Bristol Motor Speedway
With gripping races and a great campground atmosphere, find out why you should rev your engine and ride your RV to Bristol Motor Speedway.
Event information
Bristol Motor Speedway in Thunder Valley offers NASCAR fans premier onsite RV camping across five dedicated campgrounds, including Medallion, Dragstrip, Landing, Creekside Luxury RV Park, and Bronze areas. The legendary "World's Fastest Half-Mile" provides 20x50-foot to 30x60-foot level sites with options ranging from electric-only hookups to full-service premium spots overlooking the speedway and dragway. Located in Bristol, Tennessee, on the Virginia border, the facility accommodates RVs up to 50 feet with 24-hour security, dump stations, and shuttle services during race weekends. Beyond NASCAR's spring and summer races, the speedway hosts NHRA Thunder Valley Nationals, concerts, and special events, making it a year-round destination for motorsports enthusiasts seeking that authentic Thunder Valley experience where the mountains amplify every engine roar.
What Makes Bristol Motor Speedway RV Camping Special?
Bristol Motor Speedway RV camping delivers an unmatched NASCAR experience in the heart of Thunder Valley, where steep banking and concrete walls create the most intense half-mile of racing anywhere. The speedway's five onsite campgrounds put you steps from legendary racing action while providing modern amenities and that tight-knit racing community atmosphere.
Thunder Valley earned its nickname from the surrounding Appalachian Mountains that create a natural amphitheater, amplifying every engine note and crowd roar into an unforgettable auditory experience. When 160,000 fans pack the grandstands, the energy becomes electric, and RV campers get to experience this magic 24/7 throughout race weekend.
The speedway's commitment to fan experience extends beyond race day, with campgrounds featuring everything from basic electric hookups to luxury sites with full services and premium views. Whether you're seeking budget-friendly Bronze camping or the exclusive Medallion experience overlooking the pit area, Bristol provides options for every racing fan's needs and preferences.
For your Thunder Valley adventure, explore Knoxville RV rentals for the largest selection just 2 hours south, or discover Bristol RV rentals to stay closest to the speedway action.
Tickets
How Much Does Bristol Motor Speedway RV Camping Cost?
Bristol Motor Speedway camping costs vary significantly based on campground location, amenities, and specific race events, with pricing typically structured around race weekends rather than individual nights.
Campground Pricing Ranges:
- Bronze Campground (electric only): Most affordable option for budget-conscious fans
- Dragstrip/Landing (full or partial hookups): Mid-range pricing with excellent track access
- Medallion Campground (premium full hookups): Top-tier pricing for luxury amenities and prime views
- Creekside Luxury RV Park: Premium pricing for upscale accommodations
Race Weekend Considerations: Spring and summer NASCAR Cup Series races command peak pricing, while NHRA Thunder Valley Nationals and other events typically cost less. Many campgrounds offer seasonal packages for fans attending multiple events throughout the year.
Additional Costs:
- Water fill service: $0.50 per gallon (20-gallon minimum)
- Sewer service through A&S Sanitation
- Extra vehicle passes beyond include an RV and one vehicle
- Early entry passes for Wednesday or Thursday arrival
How Do I Rent an RV Near Bristol Motor Speedway?
The Bristol region offers excellent RV rental access through Tennessee and Virginia locations, putting you within easy reach of Thunder Valley's legendary racing atmosphere.
Knoxville RV Rentals provides the most extensive selection, about 2 hours south of Bristol, offering everything from compact Class B campervans perfect for couples to spacious Class A motorhomes ideal for large racing groups. Knoxville's central location also provides easy access to the Great Smoky Mountains National Park for extended adventures.
Bristol RV Rentals offer the closest proximity to the speedway, with options available on both the Tennessee and Virginia sides of this unique border city.
Kingsport RV Rentals serve as another nearby option in Tennessee's Tri-Cities region, providing competitive alternatives with scenic mountain routes to the speedway.
Explore Bristol Motor Speedway RV Rentals
Transportation
Driving
Depending on where you’re coming from, getting to Bristol Motor Speedway can be a little confusing, so much so that the speedway has posted detailed directions from at least 15 nearby towns on their website. The arena is on Highway 11E, but if you’re coming from the northwest or southeast, you’re going to need to contend with some winding, mountain roads between highways. The view is undoubtedly gorgeous, but watch out for sharp bends. It’s also worth noting that some roads from and to the race track open and close at different stages during events. Bristol Motor Speedway has posted detailed diagrams and maps to help fans out; they advise against relying only on GPS navigation near the venue on race days.
Parking areas
When it comes to parking at Bristol Motor Speedway, you can have convenient, or you can have budget-friendly. If you’d like to park on site, it might cost between $25-100 depending on the event (ADA permit holders can park for free). There’s also a free parking area about a mile from the race track, with a free shuttle bus to bring you to the speedway entrance, but keep in mind that you won’t be able to leave your car or rig here overnight. Be sure to get there early to snag your spot. Several private parking lots also operate in the area.
