The Iowa Speedway’s gearing up to host the Iowa Corn 350 Powered by Ethanol on August 3, 2025, and it’s set to be a wild weekend of NASCAR action. This 7/8-mile asphalt oval in Newton, Iowa, nicknamed the “Fastest Short Track on the Planet,” brings short-track intensity with a Midwest vibe that fans can’t get enough of. Whether you’re tailgating with buddies, camping trackside, or just soaking in the pre-race festivities, Iowa has it all. From cooler rules to parking tips and what’s banned, here’s the ultimate fan guide to make the most of NASCAR weekend at Iowa Speedway.

Tailgating: Bringing the Party to Iowa Speedway

Tailgating at Iowa Speedway is where the race weekend magic starts, and the campgrounds set the stage. RV Terrace Hill and RV Terrace Hill Electric require wristbands for access. General and Tent campgrounds are open to all campers, and no wristband is needed there. Got pets? They’re welcome in the campgrounds, but only service animals are allowed through the ticket gates. Motorcycle parking is conveniently located on the concrete pad outside Gate 18 near ticket booth 3, making it easy for bikers to roll in. Campers should plan to wait up to 90 minutes after Sunday’s checkered flag to allow other vehicles to exit first.

RV Terrace Hill offers electric hookups, while other sites are primitive. General Camping and RV Hill allow generators. If you need ice, water, or pump-outs, sign up at the campground entrance tent. Requests made after 5 p.m. will be handled the next day. Prices are $40 per water fill or pump-out. Portable toilets cost $110 for standard units, $175 for ADA or handwashing stations, and $25 per cleaning. These rates may vary, so check for updates. Only General Campground and RV Hill allow self-driven motorhomes, and an adult must be present for RV services. It’s a tailgater’s paradise, as long as everything stays organized to keep the good times rolling.

Camping: Your Home Base for NASCAR Weekend

Camping at Iowa Speedway turns race weekend into a full-on adventure, kicking off July 31 at 8 a.m. CST. The General Campground, located just outside the gates behind Turn 1, is a fan favorite. It’s within walking distance of the grandstands and Midway. Each 25’x40’ grass lot fits one camper plus one extra vehicle, and showers are available for freshening up. There are no electric or water hookups, but generator use is permitted. Pump-out or water services cost $40 each.

Weekend Overnight Parking passes are available for one extra vehicle per account. These are separate from camping and are limited, so it’s best to grab them early. No e-bikes are allowed on the property, and the 90-minute post-race hold also applies to campers. Plan to hang out and enjoy the post-race vibe. The entire setup is designed to let fans immerse themselves in the NASCAR experience. Whether you’re grilling with friends or swapping stories under the stars, Iowa’s camping scene thrives on community and energy.

Events: Pre-Race Fun and Fan Festivities

Iowa Speedway’s weekend is packed with more than just racing. Friday’s ARCA Menards Series Atlas 150 at 7 p.m. CST sets the tone with young talent battling it out. Saturday features Xfinity Series practice and qualifying at 11 a.m., followed by Cup Series practice and qualifying at 1:30 p.m., and the Hy-Vee Perks 250 at 4:30 p.m.

Sunday’s Iowa Corn 350 is a 350-lap, 306.25-mile showdown that starts at 3:30 p.m. Pre-race festivities begin at 3 p.m. The Fan Zone outside the gates is open to all ticket holders and offers food trucks, live music, and interactive games. Thanks to Colossus TV, the world’s largest four-sided outdoor video screen, fans won’t miss a moment—whether in the grandstands or soaking up the Midway vibe.

Cooler Policy: What You Can Bring

Iowa Speedway keeps it fan-friendly with a clear cooler policy. Each person can bring two bags, such as backpacks, diaper bags, or fanny packs, as long as they are under 18”x18”x14”. Soft-sided coolers are allowed up to 14”x14”x14”, with a limit of one cooler per guest. You can mix and match bags, but only one cooler is permitted. Fill it with snacks, drinks (no glass), or whatever keeps you fueled for the race. The policy is designed to make entry smooth while still letting fans enjoy their tailgate staples. Pack smart and stay within the size limits to breeze through the gates.

Parking & Prohibitions: Know Before You Go

Parking at Iowa Speedway is straightforward but requires some planning. General parking is free for day-of attendees. Campers need to purchase Weekend Overnight Parking passes for any extra vehicles. RV and tent campers should plan to arrive early to secure good spots, especially since RV Terrace Hill lots are limited.

Glass containers are not allowed due to the safety hazard of broken bottles. Sleeping tents are restricted to tent camping areas and not permitted in RV spots. Platforms or ladders on vehicles must be permanently attached and must not extend more than 12 inches above the roofline. Flags or banners mounted above the roofline must be taken down before the race. No unapproved signage or advertising is allowed on vehicles.

Prohibited items include weapons, fireworks, super soakers, water balloon launchers, drones, sky lanterns, or any items Iowa Speedway deems dangerous. E-bikes, e-scooters, ATVs, golf carts, and riding coolers are also banned. Leave these items at home to avoid confiscation. These rules help ensure a safe and enjoyable experience for all fans.