The Annual Sturgis Motorcycle Rally in the Black Hills of South Dakota is a mandatory bucket list item for thousands of bikers from all walks of life, and with good reason.
Each year close to a half-million biker enthusiasts make their way to party, ride and race in this small South Dakota outpost that earns close to 95% of its annual revenue during the event’s two week-long stint in August. RVing to Sturgis is the ideal way to go; with the right setup you can haul your bikes and bring all the comforts of home.
History of the Sturgis Bike Rally
The “Jackpine Gypsies Motorcycle Club” kicked off the first Sturgis rally in 1938 as the “Black Hills Classic,” a simple racing event for just nine local motorcyclists. Over 78 years later the club is still going strong and owns the lighted short track, motocross track, field meet area, hillclimb area, clubhouse, office and a concession business were much of the Sturgis rally takes place. The Jackpine Gypsies hold over a dozen events during the rally.
Today, Sturgis attendees are a mix of riders from all walks of life.
Where to Stay and What to Do in Sturgis
Sturgis officials estimate that less than half of participants who attend the annual event actually ride the entire way. Many RVers will tow their bikes behind their rigs and ride once they get there. If you’re doing the same you’ll be in great company. In the iRV2 Discussion Forums you’ll find dozens of tips and tricks from Sturgis RVing bikers, like jeryan59:
If you’ve always wanted to experience a “Bikers Only” attitude and ambiance, the Sturgis Rally is a must. During the first weeks in August over four blocks in Sturgis are designated just for bikers and highways are jammed with two-wheeled riders. But seasoned Sturgis RVing veterans know that there’s so much more to do than just attend the Sturgis parties, concerts and motorcycle races. Much of the event’s popularity is because of the epic motorcycle rides and scenery in the Black Hills that encompasses the mountains and unforgettable destinations like Devil’s Tower, Custer State Park, Mount Rushmore and the Crazy Horse Memorial.
Best RV Parks for Sturgis Rally
If you’re thinking of attending Sturgis this year, you’ll want to make reservations soon. Where you stay depends on your goals. If you want to be in the middle of the action, visit during the official Sturgis rally dates of August 8th through 14th and book your stay in RV parks close to town like:
Sturgis merchants are known for their hospitality because the town depends on revenue from rally attendees, but keep in mind you’ll pay for your RV campsite during Sturgis. Nightly rates are much higher during official rally dates than just before and right after. You’re much more likely to find better deals if you book early in the year so don’t wait.
Often called “The O.G. of full-time RVing,” Rene Agredano and her husband Jim Nelson hit the road in a fifth wheel trailer in 2007, after their dog Jerry lost a leg to terminal cancer. Sixteen years later they are still traveling and sharing their nomadic adventures at LiveWorkDream. As a self-employed wordsmith, Rene shares her expertise for many RV industry videos, publications such as the Escapees RV Club Magazine, and has authored numerous books, including the Essential RVing Guide to National Parks, and Income Anywhere, a guide to earning money on the road. She has been featured in global media outlets including the PBS documentary “NATURE: Why We Love Cats and Dogs,” The Guardian Sunday Edition, and the Dan Pink book Free Agent Nation.
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