If you’re planning a trip to Orlando for a big game or event, you might be wondering what team plays at Camping World Stadium. This iconic Orlando venue hosts some of the most exciting sports and entertainment in Florida, but its primary tenants might surprise you. For outdoor enthusiasts like us, a visit here can be the perfect centerpiece for a camping-themed getaway to Central Florida.
The stadium itself is a major landmark, and understanding its lineup helps you plan better. You can combine a thrilling event with some of the fantastic camping and hiking opportunities the region has to offer. Let’s look at the teams that call this place home and how you can build an unforgettable adventure around a visit.
What Team Plays At Camping World Stadium
Unlike many major stadiums, Camping World Stadium is not the permanent home to a National Football League (NFL) or Major League Baseball (MLB) team. Instead, it serves as a crucial host for college football, major annual events, and special matches. This actually makes it more flexible for visitors, as event dates are spread throughout the year.
The primary long-term tenant is a college team. Since 2016, the stadium has been the home field for the University of Central Florida (UCF) Knights football team for select games. UCF plays most of its home games on its on-campus stadium, but it typically hosts one or two major games per season at Camping World Stadium, often against big rivals. This arrangement allows for larger crowds for those special matchups.
Major Annual Events and Bowl Games
The stadium’s calendar is defined by its annual events. These are huge for the local economy and draw visitors from all over the country. Knowing these can help you plan a camping trip around a specific time of year.
* The Citrus Bowl: This is one of the oldest college football bowl games in the country. Played every January 1st (or around that date), it features top teams from the Big Ten and SEC conferences. It’s a New Year’s tradition.
* The Florida Classic: This is arguably the stadium’s most vibrant and culturally significant event. It’s the annual football game between two historically black colleges and universities (HBCUs): the Bethune-Cookman University Wildcats and the Florida A&M University Rattlers. The rivalry, the bands, and the atmosphere are incredible.
* The Camping World Kickoff: This is a season-opening college football game held over Labor Day weekend. It often features nationally ranked teams in a high-profile neutral-site matchup.
* The WWE’s Royal Rumble: While not a sports team, WWE has made the stadium a regular host for this massive professional wrestling pay-per-view event, usually in late January.
Soccer and International Sports
The stadium also frequently hosts international soccer matches. It’s been a venue for teams like the U.S. Men’s and Women’s National Soccer Teams, as well as club teams from Europe’s top leagues when they tour the USA. The Orlando Pride of the National Women’s Soccer League (NWSL) have also played occasional playoff or championship games here when a larger capacity is needed.
Planning Your Camping Trip Around an Event
Now that you know what team plays at Camping World Stadium (or what event is held there), you can plan your outdoor adventure. Central Florida is a paradise for campers and hikers, not just theme park fans.
First, secure your event tickets well in advance, especially for the Citrus Bowl or Florida Classic. Then, look at your camping options. You have several great choices:
* State Park Camping: For a natural, serene experience, book a site at a nearby state park. Wekiwa Springs State Park, about 30 minutes north, offers crystal-clear springs for swimming and kayaking, plus great hiking trails.
* RV Resort Camping: If you’re traveling by RV, the Orlando area has hundreds of resorts with full hookups, pools, and amenities. Many are within a 20-30 minute drive of the stadium.
* Kissimmee Prairie Preserve State Park: For a truely unique experience, drive about 90 minutes south to this dark-sky preserve. The stargazing is unbeatable, and the prairie landscape is a peaceful contrast to the stadium’s energy.
Always book your campsite as early as possible, as they fill up quickly around major event dates. Remember to pack for both environments: comfortable shoes for the stadium concourses and sturdy boots for the trails.
Getting to the Stadium from Your Campsite
Navigating game day traffic is part of the experience. Here’s a simple plan to make it stress-free.
1. Drive Early: Plan to arrive at the stadium area at least 3-4 hours before kickoff. This gives you time to find parking, which can cost $25-$50 per car.
2. Use Park-and-Ride: Many local lots offer shuttle buses to the stadium. This is often cheaper and easier than parking right next to the venue.
3. Rideshare Drop-off: Use a designated rideshare drop-off point. It’s crucial to know exactly where this is located, as streets get closed near game time.
4. Bike or Walk: If you’re camping exceptionally close, some paths lead to the stadium. Check the official website for bike rack locations.
Pro tip: Pack a small daypack for the game with sunscreen, a poncho (Florida weather is unpredictable!), and a refillable water bottle. Most stadiums allow empty bottles.
Essential Gear for a Combined Sports & Camping Weekend
Packing for this kind of trip requires a mix of stadium and campground gear. Don’t forget these items:
* A compact, clear stadium bag (most NFL/college stadiums have a clear bag policy).
