Touring Bike Event Route 66: Essential Camping Guide

Touring bike event Route 66 camping guide: Pack smart, ride safe, and enjoy the open road! This guide covers essential gear, setup tips, and safety for your adventure.

Hey there, fellow riders! Planning a legendary trip like a Route 66 touring bike event with camping is a dream for many. It’s about more than just the destination; it’s about the journey, the freedom of the open road, and the pure joy of exploring America on two wheels. But when you’re thinking about camping along the Mother Road, it can feel a bit overwhelming, especially if you’re new to combining motorcycle travel with sleeping under the stars. Don’t sweat it! I’ve been there, and I know how to break it down into simple steps. This guide is designed to make your Route 66 camping adventure not just possible, but incredibly enjoyable and stress-free. We’ll cover everything you need to know to roll into any campsite with confidence, ready for a good night’s rest before another day of iconic cruising.

Your Route 66 Camping Adventure: What to Expect

Embarking on a touring bike event along Route 66 with camping is an experience that blends the romance of classic Americana with the rugged independence of motorcycle touring. It’s a chance to see America at its own pace, stopping at quirky roadside attractions, historic diners, and breathtaking natural landscapes. Camping adds another layer of connection to your surroundings, truly immersing you in the spirit of the journey. While Route 66 offers a variety of accommodation options, from vintage motels to established campgrounds, being prepared for camping gives you flexibility and can often be a more budget-friendly choice.

This guide will equip you with the knowledge to make your Route 66 camping experience smooth and memorable. We’ll cover the essentials of what to pack, how to pack it efficiently on your touring bike, and what to consider when choosing campsites along the way.

Why Camp on Route 66?

Camping on Route 66 offers a unique set of advantages:

Authenticity: Connecting with nature and experiencing your surroundings more directly.
Flexibility: Less reliance on booking motels in advance, allowing for spontaneous detours.
Cost Savings: Camping fees are typically lower than hotel accommodations.
Community: Meeting other travelers and locals at campgrounds.
Stargazing: Enjoying clear desert skies far from city lights.

State and National Parks: Often have well-maintained campgrounds with amenities like restrooms, water, and sometimes even showers. These offer stunning natural beauty.
Private Campgrounds: These can range from basic sites to those with full hookups, pools, and other facilities.
Boondocking/Dispersed Camping: In some vast, open areas, you might find opportunities for primitive camping on public lands where allowed. Always check local regulations and Leave No Trace principles.
Route 66 Specific Campgrounds/RV Parks: Some unique spots cater directly to Route 66 travelers.

Tent: Choose a lightweight, compact, and waterproof tent. A 2-person tent is usually comfortable for one rider and their gear. Look for easy setup, especially if you’re arriving at dusk.
Sleeping Bag: Select a bag with a temperature rating appropriate for the expected nighttime lows along Route 66 during your travel season. Evenings in the desert can get chilly!
Sleeping Pad: Crucial for comfort and insulation from the cold ground. Inflatable pads offer more comfort and pack down smaller.
Pillow: A compressible camping pillow or a stuff sack filled with soft clothing works well.

Camp Stove: A small, portable propane stove is efficient and easy to use. Bring extra fuel canisters.
Cookware: A compact pot and pan set, a sturdy spatula, and a knife.
Utensils: A fork, spoon, and knife (spork is a great space-saver).
Plates/Bowls: Lightweight, durable options are best.
Mugs: For your morning coffee or evening tea.
Water Bottle/Hydration Reservoir: Staying hydrated is paramount.
Water Filter/Purifier (Optional but Recommended): For access to clean drinking water from natural sources if needed.
Cooler (Small, Soft-Sided): For keeping drinks and perishables cool for a day or two.
Biodegradable Soap & Sponge: For cleaning up.
Trash Bags: Pack it in, pack it out!

Moisture-Wicking Base Layers: To keep you comfortable in varying temperatures.
Warm Mid-Layers: Fleece jacket or insulated vest.
Waterproof and Windproof Outerwear: Essential for unpredictable weather.
Comfortable Camp Clothes: Something to change into after a long day of riding.
Hiking/Camp Shoes: Comfortable footwear for walking around the campsite.
Socks (Wool or Synthetic): Plenty of them!
Hat and Gloves: Evenings can be cool, and sun protection is vital during the day.
Toiletries: Toothbrush, toothpaste, biodegradable soap, sunscreen, insect repellent.
First-Aid Kit: A well-stocked kit is non-negotiable. Include blister treatment, pain relievers, bandages, antiseptic wipes, and any personal medications.
Headlamp or Flashlight: Indispensable for navigating the campsite after dark.

