If you’ve ever been to a college football game day, you know that the tailgating experience is almost as exciting as the matchup itself. The parking lots outside the stadium fill with fans, students, and alumni hours before kickoff, all eager to celebrate their school spirit and traditions. While many schools have iconic tailgating scenes, nothing elevates the fun quite like bringing an RV.

An RV turns your tailgate spot into a home base. Instead of cramming everything into the back of a car or relying solely on tents, you’ll have built-in comfort—air conditioning for hot afternoons, heating for chilly nights, and a kitchen to prep classic game day food like burgers and hot dogs. A portable grill outside adds to the smell of sizzling favorites, while stocked drinks and snacks inside mean you’ll never run out.

Another huge benefit? Space. In crowded parking lots, an RV gives your group room to spread out, relax, and enjoy the game day experience. You can set up corn hole, chairs, and coolers outside while knowing you have climate-controlled comfort just steps away. Add a TV to stream pregame coverage, and you’re set for hours of fun before it’s time to head into the stadium.

RV tailgating also makes it easier to pack all your tailgate essentials—from chairs and tables to banners in your school colors. No more worrying that you’ll forget something important. With everything loaded in one place, all you need to do is double check your list and roll out.

For families, groups of friends, or diehard college football fans, an RV is more than just a vehicle—it’s part of the tradition. It creates a welcoming space for hospitality, laughter, and lasting memories, ensuring that every game day feels like a celebration.

The 20 Best College Football Tailgates

LSU – Baton Rouge, Louisiana (Death Valley)

 

If there’s one place that defines college football tailgating, it’s LSU’s Tiger Stadium—fittingly nicknamed “Death Valley.” On college game days, the parking lots around Baton Rouge transform into a sea of purple and gold, where the school colors are worn proudly by generations of fans. Tailgaters fire up their portable grills to cook Cajun classics like jambalaya, gumbo, and crawfish, creating aromas that make this one of the most famous tailgating experiences in the country.

The energy builds throughout the pre game, with live music, dancing, and plenty of drinks flowing as friends and students gather. When game time approaches, you’ll hear the roar of the crowd and the LSU marching band, known as the Golden Band from Tigerland, leading the way. The party continues long after kickoff, making LSU a bucket-list stop for any true college football fan.

University of Alabama – Tuscaloosa, Alabama

 

In Tuscaloosa, tailgating isn’t just an event—it’s a tradition. On Saturdays in the fall, the campus comes alive with fans decked out in crimson and white, ready to celebrate before heading into Bryant-Denny Stadium. The pre game atmosphere here is a mix of southern hospitality and fierce pride, with school spirit on display at every tailgate spot.

Tailgate essentials in Tuscaloosa often include BBQ smokers, tents, and flat-screen TVs set up right in the parking lots. From hot dogs to pulled pork, there’s no shortage of food to eat while swapping stories about past championships. The marching band, the Million Dollar Band, helps set the tone, filling the air with fight songs and cheers that fans of all ages join in.

With Alabama often playing in a big game with national implications, expect the energy here to be unmatched. From pre game until well past game time, tailgating in Tuscaloosa is a full-day celebration that every college football traveler should expect to experience at least once.

University of Georgia – Athens, Georgia

 

Few towns match the charm and electricity of Athens on a fall Saturday. The streets fill with fans, students, and alumni in red and black, gathering for one of the South’s most famous tailgating experiences. Outside Sanford Stadium, the parking lots overflow with tents, grills, and coolers, each one packed with drinks, southern barbecue, and sweet tea.

Before game time, you’ll hear the Redcoat Marching Band fire up the fight song as the Dawgs prepare to take the field. Families and friends swap stories, kids toss footballs, and everyone counts down to kickoff together. With its mix of tradition, school spirit, and southern hospitality, Athens consistently ranks among the best college football tailgates in the country.

University of Florida – Gainesville, Florida

 

In Gainesville, Saturdays mean Gator football and one of the liveliest college football game day scenes in the SEC. The air buzzes with energy as fans gather near Ben Hill Griffin Stadium (better known as “The Swamp”). Tailgaters fill every tailgate spot with tents, TVs, and tables loaded with food and icy drinks.

