Sturgis Motorcycle Rally
The Sturgis Motorcycle Rally is a motorcycle rally held annually in Sturgis, South Dakota, United States. It is typically held in the first week of August and attracts hundreds of thousands of motorcycle enthusiasts from all over the country. The event includes live music, motorcycle races, stunt shows, and other activities, and many attendees camp out at nearby campgrounds or stay in local hotels and motels. The rally has a long history, dating back to 1938, and has become one of the most well-known motorcycle events in the United States.
Founder
The Sturgis Motorcycle Rally was founded by Clarence "Pappy" Hoel in 1938. At the time, Hoel was the owner of a local Indian motorcycle dealership and organized the rally as a way to promote the dealership and the Indian Motorcycle brand. The first rally was held on August 14, 1938, and featured a race and a few other activities. It was attended by around 200 people and was considered a success. The rally has been held annually since then and has grown significantly in size and popularity. Today, it is one of the largest motorcycle events in the world, attracting hundreds of thousands of attendees every year.
Attendees
The Sturgis Motorcycle Rally is one of the largest motorcycle events in the world and attracts hundreds of thousands of people each year. The exact number of attendees varies from year to year, but it is estimated that the rally attracts between 500,000 and 750,000 people annually. The rally is held in Sturgis, South Dakota and takes place over the course of a week in early August. It is a major event for the city and the surrounding region, and attracts visitors from all over the United States and beyond. The rally is known for its live music, motorcycle races and stunt shows, and a variety of other activities and events.
Motorcycles
The Sturgis Motorcycle Rally attracts a wide variety of motorcycles, including touring bikes, sport bikes, cruisers, and custom bikes. Many of the attendees own Harley-Davidson motorcycles, as the rally is known for its association with the brand. However, the rally also attracts a number of other brands, such as Indian, Honda, Yamaha, and Suzuki. In addition to the motorcycles on display, the rally also features a number of motorcycle-related vendors selling parts and accessories, as well as demonstrations and exhibitions of new and innovative motorcycle technology. Overall, the rally is a great place for motorcycle enthusiasts to see a wide range of different makes and models of motorcycles and to connect with other like-minded individuals.
City of Sturgis
The town of Sturgis, South Dakota was founded in 1878. It was named after Union General Samuel D. Sturgis, who served in the American Civil War and later served as the Commander of the Department of Dakota. The town was founded as a transportation hub, as it was located at the intersection of several major transportation routes, including the Chicago and North Western Railway. In the early 20th century, the town began to grow and develop as a center for agriculture, ranching, and tourism. Today, it is known as the home of the Sturgis Motorcycle Rally, which is one of the largest motorcycle events in the world and attracts hundreds of thousands of visitors each year.
Deadwood, SD
Deadwood, South Dakota was a small town near Sturgis in the late 1800s that was known for its gold mines and its rough and rowdy reputation. A number of well-known figures visited or lived in Deadwood during this time, including: Wild Bill Hickok: Wild Bill Hickok was a frontiersman, gunfighter, and lawman who lived in Deadwood in the 1870s. He worked as a lawman and a gambler in the town and was shot and killed while playing poker in a saloon in 1876. His death became a legendary event and helped to cement his reputation as one of the most famous figures of the Wild West. Calamity Jane: Calamity Jane was a frontierswoman and a professional scout who lived in Deadwood in the 1870s. She was known for her rough and rowdy behavior and her association with Wild Bill Hickok. Seth Bullock: Seth Bullock was a frontiersman, lawman, and business owner who lived in Deadwood in the 1870s and 1880s. He was one of the first sheriffs of the town and later owned a hardware store and a hotel. Wyatt Earp: Wyatt Earp was a lawman and a gunfighter who visited Deadwood in the 1870s. He was involved in a number of shootouts and was known for his role in the famous Gunfight at the O.K. Corral in Tombstone, Arizona. Doc Holliday: Doc Holliday was a dentist and a professional gambler who visited Deadwood in the 1870s. He was a close friend of Wyatt Earp and was involved in a number of shootouts in the West. These are just a few of the famous figures who visited or lived in Deadwood in the late 1800s and most likely traveled through Sturgis South Dakota. The town was a hub of activity during this time and attracted a number of well-known individuals from the Wild West.
