University of Kentucky Tailgating
The University of Kentucky is part of the Southeastern Conference and welcomes RVs to stay overnight. When the Wildcats play at home, fans congregate at Kroger Field in Lexington, Kentucky.
Event information
University of Kentucky tailgating at Kroger Field offers passionate SEC experiences with dedicated RV parking in the Main RV and Gluck RV lots, both opening at 8 PM Friday evenings for permit holders with overnight camping allowed until game day. Located in Lexington, Kentucky, the 61,000-seat stadium requires advance season parking permits for premium RV locations, though non-permit RV parking is available in Orange Lot areas on a first-come basis. Tailgating setup begins Saturday, August 9, at 8 AM, with all tents and structures requiring contact information tags for the season. While on-site RV spaces lack hookups, the stadium enforces a clear bag policy and maintains family-friendly tailgating guidelines with designated cooking and music restrictions. The Lexington area provides excellent RV rental options with easy access to Kentucky Horse Park, bourbon trail attractions, and historic campgrounds like Fort Boonesborough State Park, just 30 minutes from campus.
What Makes University of Kentucky Tailgating Special?
University of Kentucky tailgating at Kroger Field represents the heart of SEC passion, combining Kentucky hospitality with fierce Wildcat pride in one of college football's most devoted fan atmospheres. The stadium's location in the heart of Lexington creates a unique blend of college town charm and horse country elegance that sets UK apart from other SEC venues.
Big Blue Nation brings authentic Kentucky spirit to every home game, with families arriving early to set up elaborate seasonal structures, fire up grills, and create the legendary "sea of blue and white" that defines game day in Lexington. The tailgating culture here emphasizes tradition and accessibility—it's a celebration of SEC football, Kentucky values, and shared passion for the Wildcats.
Kroger Field's tailgating experience centers around community traditions that connect generations of UK fans. The stadium's design accommodates extensive tailgating areas in the Green, Blue, and Orange lots, where families establish seasonal setups that become gathering places for alumni, students, and lifelong Wildcats supporters throughout the football season.
The unique Kentucky atmosphere combines SEC intensity with Bluegrass hospitality, creating an inviting environment where newcomers quickly feel part of the Big Blue family. From the iconic Wildcat mascot duo to the passionate student section, every element contributes to an unforgettable gameday experience.
For your Kentucky adventure, explore Lexington RV rentals for the closest proximity to campus and bourbon trail access, or discover Louisville RV rentals for additional options about two hours west of Kroger Field.
Tickets
How Much Does Kentucky Tailgating Cost?
Kentucky Wildcats game experiences involve several cost considerations, with RV parking requiring advance planning due to high demand among Big Blue Nation faithful.
RV Parking: Season parking permits for Main RV and Gluck RV lots were sold out for 2024, with waitlists available for 2025 by contacting the UK Ticket Sales Office at (800) 928-2287. Non-permit RV parking is available in Orange Lot areas, though specific pricing requires confirmation from UK Athletics.
Game Tickets: UK offers competitive SEC pricing, with tickets averaging around $70 in recent seasons. Premium matchups against ranked opponents, rivalry games with Louisville, or major SEC contests command higher prices. Early-season games against non-conference opponents typically offer the most affordable options.
How Do I Rent an RV Near Lexington for Wildcats Games?
The Lexington area provides exceptional RV rental options that position you perfectly for Wildcats football while offering access to Kentucky's renowned bourbon trail, horse farms, and outdoor attractions.
Lexington serves as your primary hub, offering the most extensive selection and closest proximity to Kroger Field. The Horse Capital of the World provides everything from efficient Class B campervans perfect for couples exploring bourbon distilleries to spacious Class A motorhomes ideal for large family tailgating groups and multi-generational UK alumni gatherings.
Louisville offers additional options about two hours west, serving as Kentucky's largest city with diverse RV inventory and easy highway access to Lexington, while providing different pricing alternatives.
Frankfort provides a convenient middle-ground option as the state capital, positioned between Louisville and Lexington with good access to both UK games and Kentucky's political and cultural attractions.
Explore University of Kentucky Tailgating RV Rentals
Transportation
Driving
The University of Kentucky is located in the City of Lexington, which is in the northern part of the state. Louisville, Kentucky, is about an hour to the west along I-64. An hour and a half to the north sits Cincinnati, Ohio. Indianapolis, Indiana, is about three hours from Wildcat Stadium.
To avoid getting stuck in traffic, get to the stadium as early as possible. The university closes Hospital Drive on gamedays to free up the road for emergency vehicles. To stay up to date on gameday traffic, listen to 1700AM on your radio.
Parking areas
There are two types of RV lots at the University of Kentucky: permit-only and non-permit. The Main RV and Gluck RV lots require a permit and open the evening before a game, offering overnight parking if arranged in advance.
On the other hand, the Primary Visitor Lot and Overflow Lot do not require a permit and are first-come-first-serve and are for cars and smaller vehicles. The non-permit lots fill up fast, so try to get there as early as possible. Non-permit lots are free to park in, and they also open the evening before the game.
