Founded in 1878 as a boom town catering to off-duty soldiers of the U.S. Cavalry's Fort Meade, Sturgis was named for Col. Samuel D. Sturgis, the fort’s first commander. Sturgis is the county seat of Meade County, and is home to about 6,500 residents, although its population swells by several hundred thousand during the annual, world famous Black Hills Motorcycle Rally.

Located in the northern Black Hills, Sturgis and the surrounding area are rich in history and splendid scenery. From the iconic landmark of Bear Butte to the exquisite scenery of Vanocker Canyon, and all points between, Sturgis is the ideal base camp for any Black Hills adventure. Scenic byways, world famous monuments, and expansive recreation areas abound in and around this historic community. Attractions available in Sturgis and the immediate area include the following:

Motorcycle Museum and Hall of Fame --Sturgis is synonymous with motorcycles. The Sturgis Motorcycle Museum and Hall of Fame give visitors an enticing look at motorcycle history. Located at the intersection of Main Street and Junction Avenue, just three blocks from Sturgis RV Park, the museum opened its doors to the public in 2001. A selection of vintage and rare motorcycles offers visitors a glimpse into the magnificent world of two wheels.

Black Hills National Cemetery -- Located two miles east of Sturgis, Black Hills National Cemetery is the final resting place for thousands of fallen veterans. Historically, the cemetery grounds and surrounding land were the site of many significant and often turbulent changes, including Lakota Sioux settlement, French exploration, western expansion, and battles between the U.S. Army and Native American tribes.

Fort Meade Cavalry Museum – Fort Meade was built in 1878 after the discovery of gold in the region brought an influx of prospectors seeking their fortunes, aggravating relations with the Lakota and Cheyenne Indians. The fort is distinguished as having been the birthplace of our national anthem, 'The Star Spangled Banner,' as well as being the longest surviving post in the Dakota Territory. Many artifacts of the historic and colorful outpost and personal mementos of the soldiers and units who served here are displayed in the museum. Some of the fort's original buildings remain intact. The museum is located just two miles east of Sturgis.

Sturgis Municipal Park – Just a short walk east down the sidewalk that runs past the entrance to Sturgis RV Park, the well-equipped, family friendly Sturgis Municipal Park is built to suit kids of all ages. You’ll find it all here: Group shelters, picnic tables, playground, ballfields, and a hiking/bicycling trail. The kids will love it…and you will, too!

Sturgis Community Center – Located just a block away from the entrance to Sturgis RV Park, the Sturgis Community Center is a wonderful asset to the community and its visitors. Amenities include a swimming pool, hot tub, sauna, cardio room, weight room, racquetball courts, indoor running/walking track, gymnasium, locker rooms, and performing arts theater. Access is available for a modest daily or seasonal fee.

Bear Butte State Park – Named for the distinctive, lone mountain that formed millions of years ago, this is one of South Dakota’s most most popular state parks. The park lies just eight miles east of Sturgis. An interpretive center at the base of Bear Butte provides insight into the historical and cultural significance of the mountain. Two hiking trails wind their way around the slopes of Bear Butte. The Ceremonial Trail is a one-mile loop that branches into an additional one-mile hike to the top of the mountain. At the summit, you'll discover a breathtaking view of four states. The park also serves as the northernmost trailhead for the 111-mile Centennial Trail.