University of South Carolina Tailgating
Williams-Brice Stadium is home to the South Carolina Gamecocks, part of the Southeastern Conference. Load up your camper and head to the University of South Carolina in the City of Columbia.
Event information
University of South Carolina tailgating at Williams-Brice Stadium offers exceptional RV experiences through the South Carolina Fairgrounds, with weekend RV parking passes priced at $200 for stays from Friday at 2 pm through Sunday at 2 pm. Located in Columbia, South Carolina, the 80,000-seat stadium—affectionately known as "The Cock Pit"—accommodates RVs in the Fairgrounds area, just across George Rogers Boulevard from the stadium, providing easy walking access to game-day festivities. The Fairgrounds offer first-come, first-served bus and RV accommodations through Gate 12 on Rosewood Drive, with tailgating permitted up to five hours before and two hours after games. The Gamecock Express shuttle system begins service three hours before kickoff and continues for two hours post-game, connecting various locations around campus and surrounding areas. Columbia's central location puts you within driving distance of exceptional RV rental options, while nearby campgrounds like Sesquicentennial State Park and Broad River Campground provide full-service alternatives for extended stays.
What Makes USC Tailgating Special?
University of South Carolina tailgating represents one of the SEC's most welcoming and tradition-rich experiences, where Gamecock Nation transforms the area around Williams-Brice Stadium into a sea of garnet and black every fall Saturday. The Gamecocks bring authentic Southern hospitality to every home game, creating an atmosphere where first-time visitors instantly feel part of the extended Gamecock family.
Williams-Brice Stadium, originally built by the Works Progress Administration in 1934 as part of President Roosevelt's New Deal, has evolved into a modern 80,000-seat facility that can expand for major matchups—reaching 85,000 for rivalry games like the annual clash with Georgia. The stadium's reputation for generating intense crowd noise has earned it the nickname "The Cock Pit," where decibel levels can literally make the structure vibrate during crucial moments.
What sets USC tailgating apart is the genuine community atmosphere where alumni, students, and local fans seamlessly blend together in the Fairgrounds and surrounding areas. The tailgating culture here emphasizes inclusivity—you'll often find neighboring tailgates sharing food, stories, and Gamecock pride regardless of whether you've met before.
For your Gamecock adventure, explore Columbia RV rentals for the largest selection and easy access to the USC campus, or discover Lexington RV rentals to stay just outside the capital while remaining close to Williams-Brice Stadium.
Tickets
USC football offers some of the more affordable SEC experiences, making it accessible for families and first-time visitors to enjoy premier college football.
RV Parking: South Carolina Fairgrounds weekend RV parking costs $200, covering Friday 2 pm arrival through Sunday 2 pm departure. Spaces are available on a first-come, first-served basis and must be accessed through Gate 12 on Rosewood Drive.
Game Tickets: Unlike other SEC schools, USC offers fair single-game ticket pricing averaging $75, with tickets available for as low as $25-$40 for certain matchups. Mini-plans covering 2-3 pre-selected games provide additional value throughout the season.
Additional Costs:
- Food and beverages for tailgating
- Stadium concessions and Gamecock merchandise
- Fuel and supplies for your RV adventure
- Potential shuttle fees if using alternative parking
Money-Saving Tips:
- Book Fairgrounds RV parking early in the season
- Consider mini-plans for better per-game pricing
- Bring your own tailgating supplies (nothing enters the stadium)
- Explore nearby campgrounds for extended stays with amenities
How Do I Rent an RV Near Columbia for Gamecocks Games?
The Columbia metropolitan area provides excellent RV rental access, positioning you perfectly for Williams-Brice Stadium while offering entry points to South Carolina's diverse attractions and outdoor experiences.
Columbia offers the most comprehensive selection and serves as South Carolina's capital city, located directly where Williams-Brice Stadium sits. From compact Class B campervans perfect for couples to spacious Class A motorhomes ideal for large tailgating groups, Columbia provides every RV type imaginable.
Lexington presents a charming small-town alternative just minutes from Columbia and the stadium, offering easy access to Lake Murray's recreational opportunities alongside your Gamecock weekend.
Both locations provide strategic access to South Carolina's natural beauty, from Congaree National Park's old-growth forests to the historic charm of Charleston, just two hours southeast.
Explore University of South Carolina Tailgating RV Rentals
Transportation
Driving
The University of South Carolina is located in the center of South Carolina in the City of Columbia, not to be confused with Columbia, Missouri, the home of the Mizzou Tigers. The idyllic southern community of Charleston is just a few hours away, and Savannah, Georgia, is a bit further south. The flow of traffic changes on game days before and after Gamecocks events. Pay close attention to signage and traffic officials for a hassle-free experience at Williams-Brice Stadium.
