Bark River Looks to the Future with Champ Off-Road
The Bark River Lions Club has extended its partnership with AMSOIL Championship Off-Road by signing a three-year contract to host race events at Bark River Off-Road Raceway. This agreement ensures that North America’s premier short-course off-road racing series will continue to hold races at Bark River through the 2027 season. This guarantees that short-course racing will take place at one of the sport’s legendary venues.
Significant additions have recently been made to the Michigan Upper Peninsula facility. These include more campground space, additional spectator parking, and VIP and broadcasting suites. These improvements are part of the plan to keep the facility at the forefront of the sport and are also in preparation for the organization’s 50th Anniversary celebration in 2026.
“We are reaching a milestone that only one other venue has reached in short-course off-road racing, and our partnership with Champ Off-Road ensures we will celebrate our fiftieth year. To be included in the conversation with Crandon as hosting this type of racing for half a century is an honor,” noted Scott Kwarciany, Bark River Lions Club Treasurer.
“Working with the Bark River Lions Club to complete this agreement demonstrates the importance of longstanding partnerships in our sport,” commented Carl Schubitzke, Champ Off-Road President. “This allows the venue to work on larger infrastructure projects and enables the series and competitors to offer long-term marketing proposals.”
The Bark River Lions Club and its team of volunteers organize the longstanding event. Every year, the proceeds from the weekend event are distributed to several non-profit organizations and the Lions Club. The impact of the donations can be seen throughout the area daily.
Before the celebrations begin for the 2026 edition, the upcoming event will continue to deliver thrilling off-road action in front of tens of thousands of fans who come to Bark River, Michigan, to support their short-course athletes, as well as the hundreds of thousands who tune in on Fox Sports and FloRacing.
About Bark River: Bark River International Off-Road Raceway, located in Michigan’s Upper Peninsula, is a premier 1.5-mile natural-terrain short-course track known for its challenging jumps, tight turns, and elevation changes. Established in 1976, it hosts the AMSOIL Championship Off-Road Racing Tour, drawing top competitors in trucks, buggies, and side-by-sides. With family-friendly viewing areas, camping options, and a vibrant atmosphere, Bark River attracts thousands of off-road fans annually, making it a key stop on the Champ Tour.