Public Transportation
The UK Football Express, operated by Lextran, offers two shuttle routes that may only cost about $1 per person, and they both drop off passengers near the stadium. The UK Football Express Virginia Avenue shuttle picks up passengers nearer to the stadium, while the Downtown shuttle picks up passengers in the downtown area of the city. The Virginia Avenue shuttle starts two hours before the game, and the Downtown shuttle starts three hours before. Both shuttles continue to operate in the opposite direction until one hour after the game ends.
Where to stay
Onsite
The University of Kentucky offers multiple RV parking options, though the most desirable locations require advance season permits that typically sell out due to Big Blue Nation's passionate following.
Season RV Parking Permits: The Main RV and Gluck RV lots represent premium on-campus parking, with all permits opening at 8 PM Friday evenings for overnight camping until game day. Season parking permits were sold out for 2024, requiring interested fans to join the waitlist for 2025 by contacting the UK Ticket Sales Office at (800) 928-2287. These lots accommodate the largest RVs and provide the closest access to Kroger Field.
Non-Permit RV Parking: The Orange Lot areas offer RV parking on a first-come, first-served basis without requiring season permits. These areas provide alternative options for fans unable to secure premium parking passes, though specific availability and pricing should be confirmed with UK Athletics.
Important Guidelines:
- All tailgating structures must be tagged with contact information beginning August 9
- RV lots do not provide electrical or water hookups
- Overnight camping is permitted in designated RV areas for permit holders
- Tailgating behind vehicles only—must maintain parking space accessibility
- Large industrial cookers require prior approval from UK Athletics
Nearby
For extended stays with full amenities, Fort Boonesborough Campground offers 167 RV sites with electric and water hookups just 30 minutes from Kroger Field, featuring historic fort tours and Kentucky River access.
Getting around
The UK provides shuttle services throughout campus, with specific game day shuttles operating from various locations. The Virginia Avenue Shuttle operates for $1 per ride, providing affordable transportation for fans parking in alternative locations.
What to pack
Clothing
Kentucky weather during football season ranges from warm, humid early games to potentially cold late-season contests. Pack layers to handle temperature variations, with early September games reaching 85 degrees while late November contests can drop into the 30s. Don't forget your blue and white Wildcats gear—depending on the opponent, special color coordination may be requested for major games.
Gear
Blue and white dominate Kentucky gameday fashion. Pack your favorite Wildcats apparel, team flags, and comfortable folding chairs to show your Big Blue pride. The 61,000-seat stadium creates an impressive visual when fans coordinate colors, so prepare your Kentucky wardrobe accordingly. Visit campus stores for any additional merchandise you might need.
Health & Safety
Football game days involve extended outdoor periods and walking across campus. Pack comfortable walking shoes suitable for various weather conditions, sunscreen for early-season games, and prepare for potential rain with appropriate gear. Always stay hydrated, especially when tailgating with adult beverages. Include a first aid kit with basic supplies for minor issues during extended tailgating sessions.
Where to eat
Cooking
Kentucky tailgating allows both gas and charcoal grilling in designated areas, making cooking central to the Big Blue experience. Many Kentucky families have signature tailgating recipes featuring local favorites like Kentucky barbecue, bourbon-glazed meats, and traditional Southern sides. Large industrial-size cookers require prior approval from UK Athletics, while portable generators must have decibel ratings of 60DB or less.
Restaurants
Lexington's dining scene reflects both college town energy and Kentucky's rich culinary heritage. The area around campus offers diverse options from traditional Southern comfort food to upscale bourbon-focused restaurants. Don't miss experiencing authentic Kentucky cuisine, including hot browns, burgoo, and locally-sourced dishes that showcase the region's agricultural heritage.
Vendors
Kroger Field features numerous concession stands throughout the venue offering traditional game day fare alongside Kentucky specialties. Food trucks operate near Gate 11, providing additional dining options before entering the stadium. The clear bag policy requires fans to finish all outside food and beverages before entering Kroger Field.
Safety
Security
UK Athletics maintains comprehensive security measures while preserving the family-friendly atmosphere that defines Kentucky gamedays. All vehicles undergo security inspection before parking, and all people pass through security screening when entering the stadium. The university enforces a clear bag policy—only clear bags are permitted, with small clutch purses as exceptions.
Weather
Kentucky weather can change rapidly during football season. Early games may be hot and humid, while late-season contests can feature cold temperatures, rain, or even snow. RVers have the advantage of bringing extra clothing and gear to prepare for any conditions. Monitor weather forecasts and pack accordingly, including warm gear for November games.
Medical
Kroger Field features six family restrooms available for nursing mothers and diaper changes, plus standard first-aid facilities throughout the venue. Lexington's medical infrastructure provides comprehensive services if needed, with multiple hospitals and urgent care facilities throughout the city.
