About the Buffalo Chip 100
The Buffalo Chip 100 is a Baja style off road race held each summer at the Sturgis Buffalo Chip PowerSports Complex in Sturgis, South Dakota. It is one of four rounds in the Wild West Off Road Series run by Yellowstone Off Road Racing, and it puts trucks, UTVs, Ultra 4 cars and youth classes on a short, technical desert style course in the Black Hills. Racing, camping and live music all happen on the same 600 acre property.
Short Course, Real Challenge
The Buffalo Chip course is the shortest in the Wild West Off Road Series, and that is a feature rather than a limitation. A shorter lap keeps the field closer together and puts more of the race within sight of spectators, which is rare in off road racing where competitors often disappear into the desert for an hour at a time.
The layout makes up in difficulty what it lacks in length. Technical turns and real elevation changes keep drivers working, and the Black Hills terrain gives the course a character you will not find on a flat prairie course.
Race categories have included Truck, UTV, Ultra 4 and Youth divisions, along with the 1600 class. That spread means everything from a purpose built Ultra 4 rig to a family's side by side can find a class.
The PowerSports Complex
The race runs on the Buffalo Chip's own PowerSports Complex, an award winning facility built into the larger campground property. The Buffalo Chip has been operating since 1981, when it opened in response to the City of Sturgis closing city park to rally campers, and it has grown into a 600 acre venue that runs events through the summer rather than only during rally week.
Racing is not the only thing on the property during a Buffalo Chip 100 weekend. Past events have paired the racing with live music, a mud volleyball tournament benefiting a local youth club and general campground activity, which makes it a weekend rather than an afternoon.
Camping on Site
This is the practical advantage of racing at the Buffalo Chip. The campground offers tent camping in shaded areas along Cottle Creek, RV sites with power and water hookups, and cabin rentals.
For racers hauling a truck or a UTV from several states away, being able to park the rig, camp and race without leaving the property is worth a great deal. Reservations should be made well ahead, particularly for cabins and hookup sites, through the Buffalo Chip box office at 605-347-9000.
When It Runs
Recent editions have been held in July. The event has moved on the calendar over the years, having run in June in earlier seasons, so confirm the date each year rather than assuming.
Registration, race fees, tech and safety forms and contingency applications are all handled through Yellowstone Off Road Racing rather than through the campground.
Getting There
The Buffalo Chip sits just outside Sturgis in the northern Black Hills, close to I-90 and within easy reach of Rapid City, Spearfish and Deadwood. Sturgis is the natural base for a race weekend, with the Jackpine Gypsies club grounds and several other motorsports venues nearby.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Buffalo Chip 100?
A Baja style off road race held at the Sturgis Buffalo Chip PowerSports Complex, and one of four rounds in the Wild West Off Road Series.
Who runs the race?
Yellowstone Off Road Racing, with the Buffalo Chip hosting on its own property.
What classes race?
Truck, UTV, Ultra 4 and Youth categories, along with the 1600 class.
When is it held?
Recent editions have run in July. The date has shifted over the years, so check the current schedule.
What is the course like?
It is the shortest track in the Wild West series, with technical turns and elevation changes that keep it demanding.
Is camping available?
Yes. The Buffalo Chip Campground offers tent camping, RV sites with hookups and cabin rentals on the same property. Book ahead through the box office at 605-347-9000.
Can spectators attend?
Yes. The short course format keeps more of the racing in view than a typical desert race, and the weekend usually includes music and other activities on the grounds.
Where is the Buffalo Chip 100 held?
At the Sturgis Buffalo Chip PowerSports Complex outside Sturgis, South Dakota 57785, in the northern Black Hills near I-90.
More information on the Buffalo Chip 100; Click here https://www.yorracing.com/buffalo-chip-100-sturgis-south-dakota-off-road-race.php
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