+2 on Rapid City, lots of options for hotels and restaurants. But the best times we have had in Sturgis, we rented a house with friends. Always a good time. Once we found a place outside of Rapid City in the mountains, very close to Mount Rushmore/Lead. Last time a place just outside of Deadwood. Leave the party and go home to a quiet place that is all yours. Both times we rented places with garages, nice amenity. It rains in them hills, often and at night.

Spearfish can also be a good spot, West of Sturgis but easy access to the Canyon and the north end of 385 and a little closer to Wyoming.

But 50 miles is not going to get you "out" of the rally.

 

I usually stay in Deadwood but last year and this year I'm staying in Custer. Little more than 50 miles away from Sturgis but what the hell I'm there for the riding anyway! I think I paid $65 a night for a cabin last year. This year I'm staying in a motel, bout $110 a night.

 

A few years ago we stayed in a house we rented on VRBO. It was located in Hermosa--southwest of Rapid City. I would stay there again in a heartbeat if going back to the Black Hills.

 

Do the cabins have A.C and showers? If not, what's the usual nighttime temp?

 

The cabin I stayed in was just like a KOA cabin. Had A fan and an electric heater. Bath house had private showers, very clean. Buffalo Ridge is the name. Used to be called Jellystone Park! Still has some of the old Flintstone stuff around.

 

We stayed 15 minutes sour of Sturgis at a campground called Nemo. It was awesome.

 

Get your designated rides started early to beat the crowds. Use your afternoons for whatever your destination is going to be, sightseeing etc.

 

Big Mama’s? If you’re camping, Nemo is a good location with everything about a 30 minute ride away.

 

Another vote for Hill City, We're moving there in 2020.

 

Cam-Plex Gillette, WY