University of Notre Dame Tailgating
The University of Notre Dame Fighting Irish is a college football team from Notre Dame, Indiana. The team plays at the rambunctious Notre Dame Stadium, with a leprechaun for a mascot. Learn more about RVing near the University of Notre Dame.
Event information
Notre Dame tailgating at Notre Dame Stadium offers one of college football's most storied RV experiences, with dedicated RV parking at the Notre Dame Federal Credit Union area providing spaces for oversized vehicles at $150-275 per game. Located in South Bend, Indiana, the university opens parking lots at 8:00 AM on game day, with tailgating permitted until two hours post-game in designated areas around parking lot perimeters. While on-site RV spaces don't include hookups, they provide access to dump stations and allow generator use within your space. The Fighting Irish enforce a clear bag policy (12"×6" maximum) and introduced alcohol sales inside the stadium for the 2025 season. South Bend and nearby Elkhart offer excellent RV rental options within 30 minutes of campus, providing access to the nation's RV manufacturing capital while positioning you perfectly for legendary Notre Dame game day traditions.
What Makes Notre Dame Tailgating Special?
Notre Dame tailgating represents the gold standard of college football traditions, combining academic prestige with passionate fan culture in one of America's most iconic campus settings. The Fighting Irish faithful create an atmosphere that's both reverent and raucous, where family traditions span generations and the pregame experience rivals the game itself.
The campus itself serves as the ultimate backdrop, with the famous golden dome catching sunlight above manicured lawns where fans gather hours before kickoff. Notre Dame's independent status means every home game feels special—no conference rivalries here, just nationally televised showdowns that draw fans from across the country.
What sets Notre Dame apart is the combination of accessibility and authenticity. Despite being a prestigious university, the tailgating culture welcomes everyone with open arms. You'll find everything from elaborate multi-generational setups to first-time visitors soaking in the tradition. The proximity to campus landmarks like the Grotto and Touchdown Jesus creates a uniquely spiritual yet celebratory atmosphere.
Weather adds character throughout the season, from warm September afternoons perfect for corn hole and cold beverages to November games where Irish coffee and hearty chili become essential. That's when the true character of Fighting Irish fans shines through.
For the best Notre Dame experience, explore South Bend RV rentals for proximity to campus and urban amenities, or discover Elkhart RV rentals in the heart of America's RV manufacturing capital.
Tickets
How Much Does Notre Dame Tailgating Cost?
Notre Dame game experiences involve several cost components, with pricing fluctuating based on opponent strength and season timing.
RV Parking: Notre Dame Federal Credit Union area costs $150-275 per game and requires advance purchase through official channels or authorized resellers.
Game Tickets: Prices vary dramatically based on opponent and seating location. General admission ranges from $60 for lesser opponents to $200+ for marquee matchups against teams like USC, Michigan, or Penn State. Premium seats and club sections can reach $300-500.
Additional Costs:
- Tow vehicle parking (if bringing additional vehicles)
- Food and beverages for tailgating
- Stadium concessions and merchandise
- Fuel and supplies for your RV adventure
- Overnight campground fees at nearby parks
Money-Saving Tips:
- Book RV parking when tickets are released in spring
- Purchase tickets early in the season for better pricing
- Consider weekday arrivals for extended stays to maximize value
- Bring your own food and drinks for tailgating (nothing permitted inside stadium)
- Explore nearby Potato Creek Campground for overnight stays with full hookups
How Do I Rent an RV Near Notre Dame for Fighting Irish Games?
The South Bend area offers exceptional RV rental options that put you within easy reach of Notre Dame Stadium while providing access to the region's unique attractions and Midwest hospitality.
South Bend provides the largest selection and the closest proximity to campus. Located just minutes from Notre Dame, South Bend offers everything from compact Class B campervans perfect for couples to spacious Class A motorhomes ideal for multi-generational Fighting Irish families.
Elkhart represents the heart of America's RV manufacturing industry, offering unique opportunities to rent directly from the source. Just 30 minutes from campus, Elkhart provides authentic RV culture and competitive pricing while positioning you perfectly for game day arrival.
Explore University of Notre Dame Tailgating RV Rentals
Transportation
Driving
The University of Notre Dame is located in the northern part of the state, and it is very close to South Bend, Indiana. I-90, that doubles as the Indiana Toll Road, runs just north of the community.
Indianapolis, the state’s capital, is a few hours’ drive to the south near I-70. Chicago, Illinois is right around the corner about 95 miles and just barely on the other side of Lake Erie.
To manage traffic after the game, the university changes the flow of traffic. As you exit the parking lot, keep an eye on the flow of traffic and make adjustments to your route.
