Camping At Bonnaroo: When To Bring Your Camper

If you're planning to bring a camper to Bonnaroo, there are a few things you need to know. Firstly, every person needs a Centeroo ticket to be at the festival, and every vehicle, including campers, needs a vehicle pass. There are different types of camping and parking passes available, depending on the type of vehicle you have and when you plan to arrive. For example, if you have a car, truck, SUV, or minivan, you'll need a Primitive Car Camping Pass or a Day Parking Pass. These passes have assigned entry days (Tuesday, Wednesday, or Thursday), and you must arrive on the day specified on your pass. It's important to note that vehicles larger than a standard 15-passenger van are not allowed for day parking.

If you're bringing an RV, each RV entering the campgrounds requires an RV pass. RV spaces are approximately 20' x 50', and any slides or awnings must fit within this designated space. Additionally, if you want to bring a companion vehicle with your RV, it will need a Car Camping Pass and must arrive on-site at the same time as the RV.

When packing for your trip to Bonnaroo, don't forget your camping essentials like a tent, sleeping bag, camping chairs, and a cooler. Also, make sure to bring rain gear, sunscreen, bug spray, and a shade structure for your campsite. Finally, be sure to review the allowed and prohibited items list on the Bonnaroo website to ensure you're not bringing any contraband items.

RV camping

Any size of RV is permitted, from Class A to Class C, as well as buses (excluding tour buses, prevosts, or motorcoaches with low clearance). Vehicles wider or longer than a standard 15-passenger van are also considered RVs, as are any vehicles towing a camper or 5th wheel of any size. Box trucks and trailers are not allowed into the campgrounds.

An RV pass is required for each RV entering the campgrounds, and these passes are only valid for 4-day and 2-day Centeroo ticket holders. Each person also needs a Centeroo ticket to be at Bonnaroo, and each vehicle needs a vehicle pass.

There are no water hookups, but a mobile water refill/pump option is available for RVs through United Site Services for a fee. Electricity is also available through the Bonnaroo RV Power Pass, which provides power hookups.

Camping gear

When preparing for a camping trip to Bonnaroo, it is important to be well-equipped with the right camping gear. Here is a comprehensive list of essential items to bring for a comfortable and enjoyable experience:

• Tents and Shelters: A good tent is essential for a comfortable camping experience. Make sure to set it up beforehand to ensure it is waterproof and has all the necessary parts.
• Sleeping Bags and Beds: Sleeping bags and comfortable beds, such as air mattresses or cots, will ensure a good night's rest.
• Tarps: Tarps provide extra protection from the elements and can be used to create additional shade.
• Coolers: Bring coolers to store food and drinks, and consider purchasing ice to keep items cold.
• Lanterns, Flashlights, and Headlamps: Having a reliable source of light is crucial for navigating your campsite after dark. Don't forget extra batteries!
• Water Containers and Bottles: Staying hydrated is important, so bring plenty of water and refillable water bottles.
• Camping Chairs and Tables: These items will create a comfortable and functional living space at your campsite.
• Rain Gear: Prepare for potential rain by bringing raincoats, ponchos, and waterproof shoes or boots.
• Extra Shoes and Sneakers: Having a backup pair of shoes will ensure your comfort, especially if the campsite becomes muddy.
• Bug Spray and Sunscreen: Protect yourself from insects and the sun's rays with these essential items.
• Toilet Paper: While Bonnaroo provides toilet paper, it is always a good idea to bring some extra rolls as a backup.
• Flags or Balloons: These items will help you identify your campsite and make it easier to find your way back.

In addition to the essential items listed above, here are some optional items that can enhance your camping experience:

• Small Stove or Grill: If you plan on cooking your own food, bring a small stove or grill, along with necessary cooking utensils and cookware.
• Luggage Lock: Consider bringing a lock to secure your valuables, although it is best to leave valuables at home or locked in your vehicle.
• Portable Speakers or Radio: For entertainment and creating a festive atmosphere.
• Earplugs: If you are a light sleeper, earplugs can help block out any noise from neighbouring campsites.
• Blankets: Useful for sitting on the ground or adding extra warmth at night.

Vehicle passes

Primitive Car Camping Pass

A Primitive Car Camping Pass is required for every car, truck, SUV, minivan, or other standard vehicle that enters the campgrounds unless you have purchased a different camping accommodation that includes a pass for your car. Campsite sizes are roughly 20'x20' (including the space for your car). You may not buy extra campsites around a single vehicle – you will get as many spots as you have cars and passes together. There is no “per person” camping fee. So, for example, if you have 3 people coming in one car, you only need 1 Primitive Car Camping Pass (and a Centeroo Ticket for each person).

