The Billings KOA Holiday Campground has recently achieved the Certified Autism Center (CAC) designation from the International Board of Credentialing and Continuing Education Standards (IBCCES). This recognition highlights the campground’s commitment to creating a more inclusive environment for guests with autism and sensory sensitivities.
To earn this designation, the campground’s staff completed specialized training. The process included an on-site review by IBCCES, resulting in improvements such as enhanced signage and increased website accessibility. The campground also plans to develop a ‘sensory room’ by 2025 according to an article by Adventure ON SI.
The city of Billings itself, along with local attractions like ZooMontana and the historic Billings Depot, are also Certified Autism Centers, showcasing a broader commitment to autism accessibility in the area.
The CAC designation requires staff to undergo comprehensive training to better support individuals with autism and sensory sensitivities, ensuring that families with autistic members can enjoy a more comfortable camping experience.
Jill Currier, senior vice president of KOA Operations for Kampgrounds of America, Inc., stated, “We pride ourselves on providing exceptional experiences for all types of campers, no matter their background or ability. We know that travel can be challenging for individuals and families with autism or other sensory sensitivities.”
“We are proud to be named a Certified Autism Center™, allowing us to create specialized programs and opportunities for all travelers to experience the joy of camping and the outdoors,” Jill added.
As part of their commitment to inclusivity, the campground now offers complimentary sensory bags for guests. These bags, available upon request at check-in, contain various tools to enhance comfort during their stay, including noise protectors, hand squeezers, weighted lap pads, and a light-up handheld aquarium.
Myron Pincomb, IBCCES board chairman, commended the campground’s efforts, saying, “Their commitment to providing an accessible and welcoming stay for autistic and sensory-sensitive individuals is truly commendable. We applaud their efforts and look forward to seeing the positive impact they will continue to make on every guest that visits.”
This achievement by the Billings KOA Holiday Campground sets an example for other campgrounds across the country, demonstrating that with appropriate training and thoughtful modifications, outdoor recreational facilities can become more accessible to a wider range of visitors.