Summer in Billings is one of my favorite times of year, but when those temperatures start climbing, finding a place to cool off becomes the priority.
Thankfully, there are plenty of ways to beat the heat without leaving the Billings area. Whether you love waterslides, splash pads, swimming pools or a relaxing afternoon by the lake, here are some of the best places to cool off in Billings this summer.
Make a Day of It at The Oasis
The Oasis is one of the best places in Billings for a full summer water park day. It has something for nearly every age, including a zero-depth-entry pool, waterslides, interactive play areas, a toddler pool, a wave feature and the Ripbreak wave simulator.
There are also shaded areas, concessions and plenty of space to settle in between trips down the slides. It is an easy choice when the kids have energy to burn and everyone needs a break from the heat.
The Oasis is located at 543 Aronson Avenue and is scheduled to remain open through August 30 for the 2026 season. Because the park operates in designated sessions, checking the current schedule before heading over is always a good idea.
Escape the Sun at The Reef Indoor Water Park
The Reef is a great option when you want water park fun without spending the entire day in the sun. Located inside Big Horn Resort, it is Montana’s largest indoor water park and offers attractions for both younger children and bigger kids.
The park includes three-story waterslides, a wave pool, water basketball, an interactive play structure and smaller slides. Since it is indoors, The Reef is also a reliable choice when smoke, wind or a summer storm changes your outdoor plans.
Remember to bring your own towels and check the park’s calendar for current hours before visiting.
Spend the Afternoon at Rose Park Pool
Rose Park Pool is a classic Billings summer destination. The outdoor pool is heated and offers open swimming, plenty of room to play and a waterslide for an extra bit of fun.
It is a convenient choice if you want a traditional pool day without committing to an entire water park experience. Pack the sunscreen, bring a few snacks, and enjoy a relaxed afternoon in one of Billings’ established neighborhood parks. Rose Park Pool is open daily during the summer season, with its final day currently scheduled for August 29, 2026.
Keep It Simple at South Park Pool
South Park Pool is another affordable place to swim and cool down during the summer. The pool offers open swimming and waterslides, with a spacious design that gives kids plenty of room to move around.
South Park itself also includes a playground, picnic areas, basketball courts and a sprayground, making it easy to turn a quick swim into a full afternoon outside.
The pool is currently open daily from noon to 6 p.m., with the 2026 season scheduled to run through August 29.
Visit a Free Billings Splash Pad
Sometimes you do not need an entire pool day. You just need a place where the kids can run through the water for an hour.
Billings Parks and Recreation operates free spraygrounds at:
- Castle Rock Park
- Faith E Park
- Highland Park
- Terry Park
- North Park
- South Park
The spraygrounds are currently open daily from 10 a.m. to 8 p.m. Bring towels, sunscreen and a change of clothes, then let the kids wear themselves out. Pairing a splash pad with a nearby playground or picnic is one of the easiest and most affordable summer outings in Billings.
Swim or Paddle at Lake Elmo State Park
Lake Elmo gives a lake-day experience without leaving the city. The 64-acre reservoir is open for swimming, paddleboarding, kayaking and other non-motorized boating.
There is also a playground, picnic shelters, grassy areas and a 1.4-mile trail around the lake. It is a great place to pack lunch, bring the paddleboards and spend a slower summer afternoon near the water.
Take a Quick Trip to Cooney State Park
If you want to get out of town without spending half the day driving, Cooney State Park is about 40 minutes south of Billings.
The reservoir is popular for swimming, boating, kayaking, fishing, water skiing, and camping. It works just as well for a quick day trip as it does for an entire summer weekend.
Cooney can get busy during warm weather, so arrive early if you are hoping to find a good spot near the water.
A Few Summer Reminders
Before heading out, check each attraction’s website or social media page for updated hours, closures and admission information. Summer weather, maintenance and special events can occasionally affect schedules.
For lake days, bring life jackets, plenty of drinking water and sun protection. Montana sunshine can be intense, even when the water feels cool.
Summer Living in Billings
One of the things I love about living in Billings is how many different summer experiences we have close to home. We can spend the morning at a splash pad, enjoy an afternoon by the lake, or take a quick drive for a full day on the water.
If you are considering moving to Billings, the parks, pools and family-friendly attractions are just one part of what makes this community such a wonderful place to call home.
