Darlington Raceway
If you’re getting itchy feet for an RV adventure, then why not make your way to Darlington Raceway? Secure your NASCAR tickets and hit the road.
Event information
Darlington Raceway RV camping offers NASCAR fans multiple on-site options, including Infield RV (located between Cup and Xfinity Series garages), East End RV (featuring paved 20x50-foot sites), and Pearson and Petty Boulevard RV areas with water and electric hookups. Located at 1301 Harry Byrd Highway in Darlington, South Carolina, all camping opens Tuesday of race week at 9:00 a.m. with check-in through designated gates. Camping packages bundle site fees with two infield admission tickets, ranging from $135 to $730 depending on location and amenities. While on-site spaces include electric hookups and dump stations, generators are permitted for power needs. The Florence-Darlington area provides excellent RV rental options, putting you within 15-40 minutes of the raceway while offering access to nearby campgrounds with full hookups for comfortable pre-race staging.
What Makes Darlington Raceway Camping Special?
Darlington Raceway camping represents authentic NASCAR culture, combining Southern hospitality with the historic "Lady in Black's" legendary atmosphere. Since 1950, this 1.366-mile egg-shaped oval has challenged drivers and created unforgettable memories for generations of racing fans.
The Track Too Tough to Tame earned its reputation through its unique asymmetrical design and unforgiving walls that have humbled even the sport's greatest champions. Race weekends here feel different—there's a palpable connection to NASCAR history that newer tracks simply can't replicate. From throwback paint schemes to the Cook Out Southern 500 on Labor Day weekend, Darlington celebrates racing heritage while creating new traditions.
Camping at Darlington puts you in the center of the action with multiple on-site options that let you wake up to the sound of engines and fall asleep under the stars after a day of racing. The infield areas place you steps from garage access, while outside camping options provide quieter spaces with full amenities and easy track access.
The raceway's location in South Carolina's Pee Dee region makes it accessible from major cities while maintaining that authentic small-town racing feel. Beyond the track, the surrounding area offers Southern charm, historic sites, and natural beauty worth exploring.
To maximize your race weekend, explore Darlington RV rentals for local options near the track, or discover Florence RV rentals for the widest selection and easy interstate access just 10 miles north.
Tickets
How Much Does Darlington Raceway Camping Cost?
Darlington camping experiences involve several cost components, with pricing varying based on race weekend and camping location.
On-Site RV Camping: Packages range from $135-$730 and typically include camping space plus two infield admission tickets.
Race Tickets: Standard admission starts at $61 for Sunday race tickets, with youth pricing available. Reserved seating, weekend packages, and premium viewing areas command higher prices, especially for the Southern 500.
Additional Costs:
- Extra vehicle parking permits (if bringing tow cars)
- Food and beverages for campsite cooking
- Stadium concessions and NASCAR merchandise
- Generator fuel for on-site power needs
- RV rental and supplies for your adventure
Money-Saving Tips:
- Book camping packages early when tickets go on sale—spots sell out quickly
- Consider private campgrounds near the track for full hookups at lower prices
- Bring your own food and drinks for tailgating (nothing enters the stadium)
- Arrive Tuesday when camping opens to maximize your weekend value
- Check for bundled packages combining tickets and camping
Explore Darlington Raceway RV Rentals
Transportation
Driving
If you’re new to South Carolina, then you’re going to need to make sure you enter the Darlington Raceway address on your GPS and focus on the road. While main highways lead you to the Raceway, it can be a little tricky dealing with congestion, especially in a large vehicle.
Darlington Raceway sits near the main North Governor Williams Highway, but you may also see signs for SC-151, and your route may require a sharp turn as you approach. From here, you can travel down Harry Byrd Highway and gain entrance to Darlington Raceway through several different gates. Have your passes ready for helpful officials to lead you to the correct area.
Parking areas
Parking spaces are not only plentiful but have, in the past, been free for single-day use. There are several different parking spaces for various vehicle sizes and types, including RVs. You can park in the day parking lot if you don’t intend to stay overnight. RV parking is through Gate 10.
Public Transportation
Depending on the event you are attending, you may find there are shuttles that run to and from Darlington. You may need to organize such a service in advance or use private ride services if you intend to leave your RV at a nearby campsite. With ample bus parking, it makes sense to save the hassle of using your own vehicle to get to Darlington Raceway daily.
Where to stay
Onsite
Darlington Raceway offers multiple on-site RV camping areas, each with distinct features and access points, plus several private campgrounds within walking or short driving distance.