Public Transportation
This part of East Tennessee isn’t very well served by public transport, but there are still a few options for those who want to leave the car at home. The speedway partners with some ride-sharing bus companies. There’s also a private shuttle company, Rocky Top Tours, that provides transportation between Pigeon Forge and Bristol Motor Speedway during the spring and fall race seasons. Official park and ride spots are located in Bristol, Blountville, Johnson City, and Kingsport; a shuttle from any one of these areas will cost around $20.
Where to stay
Onsite
Bristol Motor Speedway operates five distinct campgrounds, each offering unique perspectives and amenities for the ultimate Thunder Valley experience.
Medallion Campground offers a premium camping experience with 20x50-foot numbered, reserved sites featuring full hookups (power, water, and sewer), Wi-Fi, and 24-hour security. This paved and landscaped "gated community" overlooks both the speedway and Bristol Dragway, providing bird's-eye views of the pit area and racing action.
Dragstrip Campground & Landing Campground offer spacious sites up to 30x60 feet with both full-hookup and dry camping options. These areas provide easy access to Thunder Valley Dragway and include amenities like dump stations, water fill services, and shuttle transportation to track areas.
Creekside Luxury RV Park delivers upscale accommodations with full services and shuttle systems, perfect for racing fans who want comfort without sacrificing proximity to the action.
Bronze Campground provides budget-friendly electric-only sites, ideal for cost-conscious race fans who still want the authentic onsite experience.
Nearby
Shadrack Campground offers year-round RV sites just outside the speedway with full hookups, making it perfect for extended stays during Bristol's busy racing calendar.
For more accommodations, check out our list of RV parks and Campgrounds near Bristol, TN
Getting around
Though the track is only a half-mile, the property itself is vast and hilly. It’s certainly possible to travel around on foot, but thankfully, that’s not your only option. Bristol Motor Speedway operates several trams to bring you from the guest service stations to the Food City to the racetrack and back. Golf shuttle services are also available for a fee, or free to those with mobility issues (the arena isn’t difficult to maneuver a wheelchair). However, there’s a strict ban on private golf carts and ATV vehicles.
What to pack
Clothing
Your best bet is to check the weather for the duration of the event you’ll be attending, but in all seasons, be prepared for rain. Waterproof jackets and shoes are a must. Make sure whichever shoes you bring are sturdy and comfortable; it’s a pretty good bet that you’ll need to stand in line for a while.
Gear
Earplugs are a top item for your packing list. Bristol Motor Speedway is also known as Thunder Valley because the track is loud even compared to other motorsports arenas. Ear defenders or noise canceling headphones will also do the trick. The speedway offers hearing protection to kids free of charge. Shade in the campgrounds can be hard to come by, so if you’re hanging out during the day, a shade structure of some sort is a good idea.
Health & Safety
Though there are several medical stations on the property, it never hurts to bring your own first aid kit. You may be covered on the first aid front, but there aren’t any water filling stations near the track. Be sure to fill up at the campground. Bristol Motor Speedway may not display a written policy on how fans might bring medication into the track area, but it’s still best to make sure all pills are in their original packaging to avoid any confusion.
Where to eat
Cooking
You’re free to cook at the campground but be warned that open flames are prohibited. If you have a camp stove, now’s the time to break it out or be prepared to enjoy the kitchen setup in your rig. Bristol Motor Speedway does allow guests to bring in outside food, drink, and alcohol. You’re allowed one small cooler that fits the permitted dimensions per guest into the races. Be prepared to have it searched, though, and avoid bringing any glass containers.
Restaurants
Since a race ticket allows fans to come and go as they please, you can check out the range of restaurants on offer in Bristol itself. You can leave behind any misconceptions you might have about small-town food. You’ll find something to suit almost every taste, from authentic Tennessee BBQ to Greek and Japanese food and everything in between. However, you might find it difficult to get your hands on something vegan.
Vendors
While the restaurant offerings in Bristol are delightfully comprehensive, the food at the track is delicious and filling. As well as some restaurant chain options, you’ll find plenty of BBQ classics, burgers that range from the plain to the inventive, hotdogs, and ice-cream. If you have specific dietary needs, you might want to bring something from the campsite that fits your needs.
Safety
Security
Good security makes for long lines. Bristol Motor Speedway recommends everyone arrive at the entrance at least an hour before start time because absolutely everything is going to be searched. One carry-in bag per person is allowed, and while there’s no clear-bag policy, you’ll save yourself an awful lot of time if you opt for one. The property is patrolled by private security, and there’s generally a police presence at larger events.
Weather
East Tennessee does get all four seasons, so weather concerns are going to vary with the date of your chosen event. In general, precipitation can be a concern in this part of the mountains, so be prepared for rain. Storms aren’t unheard of in summer, and on several occasions crowds have needed to be evacuated from the stands. Staff members are very alert to weather conditions, but as always, if you feel unsafe, find cover or inquire as needed.
Medical
Due to the nature of motorsports, the medical care on site is pretty stellar. Not only are the first aid stations staffed by paramedics, but there are also doctors, nurses, and nurse practitioners ready to go. The property may be large, but there are multiple stations in multiple locations, so you’ll never be too far away from help if you need it. You’ll find general practitioners, an emergency department, and a pharmacy in Bristol itself.
