The Dallas Cowboys are back in action this summer with their annual training camp, running from Tuesday, July 22 through Wednesday, August 13. Held at the River Ridge Fields in Oxnard, locals and visitors alike are able to flock to the field to catch a glimpse of their favorite players as they prepare for the upcoming season.
Being only a short 15-minute drive away from Camarillo, we have put together a touchdown-itinerary that will ensure you have plenty of time to admire the hard work of this beloved team and also soak up all that this vibrant community has to offer.
About The Camp
Each year without fail the whole community comes out to catch a glimpse of the Dallas Cowboys during their pre-season practices. Beyond just the practice itself, fans can experience special events like the Oxnard Fan Night (July 25), Cowboys Back Together Ceremony & Weekend (July 26), the DDC Dance Clinic (July 27), and Heroes Appreciation Day (July 31), which is free for heroes who wear their military or first responder uniform or show their military ID. These events offer an accessible, family-friendly environment that everyone can enjoy.
Gates typically open around 2 hours before practice begins, so be sure to check the website for updated practice times and arrive early to claim your spot in the crowd before it fills up! Practices generally last around two hours, giving everyone plenty of time to tackle all that Camarillo has to offer before time winds down on your vacation.
Day 1: Touchdown and Take-Off
Once you touchdown in Camarillo, settle into one of the many nearby hotels! There are a multitude of lodging options near the practice field, including the Fairfield Inn & Suites by Marriott Camarillo (15 min), Quality Inn & Suites Camarillo-Oxnard (15 min), Holiday Inn Express & Suites Camarillo (16 min), Hampton Inn & Suites Camarillo (17 min) or Sonesta Select Camarillo (20 min)… just to name a few! You can easily take your pick of comfortable options that will allow you to avoid traffic and provide distance from the hustle of the event.
After checking in, head out to fuel up with a coffee and pastry from Café Ficelle or American Pie Coffee House. With your drink in hand, head over to the Camarillo Premium Outlets to stock up on comfortable Cowboys’ apparel for your day under the sun. The Camarillo Premium Outlets features 160 stores and boutiques. Make sure to stop by stores like Lids, Lids Locker Room, Pro Image Sports, Old Navy, and Athleta to find everything you’ll need to show off your team spirit and stay cool. Once you’re fully decked out in team gear, head over to River Ridge Fields for a day filled with football-festivity.
Day 2: Cheer and Explore
Depending on which days you choose to attend the training camp, you could get to experience more than a standard open practice. The schedule might just align with a special celebration like the Cowboys Back Together Ceremony on July 26 or a pre-season game like their scrimmage against the Rams in early August. No matter the occasion, don’t forget to grab a snack, and even score an autograph from your favorite players.
After a busy morning of watching the Cowboy’s practice, you can extend the fun by using Camarillo as a launchpad for a day trip to the Channel Islands National Park with Island Packers. Each of these 5 islands is home to a treasure trove of activities such as hiking, kayaking, wildlife spotting, and a beauty that is sure to leave a lasting mark. On your way to Ventura harbour, where the Island Packers depart, you can stop at Burger Barn or Nona’s Italian Deli to grab a quick lunch before your excursion. Once you return to town after a full day of exploration, you will be more than ready for a tasty meal from local favorites like Lalo’s Mexican Restaurant, Bobbi’s Mexican Grill and BBQ, or Bistro 13 before settling in for the night.
Day 3: Last Huddle and Local Charm
Before you wrap up your trip, catch one more practice and grab a few exclusive souvenirs from their team shop. Then, make the most of your final hours in Camarillo by diving head first into the charm by learning about the hidden facets that make it so special for locals and visitors alike. If you’re looking to continue your outdoor exploration, consider taking a walk on one of the five nearby hiking trails. Each trail is suitable for every skill level and boasts beautiful views of the town. You can also play a round at one of the four award-winning, 18-hole golf courses. If you’d rather escape the summer sun, pay a visit to one of the six museums in town that highlights local history. Talk about the perfect way to wrap up this action-packed getaway!
Combining the excitement of the Cowboys Training Camp with the laid-back allure of adventure in Camarillo is sure to make for a vacation you’ll never forget. Whether you’re cheering on America’s Team from the sidelines, sailing to the Channel Islands, or trying local flavors, allow yourself to take it all in. Join the die-hard fans and curious wanderers alike as you all come together to cheer on the Cowboys and soak up this unique, summer experience.
Plan your trip to Camarillo today to catch all the Dallas Cowboys Training Camp action in Oxnard, where it will be hosted through 2030.