University of Tennessee Tailgating
The University of Tennessee is a SEC school known for its tailgating and traditions. Be a part of the Vol Walk festivities with this tailgating guide to everything you need!
Event information
University of Tennessee tailgating at Neyland Stadium offers one of college football's most passionate experiences, with limited on-campus RV parking available exclusively through season donor passes and Tennessee Fund contributions. Located in Knoxville, Tennessee, the 102,000-seat stadium welcomes RVs in designated donor lots with overnight parking permitted for qualifying contributors, while general fans can access nearby options like the Civic Coliseum for $100 per game with hookups by reservation. All parking lots and garages open at 7:00 AM on gameday, with tailgating permitted in front or back of vehicles in designated areas. The Knoxville Area Transit (KAT) provides convenient shuttle service from downtown locations for $10 round-trip on game day. The Knoxville area offers excellent RV rental options from both Knoxville and nearby Gatlinburg, putting you within easy reach of the legendary Vol Walk, Pride of the Southland Band march, and the iconic orange and white checkerboard end zones.
What Makes University of Tennessee Tailgating Special?
University of Tennessee tailgating at Neyland Stadium creates one of college football's most electric atmospheres, combining SEC passion with unique traditions like the Vol Navy on the Tennessee River.
Rocky Top reigns supreme in Knoxville, where over 100,000 passionate Vol fans create a sea of orange and white that transforms the entire campus into a football celebration. The Vol Navy represents one of college football's most unique traditions, with boats decked out in Tennessee flags creating a spectacular tailgating scene along the Tennessee River within walking distance of the stadium. The sight of hundreds of boats anchored on the river while fans "sailgate" before games provides a one-of-a-kind backdrop that few stadiums can match.
The gameday experience centers around cherished traditions that connect generations of Vol fans. The Vol Walk begins roughly 2 hours before kickoff, with Coach Josh Heupel and the team parading down Peyton Manning Pass as thousands of fans line the route for high-fives and photos. The Pride of the Southland Band follows with their updated route starting 1.5 hours before kickoff, marching down Volunteer Boulevard and Peyton Manning Pass before performing their famous Salute to the Hill at the intersection of Peyton Manning Pass and Phillip Fulmer Way.
Neyland Stadium's location between downtown Knoxville and the Tennessee River creates stunning views from tailgating areas, especially from the top floor of G10 Parking Garage where fans can take in the beautiful East Tennessee scenery. The checkerboard end zones and the thunderous roar of "Rocky Top" after every score make game day at Neyland an unforgettable experience that belongs on every college football fan's bucket list.
For your Tennessee adventure, explore Knoxville RV rentals for the largest selection and proximity to campus, or discover Gatlinburg RV rentals for a mountain gateway just one hour from Neyland Stadium.
Tickets
How Much Does University of Tennessee Tailgating Cost?
Tennessee gameday experiences involve multiple cost considerations, with pricing heavily dependent on donor status and opponent strength.
RV Parking: On-campus RV parking requires Tennessee Fund donor status, with eligibility filled in strict donor rank order as of May 16, 2025. Off-campus options like the Civic Coliseum provide RV spaces for approximately $100 per game with hookups available by reservation.
Game Tickets: Single-game tickets vary dramatically based on opponent and seating location. Lower-tier opponents may offer tickets starting around $40-60, while major SEC matchups like Alabama, Georgia, or Florida can exceed $150-200 on the secondary market. Season tickets require Tennessee Fund contributions.
How Do I Rent an RV Near Knoxville for Tennessee Games?
The Knoxville area provides exceptional RV rental options that position you perfectly for Volunteers football while offering access to East Tennessee's stunning natural attractions.
Knoxville serves as your primary hub, offering the most extensive RV selection and the closest proximity to Neyland Stadium. Located just minutes from campus, Knoxville provides everything from nimble Class B campervans perfect for navigating downtown to spacious Class A motorhomes ideal for large tailgating groups and extended family gatherings.
Gatlinburg offers a mountain gateway experience just one hour from Knoxville, providing access to the Great Smoky Mountains National Park while maintaining easy game day access. This scenic route through the foothills adds natural beauty to your Tennessee adventure.
Nashville provides an alternative base approximately three hours west, perfect for combining Music City exploration with Vol football weekends.
Explore University of Tennessee Tailgating RV Rentals
Transportation
Driving
Make sure you get to the stadium early if you intend to park anywhere close. Tennessee, like most SEC schools, is rich with school traditions that predate modern traffic concepts and which can cause headaches for those driving to the game. The combination of the Vol Walk and the band march means that the whole area around that side of the stadium is closed to traffic for at least 35 minutes every game day. Phillip Fulmer Way is also closed for a large section for three hours before the game for safety reasons.
Parking areas
The lots that directly surround the stadium are reserved for people with passes and parking permits. These come with season tickets before the season starts. The university does open up a few lots for public parking on campus on game days, and these usually cost at least $25.
For RVers, the only way to park on the campus is to have a permit that you get by being a university donor. No public RV spaces are allocated on campus, but there are some options in Downtown Knoxville, including the Coliseum, that are first-come, first-served. One area even includes RV hookups by reservation with a fee that may be around $100 per space for a single game. RV parties are also seen on Neyland Drive by the cement company.
