The Great Ohio Bicycle Adventure (GOBA)

About GOBA

GOBA, known as America’s premier family-friendly bicycle tour, has been attracting multi-generational families for 35 years. Its structure, environments, and pricing are designed to encourage broad participation, including families and youth organizations. This welcoming atmosphere also appeals to single or unaccompanied cyclists who feel safe on the tour.

The essence of GOBA is to introduce cyclists to often unexplored regions of Ohio, allowing these communities to showcase their unique offerings and warm hospitality. In return, GOBA riders provide economic support to local businesses and organizations. These local groups, including youth, adult, civic, and church organizations, generate meaningful support for their activities and GOBA fosters a positive impression for bicycle tourists.

Key Components

Flexible Riding Options: Choose to ride between 159 to 400 miles over the week, with daily distances averaging 50 miles. Shorter routes of 20-40 miles are also available.

Support and Safety: Enjoy well-marked routes with mechanical and medical support. Secure parking for your car is provided for the week.

GOBAville: Each night, riders camp at “GOBAville,” usually set up at schools, colleges, fairgrounds, or parks. Showers and indoor floor spaces are available. Luggage trucks transport riders’ gear between stops.

Camping and Accommodations: Tent camping is included in the registration fee, with optional services for tents, towels, and chairs. Indoor options like hotels and dorm rooms may be available but need to be booked separately.

Local Hospitality: Host towns offer fun activities, shuttles to events, and tasty, affordable food from local groups and restaurants.

Additional Activities: Optional bike rides on layover days, including a 100-mile “century” ride.

For more details, visit https://outdoor-pursuits.org/goba-2/ or call Columbus Outdoor Pursuits at 614-442-7901.

GOBA history: Every town from 1989-2024

What’s Included and Not Included

This information can help you prepare for our weeklong bicycle tour, whether you are new to bicycle touring, new to the Great Ohio Bicycle Adventure, or a returning GOBA rider. Different bicycle tours have various ways of running their operations. Before you register, read the following sections, and if you have more questions, please contact the GOBA office at 614-442-7901 or goba@outdoor-pursuits.org.

What your registration fee covers:

• GOBA plans and marks all the routes.
• Paints arrows on the roads to guide you.
• Provides campgrounds for basic tent camping.
• Provides free parking for leaving your vehicle in the starting town for the week.
• Pays for security in towns and on the route.
• Provides free showers, porta johns, and some indoor restrooms in camp.
• Arrange emergency medical services.
• Set up free bus shuttles around the overnight town.
• Moves your baggage from town to town.
• Provides a souvenir GOBA patch and pin.
• Organizes food offerings from nonprofits.
• Pays for evening entertainment.
• Provides route maps that you can download on your GPS.
• In 2025, provide up to five (5) meals in remote host communities.

What your registration fee does not cover:

• Cost of food, beverages, and snacks.
• Merchandise (T-shirts, jerseys, etc.).
• Bring your vehicle to every overnight camp for the week.
• Massage services.
• Bike repair services.
• Ambulance transport.
• Entrance fees to attractions (often with a GOBA discount).
• Additional costs include a car-camper pass, indoor gym floor-sleeping, any lodging other than tenting, optional side trips, and some activities.

How to GOBA!

Download the “Way to GOBA” guide for a suggested packing list and all the details you need to know.

GOBA:

It’s not just a ride; it’s a rolling party with 1,000 bike friends.

Daily Ride:

Expect to cover 45-50 miles of scenic routes. If you’re feeling more relaxed, there’s a shortcut to reduce it to 35-40 miles.

Plan your day:

Consult your “GOBA Booklet” for each day’s route itinerary, featured attractions on the route, and special events at the destination community.

Stay on Track:

Follow the “A” road markings unless you’re up for an unplanned adventure.

Gear Up:

Prepare for a mix of hills and thrills, with up to 50 miles to cover. Remember, it’s all about self-sufficiency.

Route Reveal:

The final routes are published 5 days prior to GOBA to ensure there are no last-minute detours. But, you can see draft versions on this webpage.

Health Check:

Consult your doctor to ensure you’re ready to roll.

