NCSTOC 2010

[Landon]

NCSTOC
DETAILS:
Date
July 30-August 1,2010
(Friday thru Sunday)

Place
Hot Springs Resort and Spa (http://www.nchotsprings.com/)
Hot Springs, NC

RSVP here (http://www.st-owners.com/forums/calendar.php?do=getinfo&e=265&day=2010-7-30&c=1)

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Friday we will meet and leave the campground at 3:00PM for around a 2 hour ride to eat dinner. The return ride should take about an hour.

[Landon]

Ok...decided to try and move this to a different part of the state for 2010. Never stayed at this "Motorcycle Resort", so let me know if you have been there and if it will work. I will try to make a visit there at some point before the event to scope it out.


Why did I move it?
Because I am organizing it and can! Plus I have been to the "Deals Gap area" so many times I wanted to try another location out.

Lets here some feedback, and "Lets Ride!!!"

[hojo in sc]

Wow, already thinking ahead aren't you, I love it!

[bschoolz1]

where is ferguson nc?

[hojo in sc]

http://www.mapquest.com/maps/map.adp?city=ferguson&state=nc

Some nice mountains around too.

[Landon]

where is ferguson nc?

Right in the middle of Gods Country!

[Tor]

Sounds good, Landon. we'll try to make it....:biker:

[Landon]

Ok. I had Steve Kelley go check this place out, he is saying that its probably not a good choice for us. Does anyone have an idea of somewhere else in this general area of the state to have this event? I really want to move it and enjoy a different part of the state next year. I need some help from the locals,,PLEASE!!!

[hojo in sc]

Hopefully they will have I-40 opened up by then, if some of you guys are in a hurry and super slab it down here (I-40) is closed at the NC/TN border due to a rock slide.

[Tor]

It don't have to be a Moto camp, does it?

[Landon]

It don't have to be a Moto camp, does it?

Not necessarily. Ideally I was trying to find something that would accomidate both campers and non campers.

What do you have in mind?

[Tor]

Not necessarily. Ideally I was trying to find something that would accomidate both campers and non campers.

What do you have in mind?

No place in particular, Landon, but it just widens the possibilities, and where to look,,,:D

[Trekker Dave]

My only suggestion is to try and find places that have Group Camping, so the tents are all in one area with one campfire.

[Uncle Phil]

LANDON - You might check out the Bear's Den -

http://www.bear-den.com/

Right off the BRP and seems to be motorcycle friendly. I have not been there personally, but looks pretty promising. They have cabins and tent sites and there's a small town (Spruce Pine) about 8 miles way that has at least 4 restaurants. And there are some great roads in the area also. Good luck!

[Landon]

LANDON - You might check out the Bear's Den -

http://www.bear-den.com/

Right off the BRP and seems to be motorcycle friendly. I have not been there personally, but looks pretty promising. They have cabins and tent sites and there's a small town (Spruce Pine) about 8 miles way that has at least 4 restaurants. And there are some great roads in the area also. Good luck!

Thanks Phil! We will look into that as an option.

[Tor]

LANDON - You might check out the Bear's Den -

http://www.bear-den.com/

Right off the BRP and seems to be motorcycle friendly. I have not been there personally, but looks pretty promising. They have cabins and tent sites and there's a small town (Spruce Pine) about 8 miles way that has at least 4 restaurants. And there are some great roads in the area also. Good luck!

Camped there before, nice campground,,,,here is another one we've been at in Hot Springs. (http://www.nchotsprings.com/nc-hot-springs-resort-lodging.html) Also very nice.

[Uncle Phil]

TOR - So thats the Hot Springs as in up on 209 where the Smoky Mountain Diner is. Hmm, now that is a very good location.

[Tor]

TOR - So thats the Hot Springs as in up on 209 where the Smoky Mountain Diner is. Hmm, now that is a very good location.

Its on the right side just before the French Broad River bridge,,,,,coming from Hot Springs / 209....

edit: UP, this is not on 209, but just going out of Hot Springs towards 25.

[Uncle Phil]

TOR - Yeah, best I remember it's got sort of a fancy entrance if it's the one I'm thinking about.

[Tor]

35.893428,-82.82537

[Landon]

Camped there before, nice campground,,,,here is another one we've been at in Hot Springs. (http://www.nchotsprings.com/nc-hot-springs-resort-lodging.html) Also very nice.

That looks like the ticket for this event. Has a little of everything, if women want to come and enjoy and spa day they can while the boys go riding. And a bit more reasonable pricing than the Bear one.