Celebrities
Over the years, the Sturgis Motorcycle Rally has attracted a number of celebrities, including: Elvis Presley: Elvis Presley is said to have attended the rally in the 1970s and is rumored to have given a private concert at a local bar. Neil Young: Neil Young has attended the rally several times and has played a number of concerts at the Sturgis Buffalo Chip. Kid Rock: Kid Rock has played a number of concerts at the Sturgis Buffalo Chip and has also participated in various rally events. Ozzy Osbourne: Ozzy Osbourne has played a number of concerts at the Sturgis Buffalo Chip and is a well-known motorcycle enthusiast. Tim Allen: Tim Allen is a actor, comedian, and motorcycle enthusiast who has attended the rally several times. William Shatner: William Shatner is an actor and motorcycle enthusiast who has attended the rally and participated in various rally events. In addition to these celebrities, the rally has also attracted a number of other well-known figures over the years.
Activities
There are a wide variety of activities available at the Sturgis Motorcycle Rally, including: Live music: The rally features a number of live music performances by a variety of bands and artists, both local and national. Motorcycle races: The rally includes a number of motorcycle races and stunt shows, featuring both professional and amateur riders. Vendors: There are hundreds of vendors at the rally selling a variety of items, including motorcycle parts and accessories, clothing, and souvenirs. Food and drink: The rally features a variety of food and drink options, including food trucks, restaurants, and bars. Camping: Many attendees choose to camp out at one of the many campgrounds in the area, which offer a variety of amenities such as showers, restrooms, and electric and water hookups. Educational seminars: The rally includes a number of educational seminars and workshops on topics such as motorcycle maintenance and safety. Rides and events: The rally includes a number of organized rides and events, such as the Sturgis Motorcycle Rally Parade and the Sturgis Motorcycle Rally Poker Run. Overall, the Sturgis Motorcycle Rally offers something for everyone, whether you're a motorcycle enthusiast or just looking for a fun and exciting event to attend.
Concerts
The headline concerts at the Sturgis Motorcycle Rally are typically held at the Sturgis Buffalo Chip, which is a large concert venue and campground located a few miles outside of Sturgis. The Buffalo Chip has been a fixture of the rally for many years and has hosted a number of well-known music acts over the years, including Aerosmith, Kid Rock, and Lynyrd Skynyrd. In addition to the headline concerts, there are also numerous other live music performances that take place at various venues throughout the city during the rally. These performances may include local and regional acts, as well as tribute bands and other types of music.
Tourist Attractions
The Black Hills region of South Dakota is home to a number of popular tourist attractions.
Sturgis Motorcycle Museum Hall of Fame
The Sturgis Motorcycle Museum Hall of Fame is a museum located in Sturgis, South Dakota that is dedicated to the history and culture of motorcycling. The museum is part of the Sturgis Motorcycle Museum and Hall of Fame, which was founded in 2001 to honor the contributions of individuals and organizations to the motorcycle industry. The museum features a number of exhibits and displays that showcase the history of motorcycles and the role they have played in society. These exhibits include vintage and antique motorcycles, as well as a variety of motorcycle-related memorabilia and artifacts. The museum also features a Hall of Fame, which honors individuals and organizations that have made significant contributions to the motorcycle industry. The Hall of Fame inducts new members each year, and the museum hosts a ceremony to recognize their contributions.
Devil's Tower
Devil's Tower is a large rock formation located in northeastern Wyoming, United States. It is a striking geological feature that rises out of the surrounding landscape and is made of igneous rock. The tower is a popular rock climbing destination and was the first national monument in the United States, having been designated as such in 1906 by President Theodore Roosevelt. It is also an important cultural site for many Native American tribes in the region, who have a number of creation stories and other legends associated with the tower. Devil's Tower is part of the Black Hills region and is located a few hours' drive from Mount Rushmore National Memorial.
Mount Rushmore
Mount Rushmore National Memorial is a national park located in the Black Hills region of South Dakota, United States. The park is home to a massive sculpture of four U.S. presidents carved into the side of a mountain: George Washington, Thomas Jefferson, Theodore Roosevelt, and Abraham Lincoln. The sculptures were carved by sculptor Gutzon Borglum and his team of workers over the course of several decades, beginning in 1927 and ending in 1941. The park is a popular tourist destination and attracts millions of visitors each year. In addition to the sculptures, the park also offers a number of educational and recreational activities, such as ranger-led tours, hiking trails, and a museum.