Early Birds:

Start between 6 and 9 a.m. Don’t miss the luggage trucks—they leave at 8:45 a.m. sharp!

Snack Attack:

Local non-profits and diners will be serving delicious food along the way. Consult the “Food Grid” for the offerings at each GOBA rest stop. If you see something interesting, go check it out!

Town Time:

Aim to reach the next stop by 4 p.m. to enjoy the evening vibes.

Your Days:

Mix it up with extra loops, a full century ride, or just relax and enjoy the local scene.

Memory Making:

Strap on your helmet, pump those tires, and let’s make this GOBA unforgettable!

Food on GOBA

GOBA is primarily a “pay as you go” food model to provide economic support for local businesses and organizations. GOBA ensures there will be the capacity to feed 1,500 riders. Some communities, like Bowling Green and Port Clinton, will offer many restaurant options.

Key Points:

Plan your Day: The “GOBA Booklet” will outline special meals and food opportunities in host communities. The “Food Grid” will outline all the offerings at GOBA rest and Lunch stops as well as identify fueling opportunities along each day’s route.

Provided Meals: GOBA will provide 2 dinners and 3 breakfasts during the tour, included in your registration cost.

Your Responsibility: Beyond these meals, you are responsible for purchasing food in host communities and along the routes. Food trucks will be available in GOBAville for snacks, breakfast, and coffee. Treat this like any other vacation where you seek out dining spots.

Non-Profit Groups: Non-profit groups along the route or in overnight towns offer food, with proceeds supporting local causes. These meals must adhere to local health department rules.

Supplementing Your Meals: Consider supplementing your food from grocery stores and restaurants, especially if you have specific preferences. GOBA cannot accommodate special diets for medical reasons.

Vegan and Vegetarian Options: GOBA provides vegan and vegetarian recipes and advice to local non-profit partner groups and caterers.

Choosing Your Food: You have flexibility in choosing your meals and snacks. For directions to food options, visit the local info booth in each camp.

Food Stops Along the Route: Food stops are offered by nonprofit groups and some restaurants. In some locations, there may not be an “official” food stop, but the route goes through towns with convenience stores for food on your own (FOYO). Food stop hours are based on when a rider leaving the GOBA camp between 7-9 a.m. might arrive, riding at an average speed of 14-15 mph. Carry extra food and fluid than you think you might need!

Camping at GOBA:

Camping at GOBAville: Most participants prefer to camp in tents at GOBAville, which is covered by the registration fee. The designated camping areas are usually parks, fairgrounds, schools, or college campuses, and they provide access to facilities such as toilets, showers, drinking water, first aid, an information booth, and food and drink vendors. There is also entertainment, shuttles to town, and charging stations for devices and e-bikes. However, there is no guarantee of shade or electricity at individual campsites. There will be a designated area for CPAP users; please bring an extension cord.

Camp Guidelines: The GOBA camp plans are developed in conjunction with host community facilities and follow strict guidelines to be granted operational permits by the local and Ohio Health Departments. These guidelines have become more stringent in recent years, and participants are required to follow all camp rules for health, safety, and liability coverage. Tents should be set only in designated, marked spaces. No fires or cookstoves are allowed. Car Camper Pass holders should follow facility staff’s directions for car parking. If unsure, participants can ask at the information booth. Quiet hours are from 9:30 p.m. to 5 a.m. Camp rules will also be posted on the info board in the camp.

Luggage: GOBA trucks will transport your luggage to the official campgrounds, but you are responsible for your luggage from there. Transport to hotels or other off-site lodging is not included. Luggage trucks depart camp at 8:45 am on transition days.

2025 GOBAville Campgrounds:

• Friday (optional), Saturday, & Sunday, June 13-16: Bowling Green, Wood County Fairgrounds.
• Monday, Tuesday & Wednesday, June 16-19: Port Clinton, Port Clinton High School.
• Thursday & Friday, June 19-21: Fremont, Terra Community College.
• Final Day – Saturday, June 21: Ride back to Bowling Green, Wood County Fairgrounds.