Tailgate essentials here include BBQ, hot dogs, and classic Florida seafood. You’ll also find plenty of fun with lawn games like corn hole set up in the parking lots. With blue and orange school colors everywhere, and the Gator marching band pumping up the crowd, Gainesville delivers a game day experience that’s second to none.

University of Tennessee – Knoxville, Tennessee (Vol Navy)

 

The Tennessee Vol Navy is one of the most unique traditions in college football tailgating. Hundreds of boats dock along the Tennessee River, creating a floating pre-party unlike any other. On land, Neyland Stadium comes alive with fans, students, and alumni proudly wearing orange and white.

Tailgating essentials in Knoxville include BBQ, fried chicken, and plenty of drinks. Before kickoff, the Pride of the Southland Marching Band leads the Tiger Walk-style parade into the stadium, stirring incredible school spirit. Whether you tailgate by boat or in a classic parking lot setup, Tennessee offers one of the most memorable SEC game day traditions.

Ole Miss: The Grove’s Legendary Tailgates -- Oxford, Mississippi

 

No list of the best college football tailgates is complete without Ole Miss. “The Grove” is a 10-acre grassy area at the heart of campus, and on Saturdays it transforms into a sea of red and blue tents, chandeliers, tablecloths, and southern hospitality. This isn’t just tailgating—it’s a cultural event, and it’s why Ole Miss is famous nationwide.

Families, students, and lifelong Rebels fans bring gourmet spreads, crystal glasses, and cocktails to celebrate game day in style. The marching band—the Pride of the South—adds to the energy, playing fight songs as everyone walks toward Vaught-Hemingway Stadium. It’s hard to match the tradition and elegance of The Grove, making it a must-visit for anyone chasing the ultimate tailgating experience.

Auburn University – Auburn, Alabama

 

Tailgating at Auburn is steeped in tradition, from the world-famous Tiger Walk to the post-game rolling of Toomer’s Corner. On college game days, Jordan-Hare Stadium is surrounded by fans who know how to throw a tailgate party filled with fried chicken, BBQ, and southern comfort food.

Friends and families gather under orange and blue tents, sharing stories and laughs before heading into the stadium. The Auburn marching band builds the energy as the crowd chants “War Eagle.” With its strong sense of pride and school spirit, Auburn ranks among the SEC’s best places to pack up your RV and settle in for game day.

Texas A&M – College Station, Texas (Midnight Yell & Aggie Spirit)

 

In College Station, the Aggie faithful take college football tailgating to another level. Known for their Midnight Yell practice the night before the big game, Aggie fans show up in droves to the parking lots around Kyle Field. Maroon and white school colors dominate, and the smell of Texas BBQ drifts from portable grills and smokers.

Tailgates here feature plenty of drinks, lawn games, and family-friendly fun. On game day, the Fightin’ Texas Aggie Marching Band fires up the crowd, leading traditions that showcase unmatched school pride. With its combination of rituals, hospitality, and electric energy, Texas A&M is one of the can’t-miss stops for any SEC tailgating experience.

Penn State – State College, Pennsylvania (White Out)

 

Few college football traditions are as powerful as Penn State’s White Out game. On college game days, the parking lots around Beaver Stadium become massive camps of blue and white, filled with fans, students, and alumni ready for the big game. RVs line up for miles, creating a city of tailgaters who stay the entire weekend.

The tailgating experience here is legendary: friends share BBQ, wings, and cold drinks, while kids toss footballs under tents decked in school colors. When the marching band kicks in and over 100,000 people inside the stadium sing in unison, the energy is unmatched. This is a bucket-list game day experience for any true college football fan.

University of Michigan – Ann Arbor, Michigan (The Big House)

 

At “The Big House,” the largest stadium in the U.S., college football tailgating is taken seriously. Ann Arbor’s parking lots fill early as fans gather with tailgate essentials like grills, TVs, and coolers packed with drinks. You’ll find everything from simple hot dogs to gourmet spreads that could rival restaurants.

The Michigan marching band leads pre game festivities, building excitement as everyone walks toward the stadium. With maize and blue school colors everywhere, the sense of school pride runs deep. Add in a crisp fall Saturday, and you’ve got one of the best tailgating experiences in the Big Ten.