[Tor]

Another VERY nice one is Happy Holiday Campground (http://www.happyholidaycherokee.com/Gallery.htm) a few miles down the road from Maggie Valley

[Lonewolf]

Hey guys check out Rider's Roost

[Landon]

Hey guys check out Rider's Roost

Looks like a good option. Maybe someone can go check it out for us.

[jscar1968]

You're probably tired of suggestions, But,check these two out. www.highcountrymotorcyclecamp.com, (located in Ferguson) its a little spartan, and www.ironhorsenc.com which is pretty nice. I grew up riding in that area. Lonewolf suggested Riders roost, which is on the spur road to the left on the way to High Country. I've never been to that one.

[Trekker Dave]

Riders Roost is a nice enough place, with cabins, bunkhouses, and room to camp next to the creek. DeanR & I stayed there last summer. The folks were great.

Take notice they have a reputation of being a hard playing cruiser destination, which means the drinking and fun and language is loud and a bit crude at times. It's all good, just be aware. The folks that operated it were supposed to be retiring with new management coming in. Word was the place would not see any change in operation.

[Lanman]

That looks like the ticket for this event. Has a little of everything, if women want to come and enjoy and spa day they can while the boys go riding. And a bit more reasonable pricing than the Bear one.

Hi Landon,
I checked out the Hot Springs location for the Blue Ridge gathering and it was a really good campground with food, and gas and other amenities all within a quarter mile. I posted some pictures on the BRG thread...:STOC::dr13:

[Landon]

Ok...location for this year has been decided! Start making your reservations!

[Tor]

Alrighty. Sounds good. :biker:

[Uncle Phil]

Not to mention some mighty fine riding roads (like 209, 212, etc.) too!

[Lanman]

So It's Hot Springs Now? :STOC::dr13: Cool....

[Landon]

Bump,,,not sure I will be there as I am taking a week off work so close to this for my alaska trip(not on the bike):(

[bikeopath]

Is this thing happening?

[Landon]

Is this thing happening?

It will happen. But you never know how many will come. I think last year about 4 said there were coming and we had more like 12 there. So if you free and feel like you want to go, plan on it and meet with whoever is there.

[Landon]

Pretty quite in here! Surely some more people want to come ride some of the best roads in the US and hang out with fellow ST owners!

[Lanman]

Pretty quite in here! Surely some more people want to come ride some of the best roads in the US and hang out with fellow ST owners!

Are you coming?

[Landon]

Are you coming?

Do you think that would increase or decrease attendance?:p:

[skipcurt]

I just saw this event and am seriously considering this. I'm all about camping but July/Aug can be just miserably hot and humid. Check out the camping cabins #5-8. $65. night divided by 4 guys is $16.25 a night....for A/C, sink & toilet. I'd be up for that if anyone else wants to partake. Heck, I'd even do cabins #2-4 at $45. night divided by 4 is $11.25!
Have to give 'em a call to find out about shower location and some other minor details. What's anybody else thinking?

Skip

[Mellow]

I just saw this event and am seriously considering this. I'm all about camping but July/Aug can be just miserably hot and humid. Check out the camping cabins #5-8. $65. night divided by 4 guys is $16.25 a night....for A/C, sink & toilet. I'd be up for that if anyone else wants to partake. Heck, I'd even do cabins #2-4 at $45. night divided by 4 is $11.25!
Have to give 'em a call to find out about shower location and some other minor details. What's anybody else thinking?

Skip

Coleman fans can be a lifesaver in the summer and make sleeping very comfortable.

http://www.campmor.com/outdoor/gear/Product___85229

[Landon]

I just saw this event and am seriously considering this. I'm all about camping but July/Aug can be just miserably hot and humid. Check out the camping cabins #5-8. $65. night divided by 4 guys is $16.25 a night....for A/C, sink & toilet. I'd be up for that if anyone else wants to partake. Heck, I'd even do cabins #2-4 at $45. night divided by 4 is $11.25!
Have to give 'em a call to find out about shower location and some other minor details. What's anybody else thinking?

Skip

I sent an email last week and got an autoreply back saying she was out till today. I asked about the cabin and when it says it sleeps 4, but I wanted to know the accomodations for four. I will let you know what I find out.

[skipcurt]

Coleman fans can be a lifesaver in the summer and make sleeping very comfortable.

http://www.campmor.com/outdoor/gear/Product___85229
That's pretty nifty Mellow, I've never seen that before. 1D battery isn't bad at all!
Living in the south I've always just opted out of tent camping from June to September.

Skip

[Mellow]

That's pretty nifty Mellow, I've never seen that before. 1D battery isn't bad at all!
Living in the south I've always just opted out of tent camping from June to September.

Skip

Yeah, it's saved my life on some very humid nights.