Parking areas
Parking lots open early in the morning the day of a game, and while overnight stays are not allowed, RVs can park for the day. There are several parking lots around the stadium for cars, but there is only one for RVs.
Public Transportation
Fans who would rather save their energy for the game can hop on one of the shuttle buses that the school provides. The three different shuttle routes may begin ferrying passengers as early as 6 a.m. and continue up to two hours after the game’s final whistle. The Bulla shuttle is ADA compliant and picks up passengers from the gameday accessible lot. Passengers with mobility issues can flag down a courtesy golf cart, which ends its service when the gates to the stadium open.
Where to stay
Onsite
The Notre Dame Federal Credit Union area serves as the exclusive on-campus RV parking location, accommodating vehicles over 19 feet in length. RV parking costs $150-275 per game, depending on opponent and demand, requiring advance purchase as passes aren't sold on game day.
Notre Dame Federal Credit Union Area Features:
- No electrical or water hookups available
- On-site dump station for waste disposal
- Generator use permitted within assigned spaces
- Tailgating is allowed within space boundaries only
- No overnight parking permitted
- Arrival begins at 8:00 AM on game day
- Departure required within three hours post-game
Important RV Guidelines:
- Vehicles over 43 feet should verify space availability
- Tow vehicles require separate permits if staying during events
- No re-entry once you leave the parking area
- Tailgating equipment must be removed during games
Nearby
If Federal Credit Union parking sells out, South Bend / Elkhart North KOA provides excellent nearby options with full hookups, Wi-Fi, and shuttle services to area attractions. Located just seven miles from campus, this campground offers the comfort and amenities unavailable in stadium parking.
Getting around
The best and fastest way to get around the stadium is to ride on the shuttles, but there are other options, too. The complimentary golf cart service can help you get to the stadium if you’re having trouble walking. Apart from the school’s shuttles, which only pick up passengers within the school’s campus, Transpo provides a free shuttle service that makes several stops around South Bend, including the downtown area.
What to pack
Clothing
With warm to cool temperatures in the summer and early fall, it’s best to pack light, comfortable clothing. For the latter half of the season, however, you’ll want to bring warm clothing, since temperatures can drop to the early 30s starting in November. Aside from dressing for the weather, pack your favorite Notre Dame apparel. The university's primary colors are blue and gold but Irish green is also acceptable.
Gear
There’s a lot that goes into hosting a tailgate party, but it all starts with a grill. Bring some chairs as well, so you’ll have somewhere to sit while the burgers cook on the grill. Having a table is important, too, so you can display your spread and make it easier for people to help themselves during your RV tailgate time at Notre Dame.
Health & Safety
In the event of any accidents, be prepared with a first-aid kit, which you can find at any supermarket or sports supply store. The university does not allow alcoholic beverages or drinking in the central part of the campus.
Where to eat
Cooking
Notre Dame does not allow deep fryers or charcoal grills in their tailgating areas, so bring a propane grill and a propane cylinder no larger than 20 pounds if you plan on cooking.
Before you fire up the grill, stop by one of the local grocery stores, of which there are many, and stock up on essential items. Don’t forget to bring some trash bags and items that will help you easily serve your guests.
Restaurants
Before you hit the town for some delicious food, don’t overlook the famous steak sandwiches served by the Knights of Columbus, which often costs around $10 and includes a drink. You can find this tasty stand next to the Coleman-Morse Center on gamedays before kickoff. Within the Notre Dame and South Bend area, you can also find a diverse selection of affordable dining options.
Vendors
To shop for official Notre Dame-branded apparel and items, head to one of the Hammes Bookstore locations. The bookstore also has booths and kiosks inside Fighting Irish Stadium. If you get hungry once you’re inside the stadium, head to one of the many concessions stands, which offer plenty of options. There are even vegan and gluten-free options for those with dietary restrictions.
Safety
Security
Like many other college football stadiums, Notre Dame Stadium has a strict clear bag policy. Bags that are bigger than a clutch purse must be clear or they are not allowed. If you don’t have a stadium-appropriate bag, you can purchase one at the Hammes Notre Dame Bookstore.
Weather
When the football season begins, temperatures are cool in Notre Dame, but that changes quickly as the season progresses. By November, the average low is around 40 degrees and drops to 19 degrees by January. Snow is not common in the winter, however, which can make driving to the game less stressful.
Medical
There are four first-aid stations within Notre Dame Stadium that guests can access as soon as the stadium’s gates open. The first-aid stations also serve as nursing rooms for mothers. If it’s an emergency, speak with a staff member or police officer for assistance. Additional medical care and pharmacy locations are situated within five miles of the university campus.