Additional Accommodation Options – Car Camper Passes and Trailers

Car Camper Options:

• CAR-CAMPER PARKING PASS: Allows entry with a car or camper in designated spaces at our camp facilities.
• SPACE LIMITATIONS – New in 2025 – Each Car Camper Parking Pass will be allocated a 1,500 sq/ft. space and allowed 3 additional tents on the space. Additional needs will require the purchase of additional CAR-CAMPER PARKING PASSES.
• BOX TRUCKS – Allows a box truck (rental truck, pickup truck) to transport luggage and equipment for a group (e.g. bike club, Scout troop, etc.). A special area will be reserved for the accommodation of these groups.

Fees and Policies:

Registration Fee: Drivers must either be registered riders or register at the current non-rider adult rate of $100. This non-rider fee covers the meals provided by GOBA and all camp facilities (shower trucks, porta pots, etc.).

Vehicle Fees:

• Vehicle 18 feet or shorter (car, minivan, no sleeping inside): $50
• Vehicle 18 to 36 feet (camper vans, trailers, vehicles with sleeping inside): $100
• Motorhomes over 36 feet (call for availability): $200
• Box Trucks: $150

Registration Deadline: Car-camper and box truck pass registrations close on June 8, 2025, or when the 50-car capacity is reached. No refunds after this date.

What You Get:

• A pass allows a non-rider to bring a vehicle each day and park it in the GOBA-rented facility.
• All drivers and campers must be registered as GOBA participants and wear a wristband.
• No electricity, water, or other hookups are provided.

Rules:

• All vehicle occupants must be registered, paid participants of GOBA 2025, and wear GOBA wristbands.
• “CAR CAMP” placards must be displayed in the windshield throughout GOBA.
• Arrival at each day’s camp is not allowed before 10 a.m. (3:00 pm on June 13 in Bowling Green).
• Present your placard upon entry and follow parking instructions from local and GOBA volunteers and staff.
• Erect tents and other equipment only on designated camping sites. GOBA will try to provide sites adjacent to vehicle parking areas, but this may not always be feasible.
• Stay off the bicyclists’ route, except for GOBA-designated rendezvous points.
• Do not hook up to electricity or water unless pre-arranged with GOBA.
• The pass is only valid in a particular camp for the night(s) that GOBA is camping there.
• Do not operate the vehicle for profit or commercial purposes during the event.
• A vehicle consists of a car, truck, motorhome, van, or trailer. The length of any tow vehicle counts toward the overall length used in calculating the fee.
• Do not use an auxiliary, gasoline-powered generator. Built-in RV generators are allowed.
• Pets are not allowed at GOBA, per GOBA policies.

Alternative Accommodation Options – Premium Tent Service and Group Camping

If you want to upgrade your camping experience, you can choose from the optional camper services provided by Knight’s Kingdom. These services include tent hire, tent setup, chair hire, luggage delivery, fresh towel service, and snacks and beverages. You can also set your tent in the Knight’s Kingdom preferred sites and benefit from their luggage hauling service using the “Community Camping” service. Fees for services apply.

Knight’s Kingdom Camper Services: Knight’s Kingdom is GOBA’s preferred vendor and offers extra services for campers. You can purchase these services during the GOBA registration process.

Deluxe Camping Service:

• Cost: $600 single or $800 double

What You Get:

• A tent was set up and taken down by Knight’s Kingdom in their preferred area
• Air mattress
• Camp chair
• Luggage service
• Snacks and drinks
• Towels and washcloths
• Power for electronics and CPAP machines

Community Camping Service:

• Cost: $150 per person

What You Get:

• A reserved spot for your tent in the Knight’s Kingdom preferred area
• Luggage service to the Knight’s Kingdom preferred area
• Camp chair
• Snacks and drinks
• Power for electronics and CPAP machines
• Note: No towel service, buy it separately

Towel Service:

• Cost: $30 before June 6, 2025, or $35 at check-in. No refunds
• What You Get: New and clean towel and washcloth every day. Find the towel service near the shower trucks daily.

Chair Service:

• Cost: $30 before June 6, 2025, or $35 at check-in. No refunds
• What You Get: Camp chair. Return by 7 a.m. on departure days when GOBA leaves camp.

