Texas Motorplex
If fast cars get your motor running, head for the Texas Motorplex in Ennis where you can watch the fastest cars in the country compete for the title. At speeds exceeding 330 miles per hour, don’t look away or you will probably miss something.
Event information
With cars that can go from zero to top speed in less than a half-second, your experience at the Texas Motorplex will be phenomenal no matter which event you attend. The most popular by far is the AAA Texas NHRA Fall Nationals, which is held at the track in mid-October. With extra tall grandstand seating and dozens of tower suites, you can have the best seating no matter where you sit.
The temperatures can get pretty hot in Ennis, so make sure you are prepared for the heat. And in October, during the AAA Nationals, most of the country will be wiping the frost off the pumpkins while you are enjoying 80-degree weather at the Motorplex. And since all tickets are pit passes, you will be able to get in and meet your favorite drivers and pit crew staff. Bring your camera so you can get some photos of those you cannot get anywhere else.
Grab a few burgers, nachos, and some ice-cold drinks from the concession stand before heading to your seats where you can spend the day watching the drivers compete for the title and the trophy. Bring a marker so you can get signatures from your favorites while you are getting some pics to share on social media. Whether you are coming from across the country or across town, the park has a spot for you. If you plan to camp, make sure you reserve your spot well in advance so you can be sure to get a spot.Texas Motorplex in Ennis, Texas, offers one of drag racing's premier RV camping experiences, with onsite camping available for just $50 per weekend regardless of stay length (1-4 days) at regular events and $40 for the full 10-day Stampede of Speed. Located just 38 miles south of Dallas on US-287, the quarter-mile drag strip accommodates RVs in two main areas: the first-come, first-served general campground and the premium Trackside Motorhome Corral with direct views of racing action. While onsite camping lacks electrical hookups, water fill stations and RV sanitation dump sites operate daily, with shower facilities available near the campground entrance for a small fee. The Dallas-Fort Worth metroplex offers excellent RV rental options with delivery services, putting you within 45 minutes of the track while providing access to full-service campgrounds like Dallas/Arlington KOA for comfortable pre-race staging.
What Makes Texas Motorplex Special?
Texas Motorplex represents authentic drag racing heritage, celebrating 40 years of family fun and NHRA championship events in the heart of Texas. The facility features super-high grandstands, balcony seating, tower suites, and Champions Club VIP benefits, ensuring every spectator feels like royalty regardless of seating location.
What sets Texas Motorplex apart is its incredible value—every general admission pass includes pit access at no extra charge, allowing fans to watch crews work on cars, talk to drivers, and attend autograph sessions. Children under 12 typically attend free, making this an exceptionally family-friendly motorsports experience.
The track hosts premier events, including the AAA Texas NHRA Fall Nationals (part of the 10-day Stampede of Speed festival), Street Outlaws races, and JEGS All-Stars competitions. These 10,000+ horsepower engines accelerate from zero to 100 mph in less than half a second, flying down the quarter-mile track in under 10 seconds—blink and you'll miss the entire pass.
Texas Motorplex's strategic location near Ennis puts you within easy reach of both Dallas and Fort Worth metropolitan attractions while maintaining authentic small-town Texas hospitality. The facility's design facilitates smooth traffic flow and provides excellent sightlines from camping areas to the racing action.
To maximize your Motorplex experience, explore Dallas RV rentals for the largest selection and DFW Airport access, or discover Ennis RV rentals to stay closest to the track.
Tickets
How Much Do Texas Motorplex Experiences Cost?
Planning your racing weekend involves several cost components that deliver exceptional value compared to other major motorsports venues.
Camping Fees:
- Regular weekend events: $50 total (same price for 1-4 days)
- AAA Texas NHRA Fall Nationals: $50 weekend camping
- Stampede of Speed (10-day event): $40 for full event access
- Additional vehicles: $30 per weekend
- Trackside Motorhome Corral: Premium pricing (reserve early, limited availability)
Event Tickets:
- AAA Texas NHRA Fall Nationals: $50-$300 depending on package
- General admission typically includes pit pass access
- Children under 12: Usually free admission
- VIP packages: Champions Club, Gold Key, Red Key options available
- Super Seats: New lower 2025 pricing for mid-tier reserved seating
Additional Costs:
- Shower facilities: Small fee near campground entrance
- Food and beverages (excellent track concessions available)
- Merchandise and souvenirs
- Fuel and camping supplies
Money-Saving Tips:
- Book camping early for Trackside Motorhome Corral spots
- Bring children under 12 for free admission
- Pack your own food and drinks for campsite cooking (no open fires, but grills/BBQ pits/smokers permitted)
- Purchase tickets online in advance for better pricing
- Take advantage of all-inclusive pit access with general admission
Explore Texas Motorplex RV Rentals
Transportation
Driving
Less than 40 miles from Dallas, Texas Motorplex is on US-287 just outside of Ennis. You can reach it from I-45, I-20, or I-35 as well as from TX-34 or US-175. The track is also only about 51 miles from Fort Worth, where you can also find the Kimbell Art Museum and the National Cowgirl Museum Hall of Fame.
