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Billings KOA
- 547 Garden Avenue
- Billings, MT 59101
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Welcome Message
2011 President's Award
KOA President's Award
Awarded to KOAs that meet exceptional quality standards and are recognized by their guests for outstanding service.
The World's First KOA invites you to enjoy its historic setting along the scenic Yellowstone River as we celebrate 50 years as America's #1 Camping Host in 2012.
Admire the soothing view from the campground’s spacious landscaped patio sites. Along with handling even the largest RVs, these luxurious sites feature full hookups, cable TV, fire rings, umbrella tables and even porch swings! Head over to Pistol Pete's Outdoor BBQ in summer for a tasty Western meal, then stop by the campground store to browse the Montana crafts. Stay connected to friends and family with free Wi-Fi. Of course, there's plenty of fishing, biking and hiking near the campground. History buffs will want to make the half-hour drive to Pompey's Pillar National Monument, where explorer William Clark carved his initials in 1806, and to the Little Bighorn Battlefield National Monument, an hour's drive southeast.
Meet Your Hosts
The KOA in Billings has been a family operation ever since Marv and Carol Linde purchased it and moved from North Dakota 35 years ago. They decided camping was a lifestyle they enjoyed after completing a long family camping trip that included California, Yellowstone and other KOA Kampgrounds along the way, Carol recalled. Marv's background was in teaching, and she worked as a registered nurse for about 16 years, but he dreamed of owning his own business. The couple's three sons helped during the early years. Their son, David Linde, has managed the campground for more than 25 years. Meanwhile, they've added the West Yellowstone KOA managed by another son, Steve, and the Bozeman campground.
Carol Linde said the family tradition continues, as their oldest grandson is already helping out with mowing and the ice cream socials. "We've enjoyed it," she said. "We enjoy working with the camping people. My husband loves to plan new projects, and our sons are the same way."
The campground is filled with trees, several shrub beds and many flowers brighten the grounds. She said their deluxe patio sites are especially attractive and popular, since they are shady and spacious, featuring colored concrete, swings, a table with umbrella, barbecue grills, Cable TV, 50 amp wiring and benches.
They constantly upgrade the campground, she said, and have redone everything a couple of times over the years to keep it well maintained and attractive knowing they were in it for the long term. Guests enjoy a swimming pool, hot tub and mini-golf, and this year they remodeled the store and poured new tinted concrete huge planters and new concrete table with umbrellas. Both the game room and the laundry are in log cabins, she said, which the campers really like. They also have built a family style bathroom building, with a sink, bench, shower and toilet in one space, which is the size of most family bathrooms, she said.
Campers enjoy the opportunity to have breakfast or join the evening barbecue, which is held all summer long, she said. Their customer service goal is to always stay a step ahead of customer expectations. "We always talk about giving customers more than they expect," she added.
Marv and Carol remain involved on the sidelines, with Marv continuing to help with special projects at all three campground. Carol takes care of stocking the store and does the bookkeeping and payroll, but Dave manages the campground. The couple enjoys traveling, and they've been on trips and cruises, and stay actively involved in their church and they also enjoy their grandchildren. Dave and his wife Lisa have three children, and keep busy with school activities and sports.
Campground Amenities
- Deluxe RV Sites
- Well Stocked Convenience Store
- Kamping Kabins
- Families
- Motorcycle Clubs & Rallies
- Free Wi-Fi by TengoInternet
- Laundry Facilities
- Kamping Kitchen
- Groups
- Catering on-site by Local Caterer
- Unique Made in Montana Gifts
- Fenced Dog Walk
- Dump Station
- RV Clubs & Rallies
- Planned Activities
Campground Activities
Heated Swimming Pool & Hot Tub
What better way to unwind and enjoy a warm summer afternoon than by taking a dip in our heated pool, or a soothing soak in the hot tub. Situated on the bank of the Yellowstone River, our pool is the perfect place to soak up the sun. It wont take you long to understand why Montana is called "Big Sky Country" while spending some time relaxing by our pool.
