Check out Billings, Missouri, in your RV rental from RVShare! A small city located in Christian County, Missouri, the city of Billings is overshadowed by the larger cities in Missouri. It is populated by just a few thousand residents and still exudes a very small town feel up to this time. No one really knows how the city got its name although historians believe that a man gave $1,000 to a church to name the city after him! Many of the town residents are descendants of Swiss and German immigrants who were lured to the city by railroad ads as the city lies along a major railroad line. It is a close-knit farming community where people are very warm and friendly. Because of its proximity to the much larger city of Springfield, Billing is now becoming a bedroom community for Springfield.
Although there is not much to see in the city of Billings, you will be fascinated with this city that only has one stop-light, less than a thousand students from kindergarten to high school, old commercial buildings, and small town stores. There are numerous attractions in its surrounding areas, so why not visit this city, which exemplifies true American spirit and tenacity, and check out the numerous attractions nearby.
Popular Tourist Attractions
Wilson's Creek National Battlefield
Located about 9 miles from Billings, the Wilson’s Creek National Battlefield is the place where the first major Civil War battle was fought west of the Mississippi River. It is also where Nathaniel Lyon, the first Union general was killed in a battle. It is one of best-preserved battlefields in the nation and a visit will bring you back in that period in time when the field was a full of men battling for their beliefs. The Wilson’s Creek National Battlefield has a museum on site where you can learn more about the history of the battle through historic documents, images, and objects. The visitor center is open daily from 8 am to 5 pm.
Bank of Billings
The oldest bank in Christian county established in 1889, the Bank of Billing is an interesting stop in the city. The bank was built in 1908 and is still operating. It is located in the heart of the city and has a very interesting history. Its first cashier held the title for over 61 years! It was first robbed in 1927, and in 1987 the bank was purchased from the Howard family after 98 years of ownership, and was eventually sold to the First Miami Bancshares in 2006. The bank was in the news lately when its former president was charged with embezzlement. For its colorful history and infrastructure, it is worth stopping by.
Fantastic Caverns
The Fantastic Caverns is about 29 minutes from Billings. Located in the city of Springfield, it is a natural wonder discovered in 1862. The Fantastic Caverns can be toured in jeep-drawn trams that will take you through the caves where “rooms” provide you with splendid views of the stalagmites and stalactites that abound the caves. An ancient underground river, which has long dried up, provides the path for the only ride-through cave in the country. The best thing about visiting the Fantastic Caverns is that you do not have to tire yourself from endless walking and climbing, so you get to relish the experience with both the young and old alike. Fantastic Caverns is open daily except during major holidays.
Campgrounds and State/National Parks
Springfield/Rt 66 KOA
Approximately 18 minutes from Billings, the Springfield/Rt 66 KOA is a great choice if you want to visit the cities of Billings and Springfield. It is a landscaped campground right in the heart of the panoramic Ozarks. It is a great option if you are travelling with your family as it has amenities and recreational facilities that can be enjoyed both by kids and adults alike. It has 78 total spaces, 49 of which are shaded full hookup gravel sites. Amenities and services include a swimming pool, playground, snack bar, basketball court, snack bar, laundry facilities, camp store and for dog lovers, a pet playground! It also has an ice cream social every Saturday night which means you get to eat all the ice cream you want for a minimal fee! Join the fun at Springfield/Rt 66 KOA at any time of the year.
Silver Bell RV Park/MHP
Located about 31 miles from Billings, the Silver Bell RV Park/MHP is one of your options if you want to explore the cities of Billings, Rogersville and Springfield. It is a pet-friendly RV Park that has 36 shaded full hookup sites with room for slideouts. Amenities and services include laundry facilities, restrooms and showers, and RV storage. It does not have any recreational facilities but it is near the city of Rogersville where you can enjoy relaxing at its parks or dining in one of its restaurants. The RV Park is open all year round.
The Turkey Creek RV Village is about 48 miles from the city of Billings. It is located in the city of Branson and just a mile away from the Branson Landing, one of the most beautiful and vibrant areas in the city. It is a good option if you want to take a day trip to Billings and be back before the sunsets. The RV Village has 66 full hookup gravel sites. Amenities and services include wi-fi internet access, recreational hall, horseshoes, restrooms and shows, and self-service RV wash. The campground is an Escapee Club park and is open to the public on a space available basis.
Events
Billings Community Fair
The Billings Community Fair is celebrated annually every Labor Day weekend. It is the biggest and much anticipated event in the city. Everyone is invited to the event which features a grand parade, exhibits, arts & crafts, cattle shows, carnival and games, food booths, karaoke night, raffle and a tractor pull on Friday night. It is a family fun event and a great way to interact with the locals.
The city of Billings will capture your heart because it exudes the charm of a small town that has remained untouched by modern trappings. It is a great stop especially if you are traveling with your family who might not have any idea how winsome small cities can be. Don’t forget to stop by Billings if you are planning a road trip through Missouri.
Safe travels from everyone here at RVShare!
