Empire State Ride is just around the corner, and riders are in for the journey of a lifetime. Not only are road warriors advancing cancer research from the seat of their bikes, but they’re also taking on a unique cycling challenge. If you’re anything like Maria Coccia-Bourgeois, you’re going to learn a lot during your week on the road.
“I did my first Empire State Ride, hopped on the bus and off I went. I’d never camped. I was a Holiday Inn girl, but I learned to camp, and I’ve learned a lot of things about myself that I never thought that I would do or could do."
If you’re a first-time road warrior or thinking about becoming one next year, you may be wondering what to expect at camp. After a long day of riding, there’s no better feeling than freshening up and getting settled in for the night. By familiarizing yourself with the schedule and resources, you can make the most out of your camping experience.
Here’s a quick snapshot of what to expect.
🚲Your experience Includes:
- No-hassle tent camping, including tent, chair, air mattress, clean towels and daily delivery of your luggage
- Shower truck, restrooms, bike truck and mechanics support
- The ESR HUB, a central location for rider information, beverages, snacks, first-aid supplies, sunscreen, and cue sheets.
- Wellness support, including first-aid and physical therapists as well as optional massages at riders’ expense
- Catered breakfast and dinner with consideration for dietary restrictions
- Charging stations for devices
- Nightly mission-based programs
- Hammocks and lawn games
🚲Schedule
The last rest stop closes at 3 p.m. each day. Dinner starts at 5:30 p.m. with the nightly program at 6:15 p.m. that unites everyone around our shared mission to end cancer. Then, you have free time until 10 p.m. when quiet hours begin. You can use that time to enjoy our evening reception, chat with other riders or just unwind while reflecting on the day.
Camp Locations
Orientation Day: July 20, 2024 — Wagner College, Staten Island
CAMP: Wagner College
1 Campus Rd, Staten Island, NY 10301
Day 1: July 21 — Somers Intermediate School, Somers
240 US-202
Somers, NY 10589
Day 2: July 22, 2024 — Dutchess County Fairgrounds, Rhinebeck
6636 U.S. 9
Rhinebeck, NY 12572
Day 3: July 23, 2024 — Shaker Heritage Society, Albany
25 Meeting House Rd
Albany, NY 12211
Day 4: July 24, 2024 — Donovan Middle School, Utica
Oneida County
1701 Noyes St, Utica, NY 13502
Day 5: July 25, 2024 — Weedsport Speedway, Weedsport
1 Speedway Drive #415
Weedsport, NY 13166
Day 6: July 26, 2024 — Ferris Goodrich American Legion, Spencerport
691 Trimmer Road
Spencerport, NY 14559
Day 7: July 27, 2024 — Finish Line in Niagara Falls, NY*
(No camping option. Hotels available at rider’s expense.)
101 Old Falls Street
Niagara Falls, NY 14303
“Camp is part of the camaraderie that makes ESR so special. It’s a great way to meet other riders and hear why people are there.”
“At the end of the day, it's not about the ride. It's about the funds raised. And it's about hanging out at camp when you get there. Trust me, the beer tastes really good after a day of riding.”
Thinking about tackling this summer adventure? Register today or read more.
