What To Expect When Camping At Watkins Glen International

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Watkins Glen, located near the beautiful Finger Lakes region of New York State, has been a mainstay on the NASCAR Cup Series schedule since 1986. For decades, it was widely considered amongst NASCAR fans to be the best road course offering on the Cup schedule and is still considered as such to this day. The track’s location and awesome racing is a large part of the reason fans love to camp out there for the race weekend. Here’s what you can expect when camping at Watkins Glen International.

  • Watkins Glen International opened in 1956 and held its first NASCAR race in 1957. Between the years of 1958-1963 and 1966-1985, NASCAR didn’t race at the track. However, it was added to the schedule in 1986 and has been a permanent fixture ever since, save for 2020 when the race was cancelled due to the COVID-19 pandemic. The track has 2 layouts, one full and one short and NASCAR has raced on both throughout its history. Currently, though, the full course is used which includes 11 turns.
  • NASCAR, who owns the track, races at Watkins Glen only once per year, typically in the late summer months. In 2024, the race falls on September 15th and is part of the Round of 16 to start the 2024 NASCAR Playoffs.
  • Fans love showing up and camping at Watkins Glen International. There are always fun things to do and it is a perfect mini vacation for race fans looking to get away from it all.

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Amenities & Highlights

Watkins Glen International has some of the most modern and unique features at their various campgrounds that is sure to thrill any fan or family.

Depending on the campground, hooks-ups are available so it is important to contact the specific campground you’re thinking about camping in to learn all the details. Hook-ups are for power, water, and sewage. Lot sizes range between 20×40 and 38×40. If you have a smaller camper, you should look out for camp lots marked with the letter “T” as they are reserved for smaller vehicles. Camping lots have either dirt or paved surfaces.

Pets are welcome, just be sure to be responsible and keep them on a leash and clean up after them. There are various trails on site to walk your furry friend! Entertainment includes an interactive fan zone, concerts, and family movie night in addition to many other activities.

Have a problem with your diesel engine? No problem! On site diesel repair with Cummins Sales & Services is available at the camper’s expense.

Restrooms and showers are available. Ice, beverages, and propane are all also available for purchase.

  • Pet friendly with walking trails
  • Family movie nights and interactive fan zone (including a Kidz Zone)
  • Power
  • Water
  • Sewer
  • Restrooms
  • Showers
  • Security for specific campgrounds
  • Propane
  • Ice and beverages available for purchase

Campground Details

When camping at Watkins Glen International, be aware that the atmosphere is less of a party one and more of a family-oriented deal. Quiet hours for ALL campgrounds near the track are strictly enforced between the hours of 11PM and 6AM.

Fans do need an admission ticket to camp in the Watkins Glen-owned campgrounds. All campgrounds open as early as 7AM on the Wednesday before the race weekend and close by Noon the following Monday. Tram transportation is available for all campers needing a ride to and from the track proper.

Breakdown

  • Camping Type
  • Standard camping (no hook-ups)
  • Full hook-up camping

  • Sizes vary by campground
  • Between 20×40 and 38×40

  • Surfaces include dirt and pavement

  • Quiet Hours
  • Between 11PM and 6AM in call campgrounds

  • Admission tickets required for entry

  • Entry Times
  • Wednesday at 7AM-Monday at Noon

Source: NASCAR Camping

What do you think, potential Daily Downforce camper? Would you consider camping out at Watkins Glen International? Let us know what you think and keep it right here at DailyDownforce.com for all the latest news, fan discussions, stories, etc. from the world of NASCAR!

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Cody Williams

Cody Williams is the author of BUNNY BOY, THE FIFTH LINE, and THE LEGEND OF GROOVY HOLLOW. He lives near Bristol, TN.
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