Crazy Horse Memorial
The Crazy Horse Memorial is a massive mountain carving located in the Black Hills region of South Dakota, United States. The carving depicts the Oglala Lakota warrior Crazy Horse and is still under construction. It was begun in 1948 by sculptor Korczak Ziolkowski and is being completed by his family and a team of workers. When finished, the Crazy Horse Memorial will be the largest mountain carving in the world and will feature Crazy Horse astride his horse, with the carving standing over 563 feet high and 641 feet wide. In addition to the mountain carving, the memorial also includes a visitor center, museum, and educational facilities. The Crazy Horse Memorial is a popular tourist destination and attracts hundreds of thousands of visitors each year.
Custer State Park
Custer State Park is a state park located in the Black Hills region of South Dakota, United States. It is named after General George Custer, who explored the area in the 1870s. The park covers over 71,000 acres and is home to a wide variety of wildlife, including bison, pronghorns, elk, and mule deer. It also offers a number of recreational activities, such as hiking, biking, fishing, and boating. Custer State Park is a popular tourist destination and attracts over two million visitors each year. It is also home to the annual Custer State Park Buffalo Roundup, a popular event in which park rangers and volunteers gather and sort the park's bison herd.
Deadwood
Deadwood is a historic town located in the Black Hills region of South Dakota, United States. It is known for its Wild West history and is home to a number of casinos and restaurants. Deadwood was founded in 1876 during the Black Hills gold rush and was named after the dead trees that were found in the area. The town became a hub for prospectors, gamblers, and outlaws and was the site of several important events in the history of the American West. Today, Deadwood is a popular tourist destination and attracts visitors from all over the country. In addition to its casinos and restaurants, the town also offers a number of historical attractions, such as the Adams Museum, the Days of '76 Museum, and the Deadwood Trolley.
Jewel Cave National Monument
Jewel Cave National Monument is a national park located in the Black Hills region of South Dakota, United States. The park is home to the third longest cave system in the world, with over 190 miles of underground tunnels and chambers. The cave was discovered in 1900 by two prospectors and was named after the calcite crystals that were found within it. Today, the cave is a popular tourist destination and offers a variety of guided tours, including the Scenic Tour, which takes visitors through a portion of the cave, and the Wild Caving Tour, which involves crawling through tight spaces and climbing over obstacles. In addition to the cave, the park also offers a visitor center, museum, and hiking trails.
Wind Cave National Park
Wind Cave National Park is a national park located in the Black Hills region of South Dakota, United States. The park is home to one of the longest and most complex cave systems in the world, with over 140 miles of underground tunnels and chambers. The cave was discovered in 1881 and is named after the strong winds that can be felt at its entrance. Today, the cave is a popular tourist destination and offers a variety of guided tours, including the Natural Entrance Tour, which takes visitors through a portion of the cave, and the Candlelight Tour, which involves walking through the cave by candlelight. In addition to the cave, the park also offers a visitor center, museum, and hiking trails. The park is home to a variety of wildlife, including bison, pronghorns, and elk, and is a popular destination for hiking, biking, and picnicking.
Badlands National Park
Badlands National Park is a national park located in South Dakota, United States. The park covers over 240,000 acres and is home to a unique landscape of rugged hills, deep canyons, and towering cliffs. The park is named after the "bad lands" terrain, which is characterized by deep erosion and a lack of vegetation. The park is home to a variety of wildlife, including bison, pronghorns, bighorn sheep, and a number of species of birds and reptiles. It is also home to a number of important paleontological sites, and a number of important fossils have been discovered in the park, including those of the saber-toothed cat and the tyrannosaurus rex. In addition to its geological and wildlife attractions, the park also offers a number of recreational activities, such as hiking, biking, and picnicking.
Spearfish Canyon
Spearfish Canyon is a scenic canyon located in the Black Hills region of South Dakota, United States. The canyon is home to a number of natural attractions, such as waterfalls, streams, and rock formations, and is a popular destination for hiking, rock climbing, and picnicking. It is also home to a number of recreational areas, such as Spearfish Falls, Roughlock Falls, and Savoy Mountain State Forest. The canyon is located near the town of Spearfish, which is about 20 miles northwest of Sturgis, South Dakota. It is a popular tourist destination and attracts visitors from all over the country. In addition to its natural beauty, the canyon is also home to a number of historical sites, such as the Spearfish Canyon Scenic Byway, which was listed on the National Register of Historic Places in 2005.