Infield RV serves as the premium camping location, nestled between the NASCAR Cup Series and Xfinity Series garages. Enter through Gate 40 off Harry Byrd Highway. This area puts you in the heart of race weekend action with electric hookups and dump station access.
East End RV features the largest sites (20x50 feet) with paved surfaces between Turns 1 and 2, offering excellent track views and convenient access. This is the only area with paved campsites, making setup easier and cleaner.
Pearson Boulevard RV camping enters through Gate 40 off Harry Byrd Highway, offering grassy sites with water and electric hookups in a more laid-back atmosphere.
Petty Boulevard RV camping accesses through Gate 37 located off Tunnel Road, providing similar amenities to Pearson with a different location perspective.
Sunset RV and additional tent camping areas complete the on-site options, each with unique views and amenities.
All On-Site Camping Features:
- Electric hookups at most locations (amperage varies by area)
- Communal water filling stations
- On-site dump stations for waste disposal
- Generator use permitted (must remain reasonably quiet)
- Pet-friendly (pets must be secured at campsite)
- Infield admission included with camping packages
- Camping opens Tuesday at 9:00 a.m. during race week
- Early arrivals staged in grass outside campground until check-in
Important Guidelines:
- All RVs must park in assigned spots only
- Fire lanes must remain clear at all times
- No golf carts, ATVs, scooters, or similar vehicles permitted
- Licensed motorcycles allowed but not for facility transportation
- Quiet time enforced midnight to 6 a.m.
- Metal flagpoles prohibited (fiberglass, PVC, vinyl only)
- Flags must be lowered during on-track activities
- Maximum flagpole height 15 feet
Nearby
When on-site camping sells out or you prefer full hookups and additional amenities, several excellent alternatives sit minutes from the raceway:
Swampfox Campground in Florence provides full hookups with 30/50 amp service, approximately 70 sites, plus amenities including rec hall, playground, laundry facilities, and free WiFi. Located just off I-95 near shopping and dining, it's about 15 minutes from the track.
Front Stretch Camping offers large level grass sites with 50 and 30 amp power and water connections located directly across from the main entrance at Petty Boulevard and Gate 34. Contact (843) 245-0657 for availability and pricing.
Darlington Raceway Parking & Camping provides family-friendly atmosphere on private land that has hosted race fans since the track's first race in 1950. Vehicle parking starts at $20/day, tent camping at $30/night. Call (843) 621-7191 for reservations.
Bass Lake RV Campground in Dillon offers pull-through sites with full hookups, lake fishing, playground, rec hall, and free WiFi, approximately 30 minutes from the raceway.
South of the Border Campground (Camp Pedro) provides convenient I-95 access with pull-through and back-in sites, perfect for overnight stays before race weekend. Located about 35 minutes north.
Florence RV Park offers year-round pull-through sites with full hookups, pool, cable TV, and free WiFi just minutes from the raceway and Florence amenities.
Getting around
Bikes, scooters, and golf carts are not available for visitors to Darlington Raceway. Taking in all the area has to offer, guests will need to plan to get around on foot. Get amongst the action in the grandstand and rest your weary feet. You are then proximate to everything you will need for a fun day at the races.
What to pack
Clothing
South Carolina weather during race season (spring and late summer/early fall) can be hot and humid with occasional afternoon thunderstorms. Pack light, breathable layers for daytime comfort when temperatures reach the high 80s to low 90s. Bring a light jacket or long-sleeve shirt for cooler evenings and air-conditioned stadium areas.
Comfortable, broken-in walking shoes are essential as you'll be on your feet exploring the infield, visiting fan zones, and navigating the grandstands. Consider moisture-wicking socks and insoles for all-day comfort. Don't forget sunglasses, a hat for sun protection, and rain gear since pop-up storms can appear quickly in South Carolina summers.
Gear
Show your racing colors with your favorite driver's gear, NASCAR flags, and team merchandise. Folding chairs for campsite lounging, pop-up canopies for shade, and cornhole or other lawn games keep the party going between track sessions.
Bring grilling essentials—propane or charcoal (dispose of hot coals in designated containers), utensils, coolers with plenty of ice, and ingredients for your race-day recipes. A portable table makes food prep easier at your campsite.
Racing-specific items include scanner rentals or your own radio to listen to driver communications and race broadcasts, binoculars for better views of distant turns, and earplugs or noise-canceling headphones—NASCAR engines are thrilling but loud.