* Portable phone charger for all day use.
* Camp chairs and a good cooler for your site.
* Insect repellent and sunscreen for both the campsite and the stadium (day games).
* A reliable map or downloaded trail maps, as cell service can be spotty in parks.
Making the Most of Your Hiking Time
Florida hiking is different from mountain hiking. The terrain is flat but the scenery is beautiful, featuring wetlands, pine forests, and stunning springs. Here are a few trails to consider:
* Wekiwa Springs State Park Trail Network: Miles of trails through sandhill and flatwoods. The Sand Lake Trail is a favorite.
* Orlando Wetlands Park: This isn’t a state park, but a man-made wetland for water treatment that has become an incredible wildlife viewing area. Over 20 miles of berm trails let you see alligators, birds, and more.
* Little Big Econ State Forest: Just northeast of Orlando, the “Econ” offers shady trails along the Econlockhatchee River. The Kolokee Loop is a great 5-mile option.
Start your hike early in the morning to avoid the peak heat and humidity, and to ensure you get back in time to get ready for the game. Always tell someone your planned route and expected return time.
Food and Hydration Strategy
Eating well keeps your energy up. Stadium food is expensive and not always the healthiest. A little prep makes a big difference.
* At the Campsite: Cook a hearty breakfast before a hike. For game day, consider preparing a tailgate-style lunch at your site before you leave, or pack snacks like nuts, fruit, and sandwiches.
* At the Stadium: You can save money by eating your main meal at the campsite. Inside, focus on staying hydrated. Florida heat, even in fall, can be intense in a crowded stadium.
* After the Game: Have a simple dinner plan ready back at camp. A one-pot meal you can heat up easily is perfect after a long, exciting day.
Safety and Etiquette in Both Worlds
Being a good fan and a good camper have a lot in common. It’s all about respect.
Leave No Trace: This applies doubly. Pack out all your trash from the trail and from your stadium seat or tailgate area.
* Noise Levels: Be mindful of noise at your campsite, especially after quiet hours. In the stadium, cheer loudly for your team but be respectful of fans around you.
* Wildlife: In Florida campsites, store your food securely. Raccoons and bears can be attracted to smells. At the stadium, the only wildlife you’ll encounter are team mascots!
Remember, the goal is to have fun without impacting the experience of others or the environment. A little consideration goes a long way in both a crowded venue and a quiet forest.
Alternative Activities if You Can’t Get Tickets
Maybe the game is sold out, or you decide against the big crowd. There’s still plenty to do! The stadium area is close to downtown Orlando’s museums and gardens. You could also spend a full day kayaking on the Wekiva River or biking the West Orange Trail. Another option is to find a local restaurant or sports bar near your campground that’s showing the game. The atmosphere can still be electric, and you’ll be surrounded by fellow fans.
Planning a trip centered on an event at Camping World Stadium offers the perfect blend of high-energy excitement and natural relaxation. By knowing what team plays at Camping World Stadium and when, you can craft a unique Florida vacation that satisfies your love for sports and the outdoors. Just remember to plan ahead, pack smart, and soak in both the roar of the crowd and the quiet of the trails.
FAQ Section
Q: What football team plays at Camping World Stadium?
A: The primary football team is the UCF Knights for select home games. The stadium also permanently hosts the annual Citrus Bowl, Florida Classic (Bethune-Cookman vs. Florida A&M), and Camping World Kickoff games.
Q: Is Camping World Stadium the same as the Citrus Bowl?
A: Yes, it’s the same building. The stadium was originally called the Citrus Bowl. It has been renovated and renamed several times, with Camping World being the current naming rights sponsor. Many locals still call it the Citrus Bowl.
Q: Can you tour Camping World Stadium when there’s no event?
A: Yes, the stadium offers public tours on select days. You’ll need to check their official website for the current tour schedule and pricing. It’s a great way to see the press box, locker rooms, and field up close.
Q: What is there to do near Camping World Stadium for campers?
A: You’re in luck! Several state parks with camping are within an hour’s drive. Wekiwa Springs State Park (camping, hiking, swimming) and Lake Louisa State Park (camping, kayaking, trails) are excellent choices for combining an event with an outdoor stay.
Q: Where is the best place to park for Camping World Stadium if I’m camping locally?
A: Official stadium parking is limited. Using a Park-and-Ride shuttle lot is often the most reliable and least stressful option. Your campground host might also have local advice for the best parking strategies on event days.
Q: Are there any hiking trails really close to the stadium?
A: The immediate area is urban. For real hiking, you’ll need to drive to a nearby natural area. The Orlando Urban Trail is a paved path that starts near downtown and is good for a walk or bike ride, but for natural dirt trails, head to the state parks mentioned.