Autotrader 400 race week has arrived, and fans are ready to camp all week leading up to EchoPark Speedway’s big race.

Guests from 49 U.S. states and 16 foreign countries will attend this weekend to experience some of the most thrilling action NASCAR’s top three series have to offer. Fans from as far away as Australia and Japan are making the trip to see the high-speed, close-quarters racing that EchoPark Speedway is known for.

While the on-track action is a bucket-list attraction for many, the camaraderie and good times had off the track make annual treks to EchoPark Speedway rewarding. Donald Chaffin, from Valparaiso, Fla., will be the first to tell you that the campgrounds are where memories and friends are made.

“I’m from Georgia originally so this is like my home track,” said Chaffin. “Some friends of mine that I was in the Air Force with got me into racing and we’ve been coming every year for about 20 years now.”

What started with a modest group of friends has grown each year as Chaffin and company have formed new bonds at the racetrack with fellow fans.

“We have about 35 people who will be here as a group this weekend,” Chaffin said. “Most of us don’t see each other all year long, so this is where we come as a race family to watch the races.”

Chaffin was among the first campers to arrive for the Autotrader 400; thousands more will join him throughout the week to set up camp and enjoy the good times that complement the on-track action at EchoPark Speedway.

Tickets and camping for this weekend’s Autotrader 400 are still available. For more information, visit www.EchoParkSpeedway.com.