Health & Safety
South Carolina summer heat and humidity require serious hydration. Pack plenty of water and electrolyte drinks. Sunscreen, lip balm with SPF, and after-sun lotion protect against intense UV exposure during day-long race activities.
A well-stocked first aid kit should include bandages, pain relievers, antihistamines, and any personal medications. Bug spray helps with evening mosquitoes common in South Carolina's warm climate.
Carbon monoxide awareness is critical when camping with multiple RVs and generators running. Install a battery-operated CO detector in your RV and ensure proper ventilation. Position generators outdoors away from RV doors, windows, and vents.
Where to eat
Cooking
Race weekend campsite cooking is a tradition at Darlington, where NASCAR fans fire up grills and share Southern specialties with neighboring campers. Gas and charcoal grills are permitted at your site—perfect for classic race day fare like burgers, hot dogs, and barbecue.
Try Southern favorites like pulled pork sandwiches, Carolina-style barbecue with vinegar-based sauce, hush puppies, and coleslaw. Seven-layer dip with fresh tortilla chips, buffalo wings, and loaded nachos keep energy high during race action. Your RV's refrigerator keeps ingredients fresh while propane or electric griddles warm everything to perfection.
Dispose of hot charcoal only in designated coal containers located throughout camping areas. Never dump coals on the ground or in regular trash receptacles.
Restaurants
Darlington and Florence offer authentic Southern dining that completes your race weekend experience. Within 10 miles, you'll find excellent barbecue joints serving Carolina-style 'cue with mustard or vinegar-based sauces—a Pee Dee region specialty.
Florence provides the widest restaurant selection along I-95 and Highway 52, including national chains and local favorites. Try Tex-Mex spots, seafood restaurants featuring Low Country boils, and classic meat-and-three Southern diners serving fried chicken, collard greens, and sweet tea.
For quick pre-race fuel, numerous fast-casual options line the highways between your campground and the raceway.
Vendors
Inside the stadium, Darlington offers traditional NASCAR concessions including hot dogs, hamburgers, chicken tenders, nachos, popcorn, and soft pretzels. Barbecue sandwiches and other Southern-inspired options reflect the local flavor.
All concession stands accept both cash and credit cards. Prices reflect typical stadium markup, so many fans prefer eating hearty meals at their campsite before heading into the grandstands. No outside food or beverages are permitted inside the facility.
Safety
Security
Darlington Raceway maintains comprehensive security protocols to ensure safe, enjoyable race weekends for all fans. All vehicles entering camping areas undergo security inspections, and all guests pass through security screening when entering the stadium.
Pack smart for stadium entry using approved clear bags (12" x 6" x 12") or small clutches (4.5" x 6.5"). Prohibited items include weapons, outside food and beverages, coolers, glass containers, professional cameras with detachable lenses, drones, and fireworks.
Pets cannot enter the stadium but may stay at your campsite with proper supervision and care. Security personnel patrol camping areas 24/7, and track security can be reached at (843) 395-8849 for any incidents or concerns.
For non-emergency assistance during your stay, contact the Patron Response Center staff located throughout the facility.
Weather
South Carolina race season weather ranges from warm spring days in May to hot, humid conditions during the late August/early September Southern 500. Daytime temperatures typically reach 85-95°F with high humidity creating heat index values near 100°F.
Afternoon thunderstorms appear regularly during summer months, bringing brief but intense downpours. Your RV provides perfect shelter during weather delays, and racing typically resumes once storms pass and the track dries.
Stay hydrated throughout race day, take breaks in shaded or air-conditioned areas, and monitor heat exhaustion symptoms including dizziness, nausea, and excessive fatigue. The raceway's grandstands offer covered seating sections providing sun relief.
While rain delays occur, complete race cancellations are rare. In the unlikely event of cancellation, check the raceway website and your ticket information for rescheduling details.
Medical
Darlington Raceway maintains multiple first aid stations throughout the facility staffed by trained medical professionals. Station locations are marked on facility maps and clearly signed. Any staff member can direct you to the nearest medical assistance.
For minor issues like headaches, small cuts, or heat-related discomfort, visit on-site first aid stations free of charge. More serious medical situations can be handled by the track's comprehensive medical response team.
Off-site medical care is available at nearby hospitals and urgent care clinics in Florence and Darlington, all within 15 miles of the raceway. Multiple pharmacies operate near the track for prescription or over-the-counter medication needs.
Keep your first aid kit stocked at your campsite, and ensure anyone with medical conditions brings necessary medications and medical information.
