Iowa Speedway
Need for speed? Lust for dust? Get down to Iowa Speedway! Newton, Iowa is where all the action happens, so make it an RV trip to remember.
Event information
Iowa Speedway hosts two major race weekends in 2025: the Sukup IndyCar Race Weekend, July 11-13 featuring the only IndyCar doubleheader of the season, and the Iowa Corn 350 powered by Ethanol NASCAR Cup Series weekend, August 2-3. Located in Newton, Iowa, this 7/8-mile D-shaped oval known as "The Fastest Short Track on the Planet" offers approximately 350 onsite RV camping spaces in both general and terrace areas, with spots accommodating rigs up to 25' x 50'. For RV travelers, the speedway's accessible location just off I-80 Exit 168, combined with Iowa's affordable RV rental options, makes it the perfect base for experiencing authentic American motorsports. Whether you're seeking trackside camping thrills or extended Midwest exploration, an RV rental puts you right in the action while providing modern comforts amid Iowa's rolling countryside.
What is Iowa Speedway?
Iowa Speedway is a state-of-the-art 7/8-mile asphalt paved tri-oval racetrack located in Newton, Iowa, designed by NASCAR Hall of Famer Rusty Wallace. Known as "The Fastest Short Track on the Planet," this unique motorsports facility is the only 7/8-mile oval in professional racing and serves as Iowa's premier sports venue, hosting both NASCAR Cup Series and IndyCar Series events.
The 2025 racing schedule featured two major weekends that drew tens of thousands of fans from across the Midwest. The Sukup IndyCar Race Weekend (July 11-13) presents the only doubleheader weekend on the IndyCar calendar, while the Iowa Corn 350 powered by Ethanol (August 2-3) brings NASCAR's elite Cup Series to Iowa's heartland. The facility's multi-tiered grandstands accommodate 25,000 spectators, while the natural outdoor amphitheater setting creates an intimate yet electric atmosphere.
For your Iowa racing adventure, explore Des Moines RV rentals perfect for easy speedway access, or consider Des Moines travel trailers if you prefer the flexibility of towable options for navigating Iowa's scenic roads.
When and Where are the Major Iowa Speedway Events Held?
Race Schedule:
- Sukup IndyCar Race Weekend: July 11-13 (Featuring IndyCar's only doubleheader)
- Iowa Corn 350 NASCAR Weekend: August 2-3 (Cup Series and Xfinity Series)
- Location: 3333 Rusty Wallace Drive, Newton, IA 50208
- Access: Exit 168 off I-80, approximately 30 miles east of Des Moines
- Annual Attendance: 40,000+ visitors for major race weekends
Tickets
How Much Do Iowa Speedway Tickets Cost?
Ticket prices vary significantly between IndyCar and NASCAR weekends, with options ranging from general admission to luxury suites. The speedway offers single-day tickets, weekend packages, and camping combinations. Premium experiences include Newton Club access and terrace camping packages that bundle accommodation with premium seating.
Check the Iowa Speedway website for current pricing and ticket availability, as major race weekends often sell out well in advance.
How Do I Rent an RV Near Iowa Speedway?
Des Moines serves as the primary hub for Iowa Speedway RV rentals, offering an excellent selection and competitive pricing just 30 miles from the track. The city's central location provides easy highway access via I-80, making it simple to reach the speedway while enjoying urban amenities before and after race events.
The Des Moines area features everything from compact camper vans perfect for first-time RV renters to spacious Class A motorhomes ideal for larger groups planning extended Midwest adventures. Many local hosts understand racing schedules and offer special packages for race weekends, including early pickup options and delivery services within the greater Des Moines area.
Book your RV rental well in advance for race weekends—Iowa Speedway events are popular throughout the Midwest, and quality rigs sell out quickly for July IndyCar and August NASCAR dates.
Explore Iowa Speedway RV Rentals
Transportation
Driving
Iowa Speedway offers straightforward access from multiple directions, with clear signage directing visitors to appropriate parking and camping areas.
From I-80 (Primary Route): Take Exit 168 and follow Iowa Speedway Drive south directly to the track. Traffic control personnel will direct you to the appropriate areas based on your ticket type—camping, general parking, or special access.
Alternative Route for Heavy Traffic: Take Exit 164 south onto U.S. 14, continue 3.6 miles to South 60th Avenue West, then follow posted signs through the back route to avoid main entrance congestion.
Parking areas
General parking is free for day attendees, with over 15,000 spaces available. RV parking is only permitted for camping pass holders—day ticket holders cannot park RVs onsite. If camping offsite, consider using shuttle services or rideshare options, as RV street parking near the speedway is extremely limited and not recommended.
Arrival Timing
Plan to arrive at least 2 hours before race start times, as traffic volume can reach 40,000+ people for major events. Camping check-in typically opens several days before race weekends, allowing early arrival for the full Iowa Speedway experience.