Ice Cream Social
In the summertime we have a real treat in store for you! When evening rolls around we serve up Wilcoxson's Ice Cream. Locally made right here in Montana with flavors to tempt any sweet tooth, such as Moose Tracks and Chocolate Runs Thru It. And of course you know you're in Montana when you try Huckleberry ice cream the way Wilcoxson's does it. The only thing left is to decide, one scoop or two?
Mini-Golf
Good fun for all ages. Our mini-golf is a classic hit! Fun, and yet challenging for all who play. Our mini-golf appeals to everyone. We offer an 18 hole course with plenty of obstacles. Shaded during the day and lit up at night. We have lots of colored balls to choose from and 4 different size putters to fit most everyone. There is always a good time to be had by enjoying a round of mini-golf during your stay with us!
Fun Cycle Bike Rentals
Here's a great way to have some fun during your stay with us this summer. Our fun cycle bikes are very popular with the kids. We have the classic banana peel bikes that offer the extreme ride kids love. These bikes are set low to the ground on three wheels and are very maneuverable. We have these bikes in two sizes to fit most kids. Our roadster bikes are four wheel rides with adjustable seating so everyone can get in on the fun! Combine these great rides with our campground that offers all paved roads for riding pleasure and fun and there's no stopping this from being a great memory maker for everyone.
Pistol Pete’s Pancake Breakfast & Evening BBQ
Don't exactly feel like cooking for everyone while you're on vacation? No problem. Leave the hassle to us and enjoy a great made to order meal while you relax and enjoy your vacation. Located in the heart of the campground is our charming sidewalk cafe called Pistol Pete's. Serving up hearty breakfasts and delicious dinners in the summer months is our specialty
Great Campground Activities
Game Room Basketball Court Horseshoe Pit Two Playgrounds
Local Attractions
Western Heritage Center
Walk through a period when the untamed Yellowstone River Valley was in her infancy. Places, people and images of the Valley from 1880-1940 showcase this interactive museum in the turn-of-the-century Western Heritage Center building. Open Tuesday thru Saturday 10 a.m .to 5 p.m., Sunday 1 to 5 p.m. and closed Monday. http://www.ywhc.org
Peter Yegen, Jr. Yellowstone County Museum
Vital to the valley’s early growth were the familiar chugging, black-smoke-belching steam engines. The last to operate in Billings overlooks the city it created at the Peter Yegen, Jr. Yellowstone County Museum. Authentic cowboy and Indian artifacts and more are part of this collection. Open Monday thru Friday 10:30 a.m. to 5 p.m., Saturday 10:30 a.m. to 3 p.m. and closed Sunday. www.yellowstonecountymuseum.org
Yellowstone Art Center
This premier museum in a four state region exhibits western and contemporary art from nationally and internationally acclaimed artists. Its Montana Collection showcases Russel Chatham, Deborah Butterfield and more. http://yellowstone.artmuseum.org
Moss Mansion
The railroad brought prosperity to Billings, and prosperity brought Preston B. Moss. In 1901, architect H.J. Hardenbergh (designer of the Waldorf-Astoria and Plaza Hotels in New York City) created the elegant Moss estate. The three story Moss Mansion remains authentically furnished and open year-round. Hours are Monday thru Saturday 10 a.m . to 4 p.m. and Sunday 1 to 4 p.m. (May thru Labor Day). http://www.mossmansion.com
Pictograph Cave State Park
Before the white man, before the Crow Indian, and long before the buffalo, the western Indian hunted the woolly mammoth, and documented the hunt with cave paintings. Over 4,500 years ago, Pictograph Cave State Park was home to these Indians. Paintings are still visible. Open daily 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. (April 15 to October 15). http://www.pictographcave.org
ZooMontana
ZooMontana is a new regional zoological/botanical garden, the only one of its kind in the Northern Rockies. A habitat, more than a zoo. From ZooMontana's conception it was decided that this zoo should be more than a recreational collection of animals and plants. The goals include (1) the construction of a world-class zoological garden with respect to the quality of the habitats and animal management programs, (2) the development of a comprehensive education program, and (3) the development of a sound conservation biology program. The following are ZooMontana points of interest:
MetraPark & Rimrock Auto Arena
MetraPark is the states largest event center offering a year round schedule of concerts, conventions, rodeo, hockey and football in the 10,000 seat arena. Trade shows, agricultural, and equestrian events take place in the Expo Center and the Montana Pavilion. Motor sports and horse racing are held in the Grandstand. MetraPark is home to MontanaFair held annually the second full week of August. http://www.metrapark.com
Little Bighorn Battlefield National Monument
Traveling for days without food or water, galloping on tired horses, and following a controversial commander, the 7th Cavalry collided with an overpowering Sioux and Cheyenne village in the Valley of the Little Bighorn. The infamous Gen. George Custer, over 600 soldiers, Crazy Horse, Chief Gall and over 3,000 warriors clashed 60 miles southeast of present-day Billings. Feel this historic moment at Little Bighorn Battlefield National Monument.
