Camping World Returns To NASCAR To Honor Military Families And The Fans Who Back Them
NASCAR’s upcoming trip to Naval Base Coronado will mark the first time the sport has staged a full race weekend on an active military installation. Camping World has signed on as the Supporting Partner, reconnecting the company with a fan base that has known the brand for years.
Camping World’s return comes with history behind it. The company spent more than a decade tied to the Truck Series and became a familiar presence at tracks across the country. Their involvement in San Diego brings them back into a space where RV culture and race weekends overlap naturally.
A Long Relationship With NASCAR Fans
Race infields have always been filled with RVs, grills, and fans who settle in for several days. Camping World has catered to that crowd for decades. Their long run as the Craftsman Truck Series entitlement sponsor from 2009 through 2022 left a clear mark on the sport. Their presence became a fixture at tracks across the schedule.
Matthew Wagner, the company’s CEO and president, pointed to the loyalty NASCAR fans show toward the RV lifestyle. Bringing the brand to Southern California fits the relationship they’ve built over time. The move strengthens a partnership that has never really faded.
Launching The Hero Program
Camping World will use the San Diego weekend to introduce its new Hero Program. The initiative highlights members of the military, law enforcement, and first responders who have shown exceptional service. Honorees will be recognized throughout the event, with on‑site activations designed to bring attention to their work.
Brandon Mulhall, the company’s Chief Marketing Officer, said Naval Base Coronado provides the right setting for the program’s debut. The location reinforces the purpose behind the recognition and gives the initiative a meaningful stage. Honorees will be introduced throughout the weekend. Their stories will be shared with fans before the main events.
A Weekend Centered On The Navy’s 250th Anniversary
The San Diego event doubles as a celebration of the United States Navy’s 250th anniversary. Hosting a NASCAR weekend on an active base required extensive coordination and carries symbolic weight for the sport. Naval Base Coronado offers a backdrop unlike any other venue, with runways, ships, and the Pacific coastline surrounding the course.
Amy Lupo, president of NASCAR San Diego, noted that the weekend is designed to bring people together around shared values and respect for the military. The sport’s long‑standing connection to the armed forces will be on full display.
Weekend Schedule
Friday, June 19, will be Navy Community Day. Access will be limited to service members stationed at the base and a small number of local residents. The Craftsman Truck Series will close out the day. Volunteers will be on site throughout the afternoon to guide guests through the restricted areas. Drivers will meet with sailors before the green flag.
Teams will use the session to gather early notes on the temporary layout. The atmosphere will feel closer to an open house than a standard race day. Public access begins Saturday, June 20, when the O’Reilly Auto Parts Series takes the track. Sunday, June 21, will feature the Anduril 250 Race at the Base, the Cup Series’ main event.
What The Partnership Signals
Camping World’s involvement reflects a shift toward partnerships built around community engagement rather than simple branding. The Hero Program places attention on individuals who serve their communities and country.
Fans can expect a strong trackside presence from the company. Camping World understands the camping and tailgating culture that surrounds NASCAR, and its activations typically reflect that. A successful weekend in San Diego could open the door for more destination‑style events tied to military bases or national landmarks.
What’s Next
The NASCAR San Diego Weekend is shaping up to be a significant moment for the sport. Camping World’s role adds depth to an event already built around service, history, and community. Naval Base Coronado will provide a setting unlike anything NASCAR has attempted, and the weekend is expected to draw strong interest from fans looking to witness a unique chapter in the sport’s modern era.
