Cliff Boswell

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Cliff Boswell: The Quiet Pioneer of Motorcycle Camping

In the realm of motorcycling, few figures have had as profound an impact as Cliff Boswell. Known for his articles in major motorcycle publications during the latter half of the 20th century, Boswell combined his love of motorcycling and the great outdoors with his passion for teaching. His work inspired countless enthusiasts to explore the world of motorcycle travel and camping, ultimately leading to the founding of the International Brotherhood of Motorcycle Campers (IBMC), an organization that celebrates the unique blend of motorcycling and camping.

Born in Central Point, Oregon, in 1905, Boswell's journey took him to Southern California in 1932, where he earned his teaching degree at Santa Barbara. It was there that he met his future wife, Marge. By 1941, the Boswell family had settled in Arroyo Grande, California, where Cliff’s passion for motorcycling began to flourish.

Boswell’s influential column, "Camping with Cliff," first appeared in Road Rider magazine, where he shared insights and experiences that resonated with fellow riders. “After several years of writing,” Boswell reflected, “the idea occurred to me that a club comprised of people who liked to ride and camp with motorcycles might be just the ticket.” In 1973, with the help of Road Rider staff members, the Brotherhood of Motorcycle Campers was born.

Initially abbreviated as BoM/cC to differentiate it from government entities, the club started with a modest group of 30 honorary members from the motorcycle community, including notable figures like Bill Harmer and George Spidell. Boswell assumed multiple roles, including President and Chief Cook, while also publishing the club’s quarterly report, a precursor to what is now known as The Campfire Ring.

The club thrived on camaraderie, with annual meetings held at campgrounds across the West. Members paid yearly dues and provided self-addressed stamped envelopes to receive newsletters filled with valuable information about motorcycle camping. However, as membership grew, so did the complexities of managing the organization. In 1975, the BoM/cC sought to incorporate as a non-profit, but the structure proved cumbersome and was dissolved after two years. Despite this setback, the spirit of the club remained strong, thanks in large part to the efforts of Bill and Betty Poteet, who revitalized it.

Under their leadership, membership soared to nearly 400, emphasizing correspondence and community among riders. They shared insights on camping facilities and encouraged informal gatherings, which blossomed into a series of campouts across the United States.

In the 1980s, the club evolved further under the stewardship of Don and Glenna Stansifer, who renamed it the International Brotherhood of Motorcycle Campers (IBMC) to reflect its growing international presence and inclusivity. Their decade-long leadership saw membership expand to over 1,200, fostering a thriving community of riders united by their love for camping and the outdoors.

Throughout all these changes, Boswell's vision remained at the core of the organization: the idea of a lone biker communing with nature in the comfort of a campsite. This philosophy resonated deeply with members, who cherished the opportunity to escape the concrete confines of modern life and immerse themselves in the beauty of the great outdoors.

Cliff Boswell may not have sought the spotlight, but his thoughtful approach to writing and his unique perspective on motorcycling made a lasting impact on countless readers and riders. As a leader, teacher, and philosopher, he enriched the sport of motorcycling for generations.

Boswell, the old master of motorcycle camping, passed away on May 20, 1993. His legacy endures through the IBMC and the thousands of riders he inspired to hit the open road and pitch a tent under the stars. In a world often dominated by technology and urban life, Cliff Boswell's passion for the simplicity of camping and motorcycling continues to resonate, reminding us all of the joy that comes from exploring the open road.