When most people hear “Sturgis, South Dakota,” they immediately think of the world-famous Sturgis Motorcycle Rally. And while the rally is undoubtedly a bucket-list event for motorcycle enthusiasts, there’s so much more to this town and its surrounding areas. Whether you’re a biker at heart or just someone who loves exploring new places, Sturgis offers a gateway to some of the most breathtaking attractions in the Black Hills.
Camping on The Wall
When I found out we would be in South Dakota in August I immediately began planning things to do around the Sturgis area. I knew we would be going to the rally and taking some scenic rides, but we also wanted to see new areas and enjoy nature. We set up camp in Wall, about 80 miles south of Sturgis. This kept us out of the chaos of the crowds but close enough to experience the event and enjoy several rides. And the wildlife on the BLM land was incredible!
In my previous post, I shared about exploring Wall Drug (read that post here) and the Badlands. Now it was time to move further north and into the Black Hills. In this post, I’ll share must-see spots in and around Sturgis, including Custer State Park, Needles Highway, the Crazy Horse Memorial, and the charming town of Spearfish.
Sturgis: A Biker’s Dream
Sturgis is synonymous with the Sturgis Motorcycle Rally, an event that has grown from humble beginnings into the largest motorcycle rally in the world.
The rally’s history dates back to 1938 when the Jackpine Gypsies Motorcycle Club founded it. What started as a small gathering of motorcycle racers has since evolved into a massive event that draws over 500,000 people annually.
In case you are wondering (like I was!), Sturgis is Hell’s Angels territory, but most motorcycle clubs adhere to a code of respect when attending events like Sturgis. While rivalries may exist, the rally is typically seen as a neutral ground where the focus is on the shared love of motorcycles rather than club rivalries. Bikers are among some of the best people I’ve ever met!
What to Expect
If you find yourself in Sturgis during the first two weeks of August, you’re in for a treat. The rally is a celebration of all things motorcycle. Main Street in Sturgis is packed with bikes of every make and model, and the roar of engines fills the air. There’s something for everyone—live music, bike shows, and charity rides. There are tents with merchandise, food vendors, and service providers everywhere. Do you need your bike washed or your oil changed? You are in luck!
For first-time attendees, it’s important to plan early. Accommodations fill up quickly, so booking early is crucial. If you will be camping the campgrounds fill up quickly also. Consider camping on the Wall outside of the Badlands. We loved it! And don’t miss out on iconic rides, like the trip to Mount Rushmore or a scenic cruise along the Needles Highway.
If you’re looking for great food, you’ll find plenty of local spots that cater to bikers. And if you want to stay close to the action, consider lawn camping! Residents of Sturgis open their yards up for a small cost to bikers in town for the rally. Who would have thought?!
Beyond the Rally
But what happens when the rally ends? Sturgis may quiet down, but it never loses it’s charm. Outside of rally season, the experience is more laid-back, perfect for those who prefer a quieter visit. You can explore the town’s history at the Sturgis Motorcycle Museum and Hall of Fame, which celebrates the culture and history of motorcycling year-round. Plus, the surrounding Black Hills offers endless opportunities for outdoor adventures, from hiking and fishing to exploring scenic byways.
Custer State Park: A Natural Wonderland
Just an hour’s drive from Sturgis lies Custer State Park, one of South Dakota’s largest and most celebrated state parks. It has been on my “must-see” list for several years and I was happy to finally get a chance to see the incredible Black Hills nature of the park. Covering over 71,000 acres, this park is one of the largest and most diverse state parks in the nation!
One of the park’s highlights is its scenic drives. The Wildlife Loop Road is a must-do, offering an 18-mile journey through the park’s diverse habitats. Keep your eyes peeled for the park’s famous bison herd, which roams freely and often gets up close and personal with visitors. You’re also likely to spot pronghorns, elk, and bighorn sheep. My favorite, of course, was the bison! Just a reminder, though: never approach wildlife!
