The Best Camping Spots In and Around Billings, MT
It’s no secret that Montana is known for its beautiful mountain ranges and plentiful outdoor adventure. From fishing, hiking, horseback riding and even offroading, you’re never lacking anything to do while venturing in Montana.
With plenty to see and so much to do throughout the state, camping is a huge hit with locals and visitors alike and it makes for such a unique experience whether you’re solo, with your spouse, a group of friends or the entire family.
As the spring and summer seasons start to slowly make their way into Montana, I’ve been reminiscing and dreaming up another camping trip like this to soak in the beauty that Billings and our surrounding area has to offer.
To help you do the same, I’ve rounded up some of the best campgrounds near Billings, Montana, as well as a few spots that are worth the drive.
And if glamping is more your thing, I’ve got you covered too - there are some of the CUTEST and unique places located nearby that are 100% Instagram-worthy!
As you’re making your summer vacation plans, I encourage you to consider a camping trip to enjoy with the ones you love most!
Best Campgrounds near Billings, MT
If you want to keep it local and have a staycation of sorts, there are truly some amazing places right in our own Billings backyard!
If you’re an avid traveler or roadtripper, you’ve probably seen the popular yellow signs that designate a KOA campground.
If you’re unfamiliar, KOA is an American franchise of privately owned campgrounds with over 500 locations across the United States and Canada. The first ever KOA campground was founded in 1962 right here in Billings, MT!
This campground is perfectly designed with a mix of relaxation and play for the whole family while soaking in the great outdoors.
At Billings KOA, you can choose from full service RV sites, on-site cabin rentals and tent sites, all with access to amenities such as a swimming pool and hot tub, playground, mini golf, restrooms and showers, coffee truck, ice cream shop and a conveniently located store and gift shop.
It’s a true family fun camping experience where you can fish, hike, bike and enjoy the nearby scenery that Billings has to offer.
If you’re looking for RV park in Billings, Yellowstone River RV Park is a popular locally owned choice and is located along the main interstate in Billings, making for the perfect location close to the MetraPark, Riverfront Park, Dehler Baseball Park, downtown dining and other hot spots in the local Billings communities.
In addition to being centrally located to the fun activities and events in the area, the campground also offers easy access to the Yellowstone River, which is one of the biggest attractions in Billings.
At Yellowstone River RV Park, you can choose from pull through and back in RV sites, tent camping and cabin rentals, while having full access to an on-site nature trail, swimming pool and hot tub, arcade and game room, playground, pet recreation areas, basketball court and a general store for any last minute necessities.
Each of these options pair well with our Weekend Guide to Billings for the Outdoorsman!
Best Worth the Drive Camping Within 2 Hours of Billings, MT
Bighorn Canyon National Recreation Area
The Bighorn Canyon National Recreation Area is located about 2 hours from Billings right on the edge of Montana and Wyoming.
The park offers some of the most stunning scenery in Montana and features a large canyon that's perfect for hiking and exploring, as well as a lake that's great for boating and fishing.
The park has several campgrounds for you to choose from, so whether you’re keeping it casual with tent camping or pulling an RV, there’s a place for you!
Some of the most popular camping spots in this area include:
For other camping options or to learn more about the Bighorn area, you can click here!
Red Lodge, Montana
Red Lodge, Montana is located about an hour and a half southwest of Billings offering a scenic mountain drive with beautiful views all around.
Red Lodge is well known for its popular ski resort and historic downtown area, but is also a great destination for outdoor recreation as it serves as the starting point for the Beartooth Highway and the Beartooth Mountains.
Perry’s RV Park and Tent Campground is a popular camping spot in Red Lodge and is located right on the Beartooth Highway. With tent and RV sites available and cabins available for rent, you can easily explore and enjoy the surrounding area!
Paradise Valley, Montana
Paradise Valley is a major river valley of the Yellowstone River in Southwestern Montana just north of Yellowstone National Park in Park County.
Located just over 2 hours from Billings, you can soak in stunning wilderness views as you make the drive and when you arrive, you can enjoy a restful and relaxing stay at one of the popular camping spots at Pine Creek Campground.
Unique Glamping Near Billings, MT
Where are my glampers at?! If you’re into the unique glamping experiences that seem to be popping up all over the place, you’re going to LOVE these options near Billings.
Located near the North Entrance of Yellowstone National Park and just 20 minutes from the charming town of Livingston, the Under Canvas glamping experience has breathtaking views that you can enjoy in the comfort of an upscale canvas tent.
Each glamping spot offers bathrooms, king beds with luxury linens, hot running water, wood-burning stoves and more.
The Paradise Valley area attracts so many visitors year round for the gorgeous views and ability to get outside and experience the adventure that Montana has to offer, including on-site fly fishing and river floats!
If you want to make your glamping experience extra unique, you can opt for a covered wagon rental at Chico Hot Springs!
Chico Hot Springs is located near Pray, Montana, just outside of Paradise Valley and has become a true vacation destination for families. With so many fun amenities and unique accommodation options, you can plan a trip that will be well worth the memories!
If you choose the covered wagon option, your “room” can accommodate up to 4 people with 1 king bed and twin bunks. The wagons are equipped with air conditioning, heat, and electricity under the cover of a canvas roof with the bath facility just a few steps away!
Onsite, you’ll have access to the outdoor lounge with a gas burning firepit and outdoor chairs so you can easily take in the beautiful views! During your stay, you’ll also be able to visit the Historic Main Lodge, dining room, hot springs pools, Chico Saloon, and the Poolside Grille.
When it comes to the word “camping,” I know that everyone has their own version of what that looks like, but I hope you can see how Billings and the surrounding areas have a little something for everyone.
No matter which option you choose, you’re sure to enjoy the outdoor scenery and the beautiful views that Montana is known for! 🏕️
P.S. Looking for more outdoor adventure in Billings, MT? Click here to explore the curated weekend itinerary for the avid outdoorsman or here for the ultimate girls getaway glamping guide!