Harney Peak is the highest peak in the Black Hills region of South Dakota, United States. It is located in the Black Elk Wilderness area of the Black Hills National Forest and stands at an elevation of 7,242 feet above sea level. The peak is named after General William S. Harney, who fought in the Indian Wars in the region in the 19th century. It is a popular destination for hikers and mountain climbers and offers panoramic views of the surrounding area. The peak can be reached by a challenging hike up the Harney Peak Trail, which begins at Sylvan Lake in Custer State Park and ascends to the summit. The trail is about 7 miles round trip and is rated as difficult. The peak is also accessible by a paved road that leads to the summit, which offers a lookout tower and a visitor center.
Bear Butte State Park
Bear Butte State Park is a state park located in Meade County, South Dakota, United States. The park is located near the town of Sturgis, South Dakota and covers an area of over 1,300 acres. It is home to Bear Butte, a distinctive mountain that stands at an elevation of 4,425 feet above sea level. The mountain is sacred to a number of Native American tribes, who consider it a place of spiritual and cultural importance. The park offers a variety of recreational activities, such as hiking, rock climbing, and picnicking, and is home to a number of wildlife species, including bison, pronghorns, and a variety of birds and reptiles. In addition to its natural and recreational attractions, the park also offers a number of educational and cultural programs, such as guided hikes and talks about the history and significance of the mountain to Native American cultures.
Needles Highway
Needles Highway is a scenic drive located in the Black Hills region of South Dakota, United States. The highway is named after a series of rocky spires known as "The Needles," which are located along the route. The highway is about 14 miles long and begins in the town of Custer, South Dakota and ends at the Sylvan Lake area in Custer State Park. It is a two-lane road with a number of sharp turns and steep grades, and is known for its narrow tunnels, which were carved through the rock formations. The highway is a popular destination for tourists and offers a number of scenic overlooks and hiking trails. It is also home to a number of wildlife species, including bison, pronghorns, and a variety of birds and reptiles.
Lodging
There are many different types of lodging options available during the Sturgis Motorcycle Rally. Some people choose to camp out at one of the many campgrounds in the area, which offer a variety of amenities such as showers, restrooms, and electric and water hookups. Other options include staying in a hotel or motel, either in Sturgis or in a nearby town. There are also a number of bed and breakfast inns, vacation rentals, and other types of accommodations available in the area. Many of these options may fill up quickly during the rally, so it's a good idea to make reservations well in advance.
Campgrounds
Big Rig RV Park Campground is an RV park and campground located in Sturgis, South Dakota. It is a popular destination for travelers visiting the Sturgis Motorcycle Rally and offers a variety of amenities for its guests, including full hookup sites, WI-FI, and laundry facilities. The campground is located within easy walking distance of downtown Sturgis and is close to a number of popular attractions, such as the Sturgis Motorcycle Museum and the Sturgis Buffalo Chip. The campground also offers a number of activities and events for its guests, such as live music performances and games.
Hog Heaven Campground is an RV park and campground located in Sturgis, South Dakota. It is a popular destination for travelers visiting the Sturgis Motorcycle Rally and offers a variety of amenities for its guests, including tent and RV sites, as well as cabin rentals. The campground is located just outside of Sturgis and is close to a number of popular attractions, such as the Sturgis Motorcycle Museum and the Sturgis Buffalo Chip. The campground also offers a number of activities and events for its guests, such as live music performances and games. In addition to its amenities and activities, the campground also has a number of features specifically designed for motorcycle enthusiasts, such as a large motorcycle-only camping area and a dedicated motorcycle wash area.
Days End Campground is an RV park and campground located in Sturgis, South Dakota. It is a popular destination for travelers visiting the Sturgis Motorcycle Rally and offers a variety of amenities for its guests, including tent and RV sites, as well as cabin rentals. The campground is located just outside of Sturgis and is close to a number of popular attractions, such as the Sturgis Motorcycle Museum and the Sturgis Buffalo Chip. The campground also offers a number of activities and events for its guests, such as live music performances and games. In addition to its amenities and activities, the campground also has a number of features specifically designed for motorcycle enthusiasts, such as a large motorcycle-only camping area and a dedicated motorcycle wash area.
