We had just spent seven days in locations (Eastend, Antelope Creek and the Harvest Host Beargulch Pictographs) without access to laundry facilities which is why we chose to stay at the Billings KOA for three nights. We needed clean clothes.

When we arrived at the KOA, we knew this campground was special. It had all the typical KOA Holiday amenities such as a heated swimming pool, dog walking park, cabins, propane fills and laundry facilities. It also had Mini Golf, and an Ice Cream Cart, a themed playground, e-bike rentals, agility equipment in the dog walking area, basketball court, outdoor giant chess board, ceramic painting, a tie-dye activity for children and even served bbq on certain days. Whew!

We also discovered that it was the very first KOA Kampground.

Corporate headquarters for KOA is located in a beautiful new building in Billings about 15 minutes from the Kampground.

But we were here to do laundry. The facility was terrific, clean, large and had a great folding area. They also used an app-based pay system which eliminated the need to feed quarters into the machines. We first experienced an app based payment system in Salt Lake City. We love it. You can also monitor the time left on the washer and dryer on your phone.

We had a nice site that was well landscaped and shaded. There was a patio and table with an umbrella, which we didn’t use. The issue with KOAs for many RVers-especially KOA Holidays-is the cost. We spent a $162 dollars a night (with our KOA discount). To provide perspective, the Yellowstone River RV Park and Campground, which is very close by, charges $130 for a “deluxe” full hook-up site.

The higher cost may be fine for a family who will take advantage of all the amenities of this KOA but we don’t use these amenities. We want to be very clear, the park is spotless, well-maintained, landscaped and has the amenities to be a great family vacation spot. Staff were helpful and accommodating. We even met the manager of the Kampground in the laundry, and had a lovely chat. We enjoyed our stay but in general it’s just not what we need in a campsite.

We were however grateful to have clean clothes again!