GROWING UP, two of my family’s favorite hobbies were camping and motorsports. Most of our family’s favorite memories involve camping or watching racing in California. So when my RV travels took me to Florida for the winter, I made one of my family’s biggest lifelong dreams come true — camping in the infield and attending the Daytona 500. I’ll never forget my Dad standing on the roof of a motorhome, watching the cars on the track for the first time, knowing I had helped him cross a huge item off his bucket list.
If you’ve ever wondered what it’s like to combine a high-speed NASCAR race with an RV getaway, the answer is simple: it’s one of the most unforgettable camping experiences you can have.RV camping at a NASCAR race turns an ordinary race day into a nonstop, high-energy weekend where fans don’t just attend the event—they live and breathe it. From early morning engine rumbles to late-night conversations with fellow fans, the campground becomes just as exciting as the track itself.
Whether you’re heading to Daytona, San Diego, Talladega, Bristol, Sonoma, or another iconic speedway, the experience shares the same core ingredients: racing, community, and a whole lot of fun. But for the RVer wondering how to get in on the action, I learned it requires a fair amount of planning ahead and research.
Why RV Camping at NASCAR Is So Popular
NASCAR camping transforms a race day into a full weekend experience that’s unlike almost anything else in motorsports. The sounds, the smells, the views—it’s all permanently ingrained into my family’s vacation stories. It’s convenient and completely immersive.
You’re steps away from the action, fan zones, merchandise areas, food vendors, and of course, the track. Plus, you can bond with fellow fans and possibly even meet your favorite drivers.
These experiences are becoming increasingly popular as the next generation of fans fall in love with racing and the vibe of specific tracks, which is great for the sport. But it does create a challenge for new fans hoping to break into the camping experience at a NASCAR track. Many tips and tricks for booking the best campsite may feel like trade secrets, or even finding last-minute camping reservations less than six months out from the start of the race can feel daunting.
The Atmosphere: A Moving City of RVs
One of the biggest surprises for first-timers RV camping at NASCAR events is just how alive the infield camping can be. Rows of RVs quickly turn into a temporary city filled with flags, lights, grills, music, and fans who return year after year. Neighbors become friends, and it’s not unusual to be invited over for a cookout before you’ve even finished parking. This is where camping at a NASCAR race is really special. Multiple generations from various walks of life come together for one common thing: to root for their guy and boo all the others. It’s friendly rivalry and camaraderie all rolled into one loud and passionate weekend.
It’s Canadians, Californians, and Southerners finding something in common and swapping stories from the good ol’ days of Dale Earnhardt and Bobby Allison—something we may not get to do too often outside of the turns of the infield. And the sound of the event never really fades. Even when you’re back at your site, you’ll hear the engines echoing through the track, keeping the energy going all weekend long.
It’s a moving city that never sleeps. So, how do you join in?
Outside vs Infield RV Camping at NASCAR
Most NASCAR tracks offer dedicated RV camping areas ranging from infield spots (inside the track) to perimeter and premium sites outside the oval or road course. Depending on the location, you may have access to full hookups, partial hookups, or dry camping areas, with generators, fill-up, and RV dump service to keep you going the entire weekend.
Not all NASCAR camping experiences are the same, and where you stay plays a big role in your trip.
NASCAR Infield Camping
Infield camping puts you right inside the action—often near pit road, the garage areas, or other behind-the-scenes parts of the speedway.
This is the most immersive option and a big part of what many fans consider the best NASCAR camping experience. You’re surrounded by non-stop activity, closer to fan events, and fully plugged into race weekend energy.
However, infield sites are often dry camping only, meaning no hookups. You’ll rely on your RV’s water supply, tanks, and an onboard or portable generator. You are also inside a race track, meaning that quiet hours are few and far between.
After deciding what track you’d like to camp at, you can go to their website and check out the campground map and list of amenities, and even start making your reservations if it’s within the booking window.
Outside or Perimeter Camping
Outside RV camping areas tend to offer more space, quieter surroundings, and more hookup options.
This is a great choice for campers who want to enjoy the race weekend atmosphere but appreciate a bit more relaxation at the end of the day. You’re still close to the track—you just have a little more breathing room and can easily take advantage of shuttles to and from the track.
Camping Options Outside of the NASCAR Track
Not every NASCAR track on the circuit offers infield or perimeter camping, but that does not mean you can’t find camping nearby.
Specialty races, such as the Chicago Street Course or the upcoming San Diego Naval Base race, are not at permanent tracks, so finding camping is much like planning any other camping trip—just with a race as your destination.
RVers aren’t limited to just infield and perimeter camping spots. Typically, the area within an hour of the track offers plenty of additional options. If you’re late to book and find on-site spots already taken, expand your search to:
- Private campgrounds and RV parks
- State and national parks
- KOA campgrounds
- Fairgrounds and temporary sites
- Fellow fans’ properties
No matter where you end up, just be sure to factor in the distance and whether the track offers shuttle service so race-day logistics stay simple.
What First-Time NASCAR Campers Should Expect
If it’s your first time RV camping at a NASCAR race, expect things to feel exciting, busy, and a little different than a typical campground stay. This isn’t a “sleep in and enjoy afternoon hammock naps” type of camping experience.
Most NASCAR tracks allow campers to begin arriving as early as Thursday morning. Throughout the weekend, there is always something to watch, such as qualifying, practice, ARCA Series, Craftsman Truck Series, O’Reilly Series, and, of course, the big show on Sunday: the NASCAR Cup Series.
There may also be nearby driver meet-and-greets, track tours, and more. One of the best ways to stay in the loop is to connect with fellow race fans. Find a Facebook Group for that specific track and stay connected. Don’t let the rough exterior fool you, NASCAR fans can be some of the sweetest people and love to help new fans enjoy their beloved sport.
Here’s what I learned as a first-time NASCAR camper:
- Early arrival matters. Many campers arrive days before the race to find easier parking, get settled, and avoid traffic congestion.
- Noise is part of the experience. Between generators, crowds, military flyovers, and engines, quiet weekends don’t really exist here.
- RV hookups vary widely. Some campgrounds offer full utilities, while most sites are completely self-contained.
- Golf carts and bikes may or may not be allowed. Be sure to check specific raceway regulations for motorized or non-motorized transportation.
- Pack your patience. Like any large venue, a NASCAR track can hold thousands of people. So entering or leaving the track and infield can take some time.
The key is to come prepared—but be flexible and be patient. Some of the best moments happen when the unexpected happens.
When my family and I camped in Daytona for Speedweek, we experienced a rain delay that pushed back both the O’Reilly and Cup Series until Monday, leaving us an unexpected empty Sunday. We spent the day enjoying the complimentary Wendy’s offered in the infield and exploring Daytona.
Some of our favorite memories from that week were made during a rain delay. Just like our favorite NASCAR drivers have to adjust their race strategy when an unexpected caution flag comes out, so do we race fans.
Planning Your NASCAR Camping Trip: What to Know Before You Book
If you’re ready to experience RV camping at a NASCAR race for yourself, the key is to plan as far in advance as possible. As I previously mentioned, some of these sites have been held by the same family for years. Some of the most coveted sites are booked as soon as they’re available. Planning ahead can make all the difference.
From choosing the right track to understanding pricing and packages, here are a few key details to help you prepare for your first—or next—race weekend.
Which NASCAR Tracks Offer Infield Camping?
Not every speedway offers infield or even perimeter camping, but many of the most popular NASCAR camping venues do—and that’s often where you’ll find the most immersive experience.
Tracks like Daytona International Speedway, Talladega Superspeedway, Charlotte Motor Speedway, and Pocono Raceway are well known for their infield camping options. Unique tracks such as Sonoma Raceway and the Circuit of the Americas (COTA) are road courses that offer a mix of infield and perimeter camping.
Some tracks, such as Phoenix Raceway and Bristol Motor Speedway, only offer perimeter camping.
Each track has its own layout, rules, and camping atmosphere. Some offer lakeside sites, paved pads, or premium viewing areas, while others focus more on open, festival-style camping. If being in the middle of the action is your priority, it’s worth researching each track’s infield setup before booking.
The best way to research is to tune in to a race on any weekend during the NASCAR season, see the track from the Goodyear® blimp’s camera angles, and listen to what the broadcasters have to say about their weekend experience.
Check out the 2026 NASCAR Schedule.
How Much Does NASCAR Camping Cost?
Pricing for NASCAR camping can vary widely depending on the track, location, and level of amenities.
- Dry camping sites (especially infields) can start at a few hundred dollars for the weekend
- Partial hookup sites typically fall somewhere in the mid-range
- Premium full hookup sites—especially those with prime viewing access—can climb into the $1,000+ range for major race weekends
If you’re new to camping at a NASCAR track, you may be surprised to find that it’s not only the amenities that can drive the cost of a site, but the location. A dry camping site in Turn 4 of Daytona may be more than a partial hookup site in Texas.
Keep in mind that many NASCAR camping reservations cover multiple days (often Thursday through Monday), which adds to the overall value. High-demand races, such as the Daytona 500, tend to sell out quickly, and prices can increase month over month, so booking early is always a smart move.
Consider a NASCAR Weekend Camping Package
Some tracks and partners offer NASCAR camping packages that bundle your RV site with race tickets, hospitality access, or exclusive fan experiences. These packages can take a lot of the guesswork out of planning, especially for first-time attendees.
Depending on the package, you might get perks like:
- Reserved seating or premium viewing areas
- Access to driver appearances or fan zones
- Shuttle services around the track
- Early entry or extended stays
- On track experiences
- Museum entry
- Grandstand tickets
While packages typically come at a higher price point, they can turn a memorable racing weekend into a weekend you’ll never forget.
This is where having a NASCAR Sales Representative can come in handy. They’ll be able to help you secure grandstand tickets, camping sites, and other experiences for you, or you can book them online yourself.
NASCAR Camping Tips for the Best Experience
While most RVers enjoy camping to get away from it all, the noise and the people, this type of camping is all about embracing it.
The energy, the noise, the rumble of more than thirty 750-horsepower race cars rattling the windows of your motorhome, the 8 AM wakeup calls of the military flyovers practicing before race day, it’s all part of the experience.
And I think as long as you welcome the uniqueness of this type of camping, you’ll come to love it.
This is one of those vacations where you need a vacation afterward. Where you were up way too late, up way too early, walked way too many steps, cheered way too loud, and lost your voice, kind of camping vacations.
The right mindset and preparation can go a long way.
Here are my top tips for you to best prepare for your race weekend:
- Book your campsite early—premium RV camping spots often sell out months in advance.
- Bring extra fuel, hoses, water, food, and extension cords if you’re dry camping.
Shop RV supplies to stay prepared.
- Prepare for all weather conditions—sun, wind, and rain can all show up in one weekend.
- Plan your departure in advance—post-race traffic can be heavy, loud, and a bit rowdy.
- Give yourself extra time—rain delays can happen, and sometimes races can be delayed up to a day. So be sure to book accordingly.
- Embrace the atmosphere—it’s loud, lively, and unlike any traditional campground.
Final and Biggest Tip: Start Planning Early
I’ve said it before, and I’ll say it again – plan early.
The best NASCAR camping experiences usually start months—or even a year—in advance.
Popular tracks and premium RV camping spots often sell out quickly, especially for marquee races. If you have a specific race or track in mind, it’s worth reaching out to a NASCAR representative as soon as possible to get the planning started.
The earlier you plan, the more options you’ll have—and the easier it will be to create a race weekend that fits your style of camping.
Is RV Camping at NASCAR Tracks Worth It?
Images by Kerisa Kiele Tiongson
Few motorsports experiences match the intensity of infield camping at a NASCAR race. That’s especially true if you embrace the entire experience.
And isn’t RVing all about that? Trying something new, breaking out of our comfort zone, feeling a rush of adrenaline. That’s what you can experience when you combine camping and a NASCAR race.
From the shared excitement of race day to the community of race fans built around every RV site, this is one of those experiences that sticks with you long after the checkered flag waves and your ears stop ringing.
The best NASCAR camping weekends are built on more than the race. The anticipation, the media, the meet and greets, it’s all part of transforming one fun day into a weekend of family memories that will last a lifetime.
And once you’ve done it, chances are you’ll already be planning your next trip before you even leave the speedway.
