2026 Rich Mountain Rendezvous (Mena AR) - Sept. 17-20
For those that attended the National Rally - you probably already have a rally flyer (if it didn't melt/run in the rain), and rode by Queen Wilhelmina during the National. For the rest...
While the "Jailbreak in the Clouds" (historical BMW F650 Chain Gang National Rally) has faded away, the rally charity (CASA, now part of the Ouachita Children's Coalition) continues on with this rally annually (with many Inmates still helping out). It has since been renamed Rich Mountain Rendezvous and is open to ALL brands of motorcycles (including sidecars). Posting it here for anyone that may have an interest in attending - all are invited. Rally fee includes 3 breakfasts and 3 dinners. The Queen Wilhelmina State Park is located near the forest service roads and trails of the Ouachita National Forest (for those that want to get dirty) and the Talimena Parkway highlights the offerings for the asphalt crowd. More details will be filled in as we firm things up.
occoalition.org/rich-mountain-rendezvous
A quick bump to the top, and a reminder that the deadline to order a rally t-shirt with registration is approaching soon (Aug 30). Registration without a t-shirt will stay open, up to and including "walk-ins".
Now, a brief message from our rally organizer...
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We are getting really excited about this year’s Rich Mountain Rendezvous!
I look forward to this event every year, and it always feels like a big family reunion when we all get together. We can’t wait to welcome everyone back!
As a reminder, we will begin checking everyone in on Thursday, September 17th, at 1:00 p.m.
We don’t want anyone going home hungry, so we have plenty of great food planned throughout the weekend! Thursday night, we’ll provide dinner, followed by a continental breakfast on Friday morning. Friday evening, we’ll fire up the grill for hamburgers and homemade beans.
Saturday morning, come hungry for a delicious country breakfast with scrambled eggs, bacon, pancakes, and more! Saturday evening, we’ll gather for a great pulled pork dinner while we listen to music, hand out door prizes, and enjoy spending time together.
During the day, hop on your motorcycle and enjoy some of the beautiful scenery around Rich Mountain, or spend some time wandering around our quaint little town.
It’s going to be a wonderful weekend filled with great food, beautiful rides, music, laughter, and fellowship with old and new friends. We can’t wait to see everyone at the Rich Mountain Rendezvous!
Thanks for the bump Marty.
Late Notice: Let's go ahead make the 2026 Rich Mountain Rendezvous the fall gathering for the Ark-La-Okie-Tex sidecar enthusiasts, and even those from parts beyond or unknown. I'll plan to lead a sidecar specific ride Saturday morning (perhaps even Friday morning if'n I can schedule to arrive on Thursday).
Please register directly for the Rendezvous here: https://occoalition.org/rich-mountain-rendezvous
Also, please make your own lodging/camping reservations -- should the Lodge at Queen Wilhelmina State Park fill-up, the next motels are down the mountain in Mena.
Lee
MB5+TW200+CRF250L+GTV300+INT650
XL883R w/Texas Ranger Sidecar
Zuma 50F + Burgman w/Texas Sidecar<Mrs. SwampFox
Just one last reminder... orders for the rally t-shirts close soon - at the end of the month. There will not be any available for sale at the rally. Registration will continue up to the rally - even walk-ins.
Hope to see y'all there.
Coming from New Mexico, looking forward to seeing friends and meeting some new
Posted by: @donbmwNot going to be able to make this one.
Don, then ride North....to Clarington, Pennsylvania.... for the PenNy Hackers Sidecar campout, hosted by MJ @mj.
Same dates, September 17 - 20.
All the really kewl people will be there. 😜
Two Million Mile Rider
Exploring the World in Comfort
Sadly im not kewl because I still have to go to work.
Illegitemi non carborundum est!
Well, there will definitely be people there! Would be great to see you!Posted by: @miles-laduePosted by: @donbmwNot going to be able to make this one.
Don, then ride North....to Clarington, Pennsylvania.... for the PenNy Hackers Sidecar campout, hosted by MJ @mj.
Same dates, September 17 - 20.
All the really kewl people will be there. 😜
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