Whether you’re exploring the local area or hanging out at the campground, KOA Holidays are an ideal place to relax and play. There’s plenty to do, with amenities and services to make your stay memorable. Plus, you’ll enjoy the outdoor experience with upgraded RV Sites with KOA Patio® and Deluxe Cabins with full baths for camping in comfort. Bring your family, bring your friends, or bring the whole group – there’s plenty of ways to stay and explore.
Whether you’re exploring the local area or hanging out at the campground, KOA Holidays are an ideal place to relax and play. There’s plenty to do, with amenities and services to make your stay memorable. Plus, you’ll enjoy the outdoor experience with upgraded RV Sites with KOA Patio® and Deluxe Cabins with full baths for camping in comfort. Bring your family, bring your friends, or bring the whole group – there’s plenty of ways to stay and explore.
Discover the World’s First KOA: A Journey Through History at Billings, MT
If you’re a camping enthusiast, chances are you’ve stayed at a KOA campground. Since 1962, KOA has been synonymous with the joy of outdoor adventure, offering everything from tent camping under the stars to cozy cabins and spacious RV sites. But did you know the KOA story began right here in Billings, Montana? Montana entrepreneur Dave Drum noticed a growing trend as travelers made their way to the Seattle World’s Fair—many were camping overnight on the side of the road in station wagons and RVs. Seeing an opportunity to create a better experience, Drum established the first KOA campground on the banks of the Yellowstone River, complete with hot showers, laundry facilities, electrical hookups, and a camp store. This innovative solution not only provided a safe and comfortable place for weary travelers but also sparked the beginning of a nationwide camping legacy.
The Historic Beginning of KOA in Billings, MT
It all began in 1962, when Dave Drum, a visionary with a passion for camping and hospitality, opened the first KOA campground in Billings, MT. At the time, the idea of organized campgrounds with convenient amenities like clean restrooms, running water, and safe, accessible sites was revolutionary. Dave’s mission was simple: to create a campground network that made camping more accessible to all types of travelers—families, RV adventurers, and tent campers alike.
Located along major travel routes, Billings became the perfect location for the first KOA campground, offering a peaceful, scenic setting that also catered to travelers passing through the region. The design was practical, providing guests with the comforts they needed while staying in the great outdoors. What started as a small, humble campground quickly gained popularity for its welcoming atmosphere and excellent service, and before long, KOA became a household name.
How Billings Became the Heart of KOA
The first KOA campground in Billings wasn’t just the starting point for KOA’s expansion—it marked the beginning of a new era in the camping experience. As the brand grew, KOA campgrounds began to spread across the United States, offering travelers not just a place to camp, but a destination in itself. The Billings location holds a special place in the hearts of campers because it’s where everything started—the KOA journey from a single campground to a global network of over 500 locations.
But more than just a place to park your RV or pitch a tent, KOA Billings is a tribute to KOA’s roots. Visitors can walk in the footsteps of travelers from over 60 years ago, imagining the early days of the campground and seeing how it has evolved into the modern, welcoming destination it is today.
What Makes KOA Billings So Special?
As the home of the world’s first KOA campground, Billings KOA Holiday is a living testament to the history and heritage of the KOA brand. Staying here is more than just an overnight stop—it’s an opportunity to experience camping in the very place where it all began. The campground itself offers the perfect blend of modern amenities and historical charm, providing a unique perspective on KOA’s journey while offering you a comfortable, relaxing stay.
Here’s what makes Billings KOA Holiday an exceptional destination for campers:
Your KOA Adventure Starts Here
As the world’s first KOA, Billings KOA Holiday is more than just a campground—it’s a piece of camping history. When you stay with us, you’re not just enjoying a relaxing getaway; you’re becoming part of the KOA story, experiencing the very roots of the camping culture that millions of travelers cherish today.
From the moment you set up camp, you’ll feel the connection to the past as you enjoy the same comforts and amenities that early KOA visitors first experienced. Whether you’re here to explore Billings, soak in the history, or simply relax in the heart of Montana’s beautiful outdoor landscapes, KOA Billings offers a special place for memories to be made.
Book Your Stay at Billings KOA Holiday Today
Ready to experience camping where it all began? Whether you’re visiting for a night, a weekend, or longer, Billings KOA Holiday offers an unforgettable experience that combines outdoor adventure with historical charm. We invite you to stay, explore, and become part of the KOA legacy.
Book your stay today and enjoy the rich history, scenic beauty, and top-notch amenities that make Billings KOA Holiday a place worth visiting. Your adventure at the world’s first KOA campground starts right here!
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