If you’ve ever driven past a Camping World store or seen one of their events, you’ve probably noticed the massive flag flying out front. You’re not alone in wondering just how big is the camping world flag. It’s a landmark in itself, and its size is a big part of the company’s identity. Let’s talk about what makes this flag so notable and why its dimensions are more than just a number.
How Big Is The Camping World Flag
The most common and famous Camping World flag is truly enormous. The standard giant flag flown at many of their retail locations measures 30 feet by 60 feet. To help you picture that, it’s roughly the size of a regulation volleyball court. That’s 1,800 square feet of nylon waving in the wind. It’s designed to be seen from a long distance, making the store easy to spot from the highway.
However, they have an even larger version for special events. Their biggest “Superflag” is a staggering 40 feet by 80 feet. That one covers 3,200 square feet, which is larger than many average-sized homes. Hoisting a flag of this size requires serious engineering, including a heavy-duty flagpole and strong cables to manage the incredible wind load.
Why Does Camping World Fly Such a Large Flag?
It’s not just for show, though it certainly is impressive. There are a few practical and symbolic reasons.
- Brand Visibility: A giant flag is an unbeatable landmark. It helps customers find the store easily, especially when they’re towing a large RV and need to plan their turn well in advance.
- Patriotic Symbolism: Camping World’s founder, Marcus Lemonis, has often tied the brand to American values and the great American road trip. A monumental American flag reinforces this connection and creates an emotional response.
- Community Presence: The flag acts as a local point of pride and a recognizable symbol in the communities where their stores are located. It’s often one of the largest flags in the area.
How Does It Compare to Other Famous Large Flags?
To really understand the scale, it helps to compare it to other well-know big flags.
- Acuity Insurance Flag (Wisconsin): This is often cited as the world’s largest regularly flown flag. It’s 70 feet by 140 feet, which is vastly larger than Camping World’s standard flag.
- A Standard Residential Flag: A typical flag for a home is 3 feet by 5 feet. The Camping World flag is about 120 times bigger.
- Football Field: A 30×60 foot flag would cover from about the 10-yard line to the 40-yard line in width.
The Engineering Behind the Flagpole
A flag this size doesn’t fly on a typical pole. The infrastructure is a feat of engineering. The poles are usually made of tapered steel and can be over 100 feet tall to allow the flag to clear the ground and fly freely. They require deep concrete foundations to withstand the tremendous force exerted by the wind on that much fabric. The halyard (the rope used to raise it) is more like a heavy-duty cable, and raising and lowering the flag is a careful, multi-person procedure often done with a motorized system.
Wind Load and Material Challenges
The wind load on a 30×60 flag in a moderate breeze is immense. The flag itself is made from a heavy-duty, reinforced nylon that is sewn with double-stitched seams. Even with this strong material, flags of this size have a shorter lifespan than small ones due to the constant stress and whipping action. They need to be replaced periodically, which is a significant operational cost.
Can You Buy a Camping World-Sized Flag?
If you’re inspired to fly a larger flag at your own home or campground, you certainly can, but you need to be prepared. You won’t find a 30×60 flag at your local hardware store. They are considered “super-size” or “giant” flags and are sold by specialty manufacturers. Prices can range from several hundred to over a thousand dollars depending on the material and construction. Remember, you’ll also need a commercial-grade flagpole and installation, which can cost thousands more.
Steps to Safely Fly a Large Flag at Your Campsite
For us regular campers, flying a standard-sized flag (3×5 ft or 4×6 ft) is a more realistic goal. Here’s how to do it respectfully and safely.
- Check Campground Rules: Always verify that flying a flag is permitted and if there are any rules about pole height or placement.
- Choose a Portable Flagpole: Use a sturdy, telescoping or sectional pole designed for outdoor use. Secure it with guylines in at least three directions.
- Use a Secure Mount: If not using guylines, a weighted base filled with sand or water is essential to prevent tipping.
- Follow Flag Etiquette: Illuminate the flag if flown at night, or take it down at sunset. Do not let it touch the ground.
- Monitor Weather: In high winds, it’s safer to take the flag down to prevent damage to the flag, pole, or nearby property.
The Cost and Maintenance of a Giant Flag
For a business like Camping World, maintaining these flags is an ongoing task. A single 30×60 foot flag can cost well over $1,000. Due to wear from sun and wind, it might need replacing every 6 to 12 months if flown continuously. The flagpole systems require regular inspections for corrosion and structural integrity. This commitment shows how important the flag is to their brand image—it’s a calculated investment, not just a decoration.
Flag Etiquette for Campers and RVers
Flying the flag while camping is a wonderful tradition. Doing it correctly shows respect. Here are the key points every camper should know.
- Positioning: The union (blue field) should be at the peak of the staff. When displayed vertically, the union should be to the observer’s left.
- Lighting: If you want to fly it 24 hours a day, it must be properly illuminated throughout the night. A simple solar-powered spotlight works great for campsites.
- Condition: Your flag should be in good condition—free of tears, frays, or excessive fading. A worn flag should be retired in a dignified manner, often by burning.
- Other Flags: If flying with other flags (like a state flag or camping club flag), the U.S. flag should be at the center and highest point.
How to Properly Fold a Flag
Knowing how to fold a flag is a useful skill for any patriot camper. It’s easier with two people.
- Hold the flag waist-high with another person, parallel to the ground.
- Fold it lengthwise twice, bringing the striped section over the union.
- Make a triangular fold from the striped end toward the union, like folding a corner.
- Continue making triangular folds until only the union is visible.
- Tuck any remaining fabric into the fold to create a tight, neat triangle.
Alternatives for Showing Your Spirit at Camp
If a large flagpole isn’t practical for your camping style, there are other great ways to display your pride.
- Flag Banners: These attach to your RV ladder or awning with clips and are less affected by wind.
- Window Flags: Static-cling or suction-cup flags for your RV or car windows.
- Garden Flags: Small decorative flags on a short stake placed near your campfire or picnic table.
- Patriotic Lights: String lights in red, white, and blue to decorate your awning or canopy.
The Symbolic Connection to the Outdoor Community
For many, the sight of a large American flag at a campground or outdoor retailer represents freedom, adventure, and the shared experience of exploring the country. It’s a symbol that unites a diverse group of people under a common ideal. When Camping World flies their massive flag, they are tapping into this deep-seated feeling that resonates strongly with their customer base. It’s more than marketing; it’s about identity.
Understanding the sheer scale of the Camping World flag gives you a new appreciation for the effort behind it. Next time you see one, you’ll know your looking at a 1,800 square foot symbol of patriotism and outdoor spirit, requiring tons of planning and care to display. It’s a reminder that even the simplest symbols can have a grand presence when we put our hearts into them.
FAQ
What are the dimensions of the Camping World flag?
The most common size flown at stores is 30 feet by 60 feet. They also have a larger 40×80 foot flag for major events.
How tall is the flagpole at Camping World?
The flagpoles are typically over 100 feet tall to properly display the giant flag and keep it from touching the ground.
Can I purchase a flag that big?
Yes, but you must go through specialty industrial flag manufacturers. It requires a major commercial flagpole system and is very expensive to install and maintain.
Why does Camping World have such a huge flag?
Primarily for high-visibility branding and to make a strong patriotic statement that connects with their customers love for American travel and the outdoors.
What is the biggest flag in the world?
The title changes, but one of the largest regularly flown flags is the Acuity Insurance flag in Wisconsin, measuring 70 feet by 140 feet. The Camping World flag is large, but not the largest.