Basic Motorcycle Tool Kit: Wrench set, screwdrivers, pliers, tire pressure gauge.
Tire Repair Kit: Plugs, patch kit, and pump or CO2 cartridges.
Duct Tape and Zip Ties: For quick fixes on almost anything.
Multi-tool: Always handy.

GPS Device or Smartphone with Reliable Navigation Apps: Download offline maps.
Paper Maps: As a backup! A good old-fashioned roadmap of Route 66 is a great souvenir and a reliable backup.
Emergency Whistle: For signaling.
Reflective Gear: For visibility around the campsite at night.
Portable Phone Charger/Power Bank: To keep your devices running.

Packing Your Touring Bike for Camping Success

This is where the art of motorcycle camping truly shines. You need to pack your gear securely and logically so it doesn’t affect your bike’s handling and is accessible when you need it.

Weight Distribution is Key

Low and Balanced: The heaviest items should be placed as low as possible on the bike, ideally over or just behind the main mass of the motorcycle. This helps maintain a low center of gravity.
Even Distribution: Try to distribute weight as evenly as possible between the left and right sides of your bike.
Avoid the Top: Don’t stack too much gear high on the rear rack, as this can make your bike feel top-heavy and unstable, especially at speed or in wind.

1. Riding Case Organization: If your touring bike has hard cases (panniers), use them for your more essential items.
Left Pannier: Tent, sleeping bag, sleeping pad, camp shoes. These are bulky but relatively light.
Right Pannier: Cookware, stove, fuel, first-aid kit, toiletries. These are often heavier and more rigid.
2. Top Case/Tail Bag: This is ideal for frequently accessed items or softer, lighter gear.
Rain gear, extra layers of clothing, snacks, water, headlamp, navigation tools.
3. Tank Bag: Perfect for items you need quick access to while riding.
Phone, wallet, GPS, sunglasses, snacks, camera, small water bottle.
4. Soft Bags or Bungee Nets: For strapping down bulkier items below your top case, on a rear rack, or on passenger footpegs if you’re riding solo.
Sleeping roll, tent poles, extra fuel canister (if needed and secured properly).
5. Waterproof Everything: Use dry bags inside your panniers and top case, or wrap items in heavy-duty garbage bags, especially sleeping bags and extra clothing. Even the best luggage can find a way to let water in.

Quick Tip: Before you leave home, do a practice pack. Load all your gear onto your bike and go for a short ride to feel how it handles. This will help you adjust the packing if anything feels off.

Setting Up Camp Like a Pro

Arriving at a campsite after a day of riding can be exhausting. Having a streamlined setup process makes all the difference.

Choosing Your Campsite Spot

Level Ground: Essential for a good night’s sleep. Avoid slopes where you might roll out of your sleeping bag!
Shelter from Wind: If possible, look for natural windbreaks like trees or large rocks.
Proximity to Amenities: Decide if you want to be close to restrooms and water sources, or further away for more privacy.
Sun/Shade: Consider where the sun will be in the morning (do you want to wake up to warmth, or avoid direct sun?).
Safety: Avoid setting up camp near dead trees or branches that could fall.

Set Up Stove: Place your stove on a stable, flat surface away from flammable materials.
Unpack Food: Get out what you need for your meal.
Water Source: Have your water bottle or purifier ready.
Cleaning Station: Keep your biodegradable soap and sponge handy for post-meal cleanup.

Be Visible: Wear bright gear. Use your headlights. Consider reflective elements on your jacket and bags. Route 66 can have unexpected traffic and slow-moving farm equipment in some areas.
Scan Far Ahead: Look for hazards like potholes, debris, animals, and changing road surfaces.
Manage Fatigue: Take regular breaks. Stop for lunch, grab a coffee, and stretch. Don’t push yourself when you’re tired.
Watch for Oncoming Traffic: Especially on two-lane stretches of Route 66 where passing can be common.
Respect Speed Limits: They are there for a reason, and enforcement can vary.
Know Your Bike: Understand how your fully loaded touring bike handles differently.
Weather Awareness: Check forecasts regularly. Extreme heat in the Southwest or sudden desert thunderstorms can be dangerous.

