Purdue University Tailgating

RV2 and RV4 serve as Purdue's primary RV parking areas available to the general public, offering first-come, first-served spaces designed for overnight camping and tailgating.

RV Lot Features:

• RV2: Located at Discovery Park gravel lot at Harrison Street and South Martin Jischke Drive; available for season passes or day-of-game purchase
• RV4: Located at SR 26 and Airport Road intersection; general public access, day-of-game credit card payment
• No electrical or water hookups available
• Generator use permitted within assigned spaces
• Tailgating is allowed directly behind your vehicle
• Complimentary shuttle service to the stadium
• Overnight parking: 6 pm Friday through 10 am Sunday
• Cost: Approximately $40-60 per game ($20 additional for tow vehicles or trailers)

Important RV Guidelines:

• RV lots open at 6 pm the day before home games—no early staging permitted
• 5th wheels not permitted in RV1 or RV3 (redirected to RV2 or RV4)
• Vehicles not fitting 9'x20' spaces will be relocated to RV lots
• All RVs must exit by 10 am on Sunday
• Gray water and black water dumping on campus is strictly prohibited
• Dump stations are available for proper waste disposal
• Cords and equipment must remain within your space boundaries

RV1 and RV3 are reserved exclusively for John Purdue Club members (minimum $500-$1,000 annual donation level required).

If RV lots reach capacity or you prefer full-hookup camping, the West Lafayette area offers excellent nearby campgrounds:

Prophetstown State Park provides the closest full-service camping just 15 minutes from Ross-Ade Stadium. This modern 110-site campground features electric hookups on all sites, with 50 sites offering full hookups for water and sewer. The pet-friendly park includes restrooms, showers, picnic areas, playgrounds, fire rings, and dump stations. Rates typically range $20-40 per night, depending on hookup level and season.

Crawfordsville KOA sits approximately 45 minutes south and offers full hookups, Wi-Fi, swimming pool, game room, and pet amenities, including arrival treats and walking services. The tree-filled campground operates mid-April through mid-November with potential off-season availability.

Wolfe's Leisure Time Campground on the Wabash River provides riverside camping with full hookups, a swimming pool, a game room, playgrounds, hiking trails, and boat ramp access, located just outside West Lafayette.

AOK Campground in Lafayette offers electrical hookups, a swimming pool, a laundromat, a convenience store, and a playground in a quiet setting with easy access to city attractions.

For extended stays exploring central Indiana's attractions, consider the West Lafayette area campgrounds or Lafayette area campgrounds for additional options with varying amenities and price points.

When you’re at Ross-Ade stadium, the best way to get around is the shuttle. Not only is it free, but it picks up passengers from many locations, including the RV parking lots. Driving around campus, especially near the stadium, on game day may take some patience due to road closures and heavy pedestrian traffic.

Indiana weather during football season runs the gamut from warm early September games to potentially freezing November matchups. Pack layers to handle temperature swings throughout the day. While Ross-Ade Stadium is an open-air venue without a retractable roof, proper clothing preparation ensures comfort regardless of conditions.

For September and early October games, bring short sleeves for afternoon heat and a light jacket for cooler mornings and evenings. Mid to late October requires heavier layering with sweatshirts and jackets. November games demand winter gear—insulated jackets, gloves, hats, and thermal layers become essential as temperatures can drop below freezing.

Don't forget rain gear. Indiana's unpredictable weather can bring sudden showers, making waterproof jackets or ponchos valuable additions to your RV storage.

Boilermaker pride runs deep, so pack your black and old gold apparel, flags, and team decorations to show your support (or your visiting team's colors). Folding chairs, portable tables, and team-themed tablecloths create the perfect tailgate setup outside your RV.

Bring your gas or charcoal grill for pre-game cooking—grilling is permitted at RV lots. If using charcoal, remember to dispose of hot coals in designated containers, never on campus grounds. Coolers keep drinks and perishables fresh, while canopy tents provide shade during warm games or rain protection during wet weather. Note that during high wind warnings (40+ MPH sustained or 58+ MPH gusts), tents must be taken down per university safety policies.

Stadium entry requires clear bag policy compliance. Bring only stadium-approved clear bags (12"x6"x12" or smaller) for items you'll carry into Ross-Ade. Leave everything else secured in your RV.

Game day involves significant standing and walking, so pack comfortable shoes with cushioned insoles and supportive socks. Prepare for sun exposure during day games with sunscreen, hats, and sunglasses.

A well-stocked first aid kit should include bandages, pain relievers, antiseptics, blister treatment, and any prescription medications. Consider including hand warmers for cold-weather games and cooling towels for early-season heat.

Bring adequate water and stay hydrated, especially during tailgating hours in the sun. Remember that Indiana's variable weather can shift quickly, so monitor forecasts and adjust your gear accordingly.

Purdue tailgating thrives on shared food traditions and pre-game rituals. Fire up your grill outside your RV and prepare classic Midwest favorites. Indiana is famous for pork tenderloin sandwiches—the breaded, fried cutlet often larger than the bun—making them perfect tailgate fare that honors local culinary tradition.

Other popular tailgate dishes include brats and burgers, chili for cooler games, and hearty casseroles that can be prepped in your RV kitchen. Use your RV's propane refrigerator to keep ingredients fresh and your stovetop or external grill for cooking. The key to successful tailgate cooking is preparation—prep ingredients before game day to maximize socializing time in the parking lots.

Remember to practice proper food safety. Keep hot foods hot and cold foods cold. Secure your grill when in use and never leave it unattended. Dispose of grease properly at designated disposal areas, never on campus grounds or storm drains.

West Lafayette and Lafayette offer diverse dining options beyond typical college town pizza and burger joints. For authentic Indiana cuisine, seek out restaurants serving pork tenderloin sandwiches—a Hoosier State staple.

The area features numerous pizzerias and steakhouses, plus Chinese, Mexican, and Indian restaurants catering to Purdue's diverse international student population. For more upscale options, downtown Lafayette offers Irish pub-style establishments and French-American fusion restaurants perfect for Friday night pre-game dinners or Saturday morning brunch.

Harry's Chocolate Shop, despite its name, serves as one of West Lafayette's most popular sports bars and has been a Purdue institution since 1919. Other local favorites include Triple XXX Family Restaurant for burgers and classic diner fare, and various State Street establishments within walking distance of campus.

Inside Ross-Ade Stadium, concession stands offer standard game day fare including hot dogs, nachos, popcorn, pretzels, and the signature Black and Gold Dog topped with chili, onions, and cheese. All vendors accept both cash and credit cards.

The Purdue Team Store on the stadium's north side provides last-minute gear purchases if you forgot your favorite hat or t-shirt. Prices are higher than off-campus retailers, but the convenience and selection of official merchandise make it worthwhile for urgent needs.