Public Transportation
There are a few different public transportation options if you intend on parking in Newton and traveling to Iowa Speedway. You can organize transport on the rally bus, take a taxi, or download apps for other private ride services. These can save the hassle of trying to manage the parking and security of your RV on the edges of Speedway property, which can be tricky.
Where to stay
Onsite
Iowa Speedway excels at providing authentic racing camping experiences, with approximately 350 RV camping spaces designed to accommodate the motorsports community's tailgating and social atmosphere.
General Camping is located outside turns 1 and 2, offering a grass camping area suitable for RVs up to approximately 25' x 50'. This area provides the classic speedway camping experience with easy walking access to grandstands and the midway. Facilities include water spigots, dump stations, restroom facilities, and shower buildings available for additional fees.
Terrace Camping at Turn 3 and Turn 4 offers premium trackside views with electric hookups available in designated areas. These elevated positions provide excellent track visibility and are popular with returning campers who reserve the same spots annually. The terrace areas fill quickly due to their prime location and amenities.
Nearby
For those preferring off-site accommodations, Newton KOA provides full-service RV camping just minutes from the speedway. This family-friendly campground offers 70 sites with full hookups, a swimming pool, a fishing lake, and recreational amenities, making it ideal for families attending races.
The broader Des Moines area offers numerous RV parks and campgrounds within 30-45 minutes of the speedway, including Des Moines West KOA and Timberline Campground, providing additional options when onsite camping sells out.
Getting around
If you buy a fan walk pass, you gain access to the tram which takes you from remote lots to the center of the action. Otherwise, the best way to navigate Iowa Speedway is on foot. Officials kindly ask that you leave your scooters, mopeds, golf carts, and other motorized transportation back at your motorhome for use once you leave the grounds.
What to pack
Clothing
What you pack for your trip to Iowa can depend on which event you’re attending. If you’re going to headline events such as NASCAR, you’ll need cool, light, and breathable layers to combat the July sunshine.
Temperatures drop at night, however, so you’ll also need plenty of blankets for a comfortable night’s sleep. Comfortable, supportive footwear is also a must-have for navigating the speedway site.
Gear
Around 40,000 people make their way to Iowa Speedway for special events, which means it’s in your best interest to pack light. Bring everything you need for camping and cooking, but leave it in your RV when you make your way to the grandstand.
Bring your tickets, cash and credit, and a water bottle. The less you bring to watch the racing, the quicker you can make your way through security. Remember to pack a scanner and headphones or other radio setup for use at the track.
Health & Safety
With so many people at the Iowa Speedway at any one time, you may feel hot, uncomfortable, and unsure of your surroundings. Bring plenty of sun protection such as glasses, a hat, and sunscreen, as well as water to remain hydrated. Don’t forget to pack any medical supplies you may need during your time away from home. If you’re a smoker, you are allowed to smoke in designated areas outlined under the Iowa Smoke Free Air Act.
Where to eat
Cooking
Don’t forget to bring everything you need to cook up a storm in your RV kitchen. You will be allowed to use your onboard gas cooker, but not open flames or charcoal grills. Don’t forget to stock up on supplies before you arrive. Otherwise, there are supply stores in Newton as well as a travel stop mere minutes from Iowa Speedway.
Restaurants
If you want to check out Newton and all it has to offer, then it won’t be long before you stumble across a restaurant or two that catches your fancy. Whether you want to enjoy intimate dining, fast food, or something in between, this city delivers.
What’s more, everything is conveniently close to the track. Allow extra time for service due to the sheer volume of travelers who converge on Newton for different automotive events.
Vendors
There are both permanent and satellite vendors available for most major events at Iowa Speedway. Get your fill of food and beverages, and enjoy the convenience of nearby ATMs to have the correct payment type. These stalls are also conveniently close to both the racing action and the campgrounds.
Safety
Security
Security officials at Iowa Speedway are all about creating a safe environment for all. Feel free to approach either the uniformed police officers or Speedway security. All carry items are subjected to a search at the main gates and don’t be offended by the presence of metal detectors.
If you want to speed up your entry process, leave behind roller bags, wheeled transport, drones, cans and glass, projectiles, weapons, chairs, umbrellas, seat cushions, and almost anything you can’t carry in a small, light backpack.
Weather
When you attend events such as NASCAR or IndyCar at Iowa Speedway, you can expect enjoyable sunshine, minimal wind, and less of a chance for rain. However, it’s always a good idea to check the forecast before you make the trip.
In the event of adverse weather conditions at the track, head to the closest shelter and take cover. If you are near your campsite, remember to secure outdoor items in high winds.
Medical
If you are feeling unwell or have injured yourself, notify a security guard, usher, or Iowa Speedway official. Emergency personnel will respond to your needs. In an emergency, dial 9-11.
The Mercy Medical Center is open for as long as the spectator gates are, and is at the south end of the Concourse by Turn 1. There are also more than 100 paramedics and EMTs on site during major events.
