Jeep Jamboree

Every company craves brand loyalty from their customers, but few achieve it the way that Jeep has managed to do. Much like Harley-Davidson in the motorcycle world, Jeep inspires its owners to celebrate the brand. They wear Jeep gear; they join Jeep clubs; they even tattoo the Jeep logo on their bodies. And Jeep owners get together for group events, the biggest of which is the Jeep Jamboree.

The first Jeep Jamboree was held in 1953, organized by off-roader Mark Smith as a drive through the Sierra Nevada Mountains. Jeep was then owned by Willys Motors, who became involved in the event in 1954. Jeep Jamboree USA formed to plan and operate events, and has held multiple Jeep Jamborees across the country ever since. The Jeep brand has changed ownership multiple times over the years – it is currently part of Fiat Chrysler Automobiles (FCA) – and its owners have maintained a relationship with Jeep Jamboree USA at every turn. But the event organization is independent, and is run by Jeep enthusiasts, not the brand itself.

What is a Jeep Jamboree? According to Jeep Jamboree USA’s website, “It’s a full two-day, family oriented four-wheel-drive adventure that’s probably unlike anything you’ve ever experienced. Jeep Jamborees cater to every level of expertise so they’re fun for everyone – from novice to veteran and everyone in between. Any Jeep vehicle with a 4-LO transfer case can participate – that includes everything from showroom stock all the way up to highly modified rigs. Experienced guides help navigate you through scenic switchbacks and some of the most challenging off-highway situations you never thought your Jeep vehicle was capable of. And, perhaps best of all, you’ll be meeting and making new friends along the way.”

Jeep owners must bring their own Jeep vehicle – either owned or rented. No other brands can participate. Each Jeep must be equipped with the following mandatory equipment:

• CB radio
• Four-wheel drive with a low-range (4-LO) transfer case
• Front and rear tow points must be properly mounted to the frame with grade-eight bolts
• All open-topped vehicles, including older models (CJs, Scramblers, and Willys), must have roll bars
• A full-size spare tire
• Street legal vehicle with current license plate

Jeep Jamboree USA had 37 events scheduled across the country for 2019. Advance registration is required, and fees run from $275 for individual adults to $650 for a family plan. Fees include all necessary permits, land-use fees, and experienced guides for the entire trip. Also included is an official Jeep Jamboree dash plaque and “access to some of the finest trails in America – several of which are only available through this program,” according to Jeep Jamboree USA.

While many Jeep owners choose to camp out during the Jamborees, comfort-oriented off-roaders can retreat to nearby hotels. Best Western Hotels & Resorts locations are frequently conveniently near Jeep Jamboree events – check online to find your favorite spot.

If you’ve got the Jeep bug, and you decide to tattoo the seven-bar logo on your shoulder, be sure to leave some space for the Best Western Hotels & Resorts marque on your other arm!