Parking areas
Tailgating at a football game is always a fun experience, but tailgating with your RV takes it a step further. At the South Carolina Fairgrounds, located near Williams-Brice Stadium, you can park your RV for a fee. In recent years, the fee has been about $200. Parking is first-come, first-served, and the gates usually open in the morning on game days. If you purchase the two-night RV parking pass, you can stay from Friday afternoon until Sunday afternoon.
Public Transportation
To traverse the area around the stadium, ride on the COMET’s Gamecock Express, which is a free shuttle service. The Gamecock Express begins picking up passengers three hours before the game, and it drops passengers off for two hours after the game ends. With many stops around the stadium and surrounding areas, the Gamecock Express is a great way to get around.
Where to stay
Onsite
The South Carolina Fairgrounds serve as the primary RV parking destination for USC games, located directly across from Williams-Brice Stadium on George Rogers Boulevard. RV parking costs $200 for the full weekend experience (Friday 2 pm - Sunday 2 pm) and operates on a first-come, first-served basis through Gate 12 on Rosewood Drive.
South Carolina Fairgrounds Features:
- Dump station available for waste disposal
- Walking distance to Williams-Brice Stadium
- Tailgating is permitted up to five hours before and two hours after games
- Weekend overnight parking is included
- No electrical or water hookups available
- Generator use is permitted within reasonable limits
Important RV Guidelines:
- Buses and RVs are accommodated on a first-come, first-served basis.
- No RV parking available in Gamecock Park
- Early arrival recommended for best positioning
- Departure required by Sunday, 2 pm
Nearby
If Fairgrounds parking fills up, Sesquicentennial State Park provides an excellent nearby option with full hookups, hiking trails, and kayak rentals just 20 minutes from downtown Columbia. Little Cedar Creek Campground offers another pet-friendly alternative under 30 miles from Columbia with over 50 full hookup sites and recreational amenities.
Getting around
With the Fairgrounds being so close to the stadium, you might not need to use public transportation, but it is available. The best transportation option around is the Gamecock Express shuttle. The shuttle service is free and operates from three hours before the game until two hours after the game ends.
What to pack
Clothing
Columbia experiences warm temperatures during early football season (averaging 90 degrees) that cool to 70 degrees at night, with temperatures remaining pleasant until November, when average lows drop to 40 degrees. Winters are mild with freezing temperatures uncommon. Pack lightweight, breathable clothing for early-season games, with layering options for later in the season. Don't forget your garnet and black Gamecock gear to show your team spirit—the sea of school colors is part of what makes Williams-Brice special.
Gear
Bring your favorite USC flags, folding chairs, and tailgating essentials to create the perfect game day setup. The Bignon Gameday Center near the stadium features a large Gamecocks merchandise store if you need additional team gear. Consider a pop-up tent for shade during day games, and remember that generator use is permitted in the Fairgrounds for powering your tailgate setup.
Health & Safety
Multiple first-aid stations are located throughout Williams-Brice Stadium, with staff members available to provide directions if assistance is needed. Pack a basic first-aid kit in your RV, along with comfortable walking shoes for navigating between your RV and the stadium. Sunscreen and hydration supplies are essential for those warm September and October games.
Where to eat
Cooking
Tailgating is permitted in designated areas within the Fairgrounds, with both gas and charcoal grilling allowed. Popular Gamecock tailgating fare includes Carolina BBQ, Lowcountry favorites, and classic Southern comfort foods. South Carolina's proximity to the Atlantic Coast means excellent seafood options, even in this inland location. Fire up your grill and embrace the Southern tradition of sharing good food with fellow fans.
Restaurants
Columbia's food scene offers everything from safe options like pizza and sandwiches to diverse cuisines reflecting the city's multicultural atmosphere. Seafood remains popular despite the inland location, showcasing the state's coastal influence throughout South Carolina. The Vista district and downtown Columbia provide numerous dining options for pre-game meals or post-game celebrations.
Vendors
Williams-Brice Stadium offers traditional stadium fare alongside local favorites, with beer and wine available in premium seating sections (alcohol is not permitted in general admission areas). All concessionaires accept both credit cards and cash, ensuring convenient purchasing throughout the game.
Safety
Security
Williams-Brice Stadium enforces a clear bag policy—only small clutch purses or clear bags no larger than 12x6x12 inches are permitted inside the stadium. Clear food storage bags work as alternatives if you don't have a compliant clear bag. All vehicles entering parking areas are subject to security inspection, and all individuals undergo security screening before entering the stadium.
Weather
The weather ranges from hot and humid in the early season to cool and potentially wet later in the fall. The unpredictable nature of South Carolina weather makes RVs ideal—you can bring the party inside if conditions become uncomfortable during your tailgate.
Medical
Williams-Brice Stadium maintains on-site medical staff and multiple first-aid stations throughout the facility. Emergency rooms and urgent care clinics are located within two miles of the stadium, with numerous pharmacies within walking distance for any medication needs.
