Community Magic – Bikepacking Campout At Sea Otter

Photographs by Zach Emerson

We’d been there less than five minutes when the first turkeys came walking past. They paid no mind to us, seemingly fully engrossed in their search for seeds and bugs. Scanning the open, grassy hilltop that was soon to be filled with bikepackers and their tents, I spotted the rest of the flock, slowly working their way up the slope from the trees below.

We were at the inaugural Bikepacking Campout at the Sea Otter Classic, a bike-in camping experience with guest speakers, movie screenings and community building. Nestled atop a small, tree-rimmed knoll, the camping area was an oasis tucked between the bustling main events of Sea Otter and the suburban neighborhoods bordering Laguna Seca. The tall grass had been freshly mowed, providing plentiful feeding for the turkeys, and animal life was abundant. Over the coming days we spotted rabbits, owls, deer, countless turkeys, and a large king snake. This was a campout, an activity that brings us closer to nature, and what could be more fitting than being surrounded by wildlife?

Camaraderie Not Competition

The intention of the Bikepacking Campout was to create a fun, low-key environment adjacent to the racing-focused Sea Otter events. A space where those of us not pinning on number plates could gather and share stories and experiences. Sea Otter is a huge event with an extensive history, and this was something new to explore. Was it going to be a success?

In the week leading up to the campout, growing energy on social media seemed to indicate yes. We’d put a lot of effort into this and we were excited. Seeing the first cyclists pedaling into camp brought a feeling of delight. As the afternoon transitioned into evening, the hilltop filled with tents and bicycles and smiling people meeting new friends. The adage “If you build it, they will come” was certainly ringing true. The Bikepacking Campout was off to a joyous start.

Over the next few days word spread of the little event at the bottom of the big hill. Located just over a mile from the expo area at Sea Otter, the campout and Saturday evening afterparty was simple to reach but required a bit of effort to return from. The “B-Road” is short but steep. Nevertheless, lots of intrigued cyclists pedaled down from the main venue to take part in the fun.

Industry Collaboration

The weekend wouldn’t have been the glowing success that it was without some supportive friends in this wonderful bicycle industry. Ortlieb brought a mini-bbq with brats and kept everyone hydrated with a cooler full of beverages. Tout Terrain hosted a “lounge area” complete with an outdoor projector to share films. Swift Industries supplied a gas firepit and ingredients to make s’mores, and quickly became the place to gather for some tasty treats. Feedback Sports made sure everyone’s bikes were kept rubber side down with parking racks. Revelate, Outer Shell, Sklar, ABUS, and Salsa Cycles donated tons of rad prizes to give away at the raffle. Priority Bicycles contributed an entire bike outfitted with gear provided from nearly every company involved to a very lucky winner.

The evening campout festivities garnered the limelight, but the communal atmosphere each morning was equally memorable. One by one people emerged from their tents, forming circles of conversation over coffee. Discussions drifted from previous travels to goals for the upcoming season. Exclamations of “so good to finally meet you in person!” were overheard more than once, followed with plans for future trips together. The campout was a reminder that social media and cycling forums are an outstanding way to expand community, but in-person gatherings are where those relationships truly get cemented.

Community Thrives

It’s been a few weeks since the Bikepacking Campout concluded and we’re still feeding off the energy of the gathering. There have been emails and Instagram DMs received almost daily reminiscing about the campout, thanking those involved and asking when the next one is going to occur. The messages reinforce the intention and hope carried into the event: when people from all cycles of life are brought together with a common interest, community thrives. Stories are shared, inspiration grows, and strangers become friends. Bikepacking magic is real.