The 1 battery will last at least 3 nights... It just doesn't have much resistance, there are other bigger fans out there as well as some smaller ones but this has worked well for me.

I do with they made them a bit better... the battery holder/bottom will come off if it moves around your top box and especially if the battery is inside. The on/off button is a little finicky. But, like I said, better to have than not have.

[Landon]

I asked about cabin 2-4 that rent for $45 a night plus tax. Here is their response:

We have several sites open for the dates that you have requested. The cabins have 3 beds. Two full and one twin, a bunk bed and a loft. They also have heat and air. You must bring your own linens or sleeping bags or we rent linens for $5 per set. Also, the showers and restrooms are very close to the cabins. Please let us know if you need anymore information.


I sent back and asked if they could send some pictures of the inside of the cabins. I also asked if the $5 was per night or for the stay.

Looks like a pretty good option. Once I hear back and see some picture I will probably reserve one and then get interest from others who want to share.

[Landon]

Here are the pictures. Anyone want to share Friday and Saturday nights?

#1 Double....Landon
#2 Double....Open
Twin bunk....Open

[skipcurt]

I asked about cabin 2-4 that rent for $45 a night plus tax. Here is their response:

We have several sites open for the dates that you have requested. The cabins have 3 beds. Two full and one twin, a bunk bed and a loft. They also have heat and air. You must bring your own linens or sleeping bags or we rent linens for $5 per set. Also, the showers and restrooms are very close to the cabins. Please let us know if you need anymore information.


I sent back and asked if they could send some pictures of the inside of the cabins. I also asked if the $5 was per night or for the stay.

Looks like a pretty good option. Once I hear back and see some picture I will probably reserve one and then get interest from others who want to share.
Landon, did they say they have air (A/C) in cabins 2-4? Have they replied back yet about your linen question and/or send inside pics?

Here are the pictures. Anyone want to share Friday and Saturday nights?

#1 Double....Landon
#2 Double....Open
Twin bunk....Open
Landon, I will likely share with you...hopefully they do have A/C. Even if it doesn't, it still beats having to haul all the camping gear.
#1 Double....Landon
#2 Double....Skip
Twin Bunk....Open

[Landon]

The site says all cabin have air and heat. Linens can be rented for $5 per stay. I will reserve a cabin for friday and saturday night then. I may be getting in late though as fair waring!

[Sarrow]

Wanting to do this, will check date..

[skipcurt]

The site says all cabin have air and heat. Linens can be rented for $5 per stay. I will reserve a cabin for friday and saturday night then. I may be getting in late though as fair waring!
Landon, I called there today to see what kind of availability they had on the cabins for that weekend. She said cabin #1 is open, 2,3 & 4 are still open and I think she said 5 was too. I guess you didn't call to reserve one huh? My brother in law and his friend are thinking about joining (Shadow riders) and I wanted to see if there was lodging left.

Skip

[Landon]

Landon, I called there today to see what kind of availability they had on the cabins for that weekend. She said cabin #1 is open, 2,3 & 4 are still open and I think she said 5 was too. I guess you didn't call to reserve one huh? My brother in law and his friend are thinking about joining (Shadow riders) and I wanted to see if there was lodging left.

Skip

I have not yet. I keep meaning too, but don't seem to remember till around 7 in the evening and they only take reservations till 5. Been busy at work (which is a good thing!). Still going to get one, she told me by email that she had plenty of cabins open that weekend!

[Landon]

I got cabin #2 reserved for that weekend.

Skip, are you still sharing with me our are you getting something with your buddies?

[skipcurt]

I got cabin #2 reserved for that weekend.

Skip, are you still sharing with me our are you getting something with your buddies?
I'm in Landon, neither one of them will be coming. We'll work out specifics as we get a bit closer and if anyone else decides to "room" in cabin #2.

Skip

[Landon]

I'm in Landon, neither one of them will be coming. We'll work out specifics as we get a bit closer and if anyone else decides to "room" in cabin #2.

Skip

Ok...I guess I forgot to mention, we have a full cabin. My uncle will be joining us for the weekend and sharing the cabin.

#1 Double....Jim Collins
#2 Double....Skip
Twin Bunk....Landon

[JohnConner]

I am planning to attend. My better half is also interested in coming along. We will likely be in the suites, instead of the cabins. Also planning to arrive on Thursday.

Anyone else planning to arrive on Thursday?

JohnConner
:rd13:

[JCB]

I have cabin #3 Thursday to Sunday. :hat1:

[Jeff F]

is this event here? (http://www.nchotsprings.com/nc-hot-springs-resort-lodging.html)

Thinking about it -- wherever it is.

