Speedweeks 2027 Schedule (Provisional)
The week builds toward race day through a qualifying format that carries over year to year, though exact race names have shifted slightly with recent NASCAR series rebranding.
| Day | Event |
|---|---|
| Wednesday 17 February | NASCAR Cup Series practice and qualifying, setting only the front row |
| Thursday 18 February | The Duel at Daytona, two 60-lap qualifying races setting positions 3-32 |
| Friday 19 February | NASCAR Craftsman Truck Series, Friday Night Lights at Daytona |
| Saturday 20 February | NASCAR O’Reilly Auto Parts Series and ARCA Menards Series doubleheader |
| Sunday 21 February | The Daytona 500, 200 laps, 2:30pm ET green flag |
Confirm exact timings each year on the official Daytona 500 schedule, since these are provisional until closer to the event and NASCAR’s support-series names have changed in recent seasons (the Xfinity Series race, for instance, now runs as the NASCAR O’Reilly Auto Parts Series).
Where to Pick Up Your RV for the Daytona 500
Orlando is the closest major RV rental hub, about 90 minutes from the speedway via I-4.
| Operator | Orlando depot | Distance to speedway |
|---|---|---|
| Cruise America | 2915 N Orange Blossom Trail, Kissimmee, FL 34744 | About 90 min via I-4 |
| El Monte RV | 3800 W Colonial Drive, Orlando, FL 32808 | About 90 min via I-4 |
Road Bear RV also serves the Orlando market; use the search widget above to confirm current depot details. Jacksonville (about 1.5 hours via I-95) and Tampa (about 2.5 hours via I-4) offer alternatives with different fleet options if Orlando availability is tight, and Atlanta (about 6 hours via I-75/I-95) works for a longer road trip approach. Pick up at least one day before Speedweeks starts to stock groceries, fill the water tank, fuel up and arrive early, since infield sites are assigned by arrival order and RV demand across Florida spikes heavily for the Daytona 500. Book 3 to 6 months ahead.
RV Hire Prices for the Daytona 500 (USD)
Prices vary by vehicle class and how far ahead you book, with February being a high-demand rental period across Central Florida.
| Vehicle class | Approx. daily rate (USD) |
|---|---|
| Class B campervan (16-22 ft) | USD 130-230/day |
| Class C motorhome (25-32 ft) | USD 180-320/day |
| Class A motorhome (30-40 ft) | USD 260-450/day |
These are indicative ranges. Use the search widget on this page for live pricing across operators for your specific dates. Camping passes are entirely separate from vehicle hire and race tickets, and are sold directly through the official Daytona International Speedway site, budget for infield dry camping starting around USD 325 and rising significantly for powered sites and premium wall positions.
Why Hire an RV for the Daytona 500
The Daytona 500 is a week-long event, not just a race.
Speedweeks runs five days of on-track action, and the campground culture is a massive part of the experience.
Camping inside the speedway puts infield RV sites literally inside the track, watching cars loop around at close to 200 mph during practice, qualifying and the race itself.
Most camping packages cover the entire Speedweeks period, one setup for five days of racing with no daily commute.
RV camping at Daytona is a tailgate city, grills, flags, music and neighbours, with the campground atmosphere as much a part of the event as the racing.
Being already on-site eliminates the severe race-day traffic around the speedway entirely.
Many camping zones offer water, electricity (50A) and sewer hookups, so AC, fridge and lights can run without a generator, and February’s mild Florida winter (20-24°C/68-75°F days) makes for comfortable camping without the extreme heat of summer events.
Choosing the Right Vehicle: Camping Zones
Daytona International Speedway offers multiple camping zones, both inside the track and on the perimeter grounds, each with a different character, price point and amenity level. All camping passes are sold separately from race tickets through the official speedway site.
Infield camping sits inside the 2.5-mile tri-oval, surrounding Lake Lloyd, the premium camping experience, literally inside the racetrack. Sites include both RV and tent options, with full-hookup RV sites (water, electricity, sewer) available alongside restrooms, showers and 24/7 security.
GEICO Grounds infield zones include Yellow Premium (inside Turns 1 and 2, high-banked racing views, 20 by 40-foot sites for RVs, trailers and fifth wheels), Yellow RV (similar location, slightly different positioning), and Orange Campgrounds (inside Turns 3 and 4, 20 by 35-foot sites for tents, cars and pop-ups, the more affordable infield option).
Perimeter camping includes GEICO Grounds outside, near the backstretch and Turn 4, RV-only with full hookups, restrooms, showers, security and shuttle buses to the track, quieter than infield but still walking distance; GEICO Park West RV, outside Turns 1 and 2, convenient for front-stretch seating with grass sites at a more affordable price; the Turn 4 area, with views of the final turn and tri-oval, often cheaper than infield; and International Speedway Boulevard, with easy access and a party atmosphere throughout Speedweeks.
Camping zones, prices and availability change annually. Check the official Daytona International Speedway camping page for current options, since infield and premium zones sell out months in advance.
Choosing the Right RV for Daytona
Your choice depends on which camping zone you book. Infield sites can accommodate most RV sizes, up to 40 feet for many spots, while some perimeter zones have tighter restrictions.
A Class A motorhome (30-40 ft) is the most popular choice for Daytona, with maximum space, a full kitchen, bathroom, bedroom and living area, ideal for infield camping with hookups.
