Key Takeaways
- →Best views: Turn 1 infield and Lake Lloyd lakeside ($2,000-$3,500+)
- →Best value: Turns 3-4 infield sections ($800-$1,500)
- →First to sell: Lake Lloyd lakeside—book 6-12 months ahead
- →Insider tip: Rooftop viewing platforms are common—factor height into your RV choice
In This Guide
Understanding Daytona's Layout
Daytona International Speedway isn't just a racetrack—it's a 500-acre motorsports complex with multiple distinct camping zones. The 2.5-mile tri-oval has camping available in the infield (inside the track), around Lake Lloyd (the lake in the center of the infield), and in perimeter areas outside the track.
Where you camp determines what you'll see, hear, and experience. Some spots put you 50 feet from cars screaming by at 190+ mph. Others offer peaceful lakeside mornings but require a walk to see the action. Understanding these tradeoffs is crucial before you book.
Quick Geography Lesson
- Tri-oval: The distinctive D-shape front stretch with grandstands
- Turn 1: Entry to the backstretch (east side)
- Backstretch: The long straight along the back of the track
- Turns 3-4: Exit from backstretch back to tri-oval (west side)
- Lake Lloyd: 29-acre lake in the center of the infield
Infield Camping Sections
Infield camping is the Daytona 500 experience. You're inside the track, surrounded by the roar of engines, with access to the garage area and pit road viewing. It's loud, it's intense, and it's unforgettable.
Turn 1 Infield
Price range: $1,800-$2,800
Views: Direct sightline to cars entering Turn 1 at full speed
Sells out: Within 1-2 weeks of release
Turn 1 is where the action happens. Cars come off the tri-oval at nearly 200 mph and dive into the corner three-wide. The sound is visceral—you feel it in your chest. These spots are premium priced for a reason.
Insider tip: Spots closest to the track fence command higher prices but have more noise and less space. Second-row spots often offer better value with nearly identical views.
Turn 3-4 Infield
Price range: $800-$1,500
Views: Cars exiting backstretch into final turns
Sells out: 2-4 weeks after release
The value play. Turn 3-4 sections cost significantly less than Turn 1 while still putting you trackside inside the infield. The racing action here features cars setting up for the run to the checkered flag—plenty of passing and drama.
Insider tip: Turn 4 spots closer to the tri-oval give you views of both the corner action and the front stretch finish line area.
Backstretch Infield
Price range: $1,000-$1,800
Views: Full-speed straightaway action, multi-car drafting packs
Sells out: 2-3 weeks after release
The backstretch is where superspeedway drafting happens. Cars run in tight packs at 200+ mph, inches apart. It's a unique viewing angle you won't get from grandstands. Some fans prefer this to corner viewing because you see the drafting strategy unfold.
Lake Lloyd Camping
Lake Lloyd sits in the center of the infield—a 29-acre lake that transforms into a massive camping community during Speedweeks. It's the most social camping area with a more relaxed atmosphere than trackside spots.
Lakeside Premium
Price range: $2,500-$3,500+
Views: Water views, elevated sightlines to backstretch
Sells out: Within HOURS of release
The crown jewels of Daytona camping. Lakeside spots come with water access, beautiful sunrise views, and an elevated position that lets you see large portions of the track. Many lakeside campers build rooftop viewing platforms and watch races from their RV roof with a cold drink in hand.
Insider tip: These spots sell out almost immediately. Set a calendar reminder for when they go on sale (typically late spring) and be ready to book the moment they open. Refreshing the page won't work—they're gone in minutes.
Lake Lloyd General
Price range: $1,200-$2,000
Views: Limited direct track views, rooftop viewing recommended
Sells out: 2-4 weeks after release
Non-lakefront Lake Lloyd spots are set back from the water but still provide the Lake Lloyd camping experience—community atmosphere, access to the lake, and the infield party scene. Track views are limited from ground level but accessible from RV rooftops.
Perimeter & Overflow Camping
Not everyone needs (or wants) to be inside the infield. Perimeter camping outside the track offers lower prices, quieter nights, and easier vehicle access.
Lot 6 (Outside Turn 4)
Price range: $400-$800
Views: None from campsite, short walk to gates
Sells out: Rarely
Budget-friendly option for fans who want to camp but don't need trackside positioning. You'll walk to the track for viewing but return to a quieter camping environment at night. Good for families or light sleepers.