[skipcurt]

is this event here? (http://www.nchotsprings.com/nc-hot-springs-resort-lodging.html)

Thinking about it -- wherever it is.
Yes it is.

Skip

[JohnConner]

JCB and I will be there on Thursday evening. Anyone else planning to be there on Thursday? Looking for Thursday evenng get togethers and Friday daytime riding aventures.

JohnConner
:rd13:

[Landon]

And they start coming out of the wood work! I was wondering when people were going to start deciding to come to NCSTOC. I may leave out Thursday afterwork, but won't get to the campgrounds until Friday sometime.

[JohnConner]

Anyone planning to be there on Friday, JCB and I have "Snake" on the menu for a Friday ride ! :hat1:

[Landon]

Anyone planning to be there on Friday, JCB and I have "Snake" on the menu for a Friday ride ! :hat1:

I have not decided yet John. If I get off work at a decent time on Thursday, then I may take off and get most the way down there Thursday evening. Will just have to see what it brings.

[JCB]

Anyone planning to be there on Friday, JCB and I have "Snake" on the menu for a Friday ride ! :hat1:

Or is it Dragon breath? :please1:

[Taz]

I know this is under the NCSTOC, is this the same as what was the Blue Ridge gathering in Oct? New to the St owners so just asking. Would love to join you on some riding next wknd but Dr. still has me mending.
Mike

[Mellow]

I know this is under the NCSTOC, is this the same as what was the Blue Ridge gathering in Oct? New to the St owners so just asking. Would love to join you on some riding next wknd but Dr. still has me mending.
Mike

No Sir, two different events. If you look at the home page you can see the details for both.

[skipcurt]

I know this is under the NCSTOC, is this the same as what was the Blue Ridge gathering in Oct? New to the St owners so just asking. Would love to join you on some riding next wknd but Dr. still has me mending.
Mike
Taz, the NCSTOC will be a much smaller event and great way to meet a few guys that will also most likely be at the much larger Blue Ridge Gathering in October. Good way to cut your teeth so to speak.

Skip

[Taz]

Thanks, I have a small 2 room house up at Franklin, off Ellijay Rd. So if I'm able I may be over that way during October.
Mike

[Taz]

I was also asking as the last time I was up in Franklin and reading their local paper they had an article looking for ways to promote the town and bring in more tourist(money) and help spark more interest. Thought since they know the Bikers come, if they promoted a Biker event more clubs might hold their gatherings in Franklin. Could be fringe benifits involvwd (discounts $).

[JohnConner]

Landon,

Pardon the project manager in me :) but I just gots ta know -
Is there a plan for Friday evening dinner?
What about a Saturday ride - anything you want to propose?
And where is the pie being served for Saturday evening?

JohnConner
:rd13:

[Landon]

Landon,

Pardon the project manager in me :) but I just gots ta know -
Is there a plan for Friday evening dinner?
What about a Saturday ride - anything you want to propose?
And where is the pie being served for Saturday evening?

JohnConner
:rd13:

No problem John. Its always been my policy since taking this event over a couple years ago that it was very informal. I don't live in the area so its hard for me to scout out place to meet and eat. I know there is a nice little restuarant in Hot Springs, don't remember the name though. Maybe do that Saturday. For Friday if everyone wants, I can lead a group out around 3:00 PM from camp and take about a 2 hour ride to a great resturant, then the return ride would be about an hour.

As far as rides go for Saturday, I don't do the large group rides. I plan everyone can get together and find a couple riding buddies and go ride, and then we can all meet back at the end of the day for dinner.

[JCB]

No problem John. Its always been my policy since taking this event over a couple years ago that it was very informal. I don't live in the area so its hard for me to scout out place to meet and eat. I know there is a nice little restuarant in Hot Springs, don't remember the name though. Maybe do that Saturday. For Friday if everyone wants, I can lead a group out around 3:00 PM from camp and take about a 2 hour ride to a great resturant, then the return ride would be about an hour.

As far as rides go for Saturday, I don't do the large group rides. I plan everyone can get together and find a couple riding buddies and go ride, and then we can all meet back at the end of the day for dinner.

Landon that sounds good to me!!!

I'll keep that John Conners guy busy and out of your hair.:well1:

Just kidding John.:rofl1:

[Uncle Phil]

The Smoky Mountain Diner is pretty good to me for plain grub (been there several times - just up 209 from the campground). There is also a restaurant just over the railroad tracks just on the left, but I have not eaten there .... yet! ;-)

[Landon]

The Smoky Mountain Diner is pretty good to me for plain grub (been there several times - just up 209 from the campground). There is also a restaurant just over the railroad tracks just on the left, but I have not eaten there .... yet! ;-)

Thats it! Smoky Mountain Diner. We will eat there Saturday evening.

