Football season is here, and it’s time to start planning your college football 2025 tailgating fun!
Honestly, college football tailgating is fun wherever you go. But visiting some of the top tailgating colleges in the country, and tailgating with an RV ups your tailgating game to a whole other level.
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East Coast Game Day RV Tailgating
We love tailgating on the East Coast, especially when you can enjoy the gorgeous fall colors and crisp fall weather that comes along with football season. If you’ll be sticking around the East Coast for a few days before or after the game, make sure to drive the Kancamagus Highway or check out some of the best New England fall hikes for families this season!
Best RV Destination – Penn State University
RV tailgating at Penn State is one of our favorite East Coast college football traditions! Considering it’s one of the top destinations for RVshare renters, it seems a lot of other people love this area as well. An entire city seems to emerge from nothing each game day – miles away from any other major city – and the energy is electric.
If you plan to spend some time in the area before or after the game, stroll the Arboretum at Penn State or explore the Palmer Art Museum.
West Coast Game Day RV Tailgating
Tailgating on the West Coast is a different vibe, with its own kind of fun. We appreciate the chilly weather of the Pacific Northwest schools and also the sunshine of Southern California. Of course, there’s also the dedication of the fans at each university and the parties those fans throw during big games.
Lake “Sailgating” – University of Washington
Sailgating – enjoying U-Dub pregame festivities on a moored boat in Husky Harbor – is a truly unique way to experience a football game. Boats are docked near the stadium, and people enjoy their food and drinks with a gorgeous view of the lake and palpable gameday excitement. When you’re finished being out on the water, head back to your RV for some RV tailgating at the University of Washington. While you’re in Seattle be sure to check out the Space Needle and Pike Place Market, along with other Seattle landmarks.
Celebrity Game Day – University of Southern California
It’s not unusual for celebrities to show up for game day at USC. You might spot USC alum Will Ferrell among other famous faces. But the real perk of RV tailgating at a USC game is that the weather is almost always warm and sunny, even late into the season. You’re much more likely to be too warm than too cold!
Obviously, the Los Angeles area is full of things to do. Spend a few extra days in the area to check out Disneyland, Universal Studios, the Getty Center, and the Griffith Observatory. There are also lots of places to camp around Los Angeles, and Joshua Tree National Park and Channel Islands National Park are both just a few hours away.
Best Scenery – University of Oregon
The University of Oregon serves up awesome scenery along with your tailgating. Mountains and sparkling waterways are the backdrop for RV tailgating at the University of Oregon, and the food at these games is some of the most diverse in the world of college football.
Eugene is full of things to see and do, so you will want to make sure you leave time for sightseeing. Our favorite attractions include the Museum of Natural and Cultural History and the Shelton McMurphey Johnson House.
Best Tailgating View – University of California, Berkeley
Tailgating on Charter Hill outside of Cal’s Memorial Stadium is a picturesque experience. The hill rises 100 feet above the stadium, offering the perfect view of the game. Fans can tailgate before, during, and after the game. The California Victory Cannon is located on the hill and is set off after every score, adding to the excitement of it all.
Looking for more to do in Berkeley? The Lawrence Hall of Science is a great choice, as is the Berkeley Art Museum and Pacific Film Archive. There are also lots of campgrounds near Berkeley where you can set up for a few days to explore the East Bay.
Southern College Game Day RV Tailgating
The folks in the South take their college football very seriously. Therefore, it should come as no surprise that these people have some incredible college football tailgating celebrations. Visit one of the universities below if you’re looking for a party like no other.
Most Enthusiastic Fans – Clemson University
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South Carolina’s Clemson University has one of the best tailgating experiences in the South. Tigers fans are diehard, something that is apparent as you get within a mile or two of the stadium on game day. Tiger paws and orange colors are everywhere you look.
And the RV tailgating at Clemson University experience doesn’t have to end once you enter the stadium. Clemson allows passouts, meaning you can come and go as you please.
While visiting, be sure to explore the Clemson area a bit. Check out the Bob Campbell Geology Museum and Fort Hill, a museum, historic house, and former plantation in the middle of campus.
Best Food – Louisiana State University
A game at LSU is a must for tailgating foodies. Game food is out of this world and always includes local options such as jambalaya, crawfish, and gumbo. In fact, food is such a big part of any LSU football event that fans have developed the cheer, “Hot boudin, cold couche-couche, come on Tigers, push, push, push!”