Pompeys Pillar National Historic Landmark
The epic exploration of the wild west was the 1804 - 1806 Lewis and Clark Expedition. Retrace their tracks at Pompeys Pillar, where William Clark carved his name into this sandstone lookout rock, the only remaining physical evidence of the expedition. Steps lead to Summit View Visitor Center.
Beartooth Mountain Pass/Red Lodge
Enjoy the nation’s most beautiful drive, and Montana’s highest peak, on Hwy 212 over the Beartooth Mountain Pass. This scenic pass, beginning just west of Red Lodge, MT, winds its way up to a lookout at almost 11,000 feet high. Red Lodge possesses all the charm and uniqueness one would expect of a small alpine town nestled into the Beartooth Mountains. This historic mining town is full of antique and western stores, boutiques, fine dining, nearby hiking and outdoor recreation.
Chief Plenty Coups Memorial State Park
Indian guides were a significant part of the Lewis and Clark Expedition. A display at the Chief Plenty Coups Memorial State Park offers a museum that acknowledges the Indian contribution to the expedition. The museum, dedicated to the Crow "Chief of all Chiefs," Plenty Coups, honors the magnificent history of these Indians.
Bighorn Canyon National Recreation Area/Yellowtail Dam
Outdoor enthusiasts will be in awe of spectacular Bighorn Canyon National Recreation Area and Yellowtail Dam. The 71 mile-long lake, straddling the Montana-Wyoming border is one of the largest canyons in the U.S. Yellowtail Dam creates one of the largest reservoirs on the Missouri River tributary system. The arch type dam is 525 feet high and is open for tours Memorial Day to Labor Day. http://www.nps.gov/bica/index.htm
Montana Big Splash Water Park
A nice afternoon 'cool down' is waiting at this popular water park. Big Splash has tons of water favorites, including 7 slides and pools along with a kiddie pool. Always available are special activities, seasonal attractions and discounts.
Geyser Park
Home of Xtreme Fun! Geyser Park is your full service Family Fun Center. Offering Go-Karts, Bumper Boats, State of the Art Laser Tag and so much more. www.geyserpark.net
Western Romance Company
Welcome to Western Romance Company. Our goal is to provide authentic western activities and events for everyone. For all individuals, families and company parties, come experience the West at it's Best! From the adventurous Rocky Mountains to the rolling Montana plains, our wagons, horses, equipment, chefs, entertainers, and livestock have provided an arsenal of entertainment and adventure cowboy style. http://www.westernromancecompany.com/
Adventure Whitewater
Adventure Whitewater, Inc. as featured on ESPN, is a rafting company specializing in personal trips. Adventure Whitewater is certainly qualified to provide you with the whitewater adventure that will be the highlight of your Montana vacation. In addition to being featured on ESPN and Outdoor Life Network, our company has been featured in the pages of Canoe & Kayak, Outside and National Geographic Magazines.... Come and see why the critics rave about Adventure Whitewater! All our guides are whitewater specialists, trained in wilderness first aid and swift water rescue. Their great personalities have them in demand each and every season. We are the Whitewater Specialist! We know how to have Fun! http://www.adventurewhitewater.com/
Campground News
Trailer Life recognizes Billings KOA among the Best of the Best!
Trailer Life Directory extended their congratulations to Billings KOA on our achievement as one of the top-rated Parks for 2011. Of the more than 12,000 parks in the network, Billings KOA placed in the top 300 and is recognized as among the Best of the Best!
