Rafter J-Bar / Custer / Rushmore

[MudChucker]

I'd like to hear from those with experience in the area. Without too much forethought I went ahead and booked 10 days at Rushmore, staying at Rafter J campground. It just dawned on me that we are there August 1 to 10,which coincides with Sturgis bike rally.

Traveling with wife and 13 year old daughter, how much of an impact will the Ralley have on our visit to the area?

[jamesu]

We have stayed at Rafter Bar J...it is an excellent choice. If you can possibly change your travel dates I would. The sound of thousands upon thousands of Harley’s in the Black Hills would certainly ruin my vacation. In a past life I was a NPS Ranger at Mt. Rushmore and lived in Rapid City. Black Hills summers are quite busy, but you can get away and find serenity...not so with Harley’s throttling up throughout the region. Good luck..

[suprz]

You will like Rafter J, I don't think you will like the crowds. And I have heard that the noise of the motorcycles keep the animals away from open areas so wildlife sightings are going to decrease also. We went 3 weeks after bike week, and all was well, plenty of wildlife at Custer State park etc... I would wait a few weeks

[CharlesinGA]

With some 400,000+ in attendance at the rally, odds are, you will not be able to enjoy slow scenic rides thru the hills, and the crowds at various venues in the area such as Rushmore will be heavy.

Charles