University of Georgia Tailgating
Catch football fever and head to a tailgate party at the University of Georgia. Pack the RV for gameday and hit the road to cheer on the Dawgs.
Event information
Join the tradition and head over to the University of Georgia Campus for a tailgate party beyond expectations. Keep your eye out for the cutest mascot ever, Uga X the Bulldog. Cheer the Georgia Bulldogs to victory and get caught up in the excitement of the game. Make a day of it and get into the true college football spirit.
Not only does UGA stand for the University of Georgia, but it also means “unselfish giving attitude,” which is the feeling behind the athletes and students alike at this bustling campus. The largest public research university in the state, this school is known for its commitment to student excellence, and its football team, of course.
Come out to support the players and take part in the Dawg Walk. Join other fans, the team’s cheerleading squad, and the Redcoat Marching Band to cheer on the coaches and athletes as they enter Sanford Stadium. Be there two hours before the game to be part of the tradition.
While in the state, be sure to explore Athens. Brush up on Southern history, see a live theater performance, and take advantage of the time to shop. Experience the nightlife and food scene, both known to make your vacation one of a kind.
Tickets
Tickets to a University of Georgia Football game range in price, and if you wish to add the tailgate party to gameday, planning ahead is a must. These games are a popular event for fans from near and far, so visit the Dawgs online to buy your tickets.
Fans can choose from private or prearranged tailgating options in various locations. An RV Parking Pass is what will be needed if you plan to tailgate via your rig on site. Premium Tailgating packages are sold separately from the game tickets. Single-game packages range from $500 to $2500.
Explore University of Georgia Tailgating RV Rentals
Transportation
Driving
From Atlanta, you are likely to take I-20 east or I-85 north to begin your route. Located about an hour and a half away, the Sanford Stadium holds close to 92,000 people. Signage will be plentiful, and the traffic may be, too so have a navigator alongside as you drive. 511GA resources will keep you aware of traffic and weather-related delays as you make your way across the state.
Parking areas
Daily Gameday Parking can be found on East Campus for free. The PAC Complex and the Ramsay Complex offer parking spots for a fee. These are car spots, however, as there are other locations for RVs. Review the UGA Gameday Gameplan, and read the parking section for details on where to park your rig for tailgating fun via an RV Parking Pass, also labeled as an RV Single Game Pass.
Public Transportation
For those attending the game without a vehicle, ridesharing options are a good choice. The drop-off point is at the intersection of Thomas and Williams Streets, where you can then take a short walk to Reed Quad. This puts you at the Bulldogs Tailgate Club, where families, alumni, fans, and students meet to experience this fun event. Shuttles from the parking decks will get you to your destination in time for kickoff.
Where to stay
Onsite
Depending on your timeframes, you may be able to stay overnight via an RV Parking Pass, but you will need to ensure with the UGA Transporation and Parking Services Department that this will match your travel dates.
Onsite camping at a University of Georgia Tailgating event is also available to members of Bulldog Park, an RV facility built for fans of the Dawgs. Lots must be purchased, and are individually owned. The area is available for owners throughout the year and comes with full hookups, picnic table areas, and restrooms with showers.
Travelers who are not a member of the park and who are not able to acquire an RV Parking Pass will have plenty of options camping in the vicinity of the stadium.
Nearby
The beautiful Georgia landscape is the ideal place for RV camping. Hard Labor Creek State Park, for example, offers full hookups and recreational activities galore. Over 24 miles of trails await those who love to hike, and boating is a big draw. Don Carter State Park is a new addition to the roster, and is located on Lake Lanier.
Getting around
Crowds will be the word of the day at any college football tailgating day, but that is part of the excitement. Wheelchair accessibility is an important part of the football game experience, and seating at the games allows for a companion seat as well. For the tailgate event, wear comfortable shoes because despite the option to have a chair at your site, mingling and getting in game form is sure to be a highlight. Strollers, ATVs, and golf carts cannot be used in the stadium.
What to pack
Clothing
Clothing will depend on what time of year you attend a game, but layering is always the best plan. Lighter clothing with a layering of a heavier sweater and even a jacket will keep you cozy and warm if need be. A hat for protection from the sun is a must. Show your Bulldog colors and dress in red. When considering recreational fun at state parks like Fort Yargo or Panola Mountain, layering is the name of the game.
Gear
Tailgating at the University of Georgia entails a lot of gear. This is why many opt for the Bulldogs Tailgating Club, where set up and tear down is taken care of by the staff. If you are doing the work yourself, pack folding chairs, tables, and a shade tent to protect from both the rain and the sun. Bring something along to collect your garbage in and include cleaning supplies, too.
Health & Safety
Sunscreen tops the prep list as a must-have. Reapply several times throughout the day. Hydrate often as well. Tote large bottles of water in your cooler so that you have plenty for everyone. If you are including alcohol in your day, alternate with water and be careful of your consumption of alcoholic drinks.
Where to eat
Cooking
Charcoal grills are permitted for if you plan to organize your own tailgate, but any other type of fire is not. Stock up on charcoal briquets and plan on burgers, hot dogs, salads, fruits, and chopped veggies. Keep it simple and easy to prepare so that when game time comes, you can easily clean up and head to the field. Propane tanks and power hookups are not permitted or available. Although generators are allowed except on North Campus, they are not recommended for safety purposes.
Restaurants
Healthy eats are easy to find in Athens, Georgia. Settle in for a meal at a trendy bistro, try a dish made from locally sourced foods, or make time for a bite of fish, stew, or vegetarian fare at a college student’s favorite drop-in joint. Whatever the time or taste, you’ll find it in Athens.
Vendors
It’s called Gameday Dining, and you won’t be disappointed. Check out the commons locations for pizzas, smoothies, omelets, and more. At the Tate Student Center, you will find a variety of fast food choices. Don’t miss the Bulldawg Grill Tent if you are craving a pork sandwich. Order your football apparel online before the big day.
Safety
Security
The university has its own police force who will be on hand to ensure the event is a secure one. Bags will be checked as fans enter the stadium. You cannot carry alcohol into the stadium area. Make sure that you are aware of the nearest exit to your seat in the event of a need to leave the venue. Dooley Field at Sanford Stadium is a smoke-free zone.
Weather
The game must go on rain or shine, so be prepared for all weather instances. The market place store on campus stocks only a limited number of rain ponchos. Bring your own to be dry and comfortable. A water bottle is essential as the sun’s rays can make for a hot day. There are refilling stations throughout the campus.
Medical
If you have a medical need, alert a Red Cross volunteer who will help out in any circumstance. Stadium Response Team members are available to assist as well. Service dogs are allowed on site, but all other pets are not allowed to attend the game or tailgating events. Pharmacy services are as close as a 10-minute drive from the stadium area.