For those who enjoy state parks, Cedar Hill State Park is about 28 miles southeast of the track. Cedar Hill has a lake, picnic areas, biking and hiking trails, camping, and geocaching. Stop by and check it out while you are in town.
Parking areas
Parking your RV at Texas Motorplex is not too difficult since they have a special place for RVs to park. Head to the eastern part of the main parking lot for an RV spot, which is roped off specifically for daytime RV parking. In the past, parking has been free at the park, but some of the sections, such as the VIP, Gold Key, and Red Key parking areas, are only available to those who purchase a special package.
Public Transportation
Ennis is a medium-sized to large city in Ellis County, Texas, about 35 miles from Dallas, with a population of over 18,000. Although there are several public bus services in and around the city, these typically do not operate on weekends. It is best to use a private rideshare app or call for a taxi. Several of the campgrounds in the area also offer rideshare services like shuttles or bus services.
Where to stay
Onsite
General Campground operates on a first-come, first-served basis, making early arrival essential for securing prime locations. This camping area welcomes various setups, including motorhomes, motor coaches, travel trailers, pick-ups with camper tops, and pop-up campers.
General Campground Features:
- $50 weekend camping (same price for 1-4 days at regular events)
- $40 for the full 10-day Stampede of Speed event
- First-come, first-served space assignment
- Water fill station on the northwest side of the park
- RV sanitation dump site available daily
- Shower facilities near campground entrance (small fee)
- No electrical, water, or sewer hookups at individual sites
- Open 24/7 during race weekends
- Pets NOT allowed during events
- Additional vehicles require a separate $30 fee
Trackside Motorhome Corral provides premium camping with spectacular trackside views for all events. Space is extremely limited, requiring early registration on the waiting list to secure these coveted spots.
Trackside Motorhome Corral Features:
- Direct pit-side track views
- 25-foot-wide spaces
- Includes one motorhome pass and one support vehicle parking pass
- Premium pricing (contact track for current rates)
- Limited availability—reserve well in advance
- Same amenities as general campground (no hookups)
- Exclusive positioning for optimal race viewing
Important RV Guidelines:
- No open fires permitted
- Grills, BBQ pits, smokers, and camp stoves are allowed
- Generator use permitted for power needs
- Pack charcoal and fire starter for grilling
- No pets allowed at Texas Motorplex events
- Approved camping methods only (see track policies)
Day Parking (Non-Camping):
- Eastern section of the main parking lot is designated for RVs
- Roped-off area for daytime RV parking only
- No overnight parking in day lots
- Free general parking has historically been offered
- VIP, Gold Key, and Red Key parking are available with special packages
Nearby
Since onsite camping at Texas Motorplex lacks hookups, the Dallas-Fort Worth and Ennis areas offer excellent full-service campgrounds within 28-50 miles providing complete amenities, air conditioning, and comfortable bases for extended race weekends.
Dallas/Arlington KOA(Arlington, TX) — Located approximately 45 minutes from Texas Motorplex, this premier KOA offers several hundred campsites ranging from back-ins to pull-throughs, with deluxe sites featuring patios. The campground accommodates even the largest rigs with sites up to 102 feet long, providing full hookups with up to 50-amp service, cable television, and complimentary Wi-Fi. Amenities include swimming pools, playgrounds, K9 Kamp dog areas, and bike trails perfect for family recreation between racing sessions.
Dallas Hi Ho RV Park(Glenn Heights, TX) — Just 30 minutes from downtown Dallas and approximately 40 minutes from the track, this park offers spacious, private, and shaded campsites with full hookups on concrete pads. Picnic tables and grills are provided at each site, with pull-through options perfect for Texas-sized motorhome rentals. The location provides ideal proximity to both Dallas metropolitan attractions and Texas Motorplex.