GEICO Grounds & Overflow
Price range: $300-$600
Views: None
Sells out: Rarely
The most affordable camping option. Located outside the speedway but with shuttle access to the track. Best for fans who prioritize budget over convenience.
Pricing Comparison Table
| Camping Area | Price Range | Track View | Sells Out |
|---|---|---|---|
| Lake Lloyd Lakeside | $2,500-$3,500+ | Excellent (rooftop) | Hours |
| Turn 1 Infield | $1,800-$2,800 | Excellent (direct) | 1-2 weeks |
| Lake Lloyd General | $1,200-$2,000 | Good (rooftop) | 2-4 weeks |
| Backstretch Infield | $1,000-$1,800 | Excellent (direct) | 2-3 weeks |
| Turn 3-4 Infield | $800-$1,500 | Good (direct) | 2-4 weeks |
| Lot 6 Perimeter | $400-$800 | None | Rarely |
| Overflow Areas | $300-$600 | None | Rarely |
*Prices are for Speedweeks/Daytona 500 race weekend and may vary year to year. Does not include race tickets or RV rental. Source: Daytona International Speedway official camping packages.
Which Area Is Right for You?
Choose Lake Lloyd Lakeside if...
- • Budget is flexible and you want the best overall experience
- • You enjoy rooftop viewing with a more social atmosphere
- • You're booking 6+ months in advance and can catch the sale
Choose Turn 1 Infield if...
- • You want maximum racing intensity and noise
- • Direct trackside viewing is your priority
- • You don't mind sleeping through engine noise
Choose Turn 3-4 Infield if...
- • You want the infield experience at a reasonable price
- • You're booking a few weeks after release (still available)
- • Value matters but you still want trackside positioning
Choose Perimeter Camping if...
- • Budget is your primary concern
- • You have family members who need quiet sleeping
- • You're happy walking to the track for race viewing
Booking Tips & Timing
When Do Daytona 500 Camping Spots Go On Sale?
Daytona typically releases camping packages in late spring/early summer for the following year's Daytona 500. Exact dates vary—follow Daytona International Speedway on social media and sign up for their email list to get notified.
Pro tip: Create an account on the Daytona ticketing website before sale day. Having your payment info saved can make the difference between landing a premium spot and watching them sell out.
Booking Timeline
- 6-12 months before: Premium Lake Lloyd and Turn 1 spots release and sell out
- 3-6 months before: General infield spots still available
- 1-3 months before: Perimeter spots and last-minute infield cancellations
- Race week: Overflow camping only—everything else is sold out
Need Help Coordinating Your Daytona 500 RV Setup?
Securing a camping spot is just step one. You still need the RV, delivery coordination, and potentially multiple units if you're bringing a group. That's where we come in.
Learn more about our Daytona 500 RV fleet coordination →
Or check out our complete Daytona 500 RV Rental Guide for everything else you need to know about RV rentals, what to bring, and first-timer tips.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which Daytona 500 camping area has the best view?
The Turn 1/Turn 2 infield sections and Lake Lloyd Lakeside spots offer the best race viewing. Turn 1 lets you see cars diving into the corner at 190+ mph, while Lake Lloyd spots provide elevated views of the entire backstretch and tri-oval.
How much does Daytona 500 infield camping cost?
Infield camping prices range from $800 for basic perimeter spots to $3,500+ for premium Lake Lloyd lakeside positions. Prices include the camping spot for Speedweeks but do not include race tickets or RV rental.
Which Daytona camping areas sell out first?
Lake Lloyd lakeside spots and Turn 1 premium infield sections sell out within hours of going on sale, typically in late spring/early summer for the following year. If you want these spots, set a reminder and be ready to book the moment they open.
Can I see the race from my RV at Daytona?
Yes, depending on your camping location. Infield spots near turns and Lake Lloyd offer direct track views. Many campers set up elevated platforms or watch from RV roofs. Some areas have obstructed views from ground level but clear sightlines from rooftop positions.
Is Daytona infield camping worth the price?
For NASCAR fans, absolutely. Infield camping provides unmatched access to the race atmosphere, pit activity, and 24/7 Speedweeks festivities. Compare: a hotel + daily tickets can cost more while offering less immersion. The infield experience is a bucket-list item for motorsports enthusiasts.
Ben co-founded EventFleetRV and oversees all fleet operations and logistics. With extensive experience coordinating RV deployments for NASCAR events, major festivals, and corporate productions, he ensures every fleet delivery exceeds client expectations.