Ohio State – Columbus, Ohio (The Shoe)

 

Columbus is home to one of the most passionate college football fan bases in the nation, and tailgating outside Ohio Stadium proves it. Fans, students, and alumni fill every tailgate spot with tents, grills, and Scarlet and Gray school colors. The smell of bratwursts and food trucks blends with the sounds of the marching band, known as The Best Damn Band in the Land.

On game day, traditions like “Carmen Ohio” and script Ohio stir massive crowds into a frenzy. Whether you’re tossing corn hole in a parking lot or singing along with the band, tailgating in Columbus is a fun-filled celebration of tradition, friends, and Buckeye pride.

University of Wisconsin – Madison, Wisconsin

 

In Madison, tailgating is as famous for the food as it is for the football. Outside Camp Randall Stadium, fans gather to grill brats, burgers, and classic game day favorites. The air fills with the smell of sizzling meats from portable grills, while friends laugh over beers and toss footballs across the parking lots.

The Wisconsin marching band keeps spirits high, especially when it’s time for “Jump Around.” Between the pre game festivities and the post-game celebrations, tailgating in Madison embodies Big Ten tradition with plenty of energy and Midwest hospitality.

University of Iowa – Iowa City, Iowa (The Wave)

 

Tailgating at Iowa has a family-friendly vibe, with students, alumni, and families gathering near Kinnick Stadium. The tailgating experience here is all about community, with fans sharing homemade casseroles, chili, and drinks before the big game.

But the true highlight comes at game time, when the entire stadium participates in “The Wave,” turning to wave at the children’s hospital overlooking the field. This simple act of kindness, combined with classic game day tailgating in the parking lots, makes Iowa one of the most heartfelt traditions in all of college football.

Michigan State – East Lansing, Michigan

 

East Lansing offers a classic Midwestern tailgating experience. Green and white school colors cover the parking lots, where fans and students grill, play corn hole, and load up on hearty food before heading into Spartan Stadium.

Tailgate essentials here include chili, bratwursts, and plenty of drinks to keep everyone warm during chilly fall seasons. Add in the Spartan marching band, lively pre game festivities, and plenty of school pride, and you’ve got a tailgate that feels both welcoming and electric.

Nebraska – Lincoln, Nebraska (Sea of Red)

 

In Lincoln, the “Sea of Red” is one of the most iconic sights in college football. On Saturdays, Memorial Stadium becomes the third-largest “city” in the state, packed with fans wearing bright red school colors. The tailgating experience here is filled with Nebraska staples like steaks, ribs, and hearty Midwestern comfort food.

The Husker marching band adds to the pre game excitement as friends, students, and families gather across campus. Whether you’re set up in a parking lot with a portable grill or enjoying one of the official tailgate events, the Cornhuskers’ sense of tradition and pride makes Lincoln a must-stop for any college football traveler.

University of Oklahoma – Norman, Oklahoma

 

Tailgating in Norman is all about tradition and school pride. Outside Gaylord Family Memorial Stadium, fans in crimson and cream gather for hours of food, drinks, and fellowship before the big game. The Sooner marching band leads the charge, and it’s not uncommon to see entire families, from kids to grandparents, joining in the pre game festivities.

The tailgating experience here includes hearty BBQ, chili, and plenty of sweet tea. Whether you set up your tailgate spot in a parking lot or join one of the larger university-sponsored events, the sense of community makes Oklahoma one of the best in the Big 12.

Clemson University – Clemson, South Carolina (Howard’s Rock & the Hill)

 

Few places match the energy of Clemson on college game days. Before game time, thousands of fans gather around Memorial Stadium—“Death Valley”—to tailgate with BBQ, fried chicken, and southern comfort food. The Clemson marching band and the famous “Tiger Rag” set the tone for a day of unforgettable college football.

The highlight comes when the Tigers run down the hill past Howard’s Rock, a moment every fan should expect to witness. With orange and purple school colors everywhere, the Clemson tailgating experience blends passion, family, and pure fun.

University of Texas – Austin, Texas (Hook ’Em)

 

In Austin, everything is bigger—including the tailgates. On game day, fans in burnt orange fill the parking lots around Darrell K Royal-Texas Memorial Stadium. Tailgate essentials include BBQ brisket, tacos, and icy drinks, with portable grills smoking long before sunrise.

