Best Places to Stay During the 2023 Sturgis Motorcycle Rally

Table of Contents

1. 2023 Sturgis Motorcycle Rally - The 83rd Anniversary Event

1.1 2023 Sturgis Rally Dates
1.2 Transition from Indian to Harley Davidson Motorcycles
1.3 2023 Sturgis Motorcycle Rally Location

2. Where to Stay During the 2023 Sturgis Motorcycle Rally

2.1 Hotels & Resorts Near the 2023 Sturgis Motorcycle Rally
2.2 Campgrounds Near 2023 Sturgis Motorcycle Rally
2.3 Housing Near the 2023 Sturgis Motorcycle Rally

3. How to Book the Best Lodging for the 2023 Sturgis Motorcycle Rally
4. How to Choose the Right Place to Stay at the 2023 Sturgis Motorcycle Rally
5. Last Words

1. 2023 Sturgis Motorcycle Rally - The 83rd Anniversary Event

1.1 2023 Sturgis Rally Dates

The Sturgis Motorcycle Rally is considered the largest motorcycle event in the United States. It is held each year, starting on the first Friday of August and lasting for 10 days. This year, the Sturgis Motorcycle Rally will be held between August 4th-10th. This will mark the 83rd anniversary of this grand motorcycle festival.

If you have never been to Sturgis, it is worth knowing that this rally is not hosted by a single organizer and is not limited only to motorcyclists. People from all walks of life, whether they own a motorcycle or not, are welcome to the rally.

1.2 Transition from Indian to Harley Davidson Motorcycles

The Sturgis Motorcycle Rally started in 1938, when the brand new owner of an Indian motorcycle dealership, Clarence “Pappy” Hoel, and his motorcycle club, the Jackpine Gypsies, organized a motorcycle race. At that time, only nine motorcyclists participated. In the 1980s, the Sturgis Rally transformed from a racing event to a grand festival anyone could attend. Over the years, the signature motorcycle brand of this event changed from Indian to Harley Davidson motorcycles. In fact, the modern Sturgis Rally is considered synonymous with Harley Davidson andvice versa.

1.3 2023 Sturgis Motorcycle Rally Location

Another change was seen in the venue of the event. Initially, the Sturgis Motorcycle Rally was organized in the city of Sturgis, South Dakota. But as the number of attendees grew, the rally spread to the city of Sturgis, Buffalo Chip Campground, and the city of Deadwood. These locations host entertainment, concerts, access to the Black Hills, and scenic motorcycle rides.

These locations also provide comfortable accommodations for the attendees. There are numerous campgrounds, cabins, RV sites, hotels, house rentals, and other lodging at or near the 2023 Sturgis Motorcycle Rally. However, the available spots left often fill up fast even before the rally begins. Read this article to learn how to secure the best lodgings during the 2023 Sturgis Motorcycle Rally.

2. Where to Stay During the 2023 Sturgis Motorcycle Rally

The Black Hills and the city of Sturgis offer an extensive range of accommodations for all participants. Whether traveling with family and friends or planning to enjoy a solo trip, you should be able to find a place that meets your needs and budget.

Riders who enjoy spending time outdoors can reserve a spot at a popular campground. Others who prefer visiting the rally during the day but want peace and quiet can stay at a hotel, lodge, or rented house. Resorts, deluxe cabins, and glamping sites are also available if you want to enjoy a more luxurious experience or a “soft adventure.”

Here are some of the options:

2.1 Hotels & Resorts Near the 2023 Sturgis Motorcycle Rally

Historic Franklin Hotel

Located in Deadwood, South Dakota, the Historic Franklin Hotel is only a 30-minute ride away from the Sturgis Rally venue. Despite being a little far away, the Historic Franklin Hotel has better availability and rates than those in Sturgis.

From the Historic Franklin Hotel, you do not need to worry about arriving late to an event or ride. During the 30-minute ride to and from the rally, you can become familiar with South Dakota city life.

Historic Franklin Hotel has hosted some of the most prominent historical figures, including John Wayne and Teddy Roosevelt. Besides its historical importance, the hotel is famed for its Victorian-style interior, lodging experience, gaming section, and delicious buffet.

Baymont Inn and Suites

Located on Lazelle Street, Sturgis, Baymont Inn and Suites is located near most of the rally festivities. Many of the Sturgis Rally’s shows and activities take place on Lazelle Street. If you decide to take part in the activities, you only have to step out of your hotel. This large hotel offers many benefits and amenities, including a hearty complimentary breakfast, fitness center, free parking space, and 24-hour check-in facility. You can also spend time in the hotel’s attached restaurant and bar.

Hotel Sturgis

The most in-demand hotel during the Sturgis Motorcycle Rally is the Hotel Sturgis. Located on Main Street in Downtown Sturgis, this hotel offers convenient lodging and access to the Sturgis Motorcycle Rally. The Hotel Sturgis has a chic retro style that will take you back to the 90s as soon as you step in to check in. This hotel also has one of the best restaurants in the area, famed for its breakfast, coffee, and meals. You also have a panoramic view of the Sturgis Rally from the balconies attached to the hotel rooms.

2.2 Campgrounds Near 2023 Sturgis Motorcycle Rally

Buffalo Chip Campground

Buffalo Chip Campground is the most popular campground used for the Sturgis Motorcycle Rally since it often fills up the fastest. At this campground, you can experience some of the best music, parties, and live entertainment. At Buffalo Chip Campground, you can book an RV space or a campsite. Though you have to buy an admission pass in advance, you will be assigned a campsite by the time you arrive at the rally. If you are riding with friends, Buffalo Chip Campground is an ideal place. You can organize your own parties, play your favorite music, and spend time with your travel group. In addition, the Buffalo Chip Campground offers Camp Eazy Ride” packages. If you avail one of these, then all the camping essentials will be provided to you at the campground. Consequently, you would not have to load your motorcycle saddlebags with heavy gear.