Ennis Luxury RV Resort(Ennis, TX) — Just off I-45 Exit 251A and only 1,100 feet north of Buc-ee's, this upscale resort sits approximately 5-10 miles from Texas Motorplex. Featuring 100 luxury paved sites with granite and turf, full hookups, on-site security cameras, gated entry, swimming pool, clubhouse, dog park, laundry facilities, and modern amenities, this resort sets a new standard for comfort. Within a mile of Blue Beacon Truck Wash and local Czech halls, with easy access to nearby racetracks.
Cedar Hill State Park(Cedar Hill, TX) — Located approximately 28 miles from Texas Motorplex on the shores of Joe Pool Lake, this Texas State Park offers 350 developed campsites with electricity and water or full hookups. Five different camping areas (Shady Ridge, Eagle Ford, Lake View, Hog Wallow, and Coyote Crossing) accommodate various rig sizes, with some sites offering 50-amp service. Amenities include restrooms with hot showers, dump stations, picnic tables, fire rings, hiking trails, and lake access for swimming and fishing. Reservations available up to five months in advance—book early for race weekends.
High View Campground at Bardwell Lake(Ennis, TX) — On a peninsula on the western shore of Bardwell Lake, less than an hour from Dallas-Fort Worth and close to Texas Motorplex, this Corps of Engineers campground offers water and electric hookups with shade trees, picnic areas, and lake access for fishing and boating.
Bear Creek Campground(Fort Worth, TX) — This waterfront RV campground sits on the shores of Benbrook Lake, approximately 50 miles from the track, offering scope for watersports including fishing, swimming, and kayaking alongside full RV amenities.
Book campground reservations 4-6 weeks in advance for major racing events, especially the AAA Texas NHRA Fall Nationals and Stampede of Speed, as these draw massive crowds filling nearby accommodations.
Getting around
Don’t bother bringing along your golf cart, side by side, four-wheelers, or any other types of personalized vehicles because they are not allowed at Texas Motorplex. For those with special needs, the park does provide ADA accessible parking lots as well as restrooms, concessions, and other areas. Be sure to pack some comfortable shoes so you can get around the park without acquiring blisters.
What to pack
Clothing
Texas weather varies dramatically depending on race season, requiring flexible wardrobe planning for comfortable experiences from spring through fall events.
Spring/Fall Events (April-May, September-October):
- Layered clothing for temperature fluctuations
- Long pants and long-sleeve shirts for cooler mornings/evenings
- Lighter clothing for warm afternoons
- Light jacket or hoodie for nighttime at camp
- Closed-toe shoes for walking around the pits and campground
Summer Events (June-August):
- Lightweight, breathable shorts and t-shirts
- Sun hat or baseball cap for shade
- Sunglasses for the bright Texas sun
- Comfortable walking shoes or sneakers
- Light long-sleeve options for sun protection
Texas racing culture embraces casual, comfortable attire. Wear team colors or driver merchandise to show support for your favorite racers.
Gear
Pack essential items for both trackside spectating and campground comfort, remembering that Texas Motorplex camping lacks electrical hookups at individual sites.
Required Items:
- Valid ID for age verification
- Event tickets (printed or on phone—cell service may be limited)
- Cash and credit cards (vendors accept both)
- Approved seating (folding chairs for certain areas)
- Sunscreen SPF 30+ (reapply frequently)
- Hearing protection (drag racing engines are LOUD—essential for children)
- Sunglasses and a sun hat
- Refillable water bottles (stay hydrated in Texas heat)
Camping Gear:
- Generator and fuel (no hookups—power essential for AC in summer)
- Extra water containers for drinking and cooking
- Plenty of ice and coolers for food storage
- Grills, BBQ pits, or smokers (no open fires allowed)
- Charcoal and fire starter for grilling
- Camp chairs and tables for outdoor living
- Flashlights and lanterns for nighttime
- Waste management supplies (dump station available daily)
Racing Fan Essentials:
- Camera equipment for capturing passes (check track photo policies)
- Autograph materials (books, pens, driver's cards)
- Team merchandise and driver apparel
- Portable phone charger/power bank
- Small backpack or bag for carrying items
Health & Safety
Texas summer sun and outdoor racing environments require proactive health precautions for comfortable, safe event experiences.
