woodlands, prairies, and wetlands. Explore the Whitmire Wildflower Garden and the Pinetum.
RV-Friendly Features: While there’s no RV camping on-site, you can find RV parks in the vicinity for overnight stays.
- Hermann, Missouri:
Distance from St. Louis: About 80 miles west of St. Louis along the Missouri River.
Highlights: Hermann is a picturesque town known for its wineries, German heritage, and historic charm. Explore the wineries, take a historic trolley tour, and visit the Deutschheim State Historic Site.
RV-Friendly Features: Hermann has RV parks where you can park your RV and explore the town and its wineries.
- Missouri Wine Country:
Distance from St. Louis: Various wineries are scattered throughout the state, with many in the vicinity of St. Louis.
Highlights: Missouri has a growing wine industry, and you can enjoy wine tasting at numerous wineries. The Augusta and Hermann wine regions are particularly popular.
RV-Friendly Features: Some wineries offer RV parking or are located near RV-friendly campgrounds.
- Hawn State Park:
- Distance from St. Louis: Located in Ste. Genevieve, Missouri, approximately 75 miles south of St. Louis.
- Highlights: Hawn State Park is known for its rugged natural beauty, including sandstone canyons and clear streams. It offers hiking, picnicking, and camping opportunities.
- RV-Friendly Features: Hawn State Park has a campground where you can park your RV.
Remember to check the specific regulations and requirements for RV parking and camping at these destinations, as they may vary. Additionally, plan your day trips carefully, considering travel time, parking availability, and any admission fees. With your RV as your home on wheels, you have the freedom to explore these exciting day trip destinations while enjoying the comforts of your own space.