Buffalo Chip is the largest music venue at the Sturgis Motorcycle Rally, held each August in South Dakota

The Buffalo Chip is a 600-acre campground and entertainment venue near Sturgis, South Dakota, that hosts a multi-day music festival during the annual Sturgis Motorcycle Rally. The venue operates as a private campground and concert space, not a government-run facility. It books major touring acts across rock, country, and other genres, and has hosted performers ranging from Lynyrd Skynyrd and ZZ Top to contemporary country artists.

The event runs concurrently with the Sturgis Rally, which typically takes place in early August. The Buffalo Chip charges separate admission for concerts and camping, and operates independently from the city of Sturgis itself, though it benefits from the rally's annual influx of motorcycle enthusiasts and tourists.

Key Takeaways

  • Buffalo Chip concerts happen during the Sturgis Motorcycle Rally in early August each year, with the exact dates announced months in advance on the venue's website.
  • You can purchase day passes for individual concerts or multi-day passes, and camping on the grounds costs extra and must be reserved separately.
  • The venue is located about six miles outside Sturgis proper, so plan transportation or arrive early if you are driving your own motorcycle or vehicle.
  • Ticket prices and performer lineups vary year to year; the Buffalo Chip announces its schedule typically in spring for the following August event.

How to find the current year's lineup and ticket prices

The Buffalo Chip publishes its annual concert schedule on its official website, usually in April or May for the August event. The site lists performer names, performance dates and times, and ticket pricing for day passes and multi-day packages.

Ticket sales typically open in late spring or early summer. You can purchase tickets directly through the Buffalo Chip's website or through major ticketing platforms that partner with the venue. Prices vary depending on which concerts you want to see and whether you purchase single-day or multi-day passes.

Camping and overnight accommodations at the venue

The Buffalo Chip operates as a campground with RV sites, tent camping areas, and cabin rentals. Camping reservations are separate from concert tickets and must be booked independently. The venue fills quickly during Sturgis Rally week, so reservations often open months in advance.

Camping options range from basic tent sites to full-hookup RV spots to pre-set glamping tents. Prices depend on the type of accommodation and the specific dates. You can reserve camping through the Buffalo Chip's website or by calling their reservation line directly.

What to bring and what the venue allows

The Buffalo Chip permits camping gear, coolers, and personal items typical for outdoor events. The venue has specific rules about what you can and cannot bring into concert areas — for example, outside alcohol and glass containers are generally prohibited in the concert grounds themselves, though you may have alcohol in your campsite.

Pets are permitted in some camping areas but not in concert venues. Weapons, fireworks, and illegal substances are prohibited. The venue publishes a full list of policies on its website before each event, and it is worth reviewing these before you arrive, as rules can change year to year.

Transportation and parking at Buffalo Chip

The Buffalo Chip is located approximately six miles north of Sturgis on Highway 79. If you are riding a motorcycle, the venue has dedicated motorcycle parking. If you are arriving by car or RV, parking is included with camping reservations; day-pass attendees can park in designated day-use lots.

During Sturgis Rally week, traffic in the area is heavy. Arriving early in the day or during off-peak hours can reduce wait times. The venue does not provide shuttle service from Sturgis town, so plan your own transportation or arrange a ride in advance if you do not have your own vehicle.

Typical concert schedule and daily programming

The Buffalo Chip typically runs concerts from late afternoon into the evening and night, with multiple stages and performers on the same day. A typical August event spans four to ten days, with different lineups each night. Some performers play multiple nights, while others appear once.

The venue also hosts daytime activities and vendor areas, not just evening concerts. Programming may include motorcycle shows, merchandise vendors, food and beverage stands, and other entertainment between main stage performances. The full daily schedule is posted on the website once the event begins.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I have to camp at Buffalo Chip to attend the concerts?

No. You can purchase day passes for individual concerts without camping. However, you will need to arrange your own transportation to and from the venue each day, and parking for day-pass holders is limited. Many attendees stay in Sturgis hotels or other nearby accommodations and drive out for concerts.

Can I bring my own food and drinks into the concert area?

Outside alcohol and glass containers are not permitted in concert zones. Food policies vary — the venue typically allows outside food but encourages purchasing from on-site vendors. Check the current year's rules on the Buffalo Chip website before you arrive.

What if I want to attend only one or two concerts, not the whole event?

Single-day passes are available for most performances. You pay per concert or per day rather than committing to a multi-day package. Prices for single-day passes are higher per concert than multi-day packages, but you only pay for the shows you want to see.

How early should I arrive during Sturgis Rally week?

Arriving in the morning or early afternoon is recommended to avoid evening traffic congestion. If you are camping, check-in times are typically in the afternoon, so plan to arrive by mid-day. For day-pass attendees, arriving two to three hours before the first performance gives you time to park and find your spot.

Is there a refund policy if I cannot attend?

Refund policies depend on the ticketing platform and the specific terms of your purchase. Most tickets are non-refundable, though some may be transferable or exchangeable. Review the terms when you purchase, and contact the Buffalo Chip or the ticketing vendor directly if you need to cancel.