Step Inside: Camp Randall Stadium – Home of the Wisconsin Badgers

Home of the Wisconsin Badgers

Located in the heart of the University of Wisconsin’s campus in Madison, Camp Randall Stadium has been the home of the university’s football team since 1917. As the oldest and fifth largest stadium in the Big Ten Conference, Camp Randall Stadium has over 100 years of history for fans to explore. Continue reading below to learn more about the Wisconsin Badgers’ iconic home.

Camp Randall Stadium History

Camp Randall Stadium has been home to the Wisconsin Badgers since Nov. 3, 1917, when the Badgers beat their rivals, Minnesota, 10-7. Located on the grounds of what used to be Camp Randall, a Union Army training camp during the Civil War, the modern day stadium retains the name to honor its roots.

Besides being known for its extensive history, those who have visited the stadium’s locker rooms might be familiar with the subtle warfare tactic present there: its “prison blue” walls. Whereas the walls were once painted bright pink (resembling those of Kinnick Stadium) to affect the play of the visiting team, the UW Athletic Department soon decided to repaint with the same color used in Wisconsin Department of Corrections facility cells.

There are two beloved traditions known to all Wisconsin Badgers fans: “The Fifth Quarter” and “Jump Around.” The former dates back to 1969, after the Badgers had lost 24 games in a row. Marching Band Director Michael Leckrone and Athletic Director Elroy Hirsch organized an event following the game, where the band played fan-favorite songs to rile up the crowd one last time. The “Jump Around” tradition takes place between the third and fourth quarters of the game. It started in 1993, when the song “Jump Around” by House of Pain was played to reinvigorate both the players and the audience.

Camp Randall Stadium has not only seen the Wisconsin Badgers’ countless victories, but also been host to some of music’s most iconic acts, including U2 in 1992, Pink Floyd in 1994 and The Rolling Stones in 1997.

Parking and Admission at Camp Randall Stadium

UW Athletics sells football parking (including accessible parking) in advance on a season basis, and on a single-game basis for accessible parking only.

Single game parking is available for first-come, first-served purchase on game days only. Visitors can purchase a parking ticket from the lot attendant. Single game parking prices are as follows: $5 in Lots 60 and 76, $20 in Lots 46 and 67, $50 in Lot 64 for buses and RVs. Shuttle service is available from Lots 60, 64, and 76.

Camp Randall Stadium allows 12″ x 6″ x 12′ clear totes, 1 gallon clear plastic storage bag and 6.5″ x 4.5″ small bag (small clutch purse) into the venue only. Medical bags are permitted, but subject to a thorough inspection. Seat cushions not more than 16″ wide are permitted and subject to a thorough inspection.

Prohibited items include: Outside food and beverages, containers, strollers, laser pointers, umbrellas, banners, flags, signs, noisemakers, weapons, inflatables, laptops, video recorders, monopods, tripods and any items deemed dangerous or inappropriate.

Camp Randall Stadium Capacity & Seating Options

Camp Randall Stadium has the capacity for 76,118 fans. The Wisconsin Badgers sideline is in front of sections D-F. The opposing team’s sideline is in front of sections S-U. Wisconsin student sections are in sections J-P. View the seating chart at Camp Randall Stadium.

There are a variety of VIP seating opportunities available to visitors. On the east side of the stadium, guests can relax in the Camp Randall Suites, The Buckingham Club and The Ford Varsity Club — all of which include bonus perks such as personal wait-staff service, all-inclusive food/non-alcoholic beverages and television, iPad and radio coverage of game day programming. The south end of the stadium features a variety of loge boxes (field, covered and open-air), ledge seats, club seats and terrace patio seats. Additional offerings in the south end include Terrace Patio Memberships and the Evans Transportation Touchdown Club Memberships. Read more about the VIP offerings at Camp Randall Stadium.

Food & Beverage Options at Camp Randall Stadium

Concession stands are scattered throughout the stadium, making it easy for guests to find a quick bite between plays. There is an abundance of classic game day fare available for purchase; pretzels, fries, burgers, mac & cheese, wings and more, along with vegetarian and gluten free options. Camp Randall Stadium will offer an assortment of alcoholic beverages starting in 2024.