Primitive Car Camping passes have assigned entry days. You will need to purchase the pass that corresponds with the day you plan on arriving (either Tuesday, Wednesday, or Thursday). Vehicles are required to enter on the day of their pass - if you need to change your entry day, contact [email protected] for more information.

Day Parking Pass

If you are not camping, you will need a Day Parking Pass. This pass grants one daily parking spot in the Cosmic Nomads Lot or the Basecamp "Day Parking Lot". Vehicles larger than a standard 15-passenger van are not allowed. Cars cannot be left overnight and you may not sleep in your car or camp next to your car. Each vehicle is subject to a complete and thorough search before entering the Farm.

RV Pass

An RV pass is required for each RV entering the campgrounds. Each RV space will be about 20′ x 50′. Tents can be set up if they are within this space, and any shade structures or awnings must fit within this designated space too. The following vehicles are considered an RV, and every RV entering The Farm requires an RV Pass:

• Any size RV: Class A, Class B or Class C
• Any size bus (no tour buses, prevosts, or motorcoaches with low clearance allowed)
• Any vehicle wider or longer than a standard 15-passenger van (230.8″ x 79.3″ x 82.3″)
• Any vehicle towing a camper or 5th wheel of any size. If you’re hitching anything, it’s an RV. (Box trucks and trailers are not allowed into the campgrounds.)

Companion Vehicle Information

If you are bringing a companion vehicle with your RV, it must have a Car Camping Pass and arrive on-site at the same time as the RV. If you are towing anything, you do not need a Car Camping Pass (however, it must stay attached to the RV). Even if your (non-towed) car and RV can fit into one designated RV space (20′ x 50′) you still must purchase both passes to adhere to parking standards. You are limited to one Car Camping Pass per RV. Vehicles towing campers are considered part of the RV and do not need a Car Camping Pass, but must remain attached to the camper.

Camping arrival

When to arrive

Depending on the type of camping pass you have, you will be assigned an arrival day. The assigned arrival days are Tuesday, Wednesday, or Thursday. Vehicles are required to enter on the day of their pass. If you need to change your entry day, contact [email protected].

What to bring

• Camping gear (tents, shelters, sleeping bags, beds, tarp)
• A shade structure
• A cooler and/or water jugs (ice is available for purchase)
• Lantern, flashlight, headlamp, and extra batteries
• Stainless steel water bottle
• Camping chairs and tables
• Rain gear
• A hoodie
• Extra shoes/sneakers
• Mud boots
• Bug spray (without DEET)
• Sunscreen
• A bandana
• Biodegradable plastic bags for trash
• Toilet paper
• A flag or balloon to identify your campsite
• An extra set of keys
• A small stove or grill (obey the Gasoline/Charcoal/Propane Policy)
• A small luggage lock for your tent
• A vehicle key code
• Phosphate-free and sulfate-free soaps, detergents, and shampoos
• An ashtray (if you smoke)
• A blanket
• Earplugs
• Portable speakers or a radio

What not to bring

• No contraband items (see the Allowed & Prohibited List)
• No glass
• No generators over 1500 watts (if you're bringing an RV)
• No more than one car per camping pass (unless you have a companion pass)

Camping comforts

Camping at the Bonnaroo Music & Arts Festival is a great way to experience the festival and meet your neighbours. Here are some tips to make your camping experience more comfortable:

• Bring a canopy and cots for your campsite to provide shade and a comfortable sleeping area.
• Ear plugs and eye masks can help block out noise and light, making it easier to fall asleep.
• Battery-powered fans or portable air conditioning units can provide a cool breeze and improve ventilation.
• If you want more privacy and comfort, consider renting a pre-pitched tent or glamping option, which includes a vehicle pass for a special parking lot close to your campsite.
• Purchase a shower pass for access to shower facilities near your camp.
• If you plan to bring an RV, be prepared for additional costs such as gas, camping permit fees, generator gas and fees, and sewage drainage and water refill fees.
• Test your camping gear before arriving at the festival to ensure it meets your needs.
• If you are travelling with a group, consider signing up for Groop Camping, which allows you to arrive at separate times and have a designated campsite for your group.

Frequently asked questions