[Lanman]

Thats it! Smoky Mountain Diner. We will eat there Saturday evening.

Beware of the trained attack Waitress!!:D:STOC::dr13:

[JCB]

Beware of the trained attack Waitress!!:D:STOC::dr13:

:popcorn

[Landon]

Beware of the trained attack Waitress!!:D:STOC::dr13:

1. I think we will be alright since Guy has not signed up!

2. Why are you not coming?????:o:

[Lanman]

1. I think we will be alright since Guy has not signed up!

2. Why are you not coming?????:o:

Work, Work and more Work. I may come up for dinner on Saturday after work to say Hello...:STOC::dr13:

[HR Cole]

Anybody have room in a cabin for two people? Called the resort and they are booked up!

[JCB]

Anybody have room in a cabin for two people? Called the resort and they are booked up!

pm sent

[HR Cole]

Thanks to JCB for sharing cabin #3 with myself and nephew. Looking forward to meeting some other ST-Owners.

Harry

[HR Cole]

Nephew and I will be leaving early in the morning to start our trip to Cherokee and Boone, NC and to ride the roads in those areas. We will also be riding the Blue Ridge Parkway from Cherokee to Boone. Then Friday thru Sunday we will end the week at NC-STOC and head back to southern Indiana. Looking forward to the entire trip. Praying for cooler temps and no rain!

[kennyp]

I'm looking for someone who is staying Thurs & Fri nites at a primitive campsite who might want to share a site and split the cost. They allow 4 people at each site. Off or on river, either is fine for me.

[skipcurt]

The site says all cabin have air and heat. Linens can be rented for $5 per stay. I will reserve a cabin for friday and saturday night then. I may be getting in late though as fair waring!

Ok...I guess I forgot to mention, we have a full cabin. My uncle will be joining us for the weekend and sharing the cabin.

#1 Double....Jim Collins
#2 Double....Skip
Twin Bunk....Landon
Landon, do you have an idea what time you might be getting in yet? Just thinking about me being able to get into #2 if you're going to arrive much later than me. I'm thinking I should be there between 3 & 5pm.

Skip

[Landon]

Skip,

I plan on arriving Friday before 3PM. I will leave the campground around 3 with whoever is there and wants to take a 2 hour ride to a fine place to eat.


Who plans to go to dinner Friday evening with me?

[Rajah]

WARNING!! Road to Hot Springs this past Monday a.m. Found gravel on routes 63 and 209 in the middle of the turns. The campground is located between the railroad tracks and the French Broad River Bridge. The campground is on the East side of the road and the registration is on the West side. It looks like a great place to camp.

See You There,
Rajah

[Lanman]

WARNING!! Road to Hot Springs this past Monday a.m. Found gravel on routes 63 and 209 in the middle of the turns. The campground is located between the railroad tracks and the French Broad River Bridge. The campground is on the East side of the road and the registration is on the West side. It looks like a great place to camp.

See You There,
Rajah

Have a Great Time!!!:STOC::dr13:

[PopJack]

Going to try and ride up for a visit- probably Friday night. Looking for my kitchen pass and counting up un-used brownie points as I type this.:)

Landon, do you have any idea where you might end up eating- as in which town even? I'm thinking about trying to meet up for din din.

[thepr1nter]

hey folks,

i'm new to this party but I think I'll stop in and meet a few folks on my way through to Charlotte.

Think there's any other hotels that will have rooms available?

Scott

[silas]

I am arriving around mid day on Friday and will be staying at the Iron Horse Station down town Hot Springs. Owner said they would give group rates in the restaurant. I am from Columbus, Ga and plan to return home on Sunday.
Jerry Boyd

[Landon]

My Uncle is not going to be able to make the trip. If anyone is looking for a bed for Friday and Saturday nights, we now have a spare twin sized bed in our cabin. PM me if interested!

[Landon]

Bed is taken Friday night.

[skipcurt]

Bed is taken Friday night.

Sounds like you're running a brothel!! :D

Skip

[silas]

I will arrive Thursday mid day instead of Friday. Still booked at iron horse station.
jerry

[Dinkie Diesel]

These folks must be having a ball. Too busy to give us an update, I guess. Or, maybe this was a non-geek gathering...no putos. C'mon, we wanna hear some stories.