A Class C motorhome (25-32 ft) balances space and manoeuvrability, easier to drive to and from the speedway than a full Class A.
A Class B campervan (16-22 ft) is compact and easy to drive, working well in GA car camping or smaller zones, with less living space but simpler parking and management.
A generator is worth having even with hookups available, since most infield spots have limited electric posts (50A only); bring one or confirm the rental includes it. An awning and outdoor setup matters, since much of Speedweeks is spent outside the RV, chairs, a table and a grill are essential for the tailgate experience.
Water fill stations are available on entry, but a large fresh water tank matters if dry camping.
What to Pack for the Daytona 500
Daytona camping blends motorsport tradition with southern tailgate culture.
February weather in Florida is mild (20-24°C days, 10-14°C nights) but worth packing for cooler evenings and possible rain:
- a grill or portable cooktop, since tailgating is core to the experience, charcoal, propane or a camp stove all work
- camp chairs, a table and a shade canopy for an outdoor living room beside the RV
- ear protection, essential for race day, stock cars at full speed are extremely loud, especially in the infield
- a NASCAR scanner or radio for team communications and race commentary from camp
- a cooler and ice, since even with a fridge, cold drinks at the campsite matter without going inside
- a fire extinguisher, required in most camping zones, so confirm the RV rental includes one
- a flagpole or banner to mark the site and fly driver colours, a genuine campground tradition
- warm layers, since February evenings can drop below 10°C; rain gear, since Florida rain is sudden
- a portable phone charger for long days at the track
- sunscreen and sunglasses, since Florida sun is strong even in February
- and cash, since some vendors and campground services are cash-only.
Suggested Speedweeks Timeline
Monday or Tuesday (pickup and prep). Pick up the RV from Orlando or your chosen depot, stock groceries, ice, charcoal and drinks at a supermarket, fill the fresh water tank, and drive to Daytona Beach to check into the campsite. Many zones allow early arrival before the on-track action begins.
Wednesday (practice and qualifying). Cup Series practice and Daytona 500 qualifying set the front row for Sunday’s race.
Thursday (the Duel at Daytona). Two 60-lap qualifying races set the remaining grid positions, with a genuinely electric infield atmosphere for races that carry real stakes.
Friday and Saturday (support races). Friday brings the Truck Series under lights; Saturday features the NASCAR O’Reilly Auto Parts Series and ARCA Menards Series doubleheader alongside a final Cup Series practice. The campground builds toward its peak energy.
Sunday (Daytona 500). Race day, with the green flag at 2:30pm ET. From the infield, watch 200 laps of 2.5-mile superspeedway racing, 500 miles, three stages, pack racing and a finish that can come down to inches.
Monday (departure). Pack up and drive out, expecting slow traffic leaving the speedway complex. Return the RV or extend the hire for a Florida road trip, Kennedy Space Center, St. Augustine, the Florida Keys and the Everglades are all within reach.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need a separate camping pass?
Yes. All vehicles entering Daytona International Speedway require a parking or camping pass, purchased separately from your spectator ticket through the official Daytona 500 site. Reserved spots sell out well in advance, with general admission areas first-come first-served.
Are hookups available?
Most general admission camping areas are dry with no hookups. GEICO Grounds and select infield zones offer power, water and sewer hookups, but these are limited and must be booked ahead. If camping in a general admission area, bring a generator or solar setup.
What size RV fits in the infield?
The speedway accommodates a wide range of vehicles from campervans up to large Class A motorhomes, with space allocated on arrival in general admission areas. Check the specific parking pass category for size restrictions before booking.
Can I leave and re-enter with my vehicle?
Generally yes, but re-entry may be restricted at certain times to manage congestion, and some zones charge a re-entry fee. Race day traffic around the speedway makes leaving and returning extremely slow, so most attendees plan to minimise trips out.
When should I arrive?
As early as the camping pass allows. The raceway typically opens to campers several days before race day, and arriving early secures the best campsite and extra time to explore the paddock and watch practice sessions. Check the official schedule each year for exact gate opening times.
What is the weather like in February?
Mild central Florida winter, with daytime temperatures in the mid to high 70s Fahrenheit, occasionally reaching 90 degrees or higher, and rain possible at any time. Pack for hot sun, potential showers and cooler evenings, the race runs rain or shine.
Are generators allowed?
Yes, in most camping zones, with limits typically applying to fuel quantity and generator hours. If in a powered zone, a generator is usually just a backup rather than a necessity.
Can I grill and tailgate at my RV site?
Yes, tailgating and grilling are a major part of the Daytona 500 RV camping experience. A fire extinguisher is required in most zones. Follow all speedway rules and be respectful of neighbours.
Are there nearby RV parks if the speedway is sold out?
Several private RV parks near the speedway offer full hookups and amenities as alternatives to on-site camping, worth checking through the official Daytona International Speedway site or a general search closer to your dates, since availability and specific parks can change year to year. Book early regardless, since these fill up quickly too.
Ready to Rent Your RV for the Daytona 500?
Browse Class B, C and A RVs from Cruise America, El Monte RV and Road Bear RV using the search widget above, and compare prices across your Orlando pickup options. Planning more of your motorsport or festival season? See our guides to Sturgis Rally, Bonnaroo, Coachella, EDC Las Vegas, and Electric Forest, or browse the full USA destinations hub for more road trip and event planning guides.