Refund Policy: Refund request by May 15, 2025. Deluxe and Community Services refunds have a $20 fee. No refunds for towel and chair services. No refunds if cancellation is due to natural disasters, acts of God, or terrorism. See the “more info” section of the registration tiles for the full policy.

Additional Accommodation Options – Indoor Sleeping

Indoor/Floor Sleeping passes are available for the whole week at $100, with a limit of 100 passes. The first Friday night, June 13, is included if you arrive early for the GOBA+1 Bowling Green Community Ride. GOBA Weekend Riders can purchase a pass for the two nights (Fri & Sat) in Bowling Green for $30.

Locations:

• Bowling Green: Concrete floor space at the Wood County Fairgrounds. Climate-controlled and good airflow through large barn doors.
• Port Clinton: Gym floor space at the Port Clinton High School Complex.
• Fremont: Gym floor space at the Terra Community College.

Bad Weather & Single Night Sales:

• Availability depends on the capacity of each facility.
• $20 per night at the door.
• Fire regulations limit the number of spaces, and all space is first come, first served. On-the-spot registration may not be available in some places.
• Local nonprofit groups manage the facilities, and the fee goes entirely to them.

Luggage & Policies:

The 2025 indoor facilities are all in the heart of GOBAville; you’ll be responsible for transporting your luggage to/from the luggage trucks.

Follow the guidance of the host facility or GOBA staff to set your sleeping area in designated spots. Please be considerate of your neighbors and recognize the space limitations of the facility. (Don’t be a space hog!)

Alternative Lodging Options: You can stay at a hotel or B&B at your own cost. GOBA registration does not cover these expenses.

Finding Lodging: Search online and contact local visitor bureaus for updated information on availability, including B&Bs.

Reservations and Transportation: You are responsible for making reservations and getting to and from these places. GOBA will only deliver your baggage to designated campgrounds. Some riders bring a small pannier or backpack to carry essentials to their hotel. They take what they need for the night from their bigger bag, leave the bag in the campgrounds with a friend, and ride to their hotel with a light load.

Partner Hotels and Discounts: Some hotels hold a block of rooms and offer discounts to GOBA riders. These discount blocks usually expire one month prior to GOBA. Mention “GOBA” when calling to get the discount.

• Bowling Green: TBD
• Port Clinton: TBD
• Fremont: TBD

Airbnb & VRBO: Many cyclists use Airbnb and VRBO to book rooms and spaces from local community hosts. These places do not offer shuttles or transport to/from the GOBAville luggage trucks.

T-shirts, Jerseys, and Hats

You can order 2025 GOBA T-shirts for $20 and jerseys for $70 through the GOBA registration portal. The deadline to order is May 15, 2025, to meet production schedules. All purchases after May 15th are subject to availability. Pre-ordered T-shirts and jerseys can be collected at the GOBA check-in starting June 13 at the camp. There may be some extra shirts, jerseys, and other apparel for sale during GOBA.

Rider Number 35 Raffle

You can enter a drawing to get Rider Number 36 in honor of GOBA’s 36th anniversary when you register. Register by June 6, 2025, and add a nonrefundable donation of $5 per ticket. The winner gets a prize package worth more than $500, including:

• Free 2025 registration (we will refund your fee if you win)
• A massage during GOBA week
• A 2025 GOBA unisex short sleeve jersey

The raffle will take place at the GOBA opening ceremony on June 15th.

Rider Number 1 Silent Auction

GOBA Rider #1 will go to the highest bidder before the GOBA Opening Ceremony on June 15th. Bidding on and getting GOBA Rider #1 is a great way to recognize a special member of your family and help support GOBA. Send your bid by email to goba@outdoor-pursuits.org.

Host Community Activities & Entertainment

PDF links will be added to each community’s offerings, including campground maps.

All registration is online and must be completed by midnight on June 6, 2025, or when we reach our limit of 1,500 riders, whichever comes sooner. We no longer offer paper registration. If you need assistance, call us.

2025 Prices – Up to 5 Meals Included! GOBA remains one of the most affordable full-service bicycle tours in the country. We have raised our base cost by $20+ this year and will continue providing up to 5 meals as part of your registration.