[skipcurt]

Well, I guess I'm the first back to post. I'm happy to say that at NCSTOC, we had no mishaps, tipovers (that anyone admitted) or casualties during the event. YEAH!!!
Not a bad place to stay or ride. I think there were 14 total but a few left for home on Saturday. Decent weather and much, much cooler than Atlanta. Great to meet a few new people and see a few I already knew.
Looking forward to the Blue Ridge Gathering.
Pic info L to R:
#1- Waiting in a construction blasting zone.
HR's nephew (Josh?), John Connor, HR Cole, JCB, Silas
#2- Rest stop at the Snake
#3- The bikes lined up. Red was the dominant color for the weekend.
#4- HR Cole
#5- HR Cole's nephew on the 250 Ninja

Skip

[JohnConner]

It was great to see some familiar faces and make some new friends. Glad to have had a chance to ride with you and hope you all made it home safely.

I had a great time at this event. I met up with JCB in Petersburg, WV and we rode the rest of the trip down together. We had Scala G4 headsets and were able to chat up a storm for almost all the weekend (except for when the batteries ran low). JCB is a great person to know and to ride with. I truely enjoyed his company on this trip.

Friday JCB and I rode to The Dragon, took pictures (they are coming...) and rode three (3) passes on The Dragon. This is a fun road to ride, but needs to be done with great caution as there is a lot of traffic and no margin for error on the corners. We took the Parkway back towards Hot Springs but got detoured off due to an accident (Don't know if it was car, bike, or bicycle. Never saw the accident scene.). Then we ended up on some roads that made The Dragon seem tame! Eventually we did find our way back.

Saturday 6 of us rode to The Snake. We got a little wet on the way as a cold front went through. The rain had stopped but the roads were still wet when we came in on 421 from the SE. (Skipcurt already posted the pictures.) I thought The Snake had faster roads, if they were dry. Some of the group didn't let that slow them down very much (Go Team!), but I played the Tortus to their Hare on the ride in and out. We had equally fun roads on our way back, after we got off the freeway, to find our way back to Hot Springs. There was an 18 mile roadway that was on par with The Snake for twisties.

Hot Springs is a nice little village with at least 3 places to eat (I think only 1 for breakfast). You should plan to not have a late meal as we tried to get some dinner at 9:30PM on Thursday only to find 1 place still serving and they had turned off the grill - salads or deep-fried items only by then... Also the 1 gas station closes early (8PM?). But there are several good gas stations, an Ingles grocery store and other shopping about 10 miles SE from there. My wife and her niece came along for the trip, in our minivan. They really enjoyed the Hot Springs resourt, the mineral water hot tubs, and exploring the town. So if you have a significant other that would enjoy these things, they will be entertained while you go ride.

My round trip miles for this event was 1,771 miles. That's probably not the longest in the group, but it was my personal longest event. Thank goodness for Russel Day-Long seats!

Hope this trip report is useful to you.

All the best!

JohnConner
:rd13:

[STurgisSTeele]

Sounds like a great time. Hope to make it some day with my wife. Looking forward to some more pics!

[JCB]

A BIG thanks to Landon for putting the NCSTOC together I think we all had a wonderful time!!!:hat1:

Thanks to JohnConners for being a great friend and wing man for the whole trip!!!:bow1:

It was nice to meet new ST friends like Landon (a great organizer) Popjack, Treemuncher, HR Cole and Josh his nephew (who can make a Ninja 250 go like _ell) and Silas (a 69 year old kid at heart) and seeing others I met at CAMPSTOC like skipcurt (you can really make that blue bike fly).

1,693 miles total. This was my longest ride I ever took.:toot1: (I know that's just a ride around the block for some of you) but I made it!!!!!

Here are some pics of our ride/walk to eat.

Also John and I at the Dragon!!! OH WHAT FUN!!!!! We did it three time!!!!

I hope everyone made it home safely.

Jay

[Uncle Phil]

So sounds like the Hot Springs campground was fine then - inquiring minds want to know! ;-) Any feed back on camping there versus the cabins?

[JCB]

So sounds like the Hot Springs campground was fine then - inquiring minds want to know! ;-) Any feed back on camping there versus the cabins?

My cabin was fine and clean it said it would sleep 5 but they must have meant it for little people. I got one of the cabins with no running water but it was a 50ft walk to do your business. The a/c worked so good that I should have taken my Gerbings along!!! They are (very) small but it was a roof over your head. The showers and restrooms were clean also but when the rains came they got a little messy. Maybe someone else that camped can chime in. The store had pretty much everything there including meals but just a short walk down the road were some nice places to eat. I took some pics so when I get home from work I'll post them.