While in Baton Rouge, make sure you stop by the Louisiana State Capitol and the Louisiana Art and Science Museum.
River “Sailgating” – University of Tennessee
Because the University of Tennessee’s stadium sits by the Tennessee River, people dock their boats and have their tailgating parties onboard. Hop from boat to boat to check out what’s going on at each, and then head back to your RV to relax.
Besides the games, Knoxville offers tons of things to see and do. Some of our favorites include Zoo Knoxville and the Ijams Nature Center.
Caboose Tailgating – University of South Carolina
Gamecock fans are some of the most loyal around, and their tailgating events are definitely worth attending. You can expect to see the usual tents, stocked coolers, and pickup trucks loaded with everything you need for game day. But these fans add something new and interesting to the mix: abandoned cabooses referred to as “Cockabooses.”
While in Columbia you will want to make sure to do some sightseeing. Some of the best things to do include Congaree National Park and Riverbanks Zoo and Garden.
Best Parties – University of Mississippi
Located at the center of the Ole Miss campus, The Grove is a gathering place for thousands of loyal Rebels fans. Before a game, this spot hosts hundreds of tents and one of the most incredible parties you can imagine. It’s hard to beat RV tailgating at University of Mississippi.
After the game, make sure you leave some extra time to do some sightseeing. We especially love touring Rowan Oak and wandering the Southside Gallery.
Midwest Game Day RV Tailgating
Like southerners, midwesterners take college football seriously. There are a huge number of great tailgating stadiums in the Midwest, and we had a tough time choosing only a few. After much deliberation, our top picks are listed below.
Multi-Day Tailgating – Ohio State University
Ohio State RV tailgating is definitely some of the best in the Midwest. Some fans begin setting up as early as Thursday evening for a Saturday game, meaning there are two entire days of fun leading up to the big event. On top of that, the hospitality of Buckeyes fans is amazing, even for opposing fans.
While you’re in the area, be sure to see some of what Columbus has to offer. We especially love the Columbus Zoo and the Center of Science and Industry (COSI).
Best Location – University of Nebraska
RV tailgating at the University of Nebraska is another great experience. The stadium is near downtown Lincoln, so it’s easy to bar-hop and enjoy the buzz in the air before the game. This experience attracts so many visitors that on game day, Memorial Stadium becomes the third-largest city in Nebraska.
Of course, it’s always good to do a bit of exploring when you’re in a new town. Take some time to see the sights such as the Sheldon Museum of Art and Lincoln Children’s Zoo, while you’re in Lincoln.
Most Heartwarming – University of Iowa
Planning to be in Iowa this football season? Be sure to make time to catch the tailgating fun at the University of Iowa. The Hawkeyes really know how to celebrate, and their recent tradition of waving to the patients at the Stead Family Children’s Hospital at the end of each quarter is heartwarming. The hospital is next to the stadium, and patients can see games from the upper floors.
While you’re in town, be sure to visit the Pedestrian Mall. Other Iowa City attractions include the Herbert Hoover Presidential Library and Museum and the Amana Colonies.
Largest Gathering – University of Michigan
When it comes to Michigan RV tailgating, we have to recommend heading to the University of Michigan. The stadium at this college can hold more than 115,000 fans—more than any other college stadium in the country. This makes for some enormous tailgating parties, which often take place at the beautiful Ann Arbor Golf and Outing Club fairways.
Looking for more to do in Ann Arbor? The Matthaei Botanical Gardens & Nichols Arboretum is a great place to spend some time, and those with kids will adore the Ann Arbor Hands-On Museum. There are also plenty of places to camp in Ann Arbor if you want to stay for a few days.
Northeast Game Day RV Tailgating
Both Harvard and Yale are beloved New England institutions, and the long-held rivalry between the two means that the Harvard-Yale game offers one of the most intense tailgating experiences out there.
Fan Favorite – Harvard-Yale Game
RV tailgating at the Harvard-Yale game is sure to include all kinds of amazing food and fun, as well as some excitement as the rival teams play to see who will win “The Game” this year. For fun, watch the Gilmore Girls episode (Season 4, Episode 9) where the Gilmore family heads to the game together.
