Busco Beach vs Outback ATV - Which one for side by sides?

Been looking at both these spots and did some digging. Here’s what I found if anyone else is trying to decide:

TL;DR: Busco has way more variety and stuff to do but costs more. Outback is cheap and chill but pretty basic.

The basics

Busco Beach (Goldsboro): 1,800+ acres, on an island in the Neuse River. This place has been around since ‘99 and they’ve got everything - mud, sand, water crossings, even beach riding.

Outback ATV (Laurinburg): 800 acres, run by some disabled vets. They call it “The People’s Park” and it’s all about keeping costs down and being family friendly.

What’s the riding like?

Busco: Way more variety. Deep mud holes that’ll require a snorkel, beach trails, water crossings over 3 feet deep, motocross tracks, drag strips. Terrain changes depending on weather so it’s different every time. Good for intermediate/advanced riders with decent machines.

Outback: Mostly flat sandy trails with some mud spots and bog areas. 50 acres of sand pits and some spring-fed swimming holes. It’s good for beginners and families but might be boring if you want technical stuff.

Facilities and costs

Busco: $10 per person + $10 per machine = $20 if you’re riding solo. Camping is $10 for primitive, RV hookups $20-35. They’ve got hot showers, snack shop, ATV rentals, air stations, live entertainment on weekends. It’s about an hour from Raleigh.

Outback: $15 total per rider/machine. Annual membership is $400 which is a steal if you go often. Primitive camping only $5/night for members. Basic facilities - showers, restrooms, but no food service or WiFi. They run on honor system when staff isn’t around.

The real talk

Busco is hands down better if you want variety and don’t mind spending more. The water stuff is unique - you can do jet skiing and swimming between rides. They host big events like Mud Bash Week. It’s worth the extra cost if you want more than just basic trail riding.

Outback is perfect if you’re on a budget or have kids. The vets who run it are solid people and it has a real community feel. Just don’t expect fancy amenities.

My take

If this is a special trip or you’re looking for an experience, go Busco. The terrain variety alone makes it worth it and the water activities are actually pretty cool.

If you just want to ride without breaking the bank or you’re taking the family, Outback is hard to beat for the price. Plus supporting veteran-owned business is always good.

Anyone been to both? Curious what others think.