Jay

[skipcurt]

So sounds like the Hot Springs campground was fine then - inquiring minds want to know! ;-) Any feed back on camping there versus the cabins?
UP, I also cabin'd it. Ours slept 3, 1 bunk (full on the bottom, twin on top), full size in the loft. It's tight quarters but I have no regrets. As JCB said, the a/c was freezing :snow1: (if you slept on the bottom bunk!). They also can provide a linen package for only $5 for the length of your stay. It includes sheets, one blanket (not sure about colder months if they give another, I would probably bring a sleeping bag or blanket), washcloth & towels for each day, tiny little soaps and shampoo. I would recommend bringing your own soap & poo. The bathrooms are very close by and I thought they were fine. There are showers for tent/rv campers and then there are showers for the folks in the cabins. From what I understand, the tenting showers are a little more primitive. Maybe Treemuncher, Rajah or BDonald can give some insight (they camped). It didn't seem like there was much grass around to camp on but then again, I didn't wander around too much. There was ridin' to do!!
The town is small so you can pretty much walk anywhere and eat, drink or buy what you need.
I wouldn't hesitate to use this place again.

Skip

[JCB]

We made KillBoy.com while on the Dragon!!!!

http://www.photoreflect.com/store/Orderpage.aspx?pi=04RK0191000506&po=506&pc=625

JohnConners was 501 and up 507 and up was me!!!!

[kennyp]

I'll provide my 'subjective' comments on the camping... of course, what's luxurious to some can be painfully primitive to others.
I thought the camping spots were nice - well laid out, spacious, flat, shady, drained well (thoroughly tested Thursday nite), not too far from the bathhouse. There are MANY primitive sites though, and the layout and conditions vary quite a bit. So, you'd definitely want to make sure you knew the spot(s) you wanted when you make your reservation. I stayed in site 450 which was very nice. There were about 10 spots in this area that were very similar. Just across the road, on the riverbank, there were about 7-10 sites that had water and elect hook-ups. Further back (closer to the railroad tracks) were maybe another 10 primitive sites (if you sleep walk, you could get hit by a train!!!). If a large group were to gather at this campground I would guess that they could book about 20 primitive sites and 10 water/elec close together. Any more than that and the rest of the primitive campers would be using porta-potties and looking at about a 500 yard walk to the bathhouse. Actually, I think there were about another 10-12 good primitive spots between where I was and the cabins.
The bathhouses for the camping area were nothing fancy, but they weren't bad. There were only 4 showers (each individually enclosed), and 4 flush toilets. Water was nice and hot and good pressure. Lot of bugs. 8 sinks, which were outside but under roof. I never had to wait in line for a shower (at around 7:30am).
A nice 'feature' I discovered was the firepit 'clean-out pile' located between the two primitive camping areas. I scavenged thru the pile and was able to collect enough old wood to have a decent fire at my site Fri nite. I also liked being close to the river. I spent a few hours wading and fishing Friday evening. The fishing was not good due to the heavy rains the night before but I imagine when the water is right, there are a ton of smallmouth that lay in stillwaters below the falls.
I would rate this campground about a C/C+. I certainly wouldn't mind staying there again. The campground hostess told me that the CBA had been there several weeks before. I don't recall exactly how many she said came but it was several hundred.
I didn't hang out with the group but I did get a chance to shake some new and old hands, which is always a pleasure. I was taking advantage of the serenity of my hammock and some much needed downtime from work and houseguests.

[Rajah]

I too would like to thank Landon for organizing the NCSTOC. Thanks also goes to H2O as a good leader. For those of you that are thinking of going to the Gathering, I too think the campsite is a "C". I would suggest reserving the group site just behind the cottages. It is right on the river and would take 10-15 tents on it. The next spot would be 3 camp sites just North of that on the river that would hold another 15 spots. By doing the group sites the cost would be very low.

Rajah

[JCB]

So sounds like the Hot Springs campground was fine then - inquiring minds want to know! ;-) Any feed back on camping there versus the cabins?

Here is a look at the inside of cabin #3.

[skipcurt]

Cabin #2 was identical 'cept we had a round table in the corner.

Skip

[PopJack]

Cabin #2 was identical 'cept we had a round table in the corner.
...and a higher class clientèle of course :0

[treemuncher]

The ex and I had a nice ride to, around and from NCSTOC. Kreis led us on a nice ride to a superb meal at an Amish restaurant. Excellent food at that place. A very long, hot ride home but it was all a good time. I'm glad we went.

My opinions on the campground make me feel like a snob in comparison to the opinions of others so, maybe I am an uppity snob. At least I will write an honest opinion here. As campgrounds go, it was probably the worst one that I've ever stayed at. Maybe I've had limited camping experience compared to others riders. The website for the Hot Springs Resort is a great marketing tool but the conditions of the facilities suck. 4 flush toilets and 4 showers for the entire campground, all in one location. For a campground this large, that is way too few facilities for the price of a site. The other option is the plastic johnny cans (about 6-8 of those spread around). Thanks, I'd rather be the big bear in the woods than use one of those things given my druthers. If I'm paying out good cash for a campsite, I expect a flush toilet and a decent bath house.