Sturgis Downtown RV Park is an RV park located in Sturgis, South Dakota. It is a popular destination for travelers visiting the Sturgis Motorcycle Rally and is located within easy walking distance of the center of town. The RV park offers a variety of amenities for its guests, including full hookup sites and a laundry facility. It is also close to a number of popular attractions, such as the Sturgis Motorcycle Museum and the Sturgis Buffalo Chip. In addition to its convenient location and amenities, the RV park also offers a number of activities and events for its guests, such as live music performances and games.
The Pappy Hoel Campground is a campground located in Sturgis, South Dakota that is named after Clarence "Pappy" Hoel, the founder of the Sturgis Motorcycle Rally. The campground is a popular destination for travelers visiting the rally and offers a variety of amenities for its guests, including tent and RV sites, as well as cabin rentals. The campground is located just outside of Sturgis and is close to a number of popular attractions, such as the Sturgis Motorcycle Museum and the Sturgis Buffalo Chip. The campground also offers a number of activities and events for its guests, such as live music performances and games. In addition to its amenities and activities, the campground also has a number of features specifically designed for motorcycle enthusiasts, such as a large motorcycle-only camping area and a dedicated motorcycle wash area.
Cost
The cost to attend the Sturgis Motorcycle Rally depends on a number of factors, including your mode of transportation, where you plan to stay, and what activities you want to participate in. Some of the costs you may need to consider include: Transportation: If you are traveling to the rally by motorcycle, you will need to pay for gas and any other transportation costs. If you are flying to the rally, you will need to pay for airfare and ground transportation. Accommodations: There are a variety of accommodation options available at the rally, including hotels, motels, RV parks, and campgrounds. Prices for these options can vary widely, so it is important to shop around and compare prices. Food and drink: You will need to budget for food and drink while at the rally. There are a number of dining options available, ranging from food trucks to sit-down restaurants. Activities and events: There are a variety of activities and events available at the rally, such as live music performances and motorcycle races. Some of these events may have an admission fee or may require tickets, which you will need to purchase in advance. Overall, the cost of attending the Sturgis Motorcycle Rally can vary widely depending on your individual circumstances and preferences. It is a good idea to create a budget and plan ahead to ensure that you have enough money to cover all of your expenses while at the rally.
Weather
The weather during the Sturgis Motorcycle Rally can vary widely depending on the time of year and the specific weather conditions. The rally takes place in early August, which is typically the hottest time of the year in the Black Hills region of South Dakota, where Sturgis is located. During this time, the average high temperature is around 90 degrees Fahrenheit, with average low temperatures around 60 degrees Fahrenheit. However, temperatures can occasionally reach above 100 degrees Fahrenheit, so it is important to be prepared for hot weather. In addition to the heat, the region is also prone to thunderstorms and lightning, which can bring heavy rain and strong winds. It is a good idea to check the weather forecast before attending the rally and to bring appropriate clothing and gear to protect yourself from the elements.
Rally Dates
Future Sturgis Rally Dates |
|
| Anniversary | Dates |
| 83rd Sturgis Motorcycle Rally | August 3th - 13th 2023 |
| 84th Sturgis Motorcycle Rally | August 1st - 11th 2024 |
| 85th Sturgis Motorcycle Rally | July 31st - 10th 2025 |
History/Jackpine Gypsies
Jackpine Gypsies Motorcycle Club started in 1936, with an official American Motorcycle Association (AMA) charter in 1937. AMA began promoting our racing events; which started the rally in Sturgis on August 14, 1938. That weekend celebration in 1938 had a lineup of only nine racers and a small audience watching the races.
The average age for a motorcycle club is three years, and after 62 years, this club is still running strong. The club owns all the property on which most of our club activities take place. There is approximately 40 acres adjacent to Interstate 90 between Exit 30 and Exit 32, the busiest section of Interstate 90 during the Sturgis Rally. Our lighted short track, motocross track, field meet area, hillclimb area, clubhouse, office and our state approved concession business are located on these grounds. The short track at the Jackpine Gypsies club grounds was first used in 1963. Since that debut race, many improvements have been made. The racetrack is now wider, it has permanent seating, the lighting system has been improved, there is an announcer, a sign up building and a clubhouse, where the concession business is located. The club holds races every other weekend and a full week of races during the rally. A motocross track was added on in the 1980's and then in 1996 a new track was built. The sport of motocross is beginning to grow again, in fact, in 1998; they held five motocross races, which attracted over 500 racers.