Best Camping Near Columbus, MT

Discover the Best KOA Campgrounds in Columbus, MT for an Unforgettable Outdoor Adventure

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Nearby Campgrounds

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Nearby Camp Sites

4.6

Average Camper Rating

Best places to camp near Columbus, Montana

7 Campgrounds Within 100 Miles

Things to do near
Columbus, Montana

  • Yellowstone River - Flowing through Columbus, MT, the Yellowstone River offers excellent opportunities for fishing, kayaking, and scenic riverfront picnics.

  • Absaroka-Beartooth Wilderness - About 30 miles south of Columbus, this vast wilderness area provides stunning hiking trails, camping spots, and breathtaking mountain views.

  • Stillwater River - Located near Absarokee (approximately 20 miles from Columbus), the Stillwater River is perfect for fly-fishing and rafting adventures.

  • Pictograph Cave State Park - Situated around 60 miles east in Billings, this park features ancient rock paintings and offers hiking trails with interpretive signs about the area's history.

  • Red Lodge Mountain Resort - Approximately 50 miles southwest of Columbus in Red Lodge. This resort is a popular destination for skiing in winter and mountain biking or hiking during summer months.

  • Pompeys Pillar National Monument - Located about 70 miles east of Columbus near Billings. This historical site features a sandstone pillar with inscriptions by William Clark from the Lewis and Clark Expedition.

  • Chief Plenty Coups State Park - Around 65 miles southeast of Columbus near Pryor. The park honors Chief Plenty Coups of the Crow Nation and includes his home along with beautiful walking trails.

Ways to camp near Columbus, Montana

RV Camping
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RV Camping

RV camping at KOA campgrounds offers clean, level sites with full hookups, laundry facilities, and pet-friendly amenities. Enjoy the comforts of home while exploring over 500 locations across the U.S. and Canada.

Cabin Camping
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Cabin Camping

Cabin camping at KOA offers a cozy outdoor experience with options like rustic Camping Cabins and fully-equipped Deluxe Cabins. Enjoy nature with amenities such as beds, electricity, and private bathrooms.

Tent Camping
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Tent Camping

Tent camping offers a blend of traditional camping with modern amenities. Enjoy level sites, hot showers, clean restrooms, and options like electric hookups and patios for a comfortable outdoor experience.

Extended Stays Camping
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Extended Stay

KOA campgrounds offer extended stay options that allow extended stay campers to enjoy amenities like upgraded Wi-Fi and on-site dining, whether you’re a snowbird, or just want to enjoy the outdoors longer.

Frequently Asked Questions

The Western Heritage Center offers exhibits and programs that highlight the history and culture of the Yellowstone River Valley region.

Natural Bridge State Park features hiking trails, picnic areas, and stunning views of a natural limestone arch over the Boulder River.

Chief Plenty Coups Memorial State Park honors the life of Chief Plenty Coups, a Crow leader. Visitors can learn about his legacy through exhibits and guided tours.

The Beartooth Scenic Highway is renowned for its breathtaking mountain views, winding roads, and access to outdoor recreational activities like hiking and fishing.

You can explore various local shops offering unique crafts and enjoy dining experiences featuring regional cuisine in downtown Columbus.

The Billings Brew Trail is Montana's only walkable brewery trail where you can sample craft beers from several local breweries along a scenic route.

The Yellowstone Art Museum showcases contemporary art with rotating exhibitions that provide insight into regional artists' work as well as national collections.

Plan a trip to Columbus, Montana

Planning a camping trip to Columbus, MT is an adventure waiting to happen! Nestled in the heart of Montana, this charming town offers a perfect blend of natural beauty and outdoor activities. With several KOA campgrounds nearby, including Big Timber / Greycliff KOA Journey, Billings KOA Holiday, and Red Lodge KOA Journey, you’ll have plenty of options for a comfortable stay.

Best Time to Visit

Columbus is a year-round destination with each season offering unique experiences. Spring brings blooming wildflowers and mild temperatures ideal for hiking. Summer is perfect for water activities on the Yellowstone River. Fall offers stunning foliage and crisp air—great for scenic drives and photography. Winter transforms the area into a snowy wonderland suitable for cozy campfires and winter sports.

Weather Expectations

  • Spring: Mild days with cool nights; occasional rain showers.
  • Summer: Warm days perfect for swimming; cooler evenings.
  • Fall: Crisp mornings with warm afternoons; vibrant fall colors.
  • Winter: Cold temperatures with snow—ideal for winter camping enthusiasts.

What to Pack

Packing smart ensures you’re prepared:

  • Clothing: Layered outfits are key due to fluctuating temperatures. Include waterproof gear in spring/fall and thermal wear in winter.
  • Camping Gear: A sturdy tent or RV essentials if you're staying at one of the nearby KOAs. Don’t forget sleeping bags rated for colder nights.
  • Outdoor Essentials: Hiking boots, sunscreen, bug spray (especially in summer), binoculars for wildlife viewing.
  • Miscellaneous Items: Camera gear to capture breathtaking landscapes, first aid kit, reusable water bottles.

Important Considerations

  1. Reservations: Book your campsite early during peak seasons (summer/fall) as spots fill up quickly at popular locations like Billings KOA Holiday or Red Lodge KOA Journey.
  2. Activities: Plan your itinerary around local attractions such as fishing on the Yellowstone River or exploring nearby hiking trails like those in Custer Gallatin National Forest.
  3. Safety: Always check weather forecasts before heading out and inform someone about your travel plans if venturing into remote areas.

Whether you're seeking relaxation by a campfire or thrilling outdoor adventures, Columbus has something special waiting just around every corner!

Family Eating Outside of Airstream
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Save money when camping near Columbus, Montana with KOA Rewards

If you like camping, then you will love being a part of the Kampgrounds of America KOA Rewards Program. Designed with campers and outdoor enthusiasts in mind, KOA Rewards is both a discount and rewards program. From earning rewards while camping to receiving discounts at select merchants, our loyalty program is designed to help you save money in a few different ways.

Reserve Your Stay Today!

Unwind at a campground near Columbus, Montana, and enjoy the outdoors where camping is fun and for everyone, and s'mores are always on the menu.