Sun Protection:
- High SPF sunscreen (30-50+) applied liberally and frequently
- Sun hat with a wide brim for extended shade
- UV-protective sunglasses
- Lip balm with SPF protection
- Light, breathable long-sleeve options for extended sun exposure
Hearing Protection:
10,000+ horsepower NHRA drag racing engines produce extreme noise levels. Bring quality earplugs or noise-canceling ear protection, especially for children and extended pit area time.
Hydration & First Aid:
- Multiple water bottles (Texas heat and humidity create dehydration risk)
- Electrolyte packets for intense sun exposure days
- Personal first aid kit with bandages, pain relievers, and antiseptic
- Any prescription medications needed during the trip
- Bug repellent for evening camping
Stock your RV's first aid kit before departing for Texas, ensuring self-sufficiency for minor emergencies throughout race weekend.
Where to eat
Cooking
One of the great advantages of RV camping at Texas Motorplex is preparing meals at your campsite, creating authentic tailgating experiences between racing sessions.
No open fires are permitted in the campground, but grills, BBQ pits, smokers, and camp stoves are welcome, bringing that essential Texas BBQ tradition to your setup. Pack charcoal and fire starter for grilling, though Ennis stores carry supplies if you forget anything.
Stock up on groceries in Ennis or Dallas before arriving at the track. Consider authentic Texas specialties like beef brisket, ribs, and sausages for proper Lone Star State tailgating. Your RV's refrigerator keeps food fresh, while generators provide power for cooking equipment.
Restaurants
Ennis offers diverse dining options perfect for breaking from track food, with excellent Tex-Mex restaurants, Asian cuisine, Lebanese food trucks, and classic Texas BBQ establishments within short driving distance of the track.
Don't miss experiencing authentic Czech culture in nearby Czech halls—Ennis celebrates its Czech heritage with traditional kolaches, sausages, and cultural festivals throughout the year. Ennis Luxury RV Resort sits within a mile of local Czech halls.
Fast-food options and drive-throughs provide quick meal solutions when you want to maximize time at the track rather than dining out.
Vendors
Texas Motorplex features excellent concession stands offering classic racing fare from nachos to burgers and fries, along with cold beverages, including beer, soft drinks, and water to stay hydrated during intense racing action.
The souvenir shop near the Media Center sells racing memorabilia, driver merchandise, and event-specific gear. Repeat vendors at major events include AAA, Lowe's, Menards, O'Reilly, Budweiser, Pepsi, and Dos Equis.
Concession areas accept both cash and credit cards, ensuring convenient purchasing throughout race days.
Safety
Security
Texas Motorplex prioritizes guest safety with comprehensive security measures throughout racing events and camping areas.
Security Measures:
- Vehicle inspections before entering parking/camping areas
- Security personnel patrol the grounds during events
- Medical staff available on-site
- Clear emergency proceduresare posted throughout the facility
- Well-lit pathways and facilities
Visitor Safety Tips:
- Keep valuables secured in your RV
- Supervise children closely in crowded pit areas and grandstands
- Stay aware of your surroundings, especially near active racing
- Note your camping location before exploring the track
- Follow all posted rules and staff directions
Prohibited Items:
- Weapons, fireworks, or dangerous materials
- Pets (not allowed at Texas Motorplex events)
- Open flames in camping areas
- Items restricted by track policies
Weather
Texas weather demands respect and preparation depending on race season, with summer heat and occasional spring/fall storms creating variable conditions.
Typical Racing Season Weather:
- April-May: Variable conditions, 65-80°F, potential severe storms
- June-August: Hot and humid, 85-100°F, intense sun exposure
- September-October: Pleasant but warm, 70-90°F, cooling evenings
Summer events require aggressive heat management—generators powering RV air conditioning become essential for comfortable camping. Stay hydrated constantly and take breaks in shaded or air-conditioned areas during peak afternoon heat.
Texas spring storms can bring large hail, lightning, and even tornadoes. Monitor weather forecasts closely and understand track emergency procedures for severe weather events.
Medical
Medical facilities and first aid services operate at Texas Motorplex during racing events, with trained staff available to assist with injuries or health concerns.
Medical Resources:
- On-site first aid and medical personnel during events
- Ennis medical facilities are within 10 minutes of the track
- Pharmacies available in Ennis for prescription needs
- Emergency services: Dial 911 from any phone
Maintain a well-stocked RV first aid kit, including Texas-specific items like extra sunburn treatment, heat exhaustion remedies, and hearing protection for the intense noise environment.