Membership Discount – Columbus Outdoor Pursuits Members will qualify for a $25 discount. Membership discounts can be utilized on all our major tours (TOSRV, OETA, XOBA, GAP Adventure, Knox County Biketoberfest) and all of our single-day Ride Series rides. Current/active Members can access the discount by entering their e-mail at registration. Otherwise, click the “Membership” tab on the top of the webpage and join. Give our system a few hours before coming back to attempt to register for GOBA.

Registration Categories and Fee Options:

• Adult Traditional GOBA (7 days): $460 / $435 for COP Members
• Children aged 6-15 Traditional GOBA: $105 (no increases!)
• Children aged 2-5 Traditional GOBA: Free
• GOBA +1 (8 days w/ Bowling Green Community Ride): $490 / $465 for COP Members
• GOBA +1 Children aged 6-15: $120
• GOBA Weekend (2 days): $150 / $125 for COP Members
• GOBA Weekend Children aged 6-15: $55
• Single Day: $75 – send an e-mail to goba@outdoor-pursuits.org to request the procedure.
• Non-Rider: $100 – for partner drivers. Covers GOBA-supplied meals and camp facilities.

Early Check-in – “GOBA+1” and “GOBA Weekend” registrants will check in Friday, June 13 beginning at 3:00 pm and have access to GOBAville camp facilities for Friday evening.

Early Registration Discounts & Deadlines:

• Early pricing is valid until midnight, February 2nd
• Standard pricing (+$50 all levels) from February 3 – June 1st
• Very Late pricing (+$100 on all levels) from June 2 – June 14

Notes Regarding Children: Each child ages 2-15 must be registered separately. Children under age 2 may not ride on a bike or in a bike trailer on GOBA.

Cancellations/Refunds: Refund requests must be sent via email to goba@outdoor-pursuits.org by May 19, 2025. Refunds will be granted up to that date, minus a $55 processing fee. No refunds after May 19, 2025, for any reason; rollovers to 2026 may be allowed.

Transfer of Registration: To transfer your registration to someone else, email GOBA at goba@outdoor-pursuits.org with the names, home addresses, and email addresses of both the original registrant and the transferee. The transferee must sign up by June 1, 2025, and pay a $25 transfer fee. If the original registration rate was cheaper, GOBA will provide a coupon code for the transferee to use during registration. After the transferee completes registration, a full refund will be given to the original registrant (minus the $55 processing fee).

Other Terms: All registrations are for the entire week, except for the “GOBA Weekend” package. All participants must register, whether they are bicycling or not. Each registrant must sign the Liability Waiver, Indemnification Agreement, Permission to Provide Medical Treatment, and Publicity Release. Registrations are not accepted without payment. Children must reach their 2nd birthday by June 14, 2025, to ride on or be pulled by a bicycle. Note that GOBA volunteer support vehicles do not carry child safety seats. There will be no guaranteed refunds for registration or camping services in the event of cancellation due to natural disasters, acts of God, terrorism, epidemics, or pandemics.

Special Note – Eligibility for GOBA 2026 partnership with Ohio’s Commission to celebrate America’s 250th Anniversary – We expect high demand for this once-in-a-lifetime GOBA event in strong partnership with Ohio’s Tourism partners. We will open 2026 registration exclusively to those 2024 & 2025 registrants.

Photos, Videos, & News Stories

You can explore photos and videos of the Great Ohio Bicycle Adventure (GOBA) through the following links:

https://goba.smugmug.com/

https://www.facebook.com/tvhamiltonohio/videos/983802703058398

Drivers beware: Great Ohio Bicycle Adventure cyclists bike into Hamilton

Great Ohio Bicycle Adventure to ride through Butler County as part of 35th anniversary

GOBA bikers visit Golden Gate Park

GOBA, Buckeye Bridge Ride wheeling into area

BBR, GOBA riders converge on county

Weekend Adventures: June Trip Ideas from an Ohio Bike Tour to a Seattle Solstice Party

GOBA is coming to town

GOBA DIGEST NEWSLETTERS

2024 Registrant Update Newsletter #1 – Distributed 5/31/24