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How to Pick the Best Motorcycle Campsite (and 11 of Our Favorites)

By Ed Stiley 11 min read

How to Pick the Best Motorcycle Campsite (and 11 of Our Favorites)

There are few experiences that match the feeling when you head out to your favorite motorcycle campsite. Intense freedom coupled with an even more immense appreciation for the natural world around us means your trip is one that won’t soon be forgotten.

Camping with a motorcycle allows us to go back to our roots. An era when we followed seasons and daylight instead of the time on a phone screen. And while many of today’s motorcycles are a far cry from the simple machines (or horses) of yesteryear, they still allow us to reconnect with the road in a way that can’t be achieved otherwise. 

Unsure of which motorcycle campsite to choose? We’ve compiled a list of 11 campgrounds throughout the US that you should consider first. Some of them even overlap with our 40 Best Motorcycle Routes in the USA list.

In this article we’ll cover:

  1. 11 Motorcycle Campsites You Can’t Miss
  2. What to Consider When Choosing a Campground
  3. Essentials Any Rider Won’t Want to go Without 

11 Motorcycle Campsites You Can’t Miss

From Florida to Alaska, the US isn’t short on great campgrounds for motorcycle enthusiasts. Many of these locations also feature amenities that are appealing to crowds beyond your motorcycle crew. 

Disclaimer: some of these offer more than just camping - but we felt that they were still worth mentioning as they are all great options. 

Here’s 11 spots that are worth your attention if you happen to be in the area on your ride:

  1. Deal’s Gap Motorcycle Resort | Robbinsville, North Carolina
  2. Pine Mountain Lake Campground | Groveland, California
  3. Smitty's Lodge Motorcycle Campground | Tellico Plains, Tennessee
  4. Sturgis Buffalo Chip | Buffalo Chip, South Dakota 
  5. Two Wheels of Suches | Suches, Georgia
  6. Pop’s Place Camping | Corning, Ohio
  7. Two Creeks Crossing Resort | Livingston, Texas
  8. Penmerryl Farm | Greenville, Virginia 
  9. Thompson’s Eagle Claw | Tok, Alaska 
  10. Great River Bluffs State Park | Winona, Minnesota
  11. Buttgenbach Campground at Croom Motorcycle Area | Brooksville, Florida



  1. Deal’s Gap Motorcycle Resort | Robbinsville, North Carolina

Have you heard of “The Dragon”?

It’s a winding mountain road with 318 curves in 11 miles. It’s known as one of the best rides in the world (but it’s not for beginners). And so it’s no surprise that there’s a resort dedicated solely to motorcyclists. It features a range of lodging options including tent sites, apartments, and electrical hookups for RVs. 

So really, no matter your preferred sleeping arrangement, you’ll likely find an option to fit your needs. There’s also a restaurant onsite serving a variety of American classics which means heading out on an empty stomach won’t be necessary. 

 

  1. Pine Mountain Lake Campground | Groveland, California

If you’ve never heard of Pine Mountain Lake in Groveland, California, you should go Google it now. We’ll wait.

Tucked away in the Sierra Nevada foothills, this area is truly awash with natural beauty. Add in the temperate California climate and winding roads, and you have all the ingredients you need for a great day on the bike.

The campground itself is vast, so you have plenty of space to spread out as you need. It’s also home to fishing and other outdoor activities, so there’s plenty to do when you’re not riding. 

 

  1. Smitty's Lodge Motorcycle Campground | Tellico Plains, Tennessee

Smitty's Lodge offers rustic accommodations in a secluded forest setting. It’s also conveniently located right in the Smoky Mountain Range of Tennessee, which is an attraction in itself for motorcyclists and tourists alike. 

This family-owned venue has an array of amenities tailored specifically for motorcyclists, including motorcycle awnings, a designated maintenance area, and gear dryers. They feature a variety of lodging options (tent sites, cabins, and RV parking) and easy access to a number of local attractions.

smoky mountain motorcycle

  1. Sturgis Buffalo Chip | Buffalo Chip, South Dakota

So Sturgis may not be your traditional motorcycle camping experience per se, but it definitely deserves a spot on this list for its notoriety. Held in August, Sturgis brings motorcycle enthusiasts from around the country and beyond. 

