Secrets to Enjoying the Sturgis Rally

1. Book Your Stay or Camp Early

• Lodging and campgrounds sell out months ahead. The best spots (Buffalo Chip, Glencoe, Iron Horse, etc.) offer great music and amenities but get full quickly.
  
• If you’re late to book, try private RVs, dispersed camping in the Black Hills, or nearby towns like Spearfish or Deadwood.
  

2. Avoid Downtown During Peak Hours (Unless You Love Chaos)

• Main Street is fun, but traffic is jammed from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m.
  
• Hit downtown early morning or after 6 p.m. for a smoother experience (and better parking).
  

3. Ride the Backroads — Not Just the Main Highways

• Must-do rides include:
  
  • Needles Highway
    
  • Iron Mountain Road
    
  • Spearfish Canyon
    
  • Vanocker Canyon
    
  • Badlands Loop
    
• These are quieter and more scenic than the crowded highways.
  

4. Don’t Party Too Hard Too Soon

• Sturgis is a 10-day event, not a weekend.
  
• Start light — hydrate, pace your alcohol, and know your limits. Many first-timers burn out by Day 3.
  

5. Know the Best Music & Party Spots

• Buffalo Chip: Big-name concerts, biker rodeos, wild parties
  
• Full Throttle Saloon: Huge bar with events and stunts
  
• Iron Horse Saloon: Live music and a more classic biker vibe
  
• Deadwood: Great for gambling, old west bars, and a quieter night out
  

6. Shower Early or Late

• Campground showers get gross fast.
  
• Best times: before 6 a.m. or after 9 p.m.
  
• Bring flip-flops and your own hygiene kit.
  

7. Go Mid-Week for the Best Mix

• Weekends = biggest crowds
  
• Monday–Wednesday is ideal for riding, vendors, and still seeing the action without gridlock.
  

8. Pack Light on the Bike — Bring Essentials Only

• Carry: ID, cash, water, rain gear, sunscreen, phone, a map or offline GPS
  
• Leave the bulky gear at camp or in saddlebags
  

9. Take Pictures But Respect Privacy

• Some attendees don’t want to be photographed (especially at campgrounds or bars)
  
• Always ask before snapping photos of people or their bikes
  

10. Bring Cash

• Many vendors take cards, but cash is quicker, more reliable, and useful for tipping and emergencies.
  
• ATMs are available, but often charge high fees.
  

11. Explore More Than the Rally

• Take a break from the crowds and see:
  
  • Mount Rushmore
    
  • Crazy Horse Monument
    
  • Custer State Park
    
  • Devils Tower
    
• These are perfect half-day rides.
  

12. Be Friendly — Everyone Has a Story

• Strike up conversations — people at Sturgis come from all over the world
  
• Bikers love sharing rides, bike builds, and road stories
  

13. Prepare for Sudden Weather Changes

• You can go from 95°F sun to hail and lightning in hours.
  
• Always bring a rain poncho, layers, and warm evening gear
  

14. Secure Your Stuff

• Lock up your bike, tent, and valuables
  
• Use bike alarms, cable locks, and buddy systems when out riding or at bars
  

15. Know When to Step Back and Chill

• A quiet ride through the Black Hills or a night by the fire at camp can recharge your battery more than another night of mayhem