Trailer Life asserts "Achievement of this honor is a significant accomplishment. It takes a special commitment by the management of a park to consistently maintain high standards in all areas of their operation. Attainment of a high rating in each of the three categories of the Trailer Life Rating System takes ongoing hard work and dedication."
Kids Camp Free!
Implemented in 2010, and now a permanent feature here at the Billings KOA, kids camp free during their families stay with us. This was a huge success for us last year with families. We received a tremendous amount of positive feedback from our guests about making camping more affordable during these tough economic times. So we have decided to make this permanent. From now on, families will not be charged an additional person fee for kids 17 and under during their families stay with us. So book now for your families stay at our amazing campground and enjoy everything Billings has to offer for family fun!
Upcoming Events
Custer's Last Stand Reenactment - June 22, 23 & 24th
Custer's Last Stand Reenactment celebrates the 135th anniversary of the battle. Hold onto your hats! The Seventh Cavalry and Indian warriors will face off once again this summer in the annual Custer's Last Stand Reenactment, six miles west of Hardin, Montana. The Reenactment celebrates the anniversary of the infamous battle between the boy general, George Armstrong Custer, his Seventh Cavalry troops and warriors gathered from nearly a dozen Indian tribes. The anniversary celebration will be a pageant of Montana history, honoring the brave men and women on both sides of the conflict who lived and died during the early days of this state. http://www.custerlaststand.org
Magic City Blues - Montana's Urban Music Festival Aug. 9 - 12
The word is getting out about a music festival in a state that's known more for hunting, fishing and wide-open spaces than four days of world-class music. Our natural Montana hospitality, unique setting and fabulous line-ups have created an atmosphere that most festivals can only dream about. Come eat, drink and dance in the street and celebrate Montana's premier music festival - Magic City Blues. http://www.magiccityblues.com/
Big Sky Polka Festival - Sept. 3-5
The Big Sky Polka Festival will hold its Annual Event on Labor Day Weekend. This is truly the largest dance festival in the entire Rocky Mountain northwest region. This event draws dancing folk from thirty states and Canada. Dance to great music by great polka dance bands. Dances include waltzes, two-steps, polkas, jitterbugs, Schottisches and a little bit of country.
MontanaFair - Aug. 10 - 18
It is the region's largest event. Held at MetraPark in Billings, MontanaFair celebrates for nine days. The Thomas Carnival operates the midway featuring 35 to 40 rides plus games. A shady park for kid's rides accommodates families. Food choices are abundant at the fair featuring the traditional corn dog, BBQ, corn on the cob, 'Vikings On a Stick', fresh lemonade, and beer gardens. There will be concerts in the Rimrock Auto Arena during the opening weekend as well as arenacross and rodeo to end the week. http://www.montanafair.com/
Crow Fair and Rodeo - Aug. 15 - 20
The Annual Crow Fair Celebration it is one of the largest gatherings of the year for the Apsáalooke Nation and is considered the largest modern day American Indian encampment in the Nation. This has been deemed the "Teepee Capital of the World" because of the approximately 1,200 to 1,500 teepees in the encampment during the one week of celebration that the Crow Fair is happening. There are many cultural activities that take place throughout the days of this great celebration. http://www.crow-fair.com/
PBR NILE Invitational Weekend - Aug. 5-7
Eight seconds doesn't sound like much, until you imagine eight seconds strapped to a 2,000-pound bull with an attitude! It's the original 'extreme' sport, and it's coming to Billings in the form of the PBR NILE Invitational in the Metra arena. Forty of the toughest men in the world, elite members of the Professional Bull Riders, Inc. (PBR), take on some of the most ferocious bulls in America. It's man against beast, as the most accomplished bull riders in the world, representing countries like Australia and Brazil, as well as America, meet the nation's meanest bulls in the greatest show on dirt.