The Longhorn marching band fuels the pre game excitement with “Texas Fight,” while students, alumni, and friends gather to celebrate. With live music, food trucks, and a city that thrives on fun, Austin offers a one-of-a-kind tailgating experience that’s as vibrant as its culture.

Notre Dame – South Bend, Indiana (Touchdown Jesus & Tradition)

 

Notre Dame brings unmatched history and tradition to its college football tailgating scene. Outside Notre Dame Stadium, fans set up tents and RVs, grilling hot dogs, burgers, and hearty Midwest food. The pre game walk to “Touchdown Jesus” is a highlight, with friends and students showing their gold and blue school colors proudly.

The Notre Dame marching band—the oldest in the country—adds to the pageantry, creating a game day experience steeped in pride and hospitality. For travelers chasing iconic stops, South Bend belongs high on the list.

University of Washington – Seattle, Washington (Sailgating on Lake Washington)

 

Washington offers one of the most unique tailgating experiences in the country—sailgating. Boats dock along Lake Washington, creating floating tailgate spots as Husky fans celebrate before heading into Husky Stadium. On land, portable grills and seafood spreads dominate the pre game scene.

The Husky marching band brings the energy, while friends, students, and alumni in purple and gold cheer, eat, and enjoy the view. Whether you sailgate or stick to a parking lot setup, Washington’s blend of scenery, school spirit, and fun makes it unforgettable.

Honorable Mentions: More Great College Football Tailgates

• Oregon – Eugene, Oregon (Autzen Stadium): Known for passionate fans, rowdy students, and Pacific Northwest-style tailgating with craft beer and gourmet food.

• South Carolina – Columbia, South Carolina (Williams-Brice Stadium & Gamecock Park): Famed for Gamecock Park, the “Sandstorm” entrance, and unforgettable game day energy.

• Florida State – Tallahassee, Florida (Doak Campbell Stadium): Garnet and gold school colors, RV-friendly setups, and traditions that rival any in the country.

• Texas Tech – Lubbock, Texas (Jones AT&T Stadium): Red Raider fans bring Texas BBQ, drinks, and hospitality to every big game.

• University of Arkansas – Fayetteville, Arkansas (Razorback Stadium): Tailgates in the Ozarks combine family fun, southern cooking, and deep school spirit.

Tailgate Essentials: How to Pack Your RV for Game Day

 

Packing for a college football tailgating weekend takes some planning, but with an RV, you’ll have the storage and flexibility to bring everything you need. From food and drinks to décor and games, here are the tailgate essentials to load up before you hit the road.

Food & Drinks

Food is at the heart of every tailgating experience, and an RV makes it easy to pack enough for your entire crew. Stock your fridge with classic game day favorites like burgers, brats, and hot dogs, and don’t forget sides like chips, dips, and salads. A portable grill is a must-have, letting you cook on-site in the parking lot while keeping the party going. Coolers filled with ice, soda, and drinks (yes, including cold beer if allowed) will keep everyone refreshed until kickoff.

Gear & Comfort

The best tailgates are the ones where fans feel right at home. Load up your RV with folding chairs, tables, and shade tents for a comfortable setup. Bring along a TV and speakers so you can watch pregame shows and other college football games before your team takes the field. Don’t forget extras like trash bags, paper towels, and hand sanitizer to keep your tailgate spot clean and welcoming.

Games & Fun

A great tailgate isn’t complete without lawn games. Pack corn hole, ladder toss, or a football to toss around with friends and students in the parking lot. These simple additions turn downtime into fun while building the kind of community energy that makes college game days so special.

Safety & Extras

Finally, remember to double check your list before heading out. Bring along essentials like a first aid kit, flashlights for late-night celebrations, and weather protection gear if the season brings rain or cold. With all your tailgate essentials covered, you’ll be ready to create a memorable game day experience for your crew.

Tailgating Tips for Setting Up on College Football Game Day

 

A great tailgate isn’t just about what you bring—it’s about how you set it up. The right layout can turn your RV and tailgate spot into a welcoming hub where fans, friends, and students can eat, drink, and celebrate before game time. Here are some tried-and-true tailgating tips for making the most of your college football game day.

Arrive Early for a Good Spot

On Saturdays in the fall, many schools have parking lots that fill up hours before kickoff. To snag a good spot, arrive early and be ready to walk your gear from the RV if needed. Keep your school colors on full display so everyone knows which team you’re rooting for.

