Glamping options near Laurel, Montana include tent platforms and cabins situated along the Yellowstone River. The area sits at approximately 3,300 feet elevation with summer temperatures averaging 85°F during peak season. Most glamping sites operate from May through October with limited winter availability at specific locations.
What to do
River activities: Access the Yellowstone River for fishing and boating at Riverside City Park in Laurel. "The park is a good size with water and electricity, not sure of dumping. Showers and a boat ramp into the Yellowstone River," notes Jesse R.
Wildlife viewing: Observe native deer at Yellowstone River RV Park & Campground. A camper mentioned, "Had two bucks stroll within 30 yards of the tent area" during their stay.
Scenic drives: Use Perry's RV and Campgrounds as a base for mountain exploration. "Our recommendations for the area are to spend one day driving Beartooth Scenic Byway and then crossover Chief Joseph Scenic Byway. Stop at the lookouts!" advises Kim B.
Rock climbing: Find sandstone climbing opportunities on the rims surrounding Billings. Local climbs range from beginner to intermediate difficulty with most routes under 80 feet.
What campers like
River access: The Billings KOA Holiday features a peaceful river setting. Eric P. reports, "A nice hike down to the river provided a great view. This park is very clean."
Fishing spots: At Castle Rock, anglers appreciate the dedicated fishing platform. "There's a really cool, elevated cement lookout area next to the river to set up your chairs and fish," notes Kathi F.
Clean facilities: Many glamping locations near Laurel maintain high cleanliness standards. At Perry's RV and Campgrounds, one visitor stated, "The bathroom and shower facility is perfect and everything on the site is always well maintained."
Proximity to town: Convenience to urban amenities while glamping close to Laurel, Montana ranks high with visitors. "Great spot close to town with water and electricity, plenty of commonplace and picnic areas and only about 3 minutes to the grocery store," mentions Jesse R. about Riverside City Park.
What you should know
Seasonal operation: Most luxury tent camping sites close during winter months. "Perry's RV and Campgrounds in Red Lodge provides a seasonal glamping option from May through October," with limited winter alternatives available.
Mosquito preparation: The creek areas can have significant insect activity. "The mosquitoes in the area can carry you away so prepare your campsite for that," warns Kim B. about her experience at Perry's campground.
Variable site spacing: Billings Village RV Park and other locations have different site configurations. "Sites are tightly-spaced without so much as a place for more than one camper to park while checking in," notes Sarah about the Billings Village layout.
Limited cell service: Some glamping areas have connectivity gaps. One visitor at Castle Rock mentioned, "There are snakes by the river (lots of rocks) and no cell service for MILES in any direction."
Tips for camping with families
Swimming options: Look for natural swimming areas for kids. At Castle Rock, "Across the river is a rock ledge swimmers use to dive off of into a deep pool," according to Kathi F.
Recreation amenities: Billings KOA Holiday offers extensive family facilities. "There are lots of activities - from mini-golf to dog park to river access," notes Art S., making it suitable for families needing entertainment options.
Cabin alternatives: Consider cabins during rainy weather when glamping near Laurel. Alexandra M. shares about Perry's: "The host was super accommodating. It was raining and she recommended the 'cabin' so we were sheltered."
Playground access: Several glamping sites feature child-friendly spaces. The Billings KOA combines "luxury accommodations with family-friendly amenities including a playground with turf ground covering rather than gravel."
Tips from RVers
Electrical connections: Check hookup placement before setting up. At Billings Village RV Park, Kimberly L. noted, "Only hiccup was how low to the ground the electric was - we had to bend the cord to connect."
Pull-through availability: Yellowstone River RV Park offers spacious sites. "We are in site #PT2 at $20 per night," shares Phillip R. about the long pull-through sites at Riverside City Park.
Awning clearance: Request sites with adequate space for extensions. "They put us in a site that was narrow and had a nearby tree so we could not put our awning out," warns Phillip R. about his experience at Yellowstone River RV Park.
Early reservations: Book premium glamping sites months in advance for summer stays. Most luxury tent platforms at Billings KOA Holiday fill by April for July and August bookings.