Festival of Nations - Aug. 3 - 4
Celebrating over 50 years, the Red Lodge Festival of Nations continues to honor its roots as a coal mining town through the diverse ethnic groups that worked and settled the area. The Festival of Nations celebrates the traditional heritage of German, English-Irish, Finnish, Italian, Scandinavian, Scottish and Slavic cultures, along with a variety of other ethnic groups. You can sample ethnic foods while enjoying a variety of cultural activities and performances. http://redlodgefestivalofnations.com/
Clark Days - July 28 - 29
Annual Clark Days Celebration will be held at Pompeys Pillar National Monument. Enjoy free entry to the Pompeys Pillar National Monument which is located 28 miles east of Billings. Clark Day honors Captain William Clark's stop at Pompeys Pillar during the return trip along the Yellowstone River. He climbed the sandstone rock and signed his name on July 25, 1806. Clark named the rock for Pomp and the Pillar remains the last physical evidence along the Lewis & Clark Trail.
MSU Billings Wine and Food Festival May 14 - 19
The MSU Billings Wine and Food Festival (May 9-14) features domestic wine-masters and premier wines from around the world for tasting and auction. This festival week begins with a Guest Chef Dinner followed by an Iron Chef competition. Throughout the week four cooking schools conducted by local and regional chefs, wine seminars and wine-master seminars with domestic wine-masters are offered and add up to the educational and social experience of the spring. The week's finales are Friday evening wine tasting featuring 100 wines, great food and silent auction and the Saturday evening gala featuring a champagne reception, gourmet dinner, live and silent auctions. The event is sponsored by MSU Billings Foundation. http://www.winefoodfestival.com/
31st Annual Montana Women's Run May 12
The Montana Women's Run is held annually on the Saturday before Mother's Day in celebration of the mutual pursuit of health and fitness. This is one of Montana's premier events for women and draws a crowd of almost 8,000 participants every spring. Most of the participants are walkers who come to enjoy the companionship and festive atmosphere of the occasion, but the event draws joggers and competitive runners as well. http://www.womensrun.org/
Heart & Sole Run June 16
Join the fun and walk or run in the Annual Heart & Sole! (June 11) This family event, sponsored by Wells Fargo Bank and St. Vincent Health Care is designed for everyone - casual walkers, serious runners and children. The Run includes a 10K, 5K, and 2 Mile Health walk with medals awarded to the first 3 finishers in 17 age divisions. Dynamite Dash is free for all kids 6 and younger! Free snacks and beverages for participants and their families! http://www.heartandsolerace.org/
Artwalk
Galleries host Artwalk Downtown Billings which is held on May 6 from 5-9 pm. Local and regional artists will be on hand to show new works. Refreshments are served. Maps are available at the galleries. www.artwalkbillings.com
Festival of Cultures - June 6
The Festival of Cultures is a celebration of cultural diversity, attracting more than 7,000 guests. Drawing participants from the region and from neighboring states, this event is free to all. Families, friends, neighbors and colleagues meet and enjoy all the ethnic flavor that it is possible to absorb in a single day.
Home of Champions Rodeo and Parade - July 2-4
The Home of Champions Rodeo is part of the Professional Rodeo Cowboys Association circuit and brings nearly all the national champions to Red Lodge every year. This year's Home of Champions Rodeo promises to be one of the biggest and best ever. Beginning each day at noon is a parade that promises great entertainment for all ages. http://www.redlodge.com/rodeo/
Summerfair - An Arts & Crafts Fair - July 14 - 15
Yellowstone Art Museum's Summerfair will be held at Veteran's Park. This is the largest juried arts and crafts festival in the region. More than 100 artisans' booths are featured on the green as well as a large children's area with hands-on activities and entertainment each day. http://artmuseum.org/index.php/special-events/summerfair
PBR NILE Invitational Weekend - May 4 - 6
Eight seconds doesn't sound like much, until you imagine eight seconds strapped to a 2,000-pound bull with an attitude! It's the original 'extreme' sport, and it's coming to Billings in the form of the PBR NILE Invitational in the Metra arena. Forty of the toughest men in the world, elite members of the Professional Bull Riders, Inc. (PBR), take on some of the most ferocious bulls in America. It's man against beast, as the most accomplished bull riders in the world, representing countries like Australia and Brazil, as well as America, meet the nation's meanest bulls in the greatest show on dirt. http://thenile.org/pbr/