Organize Your Space

Think of your RV setup like a mini home: designate areas for food, drinks, and lounging. Place your portable grill and tents in one section to create a cooking zone, while tables and chairs can be set up for dining and games like corn hole. This keeps the flow smooth and makes it easier for the crowd to sit, mingle, and enjoy the pre game festivities.

Add Comfort & Entertainment

Enhance your tailgating experience with extras like outdoor rugs, speakers, and a TV to watch other college football games while you wait for your team to play. A playlist of fight songs and the marching band’s classics will pump up the energy. Shade is key during warm seasons, so make sure your canopy or tents are sturdy.

Don’t Forget Safety & Cleanup

Bring trash bags, recycling bins, and hand sanitizer so your group can keep the area tidy. Stadium officials and other tailgaters will appreciate your hospitality and respect. Before heading inside the stadium, always double check that grills are off, coolers are closed, and walkways are clear.

With these tailgating tips, your RV setup will be the highlight of college football game day—a perfect mix of comfort, tradition, and fun.

Safety & Etiquette at a College Football Tailgate

 

Every college football tailgate is about community, tradition, and fun—but it’s also important to be safe and considerate. With large crowds in tight parking lots, grills going, and plenty of drinks flowing, a few common-sense steps go a long way toward keeping the tailgating experience enjoyable for everyone.

Grill & Fire Safety

If you’re using a portable grill, always set it up away from tents and walkways. Keep a fire extinguisher or a bucket of water nearby in case of emergencies. Never leave the grill unattended, and before game time, double check that it’s completely off.

Responsible Drinking

Beer and cocktails are part of many college game days, but pacing yourself is key. Alternate drinks with water to stay hydrated, especially during hot seasons. Overindulgence can sour the mood for your friends and fellow fans, so celebrate responsibly and know your limits.

Respect the Space

Bring plenty of trash bags to keep your tailgate spot clean. Nothing ruins a game day experience faster than stepping into litter. Picking up after yourself is a sign of hospitality and pride in your school. Stadium staff and other fans will notice and appreciate your effort.

Be a Good Neighbor

Tailgating is a shared event, so show school spirit by being friendly and welcoming. Offer extra food or drinks to nearby groups, and don’t forget to cheer along when the marching band passes by. A positive attitude spreads, making the entire pre game atmosphere better for everyone.

By following these simple guidelines, your college football tailgate will not only be safe but also memorable for the right reasons—filled with camaraderie, tradition, and good times from kickoff to the final play.

Keep the Party Going Beyond Game Day

One of the biggest advantages of RV college football tailgating is the ability to stretch the celebration beyond just game time. With an RV as your home base, you’re not rushing to leave the parking lot after the final play—you can relax, recharge, and make the most of the entire weekend.

Stay Overnight and Skip the Traffic

Instead of battling post-game traffic with thousands of other fans, you and your friends can simply stay put. Settle into your RV, enjoy leftover food, and watch highlights of the big game on TV. For many schools, RV lots allow overnight stays, turning game day into a true mini-vacation.

Explore the Campus and Town

With no need to rush home, you’ll have time to walk around campus, take in the school colors, and maybe even catch post-game day events. From pep rallies to concerts, the energy around campus lingers long after kickoff. In towns like Athens, Gainesville, or Oxford, that extra time means discovering local restaurants, bars, and live music scenes.

Make It a Weekend Tradition

An RV makes it easy to bring along all the tailgate essentials for comfort—beds, showers, storage space, and plenty of room for friends and students. Whether you want to sit under your canopy with a cold drink, play one more round of corn hole, or simply enjoy the hospitality of fellow tailgaters, you can keep the fun alive all weekend.

The ability to extend your tailgating experience transforms college game days into something much bigger: a celebration of school spirit, community, and tradition that lasts far beyond kickoff.

Conclusion: Elevate Every College Football Game Day with Cruise America

With Cruise America, you can pick up an RV near your favorite campus and roll into the action with confidence. Our fleet is designed to give you comfort on the road and convenience on campus, ensuring your college football game day is safe, memorable, and hassle-free.

Ready to upgrade your next tailgate? Book your Cruise America RV today and experience why it’s the ultimate way to celebrate the big game.