When the sun dips below the horizon, those same wide-open skies come alive with billions of stars, turning the landscape into a natural invitation to slow down and stay awhile. Whether your idea of adventure means pitching a tent, parking an RV or settling into a more elevated take on camping, Billings offers countless ways to spend the night immersed in nature. Here, the memories don’t end at sunset. They deepen beneath a canopy of stars, setting the stage for unforgettable outdoor experiences in and around the city.
Yellowstone River Campground
The Yellowstone River RV Park and Campground is a privately owned park that promises a quiet, serene experience for campers, and is just a short drive away from many of Billings’ top attractions, like Pictograph Cave State Park, Pompeys Pillar, ZooMontana and, of course, downtown Billings. In addition to landscaped, shaded RV sites and grassy tent sites, pine log cabins also are available for rental. A natural trail provides access to the majestic Yellowstone River, and the campground is just down the highway from entrances to Yellowstone National Park. Among the other amenities available to campers are a swimming pool, playground and horseshoe pits and, if you feel like pampering yourself a bit, check out the on-site spa and hot tub.
The World’s First KOA
Kampgrounds of America (KOA) have been a mainstay in the American camping experience since 1962, and the very first KOA site is in Billings along the banks of the Yellowstone River. The campground offers spacious, landscaped patio RV sites, tent sites as well as rental cabins in addition to a general store and hot tub/sauna. Of course, there’s plenty of fishing, biking and hiking near the campground, and treasured landmarks like Pompeys Pillar, Little Bighorn Battlefield National Monument and Beartooth Scenic Highway are just a short drive away.
Makoshika State Park
About three hours east of Billings, explore the badlands of Makoshika State Park, Montana’s largest state park and home to the pine and juniper-studded badland formations and fossil remains of such dinosaurs as Tyrannosaurus Rex and Triceratops. Spend the night at one of the 28 campsites and enjoy activities like archery, scenic drives, hiking or a show at the outdoor amphitheater.
Custer Gallatin National Forest – Beartooth Ranger District
Nestled at the foot of the Beartooth and Absaroka mountain ranges, the Beartooth Ranger District of the Custer Gallatin National Forest provides access to bucket-list trails for hikers and backpackers. The Beartooth district is known for its rugged mountains and sub-alpine tundra plateaus. The highest 41 peaks in Montana are located in the Beartooth Ranger District, including Granite Peak, which is the highest and stands at 12,799 feet. The district is home to more than 15 campgrounds offering more primitive and walk-in campsites, as well as sites that can accommodate RVs and trailers of various sizes.
RV Rentals
Interested in an RV camping experience in Billings, but don’t have the RV? Rentals are available through Billings RV Rental by Cruise America. Choose from a range of motorhomes designed for comfort and flexibility, whether you’re planning a quick weekend getaway or a longer road trip through Billings and beyond. Rentals typically come equipped with sleeping areas, a small kitchen, bathroom facilities and storage for gear, so you can travel with everything you need in one place.