Days End Campground

Days End Campground is a 10-minute ride away from the Sturgis Motorcycle Rally. With 39 cabins and acres of camping area, you can easily find a spot at Days End Campground. Since the campground does not offer free entertainment or concerts, the sites don’t fill up as fast as the Buffalo Chip Campground. But due to its close proximity to the rally, it is also a popular accommodation. It is recommended you do not delay if you plan to book a spot.

Pappy Hoel Campground

Pappy Hoel Campground is the official campground of the Sturgis Rally. Located in the middle of the Black Hills, Pappy Hoel Campground is the place where the rally’s roots lie. Depending on your budget, you can stay at campsites, cabins, or lodges. For admission, you would have to buy a pass and wristband to give you entry to all the concerts expected to be held at the Full Throttle Saloon.

If you are a Harley Owner Group (HOG) member, you will get an invite to the welcome party if you have proof of membership. HOG members also have access to other perks and discounts. If you are a HOG member, make sure to book your spot as soon as possible since availability tends to disappear quickly.

2.3 Housing Near the 2023 Sturgis Motorcycle Rally

It is possible to stay at tiny homes and house rentals near the Sturgis Motorcycle Rally. If you are riding with a group or have children with you, you should consider renting a home. Home rentals offer a secluded place away from all the noise and parties. Plus house rentals include facilities such as:

A kitchen to cook healthy meals and save yourself from spending money on expensive restaurants or fast food
A shower to help clean and refresh yourself
A backyard and grill to enjoy home-cooked barbeques
A garage to safely park your bike at night and reduce risk of theft or damage
A laundry room to clean and dry clothes during your stay
Spacious bedrooms that ensure a good night’s sleep

3. How to Book the Best Lodging for the 2023 Sturgis Motorcycle Rally

There are several reliable platforms you can use to rent housing for the 2023 Sturgis Motorcycle Rally. The top options include VRBO or AirBnB. In addition, Sturgis Rally Rentals allows you to check and book a place on the Black Hills Vacation website. If you are interested in a Sturgis Rally cabin rental, visit the Black Hills Vacation Cabins website.

Keep in mind that deals at AirBnB and VRBO constantly keep changing. Currently, the top-rated house rental at AirBnB is as follows:

A five-bedroom house located in Spearfish, South Dakota. Traci, the owner of this house, is known for his timely responses and hospitality. The house is well-maintained and can support at least five people. The per night cost is $600. The house is also equipped with a workstation and strong internet connection, so you don’t have to worry about missing work and spend quality time at the Sturgis rally. If you are visiting with friends, they also will access these facilities.

By the time you read this article, this house may no longer be available as most houses are already booked until August 12. Luckily, you can find other amazing house rental deals in and near Sturgis using reliable platforms like Airbnb.

To ensure all the Sturgis Rally attendees find comfortable and affordable accommodations, the Sturgis Rally organizers have uploaded a list of fully furnished house rentals with multiple amenities for one to fifteen people. One of the main facilities available at these houses is air-conditioning to help keep you cool in the summer heat. Check the official website for listings and make sure to reserve a spot before they run out.

Black Hills Vacations is another reliable platform to help you find the most suitable place to stay during the 2023 Sturgis Motorcycle Rally with affordable prices and limited time discounts. Besides providing detailed information about hotels, motels, resorts, cabins, and private homes, this platform also provides maps of the Black Hills and itinerary plans on its website.

To book your spot at a campground, you would have to visit official websites of national and state parks with listings of different campgrounds and RV parks. To find campsites, you can also use Hipcamp or Google Maps. Not all campgrounds provide access to the Sturgis Rally concerts, activities, and events. However, they will ensure safe and comfortable lodging on a budget. Make sure you check the reviews, pictures, and ratings to find out more about the facilities provided at these campsites.

4. How to Choose the Right Place to Stay at the 2023 Sturgis Motorcycle Rally

Many riders debate the pros and cons of staying at a campground or a hotel. When selecting a place of stay, consider the following questions:

Are you going to the rally for concerts?
Is it the motorcycle rides that you enjoy the most?
Do you plan to participate in the races, custom bike shows, parades, and contests?
Are you riding solo or with a group?
Are you willing to miss the late-night parties and wild pool parties that take place at the campgrounds and saloons?

If you are a bike enthusiast intent on experiencing every activity, concert, and ride at the Sturgis Motorcycle Rally, you should consider staying at the campgrounds. Riders who want to go camping at the Sturgis Motorcycle Rally usually have a tight budget and a love for nature.

Many riders also reserve both a campsite and a hotel room. This way, they can go to the campground events whenever they want and retire to a private temporary residence for a peaceful night’s rest. Others who are willing to spend a lot of money prefer more luxurious lodging, such as a deluxe cabin or house rental in the Black Hills that is close to nature, offers easy access to motorcycle rides, and is away from revving engines, raucous crowds, and loud music.

The average cost of a decent hotel room is between $500-$700 for a single-night stay. Meanwhile, a campground pass will cost around $465 for the full 10 days.

5. Last Words

Sturgis, Deadwood, the Black Hills, and the surrounding areas have been offering great places to stay each year for the Sturgis Motorcycle Rally. Whether campgrounds, hotel rooms, cabins, lodges, and private homes, each accommodation will offer a different yet highly satisfying experience. Avoid getting overwhelmed by options, compare the prices and facilities, consider your preferences and what you want to get out of the rally experience, and try to book a spot as early as possible to get discounts. Because as the Sturgis Rally gets closer, the fewer options are left and the higher the prices become.