While there may be plenty of Sturgis camping sites, Buffalo Chip may be one of the most popular. Thanks to the assortment of attractions and lodging availability, it aims to become the “Best Party Anywhere”.

Have you been to Sturgis? Would you return? Let us know in the comments. 

 

  1. Two Wheels of Suches | Suches, Georgia

Another motorcycle-focused spot, Two Wheels of Suches offers a comprehensive experience for riders in North Georgia, with lodging, camping, dining, and easy access to scenic riding routes.

If you are traveling with a group, they have a cozy lodge with 3 comfortable bedrooms. They also have campsites and cabins available if that’s more your speed. 

It’s also conveniently located near Chattahoochee National Forest, which features several breathtaking rides:

  • Wolf Pen Gap (The Wolf): Famous for its challenging curves and beautiful mountain scenery.
  • Blood Mountain: Offers breathtaking views and winding roads through the forest.
  • Suches Loop: A local favorite that combines smooth pavement with some technical sections.

 

  1. Pop’s Place Camping | Corning, Ohio

For those in search of a true middle-America, rural experience, Perry County, Ohio is the place to go. With its scenic routes and quaint towns, this is one spot to go if all you’d like is a bit of peace and quiet (apart from the hum of your motorcycle, that is).

Pop’s Place definitely continues the “at home” feel with casual and rustic options like campsites and cabins. If you are looking for a no-frills experience that will allow you to sleep comfortably under the stars, this could be your spot. 

It also is super motorcycle friendly - and is close by to a number of off road tracks. So if an adventure ride is on your mind, you may want to stop by Perry County.

 

  1. Two Creeks Crossing Resort | Livingston, Texas

Two Creeks Crossing Resort in East Texas caters specifically to motorcycle enthusiasts, offering a blend of adventure and relaxation. Key features include scenic RV sites, cozy cabins, yurts, and glamping tents. 

Amenities range from a resort-style pool and hot tub to a fitness center and outdoor movie theater. Swamper’s Icehouse provides a social hub with food and drinks - perfect for your evening activities after a long day on the bike. 

Nearby attractions that are sure to please riders and travelers alike include serene nature walks and kayak rentals. These are perfect for exploring the area’s natural beauty and generally temperate climate.

 

  1. Penmerryl Farm | Greenville, Virginia

This stunning venue in southern Virginia offers a comprehensive motorcycle-friendly environment with access to various types of bike-friendly trails and routes in the Shenandoah Valley and surrounding areas. These include: 

They provide a ton of amenities including a pressure washer, tire changer, shop tools, air compressor, and motorcycle lift for free use. Services like GPS routing, training, and guided rides are available upon request.

The farm serves as a basecamp or overnight stop for riders exploring the region, catering to different riding preferences from sport-touring to adventure and dual-sport. Oh, and it’s also a great spot if you’re ever looking for a place to stay with your equestrian friends. ;) 

 

  1. Thompson’s Eagle Crawl | Tok, Alaska 

If you ever find yourself motorcycling across Alaska, this is one truly unique spot you’ll want to add to your journey. Catering primarily to those looking for a more primitive experience, it features tent sites, a 4-person bunkhouse, cabins, and even an old refurbished ambulance.

Open from May 15 to September 15, this venue has a workshop in case your bike needs a bit of love after traversing across Alaska. There’s also a steam bath and wood fired sauna so you can give yourself the same level of care too.

The owner is an experienced rider and is someone to have in your phone book if you do plan to travel across Alaska. Venues like this one (and those with experience with motorcycles in particular) can be few and far between, so it’s always good to have a contact like that in your phone.

Photo courtesy of Thompson's Eagle Creek

 

  1. Great River Bluffs State Park | Winona, Minnesota 

State parks are great options generally for motorcycle riders as they usually have high quality campsites and are otherwise well maintained. This park in particular is also known for its stunning fall foliage, blufftop views of the Mississippi River Valley, and goat prairies. 

For motorcycle campers, they offer over 30 sites and seasonably available showers. You can check using their online tool to see about the availability of drive-in sites if you’re considering meeting friends or family there.

Minnesota is known for its wide open roads and gorgeous landscape. But if you are planning a trip there, it’s best to avoid the colder winter months.

