University of Southern California Tailgating

Head to the University of Southern California Tailgating event in your RV to cheer on your favorite teams with fellow fans.

Event information

The University of Southern California is a prominent and private research school that rests in the center of Los Angeles. It has a long association with the game of football and also sponsors many other intercollegiate sports. The Trojans and their mascot, Traveler, the horse, represent USC. They have achieved national prominence as a world-class football team.

The Trojans compete in the South Division of the Pac-12 Conference as well as the Football Bowl Subdivision of the NCAA. Home games are played in Los Angeles Memorial Coliseum. Recently, the United Airlines Field, where the games take place, was given a face-lift. As part of the renovations, new seats, better WiFi, multiple video screens, and other modern amenities have been added.

Tailgating is an integral part of every Trojan game and adds to the fun. Football fans flock to USC's University Park Campus well before the actual game to get the festivities started. The on-campus tailgate is called the Trojan Family Game Day Experience and includes activities for kids, big-screen TVs and plenty of great food and drinks. The event takes place in Alumni Park and is free to the public. The fun begins four hours before kick-off.

Tickets

Tailgating on campus is allowed only for the Saturday night football games but is free for everyone to enjoy. However, reservations must be made three weeks in advance to ensure that there is ample room for everyone. A permit is required for big groups and tents, to reserve a large space, or to bring alcohol in quantity. A reservation does not include parking. You can apply for a Trojans tailgate permit and find more information on the University of Southern California's website.

Explore University of Southern California Tailgating RV Rentals


Transportation

Driving

You can reach the main gate by driving along the I-10 Freeway or the 110 Harbor Freeway. Tailgating takes place at Alumni Park, which is close to the Doheny Memorial Library. Attendees will want to note the allowed arrival times and find spots accordingly. Plan to leave your rig at your campsite and get to the venue using a tow vehicle or another mode of transportation since the USC campus does not offer RV parking.

Parking areas

Paid car parking is available on campus, but spots are limited, so you'll need to get there early. If the lots are full, you're likely to find parking at a few offsite facilities. RV parking is not offered on site. Parking for the day at USC Village is not permitted since these spots are reserved for patrons of the restaurants and stores. Registration for tailgating via car is required online.

Public Transportation

You can get to the venue by taking the Metro Expo Line, which has a stop on the south side of campus. This will allow you a two-mile stroll to Alumni Park. You can also use a ride-hailing service to get there. There are designated pick up and drop off zones throughout the campus.

Where to stay

Onsite

Onsite camping is not permitted on campus. Fortunately, there are a number of well-equipped RV parks and campsites to choose from in the area. RV setups are also not permitted in the USC tailgating areas. USC mascot Traveler the Trojan welcomes fans to join the tailgating fun with a smaller vehicle option.

Nearby

You'll find plenty of campgrounds within a 20-mile radius. The County of Los Angeles offers camping in several locations that will each offer different amenities. You may also find a spot at one of the RV parks close to the Interstates in the area. This way, you can get quick access to the beautiful beaches and theme parks that the area is known for in addition to your Trojan Game Day fun. These come with all the facilities you need for a comfortable stay like full-hookups, hot showers, and WiFi.

Getting around

There is an on-campus shuttle service meant for guests with mobility issues. It has designated stops throughout the site. The grounds are accessible, and there are plenty of pathways throughout the parking and tailgating areas. Patrons with disabilities can enter through the accessible entrance on Jefferson Blvd. A limited number of wheelchairs are available free of charge on campus.

What to pack

Clothing

Attendees often choose to show off their team spirit by donning a t-shirt with the Traveler's image, a team jersey, or a favorite player's name. Fans also like to wear attire in the team colors of red and yellow with signage supporting their favorite player. Grab your crew and create your own designs for attire that will boost your team's courage on the field. Skip the high-heels and opt for comfortable flats so you can walk around and explore the campus.

Gear

Check if your grill is in good working condition and carry a cooler for beverages. Make sure your drinks are in plastic or metal containers since glass containers must remain at your campsite. You may want to take a few personal items like sunscreen, a hat, sunglasses, and bug spray. The use of generators is allowed as long as you have a permit. Remember to keep the school's regulations in mind when deciding what to bring tailgating and into the stadium.

Health & Safety

Tailgating at USC is family-friendly, and there are plenty of activities for kids to enjoy. Alcohol-related games like beer pong are not activities that the campus allows. Remember to respect the experience of other tailgaters with levels of music and sound. A permit is required for serving alcoholic beverages, and the entire campus is smoke-free.

Where to eat

Cooking

Football season is the perfect time to whip out your favorite game day recipes. If you plan on using a grill, you'll need to take along an ABC-style fire extinguisher. Your grill must be kept 15 feet from tents and other structures. Smokers, tabletop cooking appliances, and fire pits are not options for cooking your game day favorites while on the University of Southern California campus. Patrons are requested to dispose of coals and other cooking remnants responsibly.

Restaurants

You'll find plenty of student-frequented hotspots like bars and restaurants close to campus. Downtown LA, which is a food and cultural hub, is only a short ride away. The area has grown into one of the top dining destinations in the country with burgeoning restaurants springing up quite often. What new foods will you try while you are in Southern California?

Vendors

Fans can expect some delicious game-day foods to be available for sale at the venue. If the Trojans do win, be sure to try the post-game Victory Dog, a beloved tradition at USC. This bacon-wrapped hot dog is the perfect way to end the day. Guests will have a selection of soft drinks, wines, and beers to choose from as well. While cards are accepted, having some cash on hand is a good idea.

Safety

Security

USC officials and DPS (Department of Public Safety) officers will help make sure that fans enjoy the pre-game and game time activities safely. You can approach them if you need assistance. Climbing on statues, fountains, or harming USC property is prohibited, so help the littlest fans to enjoy tailgating without scaling these structures at Alumni Park.

Weather

Visitors will be able to soak in the California sunshine and enjoy the pleasant weather that the city is famous for in Los Angeles. If it does rain, there are plenty of structures where you can seek shelter, although a few showers aren't likely to dampen the spirit of football fans. Before starting on your trip check if any road or weather alerts have been issued in the area, so you can plan accordingly.

Medical

The Campus Emergency Response Team (CERT) will be available to take care of any medical emergencies. Alternatively, you can head to the first aid center on campus if you need help. It's also recommended to keep a well-stocked first-aid kit in your vehicle. Medically necessary items and food will be allowed in after an inspection at the entrance. Trojan fans are likely to find pharmacy services within a one-mile walk of Alumni Park.