Cabin camping near Billings, Montana offers visitors riverside options with views of the Yellowstone River. Located in south-central Montana at an elevation of 3,123 feet, Billings experiences hot summers with temperatures often exceeding 90°F and cold winters with snowfall. Cabins provide shelter from the region's frequent weather changes, with temperatures capable of dropping 40 degrees in a single day.
What to do
Hiking trails: Follow a trail by the Yellowstone River at Billings KOA Holiday. "We followed a trail by the river and it led around a pond, it was short but away from everything," notes one visitor who found solitude despite staying at a busy campground.
Visit Pictograph State Park: Located minutes from Yellowstone River RV Park & Campground, this archaeological site features ancient rock paintings. A camper highlighted, "It is worth mentioning that just a few miles away is Pictograph State Park- and that was pretty cool, and a beautiful walk after a day of driving!"
Explore Beartooth Highway: Drive one of America's most scenic routes from Red Lodge. A visitor mentioned, "This campground is beautiful! Mountains all around! Great place to stay to take in the beartooth Highway, most beautiful drive in the country I've seen!"
What campers like
River access: Many cabin sites provide direct access to the Yellowstone River. At Riverside City Park, one camper appreciated that "The park is a good size with water and electricity, not sure of dumping. Showers and a boat ramp into the Yellowstone River."
Swimming pools: Beat the summer heat with pool access at select campgrounds. A visitor to Red Lodge KOA commented on the "heated pool, immaculate facilities, and awesome trail off the campground."
Pet-friendly options: Most cabin rentals accommodate pets with specific policies. "The new owners are the most hospitable, friendly and helpful people we've met. The ample renovations are clearly visible," stated a Red Lodge KOA guest who also noted their "awesome" dog parks.
What you should know
Bathroom access: Basic cabins typically use shared facilities. At Yellowstone River RV Park, "Bathrooms and showers were secure and clean. No firewood for sale. Had to buy from KOA next door."
Seasonal considerations: While some campgrounds operate year-round, others have limited seasons. Hardin KOA is open from "Apr 1 to Oct 17," making it unavailable during winter months.
Proximity to Little Bighorn: Historical sites are within driving distance of cabin accommodations. "It was perfect to visit Little Big Horn, only 15 minutes away," reported one Hardin KOA visitor.
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Look for cabins near activity areas. "Safe and clean sites with lots of fun things for the kids! Pool is great with showers close by. Super fun campground to explore!" mentioned a Red Lodge KOA visitor.
Kid-friendly activities: Some sites offer mini-golf and other recreational options. A Billings KOA guest noted the campground had "lots of activities - from mini-golf to dog park to river access."
Room for groups: Cottonwood Camp in Fort Smith provides cabins with space for family gatherings. "The place offers cabins, restrooms with showers and there is even a fly shop for those of you wanting to fly fish the renowned Bighorn river."
Tips from RVers
Site spacing: Cabin rentals vary in privacy levels. At Hardin KOA, one visitor observed, "We got a spot under a tree for our RV at our request. We shared hook ups with the site next to us which kept neighbors close."
Bring mosquito protection: Insects can be prevalent in riverside locations. "Adjacent to alfalfa fields, bring mosquito bug spray," warned one Hardin KOA visitor who otherwise enjoyed the "clean, well maintained" facilities.
Check dump station placement: Some sites have challenging utility placements. "My only issue was the dump hook up at our FHU site. It was about 1ft above ground level and almost made it impossible to dump with an accordion hose," noted a camper at Hardin KOA.
