Camping options near Billings, Montana range from established RV parks to secluded tent sites along the Yellowstone River. The area sits at approximately 3,500 feet elevation with summer temperatures reaching the 90s from June through August. Winter camping remains available at several year-round facilities, though seasonal closures affect dispersed camping areas from November through March.
What to do
Hiking trails: Acton Recreation Area provides multiple trail options about 25 miles northwest of Billings. "This is one of my favorite local riding spots. The trails are well used and vary from flat and easy to moderately difficult. Lots of bicyclers on the trails," notes Kathi F. about the Acton Recreation Area.
Fishing access: Voyagers Rest offers direct river access 30 minutes northeast of Billings. "It is right off the river good fishing lots of frogs!" reports Krista H. about the Voyagers Rest fishing access point.
Swimming opportunities: During hot summer days, nearby lakes provide relief from the heat. "Nice little semi secluded section of beach, soft sand and the water temp was great," shares Austin K. about Cooney State Park's swimming areas.
What campers like
Private bathrooms: The Mountain Range RV Park features newly renovated facilities. "The women's bathroom is brand spanking, new, and really cool looking which tells me this park is just gonna continue to grow and upgrade," writes iris N. about the Mountain Range RV Park.
Quiet riverside settings: Many campers appreciate the peaceful waterfront locations. "We pulled in as evening was coming on, and got one of the last of the spread-out, fairly flat sites. Although near the road, we were also near the river (site 29), and could not hear road noise much above the river water's beautiful noise," explains Andrea B. about Itch-Kep-Pe Park.
Wildlife viewing: Several camping areas offer opportunities to spot local animals. "Had two bucks stroll within 30 yards of the tent area," reports Loren W. about his experience at Yellowstone River RV Park & Campground.
What you should know
Reservation requirements: Several campgrounds near Billings fill quickly during peak season. "Reserve the spots ahead on recreation.gov," advises Rita G. about planning trips to Cooney State Park Campground.
Site spacing considerations: Campsites vary significantly in privacy levels. "The sites were way too close together for my liking. There were almost no trees, which meant no privacy from other campers," warns Cullen C. about Cooney State Park Campground.
Road conditions: Access to some campgrounds requires navigating unpaved surfaces. "The road right before getting to the park was washboard like (late Sept. 2024). Can drive quite a ways down but make sure your vehicle has Clearance cause the dirt road gets rough," cautions Darnell C. about access to Acton Recreation Area.
Tips for camping with families
Swimming pools: Billings KOA Holiday offers multiple water activities for kids. "There are lots of activities - from mini-golf to dog park to river access. We took advantage of the amazing showers," shares Art S. about family-friendly amenities at Billings KOA Holiday.
Playground access: Several campgrounds include play areas for children. "This campground does have a boat ramp, a play structure for the kids and a fish cleaning station," notes Ellen L. about facilities at Cooney State Park.
Pet friendly options: Many campgrounds near Billings welcome pets but have specific rules. "Little noise due to its close proximity to I-90. Clean bathrooms with showers. Pool and other fun amenities. Friendly staff...great for just a one night stay," mentions Myrna G. about pet policies at Yellowstone River RV Park & Campground.
Tips from RVers
Electrical hookups: Mountain Range RV Park provides essential services for RVs. "Electric only site is $25, full hookup is $45/$50. Highway noise, but will probably abate at night," advises valerie M.
Length considerations: Some campgrounds have limited big rig access. "We stayed here on our way through in 2019. One night. 37' 5th wheel. Fit with room to spare. Big tree cover. Shaded. Kids loved the pool. Bathrooms are single person and locked/gated. Sites are closer together but roomy," explains Tracy O. about Yellowstone River RV Park & Campground.
Water quality issues: RVers should prepare for local water conditions. "Water was a little hard to get started, but worked," reports Allison W. about water hookups at Mountain Range RV Park.