Campsite Safety

Secure Your Bike: Lock your motorcycle and any valuable gear left on it. If possible, park it in a well-lit area and close to your tent. Consider a motorcycle alarm or locking cables.
Food Storage: Properly store food to deter animals. Use bear-resistant containers if required in certain areas. Even in less wild areas, raccoons and skunks can be curious visitors. Always store food in your locked motorcycle cases or tent, not out in the open.
Campfire Safety: If you have a campfire, ensure it’s in a designated fire pit. Never leave a fire unattended, and fully extinguish it before going to bed or leaving. Check for fire bans before you even light one.
Water Safety: Drink only treated or purified water.
Wildlife Awareness: Be aware of local wildlife. Know what to do if you encounter snakes, scorpions, or larger animals.
First-Aid Readiness: Keep your first-aid kit accessible. Know basic first aid. You can find excellent resources on wilderness first aid from organizations like the American Red Cross.
Inform Someone: Let a friend or family member know your general route and expected check-in times.

Plan Ahead and Prepare: Know the regulations and the weather.
Travel and Camp on Durable Surfaces: Stick to designated campsites and trails.
Dispose of Waste Properly: Pack out everything you pack in, especially trash. “Pack it in, pack it out.”
Leave What You Find: Don’t disturb rocks, plants, or historical artifacts.
Minimize Campfire Impacts: Use established fire rings; keep fires small.
Respect Wildlife: Observe from a distance; never feed wild animals.
Be Considerate of Other Visitors: Keep noise levels down, especially at night.

Sample Route 66 Camping Itinerary Snippet

Here’s a small example of how you might plan a couple of days focusing on camping:

| Day | Starting Point | Destination Campground (Example) | Distance (Approx.) | Route 66 Highlights | Camping Notes |
| :– | :—————— | :——————————— | :—————– | :——————————————————— | :—————————————————————————- |
| 1 | Tulsa, Oklahoma | Ozark National Scenic Riverways | 150 miles | Blue Whale of Catoosa, J.M. Davis Arms Museum, Coleman Theatre. | Primitive camping available along the river. Check for permit requirements. |
| 2 | West of Springfield, MO | Meramec State Park, Missouri | 200 miles | The M.C. Mary McDonald’s Restaurant, Old Chain of Rocks Bridge. | Well-equipped state park campground with showers and restrooms. Book ahead! |

This is a simplified example. Route 66 has countless points of interest and camping opportunities.

Frequently Asked Questions About Route 66 Motorcycle Camping

Have more questions? We’ve got you covered with these common beginner inquiries.

Q1: How much extra weight can my touring bike handle for camping?

Most touring bikes are designed to carry a significant amount of weight. Always check your motorcycle’s owner’s manual for its Gross Vehicle Weight Rating (GVWR). This is the maximum allowed weight of the bike itself, plus all passengers, cargo, and accessories. Distribute your camping gear evenly to maintain good handling and stability.

Q2: What if I break down in a remote area with my camping gear?

This is why having a reliable motorcycle tool kit and repair items like a tire plug kit is essential. If you can’t fix it yourself, ensure you have roadside assistance coverage (like AAA or similar) that covers motorcycles and towing. Having your bike secured and your camping gear packed neatly will make it easier for a tow truck to load your bike.

Q3: Do I need to book campsites in advance on Route 66?

For popular state and national parks, especially during peak season (spring and fall in many areas), booking in advance is highly recommended. Some private campgrounds also fill up. However, Route 66 is long, and there are many dispersed camping options or less popular campgrounds where walk-ins might be possible. Researching options for each day is your best bet.

Q4: What’s the best time of year to camp on Route 66?

Spring (April-May) and Fall (September-October) are generally considered the best times. The weather is usually pleasant, with milder temperatures ideal for both riding and camping. Summer can be extremely hot, especially in the Southwest desert regions, making camping uncomfortable and potentially dangerous. Winter can bring cold temperatures and snow in some northern sections of the route.

Q5: How do I keep my gear dry on a motorcycle camping trip?

The key is waterproof bags and proper packing. Use high-quality dry bags for your sleeping bag, clothes, and electronics. Pack these inside your panniers and top case.