Welcome to “The Glen.” Nestled in New York’s Finger Lakes, Watkins Glen International blends NASCAR thunder with rolling vineyards and pine-scented campfires. The best way to feel it? From a campervan, a stone’s throw from the Esses.
Laid-back, high-octane: mornings with coffee under the pines, nights with engines echoing through the hills.
The Vibe: Chill Meets Chequered Flag
This isn’t Daytona. It’s not Indy. It’s… chill. Tailgates swap lite beer for local Cab Franc, campers chat lap times and vineyards, and the woods glow with string lights. Whether it’s NASCAR Go Bowling at The Glen, IMSA, or vintage weekends — vans and RVs are part of the culture here.
Where to Camp with Your Van
- General Admission (Green Lot): Near Turn 10; primitive but social; first-come, first-served.
- Gate 2 Camping: Closest to start/finish; great views and big energy.
- Family Camping Areas: Quieter, often wooded with extra shade and respectful neighbours.
- The Boot (Trackside Premium): Iconic twisty views; pricier, worth it for racecraft addicts.
Hookups are limited. Plan for dry camping: bring water, power and tank capacity.
Hire a Campervan for The Glen
Search live availability from trusted brands. Filter by solar/generator, awning/shade, fridge/kitchen and bed layout.
Your Weekend Itinerary (Vanlife Style)
Friday
- Check in early, stake your spot, grill night.
- Catch campground music; pop to nearby vineyards for a tasting.
Saturday
- Quali + support races; paddock walk if permitted.
- Brunch from the van; sunset hike to Watkins Glen State Park.
Sunday
- Sunrise coffee & breakfast burritos.
- Race day — pack ear protection; post-race campfire and easy pack-down.
What Van to Bring (or Rent)
- Good ventilation (some sites lack shade)
- Solar or generator setup
- Fridge or sturdy cooler — shops aren’t close
- Awning or shade sail for camp comfort
Pickup hubs: New York City, Buffalo, Rochester, Toronto.
Pro Tips for Glen Campers
- BYO TP and sanitizer — thank us later.
- Stock more food/ice than you think; on-site options are limited.
- Town facilities exist, but glam showers this ain’t.
- Buy firewood locally (don’t transport across state lines).
Why Do The Glen in a Campervan?
It’s not just saving $$ or sleeping close to the track — it’s the vibe: still woods, crackling fire, distant V8s, and a sunrise view no hotel can sell. It’s NASCAR’s best-kept secret, and your van is the key.
Need a campervan for your Watkins Glen weekend? We’ve got the wheels — you bring the cooler.
Finger Lakes Detours
Pad the weekend with classic Upstate stops:
From The Esses to the Evening Ember
Set your alarm for sunrise pits, spend golden hour in the gorge, and wind down by the fire while the hills carry the last echoes. With a campervan at The Glen, the legend is right outside your door.