Public Transportation
Knoxville Area Transit (KAT buses) can take you from the Civic Coliseum, Old City, or Market Square areas for around $10 for a round trip on game day. That is an excellent option for RVers who don't want to walk in but who wish to explore the tailgating situation in the aforementioned areas before going to the game. Taxis and rideshares are dropped off on Volunteer Blvd East and picked up off of Circle Drive in what is a well-coordinated public transport situation.
Where to stay
Onsite
The University of Tennessee offers limited on-campus RV parking exclusively for Tennessee Fund donors, with spaces allocated based on donor rank order. All parking lots and garages open at 7:00 AM on gameday, with tailgating permitted in front or back of vehicles in designated areas.
On-Campus Donor Parking:
- RV/Motorhome parking available for eligible football season ticket holders in lieu of traditional parking passes
- Filled by Tennessee Fund donor rank order
- Generator use is permitted within designated spaces
- Overnight parking available for qualifying donors
- No tailgating allowed in actual parking spaces - must use front/back areas
Nearby
Off-Campus Options: The Civic Coliseum offers RV parking with hookups by reservation for approximately $100 per space per game, operating on a first-come, first-served basis. Some RV parking is also available on Neyland Drive by the cement company.
Alternative Accommodation: If on-campus and downtown options fill up, Clinton/Knoxville North KOA provides excellent nearby camping with full hookups, Wi-Fi, and family amenities just off I-75, about 25 minutes from Neyland Stadium.
Getting around
Transportation Solutions: KAT buses provide convenient shuttle service from the Civic Coliseum, Old City, or Market Square areas for approximately $10 round-trip on game day. This excellent option allows RVers to avoid campus traffic while still experiencing downtown tailgating festivities.
Important Guidelines:
- Phillip Fulmer Way closes to traffic 30 minutes prior to kickoff
- Fire and safety lanes must remain clear and unobstructed
- University officials will move tailgating items that impede traffic flow
What to pack
Clothing
Tennessee weather during football season ranges from hot and humid in early fall to crisp and cool by November. Neyland Stadium's design facilitates comfortable conditions inside the venue regardless of outdoor weather. Pack layers including lightweight orange and white team gear for warm weather, plus warmer clothing for late-season games. A quality Vol cap protects against the sun and shows team spirit throughout the day.
Gear
Orange and white dominate Tennessee gameday fashion. Pack your favorite Vol gear, team flags, and comfortable folding chairs to show your Volunteer pride. Over 100,000 fans create a sea of team spirit in orange and white, so get your wardrobe together before arriving. Don't forget to grab official merchandise from campus stores if you need additional gear.
Health & Safety
Football game days involve long periods on your feet and extended outdoor exposure. Pack comfortable insoles, quality socks, and prepare for potentially crowded conditions. Always drink plenty of water, especially when tailgating with adult beverages. Include a first aid kit with basic supplies for minor cuts, headaches, and other small issues that might arise during festivities.
Where to eat
Cooking
RV lots closest to the stadium that allow overnight parking also permit generator use, giving you creative cooking options. Gas or charcoal grilling is allowed in designated areas, making Friday night and Saturday morning huge events as RVers showcase their best BBQ and ribs to share with fellow fans. Bring your signature gameday dish to contribute to the communal tailgating spirit that defines Tennessee football.
Restaurants
Knoxville's diverse food scene reflects both Southern traditions and college town energy. The campus area radiates dining options from homestyle comfort food to upscale establishments. Don't miss authentic Southern cooking and Tennessee BBQ during your visit. As a college town, Knoxville is easy to navigate and eager to feed hungry Volunteers fans, with restaurants varying from homely dives to higher-end dining experiences.
Vendors
Neyland Stadium now operates as a completely cashless venue, so prepare for card-only transactions at all concession stands and retail locations. The stadium offers more than its fair share of food vendors, with most sticking to traditional stadium fare. New concession options include buffalo chicken mac and cheese, Knoxville-flavored chicken tenders, curly fries, and rotating chef specials in select areas. Hot dogs and gyros come highly recommended on fan message boards.
Safety
Security
Tennessee Athletics and UT Police have implemented extended security perimeters around the stadium, with fans asked to walk through metal detectors at multiple locations. All tickets and parking passes are digital and accessible through mobile devices. UT enforces a clear bag policy, with only small, clear plastic bags (historically no larger than 12x6x12 inches) permitted inside the stadium.
Weather
East Tennessee weather varies significantly during football season. Early games may be hot and humid, while November contests can be cold and damp. Rain in the forecast provides a perfect excuse for board games and hot cocoa inside your RV. The stadium's design provides weather protection, but tailgating areas remain fully exposed to the elements.
Medical
Neyland Stadium features a new UT Medical first aid station and medical staff on-site to help with health needs. For serious medical issues, multiple emergency rooms and urgent care clinics operate within close proximity to campus. Pharmacies are readily available throughout Knoxville for basic health and safety supplies.