The shower rooms were dirty and bug laden. I don't mind the outside sinks but inside is better, especially on a cold spring or fall day. One toilet was over-flowing with a full load for 2 days - not much maintenance was put into the facilities at this place during the weekend. They got my money once, they won't get it again with these conditions.

The campsite we chose was grassy and level. It was one of the few grassy sites available. Most sites were under the trees and on sandy dirt. We were halfway between the river and the rather active train tracks. The river provided a nice white noise for sleeping but not the nightly trains. Except for the active tracks, we were happy with the tent site and felt lucky to find one of the few good ones.

The bottom line on this campground in my book - I will not return to it. For
$20/night for a primitive tent site, I expect a decent bath house with CLEAN facilities and regular maintenance. The little campground that the BRG was held at last year, I would give a B or B+ (not considering the owner's attitude), NatSTOC's Spearfish was a solid A, most of the state park & COE campgrounds that I've stayed at have been B's or better. I'd give Hot Springs Resort campground a D or D+ if I was not considering the close location to downtown Hot Springs. Just my $.02 worth of mine and my ex's opinions.

[Dinkie Diesel]

Thanks Randy! I know UP is/was waiting to hear the feedback from your campground experience before choosing to stay there. If you gave it a D to D+ and the others a C to C+ that's probably all Phil needs to know to make a decision.

If this review makes you a snob I must be Barbara Streisand. I'm spoiled after seeing the NatSTOC site.

[Landon]

I did not camp, but I was happy with the campground. The bathrooms and showers IMHO were just as good as BRC. There are active tracks next to the campground and each night a train rolled through between 10 and 11. But I did not hear any in the middle of the night or early morning. I think I only saw 5 or 6 trains the two days I was there. At first I did not thing there were enough showers and toilets, but then BRC only has 3 toilets and 3 showers. There were four of each in the back and then two toilets up by the cabins that campers could use. However there are 2 showers up by the cabins but only the people in the cabins are supposed to use them (you have to us a cabin key to get in them). There are 6 more showers up by the cabins for campers, they are not fancy and made from plywood. More like an outdoor shower and it might be chilly in Oct. I personally would stay here again, love the small town and walking distance. Everything does seem to close fairly early though. Like I said though, I used a cabin and did not camp and the majority camp at the BRG.

[Uncle Phil]

Well, now I am really confused ..... :confused:

[HR Cole]

I did not camp, but I was happy with the campground. The bathrooms and showers IMHO were just as good as BRC. There are active tracks next to the campground and each night a train rolled through between 10 and 11. But I did not hear any in the middle of the night or early morning. I think I only saw 5 or 6 trains the two days I was there. At first I did not thing there were enough showers and toilets, but then BRC only has 3 toilets and 3 showers. There were four of each in the back and then two toilets up by the cabins that campers could use. However there are 2 showers up by the cabins but only the people in the cabins are supposed to use them (you have to us a cabin key to get in them). There are 6 more showers up by the cabins for campers, they are not fancy and made from plywood. More like an outdoor shower and it might be chilly in Oct. I personally would stay here again, love the small town and walking distance. Everything does seem to close fairly early though. Like I said though, I used a cabin and did not camp and the majority camp at the BRG.

Ditto! No problems here, enjoyed the cabins, great air conditioners! Had no problem getting into showers or waiting for one. Cabins could have more electrical outlets, only one to share between three of us trying to charge phones and intercom systems, but manageable.

[HR Cole]

Thanks to JCB for sharing his cabin with myself and nephew(Josh), great company! I enjoyed meeting some new folk and learned that a 69 year old(Silas) can keep up with the younger folks. You should have seen him pushing that 08 ST through those corners on the Snake! That guy can ride!.Pleasure to meet and ride with you Silas. Josh said that the best part of our week long trip was the NC-STOC. I keep trying to get him to look at bigger bikes, and in fact he went out today and looked. He likes the Truimph Sprint ST, couldn't talk him into the ST1300, says it's too heavy for his liking. I also don't think he liked the fact that we could leave him behind on his 250 Ninja. Great time, so many roads in that area and so little time!

[JohnConner]

I put together a Picasa page of pictures for those that are interested.

Here is the link.http://picasaweb.google.com/connerjohn123/NCSTOCEVENT2010?feat=email#

I'll work on videos when I can. It may be next week as I'm getting ready for a work weekend starting Thursday thru Sunday.

HR, it was great to meet you and Josh. Hope to ride with you again soon!
Silas, you are amazing on your ST. You make us proud!

JohnConner
:rd13: