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How To Camp At A NASCAR Race? (And Why Every Family Should)

How To Camp At A NASCAR Race? (And Why Every Family Should)

How To Camp At A NASCAR Race? (And Why Every Family Should)

If you know our family (the Double Decker Fam), you know we say yes to the wildest adventures—and camping in the heart of NASCAR has to be one of our favorite, most unexpected family getaways yet. If you’ve ever thought about camping at a NASCAR race, or if the idea just popped into your head and you’re curious if it’s family-friendly, let me tell you: It’s one of America’s most underrated family adventures. From roaring engines and bustling infield crowds to tailgate cookouts and meeting new friends who double as race fans, NASCAR weekends deliver a wholesome, community-focused, and downright fun escape for all ages.

Whether your family is in a big Class A motorhome, a cozy pop-up, or, like us, rolling up in a converted double-decker bus, here’s how to make the most of your race weekend, plus a few reasons why I think every family should do this at least once.

Table of Contents

What Makes Camping At A NASCAR Race Special?

Camping inside or around a NASCAR track is NOT your usual camp-in-the-woods experience. It’s more of a high-energy, immersive event where the race is just one part of a bigger celebration. Here’s what we’ve found makes it shine, especially for families like ours with a crew of different ages:

1. The Community Vibe

From the moment you pull in, whether you’re infield or in an exterior lot, you’re met with smiles and neighborly gestures. Need to borrow some charcoal? Someone’s offering extra. Kids want to join in on a cornhole game? There’s room for everyone. Many families come back year after year and they’re quick to make newcomers feel at home.

2. Entertainment For All Ages

Sure, the main event is blistering fast cars and pit row action. But the party continues all around: concerts, kids’ zones, driver meet-and-greets, parades, and the best people-watching you’ll ever experience. Our kids love collecting hero cards, exploring the vendor displays, and dancing to live music after dark.

3. Both Simplicity and Spectacle

While some folks build elaborate temporary compounds complete with themed decor and flagpoles, others (like us) are happy grilling, riding bikes, and soaking up the action from lawn chairs. No matter your style, there’s a spot at the track for you.

Getting Your Camping Spot: A Step-By-Step Guide

Pro tip: Demand for camping at NASCAR events, especially legendary tracks like Daytona or Talladega, is HIGH. Book early as possible for a guaranteed spot (some even sell out before tickets go onsale for the next year).

Here’s exactly how to score a great spot:

Step 1: Pick Your Race

Not all tracks have the same camping setup or atmosphere. If it’s your first time, look for tracks well-known for family fun like Charlotte Motor Speedway or Talladega Superspeedway.

Step 2: Choose Your Camping Experience

You’ll generally find…
– Infield Camping: Right in the middle of the action, great views, premium prices, sometimes a little rowdy.
– Exterior/Family/Quiet Camping: Just outside the track—quieter, more affordable, sometimes even free with race tickets.
– Hookups vs. Dry Camping: Some spots have electricity, water, and sewer; others are basic RV, trailer, or tent spaces.

Insider tip: Local campgrounds near the speedway can be a backup if official track camping is full.

Step 3: Reserve Online

Visit the track’s official website (see the resource links below!) for camping maps, rules, pricing, and availability. Some tracks have a phone line with super-helpful staff that can recommend the best area based on your crew’s needs.

Step 4: Plan Arrival and Set-Up

Tracks typically publish arrival windows—sometimes up to a week before the race—which gives you time to settle in, meet neighbors, and fully absorb the NASCAR culture. Arrive early if you can!

What To Pack For Your NASCAR Camping Trip

You don’t need a giant RV to camp at a NASCAR race (trust me, we’ve camped beside everything from converted vans to pop-up tents), but you do want to be prepared for a weekend of activity, sun, noise, and fun. Here’s our family’s must-have checklist:

Essentials

  • Camping Pass and Race Tickets: Don’t forget ‘em!
  • ID and Registration: Helpful at check-in.
  • Ear Protection: Esp. for kids—the cars are LOUD! We recommend hearing protection for all ages from the CDC.
  • Weather Gear: Sunscreen, hats, rain ponchos, jackets for chilly evenings.
  • Camping Chairs & Folding Tables: For meals and hanging out.
  • Coolers & Food: Stock up; food trucks can be pricey, and campsites often have big group cookouts.
  • Bikes/Scooters: Getting around the camping areas is easier on wheels.
  • Water Jugs: Even if you have hookups, it’s smart to bring extra.
  • Trash Bags & Cleaning Supplies: Trash pickup isn’t always frequent.
  • Outdoor Games: Cornhole, frisbee, soccer balls—they’re great ice-breakers for the kids.

Optional But Awesome

  • Flags/Banners/Lights: Show your family’s spirit and stand out at night.
  • Binoculars: For spotting distant race action.
  • Autograph Items: Many drivers wander the grounds, especially at family-friendly events.
  • Walkie-Talkies: For keeping in touch since phone network gets overloaded when the crowd’s in.

Tips To Make It Family-Friendly

As a dad of six with ages ranging from 5-year-old twins to our pre-teen, I’ve picked up a few survive-and-thrive tips.

1. Family/Quiet Zones Are Real

Many NASCAR tracks designate specific camping areas as “family” or “quiet” zones. They’re just as much fun without midnight revelry—perfect if you want the kids to (eventually) sleep.

2. Establish Campsite Boundaries

The infield can be a maze, and with so much excitement, kids can wander off fast. We lay out glow sticks, cones, or even a colorful flag at our site and set up a meetup point with the kids if anyone gets separated.

3. Use Hearing Protection

I’ll say it again: these cars are seriously loud. The American Academy of Pediatrics recommends strong over-ear protection for kids at all motorsports events.

4. Teach Racing Etiquette

Cheering is celebrated—fighting, not so much. We encourage our kids to trade hero cards, share toys, and ask before borrowing neighbor’s gear. NASCAR fans are some of the friendliest around, but a little courtesy goes far.

5. Plan Downtime

Big races can mean long days. Schedule in a midday rest or movie (our bus TV comes in clutch here) so everyone has energy for the main events!

Why Every Family Should Try This

Camping at a NASCAR race is a slice of Americana that exposes kids to a unique blend of sports, citizenship, and good old fashioned togetherness. Here’s a few reasons it’s worth trying at least once:

1. It’s Surprisingly Affordable

Compared to theme park tickets or hotels, NASCAR race weekends—especially in exterior lots or “family camping”—are affordable. Check for package deals, and many tracks let kids attend Sunday races free with an adult ticket.

2. Hands-On Learning

Kids discover STEM through pit stops, racecar tech, engine debates, and track tours—some tracks have amazing pit road and garage tours that’s pure magic for curious young minds.

3. Memories (And Friends) For Life

Our family’s met folks from all over the country, shared BBQ dinners, and even stayed in touch between races—it’s a beautiful way for kids to see how massive and welcoming the RV and racing communities truly are.

4. A Family Adventure Like No Other

Where else can you combine tailgate meals, national anthems, legendary speed, and fireworks all in one weekend? The answer: only at a NASCAR campsite.

Helpful Resources And Links