IN KANSAS (Friday Night)

The counties surrounding the departure point have very low population densities, with little highway and tourist traffic. As a result, finding adequate lodging the Friday night before the ride has been a challenge for many Smackdab participants over the years.

There are a few “mid-century” era (i.e., old) roadside motels in towns within 30 minutes of the start point: Smith Center, Mankato KS, and Red Cloud NE. Due to numerous reports of sub-standard rooms and poor management, Smackdab organizers strongly suggest riders consider alternatives to the motels available.

There is no perfect solution, but you can probably find an option you’re satisfied with from the following options:

CAMPING
	Free camping is available on Friday night in Lebanon City Park, conveniently located about 2-1/2 miles from the start point. Restrooms are available, but no showers. Space in the park is on a first-come, first-served basis. A donation to the U.S. Center Foundation is strongly encouraged. Campsites with water and electricity are available for a fee at Lebanon RV Park, half a block off of Highway 281 on the north side of Lebanon. Overnight camping at the monument site is not authorized.
VACATION RENTALS
	A number of Smackdab participants have reported high satisfaction staying at private residences available for lodging through vacation rental sites including Vrbo and Airbnb. However, given the fluctuation in sites, prices, and availability, riders are encouraged to determine the suitability of individual rentals for themselves.
OTHER LODGING
	There are several other attractive lodging options. However, these will require at least 30 minutes to ride to the monument in Lebanon the morning of the event, cutting into riders’ sleep “window” and adding to the day’s total mileage.  Shady Grove Cabins in Downs, KS has been well-reviewed by riders and the owner has actively worked to promote Smackdab in past years. Hotel Garber, new 27-room boutique hotel in downtown Red Cloud, NE opened in April, 2025, offering elegant, modern amenities.

FRIDAY NIGHT COOKOUT

In past years, the local organizations in Smith Center have sponsored a cookout for riders on Friday evening. A donation is strongly encouraged. Please check with the Smith Center CVB to verify the time and location the cookout is being held.

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IN RUGBY (Saturday Night)

The destination marker is right at the main intersection in Rugby. After completing your ride, there are multiple lodging options close by.

CAMPING
	Camping in Rugby on Saturday night is available at the Pierce County Fairgrounds. There is no electricity, but public restrooms & showers are available at the fairgrounds. There is no charge to use the camping space but a donation at Rugby city hall is strongly encouraged.  Camping is also available within walking distance of the monument at the Oakwood Inn & Campground on US Hwy 2.
LODGING
	A couple of larger hotels are within a block or two of the finish. The Northern Lights Inn and Cobblestone Inn & Suites are modern and nicely appointed. Jan’s RV Park and Lodge, located 30 miles east of Rugby, is a good choice for large groups riding together. The lodge can sleep up to 14.
RESTAURANTS
	Rugby has several restaurants located close to the monument. Please be aware that some of the restaurants close at 8 PM, and may stop seating Smackdabbers as early as 6:30PM on Saturday night. Dakota Farms restaurant and lounge is connected to the Northern Lights Inn.