For those who prefer to explore on foot, Custer State Park boasts some of the best hiking trails in the Black Hills. The Black Elk Peak trail is particularly popular, taking you to the highest point in South Dakota at 7,242 feet. The views from the top are nothing short of spectacular, with panoramic vistas that stretch for miles.
According to All Trails, some of the best hikes in Custer are:
- Black Elk Peak Loop – 7.1 miles
- Cathedral Spires Trail – 1.6 miles
- Sunday Gulch Trail – 3.9 miles
- Little Devils Tower Spur Trail – 3.8 miles
- Sylvan Lake Shore Trail – 1.1 miles
- Lover’s Leap Trail – 4.2 miles
- Prairie Trail – 2.1 miles
If hiking isn’t your thing, Custer State Park still has plenty of ways to enjoy outdoor activities. Try your hand at fishing in one of the park’s many lakes or spend a night under the stars at one of its well-equipped campgrounds. Whether you’re picnicking by a peaceful stream or horseback riding through the hills, Custer State Park is a natural playground that invites you to unwind and reconnect with nature.
Needles Highway: A Scenic Marvel
No visit to the Black Hills would be complete without driving the Needles Highway, one of the most scenic roads in the United States. This 14-mile stretch of road is part of the South Dakota Highway 87 and is renowned for its narrow, winding path through towering granite spires and lush forests. I put it on our must-do list as soon as I learned about it and it lived up to the hype!
One of the most famous features of Needles Highway is the Needle’s Eye Tunnel, a narrow passageway carved through solid granite. The tunnel is just 8 feet 4 inches wide, making it a thrilling experience to drive through, especially for those in larger vehicles. I have to say I’m glad we were on the bike and not in the truck! But don’t let that deter you—the reward is worth it. On the other side, you’ll find stunning rock formations that look as though they’ve been carefully sculpted by nature herself.
Photo Opportunities and Stops
The Needles Highway is a photographer’s dream. There are countless spots to pull over and capture the beauty of the Black Hills. Be sure to stop at the various overlooks that offer panoramic views of the surrounding landscape, including the breathtaking Cathedral Spires. Another must-see along the highway is Sylvan Lake, a serene body of water surrounded by towering rocks, perfect for a picnic or a paddle.
Crazy Horse Memorial
Just a short drive from Needles Highway, you’ll find the Crazy Horse Memorial, a tribute to the legendary Lakota leader and a symbol of Native American culture. The memorial, which has been under construction since 1948, is a massive mountain carving that, when completed, will be the largest sculpture in the world.
Spearfish
One of Spearfish’s most popular attractions is the Spearfish Canyon Scenic Byway. This 19-mile drive takes you through one of the most picturesque canyons in the Black Hills, with towering limestone cliffs, lush forests, and cascading waterfalls. Bridal Veil Falls, Roughlock Falls, and Spearfish Falls are all easily accessible from the byway and offer stunning views that are perfect for a photo op.
Deadwood
We completed our Sturgis exploration with a stop in Deadwood, South Dakota. This historic gem is just 12 miles from Sturgis, famous for its Wild West heritage and Gold Rush origins. Founded in 1876 during the Black Hills Gold Rush, Deadwood was home to legendary figures like Wild Bill Hickok and Calamity Jane. The town’s well-preserved Main Street, lined with saloons, shops, and casinos, transports visitors back to the Old West. And it’s pretty impressive lined with thousands of motorcycles too!
I hope this post helps to illustrate that Sturgis, South Dakota is so much more than just a biker’s paradise. While the motorcycle rally is undoubtedly a highlight, the town and its surrounding areas offer a wealth of experiences that appeal to all types of travelers. From the natural wonders of Custer State Park and Needles Highway to the cultural significance of the Crazy Horse Memorial and the natural beauty of Spearfish, the Black Hills of South Dakota offer an experience you should not pass up!
Have you been to Sturgis or any cool surrounding towns like Spearfish or Deadwood? What were your favorite things to do? Share your Sturgis experience in the comments!
