The Good News
Daytona 500 camping is incredibly beginner-friendly. The camping community is welcoming, the infrastructure is solid, and thousands of first-timers do this every year. You've got this.
What Is Daytona 500 Infield Camping?
Infield camping means parking your RV inside the racetrack. You're literally surrounded by the track, with racing happening all around you. It's loud, it's intense, and it's an experience you can't replicate anywhere else.
During race week, the infield transforms into a small city of RVs, tents (in some areas), and race fans who become instant neighbors and friends. People decorate their campsites, share food and drinks, and celebrate the sport together.
Do I Need RV Experience?
Absolutely not. Many Daytona first-timers have never stepped foot in an RV before renting one for this trip. Here's how to handle it:
Options for RV Newbies
- Option 1: RV delivery - Have the RV delivered to your camping spot already set up. You never have to drive it. (We can coordinate this.)
- Option 2: Basic orientation - Rental companies walk you through everything. Modern RVs are easier than you think.
- Option 3: Travel trailer - If you have a truck, a travel trailer is often easier than a motorhome.
Once you're parked and set up, you don't move the RV until you leave. It becomes your home base for the week. The "RV skills" needed are minimal: turn on the generator, hook up power, basic systems. Your neighbors will help if you have questions—the camping community is incredibly friendly.
What Should I Expect?
Arrival Day
- • Line up and wait (sometimes hours) to enter the speedway
- • Follow directions from speedway staff to your assigned spot
- • Park, level the RV, hook up power (if available)
- • Set up your campsite (chairs, canopy, etc.)
- • Meet your neighbors—this happens naturally
During the Week
- • Wake up, have coffee, walk around the infield
- • Attend practice sessions, qualifying, support races
- • Hang out at your campsite, grill food, enjoy beverages
- • Socialize with fellow campers (everyone is friendly)
- • Walk to the garage area to see cars and crews
- • The energy builds daily toward Sunday's race
Race Day
- • Wake up to a buzzing atmosphere
- • Pre-race activities, military flyovers, national anthem
- • Watch from your campsite, RV roof, or grandstand seats
- • Feel the cars in your chest—it's LOUD
- • Post-race celebrations (or commiserations)
How Loud Is It Really?
Very loud. NASCAR Cup cars are not quiet. When 40 cars come through together, the sound is visceral—you feel it more than hear it. It's thrilling, but you need ear protection.
Ear Protection Is NOT Optional
Bring earplugs AND over-ear muffs. Many experienced fans double up. You can still hear the race (you'll hear it just fine), but you're protecting your hearing. Infield spots are especially loud.
Rent a scanner with headphones—you'll hear driver communications, team strategies, and TV broadcast audio while protecting your ears. It transforms the experience.
Common First-Timer Mistakes
Mistake: Booking too late
Good camping spots sell out 6-12 months ahead. Don't wait until fall to book for February.
Mistake: Underestimating power needs
Bring adapters, extension cords, surge protector. Power issues ruin trips.
Mistake: Not bringing layers
February mornings can be 45°F. Afternoons can be 75°F. Pack for both.
Mistake: Skipping ear protection
It's not macho to damage your hearing. Bring earplugs and muffs.
Mistake: Only coming for race day
Half the experience is the buildup. Come for qualifying and the Duels at minimum.
First-Timer Tips from Veterans
"Bring more ice than you think." Coolers need constant refilling. Buy ice locally when you arrive.
"Introduce yourself to neighbors immediately." They'll become your best friends for the week and help you if you need anything.
"Bring a canopy even if you have an RV awning." Extra shade space is always valuable.
"Walk the infield early in the week when it's quieter." You'll see more of the garage, pits, and cars without the Sunday crowds.
"Don't stress about the RV." Everyone around you has been where you are. Ask questions. No one judges.
Is It Worth It?
The Daytona 500 is the "Super Bowl of NASCAR." Infield camping puts you in the middle of America's biggest stock car race, surrounded by passionate fans, with 24/7 access to the event. It's a bucket-list experience.
Every year, first-timers finish the week saying the same thing: "Why didn't I do this sooner?"
More Resources for First-Timers
- → Camping Areas Guide: Which section should you book?
- → Cost Breakdown: How much will this trip really cost?
- → Packing List: Don't forget these items
- → Speedweeks Schedule: What's happening each day?
Need Help Planning Your First Daytona Trip?
We coordinate RV rentals with optional delivery directly to your camping spot—no RV experience needed.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Daytona 500 RV camping hard for beginners?
No, it's very beginner-friendly. The camping community is welcoming, setup is straightforward, and Daytona has good infrastructure. Most first-timers say they wished they'd done it sooner.
Do I need RV experience for Daytona 500 camping?
No RV experience needed. Many first-timers have never used an RV before. Rental companies provide orientation, and neighbors always help. Consider delivery service if you're uncomfortable driving an RV.
What is infield camping like at Daytona 500?
You're inside the racetrack with direct views of racing action. You park your RV, set up camp, and become part of a community. It's loud during races, festive throughout Speedweeks, and unlike any other camping experience.
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.