Sonic Temple Festival

Sonic Temple offers limited onsite RV camping—only 350 spaces available. This makes onsite camping one of the festival's most sought-after passes, typically selling out within weeks of going on sale.

Onsite RV Camping Details:

• Space size: Approximately 20'x45' per RV site
• Hookups: Electric (30 amp and 50 amp, 110 volt), shared water access
• Note: Bring 50-75 feet of power cord as electrical connections may be up to 75 feet from your RV space
• Premium Option: Select sites include sewage hookups (premium camping)
• Capacity: Up to 6 campers per site (8 maximum with additional wristbands purchased onsite)
• Requirements: You MUST arrive in an RV; an RV must be physically parked at each RV campsite
• Generator Hours: 8:00 AM to 3:00 AM (factory-installed RV generators only, or portable generators 4kW or smaller)

Important Restrictions:

• No tent camping allowed (RVs only)
• No campfires or open flames
• Generators must be factory-installed or 4kW or smaller
• No pets (except service animals)
• Once checked in and parked, RVs cannot leave campgrounds (companion vehicles may exit/re-enter)

Advantages of Onsite Camping:

• Walk to the festival entrance in minutes
• Re-entry privileges during festival hours
• Complimentary shower facilities
• 24-hour security
• Onsite General Store (cashless)
• Community atmosphere with fellow rock fans

If onsite RV camping sells out (which is extremely likely), Columbus offers exceptional nearby options within 20-40 minutes of Historic Crew Stadium. These well-equipped campgrounds provide full amenities often superior to festival grounds, with the trade-off of a short drive.

Within 30 Minutes (North):

Sunbury/Columbus North KOA (approximately 20 miles north, 25-30 minutes via I-71) delivers everything festival campers need with premium amenities. The campground features full hookups supporting 30 and 50 amp electric, pull-through sites accommodating rigs up to 88 feet, gravel pads with patio areas, and digital TV plus Wi-Fi connectivity. On-site attractions include a petting zoo, heated swimming pool, dog park, fishing lake stocked with trout, crappie, and catfish, plus a snack bar, camp store, propane, and firewood sales. The facility provides clean restrooms, hot showers, and laundry services—luxuries appreciated after long festival days.

Alum Creek State Park (approximately 20 minutes northeast of downtown Columbus, 30 minutes from the stadium via I-71) ranks among central Ohio's premier outdoor destinations. The 4,630-acre park surrounds 3,300-acre Alum Creek Lake, offering water skiing, fishing, swimming, disc golf, and extensive hiking trails. The 300+ site campground accommodates RVs with electric hookups, though sites fill quickly for spring weekends—reserve well in advance for May dates.

Within 30 Minutes (East):

Buckeye Lake/Columbus East KOA (approximately 30 miles east, 35 minutes via I-70) provides award-winning facilities near one of Ohio's largest inland lakes. This KOA offers full and partial hookups with cable TV, an on-site restaurant, mini-golf course, game room, basketball courts, and various water sports on Buckeye Lake, including water skiing, swimming, and fishing. Wi-Fi keeps you connected, while the lakefront location offers peaceful respite from festival intensity.

Additional Options:

Lakeview Park Campground (approximately 40 miles southeast near Lancaster) features a spring-fed quarry popular for scuba diving instruction, plus 30/50 amp electric hookups and concrete patios perfect for RVs. The campground hosts regular potlucks and fishing tournaments, creating a community atmosphere.

For comprehensive listings throughout the Columbus area, explore Columbus RV parks and campgrounds or browse all Ohio RV parks and campgrounds.

Booking Strategy:

• Reserve campground spots by March for May festival dates
• Call campgrounds directly, mentioning Sonic Temple—many offer extended stay rates
• Look for sites within 10 miles of I-71 for the easiest stadium access
• Consider sharing a large campsite with friends to split costs

Once inside Historic Crew Stadium's festival grounds, you'll navigate entirely on foot. The venue is designed for walking, with multiple stages positioned throughout the stadium complex. Comfortable, well-broken-in shoes are absolutely essential—festival veterans recommend cushioned sneakers or hiking shoes over fashion footwear.

The festival grounds are ADA-accessible, with wheelchair-accessible pathways, viewing areas, and restrooms throughout. Wheelchairs are available at information tents (limited quantities).

Prohibited at Festival:

• Bicycles, skateboards, scooters, rollerblades, hoverboards, Segways
• Golf carts or motorized personal vehicles
• Large bags or backpacks (clear bag policy enforced)

Re-entry Policy:
Re-entry into the festival is NOT permitted unless you have:

1. On-site camping wristband (allows re-entry to campgrounds during event hours), OR
2. Hotel + Admission package purchased through Jampack

Once you enter the festival grounds each day, plan to stay until you're done for the night. This makes on-site camping particularly valuable for those wanting to return to their RV midday.