In addition to hanging out at this incredible tailgate, we also recommend checking out what there is to do around New Haven or Boston, depending on where the game is played that year.
What to Bring
You’ll want to have a tailgating packing list so you don’t forget anything important on tailgating day! Here are some of the things to make sure you bring along. You can also print out a copy to keep in your RV.
Essential Items
- Game tickets & parking pass
- Team gear (sweatshirts, jerseys, hats)
- Cash and credit cards
- ID
- Clear, stadium-approved bag
Shelter & Setup
- Pop-up canopy or tent
- Camp chairs
- Folding table
- Tablecloth
- Ground tarp or outdoor rug
- Team flag or banner
Cooking Gear
- Portable grill or other cooker
- Charcoal, propane or other fuel
- Lighter fluid & matches
- Grilling tools
- Coolers
- Ice
- Food thermometer
Food & Drink
- Meat or other entrees to cook
- Chips, dips, and other snacks
- Condiments
- Water
- Soda
- Beer, wine, cocktails
Serving & Tableware
- Plates, cups, napkins, utensils
- Serving platters
- Serving spoons & tongs
- Ladle
Prep & Storage
- Cutting board
- Knives
- Aluminum foil
- Sealable food storage bags
- Storage containers
- Paper towels
- Trash bags
- Bottle/can opener
Comfort & Entertainment
- Portable Bluetooth speaker
- Cornhole and yard games
- Football
- Blankets
- Portable heater or fan
- Sunscreen
- Bug spray
Clothing & Weather Gear
- Layers for changing temperatures
- Rain poncho
- Sunglasses
- Hat
- Hand warmers
- Extra socks/shoes (if rainy)
Safety & Clean-Up
- First aid kit
- Fire extinguisher
- Wet wipes & hand sanitizer
- Bungee cords/duct tape
- Flashlight/headlamp
Overnight/Extended Tailgating
- RV gear for hookups, generator, leveling blocks
- Sleeping bags
- Extra food & drinks
FAQs for College Football Tailgating
What are the best college football stadiums for RV tailgating?
Some of the best college football stadiums for RV tailgating are:
- LSU – Tiger Stadium: Lots of dedicated parking lots for large RVs, tons of pregame energy, and delicious food.
- Wisconsin – Camp Randall Stadium: Lots of space, lots of mingling between students and locals, easy parking and access for RVs.
- Kansas State – Bill Snyder Family Stadium: Official RV and towable parking stalls, designated lots for large vehicles, and a strong tailgating community.
- Clemson – Memorial Stadium: Rural setting with plenty of space, a tailgating scene that spreads across campus, and a welcoming game day atmosphere.
- Penn State – Beaver Stadium: Huge crowd of tailgaters, lots of lots and grassy areas, overnight camping, good access to roads.
- Ole Miss – The Grove: This area is more of a walk-up tailgating area, but there are nearby RV-friendly parks and parking lots.
- University of Michigan – The Big House: Huge stadium with large parking areas.
How early can you park an RV at a college football game?
College football game policies vary, so there are different answers to how early you can park an RV at a college football game. Some schools only allow RVs on the morning of game day, usually between 4-6 hours before kickoff. But many large schools allow RVs to arrive on Friday or even Thursday. Owners can camp overnight at the lot and stretch their celebration across the entire weekend. Many of these stadiums have dedicated lots, and you’ll need to reserve a spot months in advance.
Are there RV campgrounds near college stadiums?
Yes, many schools have RV campgrounds near college stadiums. Sometimes the university allows overnight camping in the RV lots. There are also nearby fairgrounds in many places, and nearby private campgrounds often fill up on game weekends. In fact, some campgrounds near large stadiums cater specifically to tailgaters and those in town to see the game.
Can you stay overnight in your RV after the game?
You can’t stay overnight in your RV at every college stadium, but you can at some. If the stadium where you’re tailgating allows you to arrive a day or two before and camp until game day, you can likely stay overnight after the game as well. Be sure to check the rules on the stadium website. If you are allowed to stay overnight, check when you need to be out the next day to make sure you leave on time.
Ready for some amazing tailgating? Pick one of these awesome destinations (or choose from our list of the best NFL tailgating), book a rental RV, make sure you have access to DISH, and pack your bags. You’re in for a truly exciting experience you won’t soon forget!