 

  1. Buttgenbach Campground at Croom Motorcycle Area | Brooksville, Florida

There are a lot of reasons to ride your motorcycle in Florida. It’s not a region known for its winding or hilly roads, but you can be sure you’ll enjoy sunshine and potentially sandy beaches as your vista. 

Buttgenbach Campground is one of the top motorcycle destinations in Florida that you do not want to miss if you’re in the Sunshine State. Located less than 2 hours from Tampa on the gulf coast, it is known as a popular location for off-road and ATV riders alike; thanks to its trails covering over 2,600 acres. 

Full-facility, primitive, and group camping sites are located throughout the facility. There’s also the Moto Ranch at Croom located within the Withlacoochee State Forest. Keep in mind that paid passes are required to access many of the facilities and amenities offered at the Croom Motorcycle Area. You can purchase a day pass here. 

 

What to Consider when Choosing a Motorcycle Campsite

Don’t see a spot on this list that fits your criteria or close to your route? That’s OK because there are plenty more options out there (we’d be here for years if we tried to write them all down).

Here’s the top criteria we recommend to help you vet any potential motorcycle campground prospects.

  1. Accessibility for Motorcycles
  • Terrain: Ensure the campground is accessible by motorcycle, with roads that aren't too rough for your bike's capabilities.
  • Parking: Check if the site has dedicated motorcycle parking or a safe space to leave your bike near your campsite.
  1. Facilities and Amenities
  • Showers & Bathrooms: Hot showers and clean restrooms can make a big difference, especially after a long ride.
  • Water Availability: Check if there’s potable water at the site to reduce what you need to carry.
  • Power Outlets/Charging Stations: You may need a place to charge your phone, GPS, or other electronics.
  1. Privacy & Space
  • Site Size: Look for sites with enough space to accommodate your tent, bike, and gear.
  • Noise Level: If you’re seeking a quiet, peaceful experience, consider how crowded or noisy the campground may get, especially in the evening.
  1. Security
  • Bike Security: Consider the security of the area and if there’s a safe way to store or lock up your bike and gear.
  • General Safety: Look for campgrounds with good reviews that mention safety, well-lit areas, or ranger patrols.
  1. Proximity to Services
  • Fuel: Ensure you're not too far from fuel stations in case you need to refill.
  • Food: Look for sites near grocery stores, cafes, or restaurants unless you plan on bringing all your food with you.
  • Repair Shops: In case of emergencies, knowing there’s a motorcycle repair shop nearby can be a relief. Some venues feature onsite designated repair and maintenance areas so you can make any necessary fixes, but in some cases this may not be sufficient. 
  1. Weather Conditions
  • Shelter from Wind: Sites with natural windbreaks (like trees or hills) can protect your tent from strong winds.
  • Shade: Especially important in hot climates, check if there are shaded spots to keep your campsite cooler.

motorcycle campsites

  1. Rules and Regulations
  • Motorcycle-Friendly Policies: Some campgrounds may have restrictions on motorcycles, such as noise regulations or bans in certain areas.
  • Campfire Regulations: Check if campfires are allowed or if you need to bring a portable stove for cooking.
  1. Location and Scenery
  • Scenic Views: Pick campgrounds that offer beautiful surroundings, whether that’s a mountain range, lake, or forest.
  • Activities: Look for campgrounds near hiking trails, lakes, or other points of interest that align with your plans for the trip.
  1. Cost
  • Affordability: Compare prices and look for places that fit your budget without sacrificing essential comforts or services.

Essentials for Any Motorcycle Camping Trip

One of the best ways to ensure that you have a great motorcycle camping trip is to be prepared. That means thinking critically about your wants and needs, as well as taking the time to do the necessary research on areas you’re not familiar with.

To help you with that effort, here are a few of our favorite posts on crucial topics like packing, extra fuel, amazing routes, and more.

These posts will help you to gather the tools, supplies, and know-how to have the best motorcycle camping adventure possible. 

You can also watch this video that breaks down the essentials of planning a motorcycle road trip.

 

Once you’re out on the road, be sure to tag us on your Instagram post: @motomachines. We always look forward to seeing how fellow riders are enjoying their time on the road. And of course, if you need help choosing luggage or other motorcycle equipment for your journey, contact us. We’ll be happy to make recommendations to help make your ride unforgettable.

 

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