May in Columbus brings variable spring weather—warm, sunny days transitioning to cool evenings. Festival fashion trends toward rock/metal band t-shirts, comfortable jeans or shorts, and layered looks. Plan for:

Festival Days:

• Comfortable t-shirts, tank tops (band merch encouraged!)
• Jeans, cargo shorts, or comfortable pants
• Closed-toe shoes with excellent support (you'll walk 5-10 miles daily)
• Light jacket or hoodie for evening (temperatures can drop to 50°F)
• Bandana or neck gaiter (dust control, sun protection)
• Hat and sunglasses

Camping/Evening:

• Warmer layers for nighttime campfire hangs (temperatures 45-55°F overnight)
• Extra socks and underwear
• Rain gear (May brings occasional showers)
• Slip-on shoes for the campground
• Sleepwear suitable for varying temperatures

Festival Fashion: Rock and metal festivals embrace creative expression. Black band tees, denim vests with patches, leather jackets, and combat boots dominate. Feel free to wear costumes, face paint, or creative outfits—Sonic Temple celebrates individuality.

Essential Festival Items:

• Valid ID (required for entry and alcohol purchases, age 21+)
• Festival wristband and camping wristband (if applicable)
• Cellphone and portable charger
• One factory-sealed water bottle (20 oz max) OR empty refillable plastic bottle (no Hydroflasks or Yetis)
• Sunscreen (non-aerosol only)
• Cash for vendors (reverse ATMs available onsite, but bring emergency cash)
• Earplugs (protect your hearing at high-volume shows)
• Small point-and-shoot camera (professional recording equipment prohibited)

Camping Gear:

• Camping chairs (for around your RV)
• Cooler with ice (stock RV refrigerator supplements)
• Portable grill (small propane grills allowed, no open flames)
• Flashlights and headlamps (campgrounds can be dark)
• Basic first-aid kit
• Bug spray (Ohio mosquitoes love May)
• Extra propane and extension cords (bring 50-75 ft power cord for onsite camping)

What NOT to Bring:

• Weapons of any kind (including pocket knives, pepper spray)
• Drugs or illegal substances
• Glass containers
• Outside food/beverages into the festival (camping areas OK)
• Professional camera equipment (detachable lenses, tripods, GoPros)
• Pets (except service animals)
• Fireworks, spray paint, air horns

Sun Protection: May sun in Ohio is deceptively strong. Apply sunscreen every 2-3 hours, especially on your face, neck, and arms. Seek shade during peak afternoon hours (12-3 PM) when possible.

Hydration: Free water refill stations operate throughout the festival grounds. Dehydration causes most festival medical emergencies—drink water constantly, even if you don't feel thirsty. Aim for 64+ ounces daily.

Hearing Protection: Prolonged exposure to 100+ dB music damages hearing permanently. Quality earplugs reduce volume while preserving sound quality. Many veteran festival-goers wear musicians' earplugs throughout the weekend.

Medications: Bring all prescription medications in original containers. The festival prohibits loose pills or pills without prescriptions. A basic first-aid kit should include pain relievers, antihistamines, anti-diarrheal medication, bandages, and any personal prescriptions.

Weather Preparedness: Sonic Temple operates rain or shine, but severe weather (lightning, flooding, excessive wind) may pause or evacuate the festival temporarily. Download the official festival app for real-time weather alerts and emergency notifications.

Onsite Camping: Small propane grills are permitted at RV campsites (no open campfires or flames). Your RV's kitchen allows full meal preparation—many campers prepare breakfast before heading into the festival and cook dinner after evening shows.

Nearby Campgrounds: Full RV camping amenities including grills, fire rings (where permitted), and outdoor cooking areas. Stock up on groceries before arriving:

• Kroger (multiple Columbus locations, many open 24 hours)
• Giant Eagle (Columbus-based chain with extensive locations)
• Walmart Supercenter (US-40 location, 10 minutes from Alum Creek State Park)

Cooking Tips:

• Prep meals ahead and freeze (they'll thaw while traveling, staying fresh)
• Stock easy breakfast items (cereal, bagels, instant oatmeal)
• Plan one nice campground dinner (steaks, burgers, campfire cooking)
• Bring coolers with extra ice for perishables
• Consider meal-sharing with neighboring campers (festival camaraderie)

Historic Crew Stadium's north Columbus location provides convenient restaurant access:

Within 2 Miles:

• Rusty Bucket Restaurant and Tavern (American comfort food, sports bar atmosphere)
• First Watch (breakfast and brunch, popular pre-festival)
• Various fast-food options along Morse Road

Short Drive (5-10 Minutes):

• Polaris Fashion Place area (dozens of chains and local restaurants)
• Morse Road corridor (diverse international cuisine)
• Downtown Columbus (15 minutes south, extensive dining scene)

Sonic Temple features 30+ food vendors offering diverse cuisine well beyond standard festival fare:

Expected Options:

• Gourmet burgers and hot dogs
• Wood-fired pizza
• BBQ and smoked meats
• Tacos and burritos
• Asian fusion
• Vegetarian and vegan options
• Desserts and treats

Metallica Experience:
The BLACKENED Burger Bar (collaboration between BLACKENED Whiskey, celebrity chef Chris Santos, and Metallica) returns as a fan-favorite, receiving rave reviews at 2024 DWP festivals. The BLACKENED Whiskey Bar offers craft cocktails and spirits.

The Dive Bar: This festival staple provides beer, cocktails, and hang-out space with a rock-themed atmosphere.

Vendor Hours: Food vendors operate throughout festival hours (typically noon-11 PM daily). Arrive early for shorter lines. Most vendors accept cash and credit, though the festival encourages cashless transactions (reverse ATMs available).