Speedway campsite open to storm evacuees

A hurricane is on its way to the Southeast, which means, once again, Atlanta Motor Speedway will open its camp- grounds for people looking to escape the storm’s path.

Hurricane Michael, which was tabbed as a Category 2 storm as of Tuesday morning, is expected to increase in strength and make landfall near the Florida panhandle today, according to Channel 2 Action News.

Ahead of Michael mak- ing its way towards Florida and Georgia, Atlanta Motor Speedway announced Tuesday that it will open its camp- grounds to those seeking refuge from the storm. The speedway did the same for Hurricane Florence last month and Hurricane Irma last year.

The speedway’s camp- grounds, located in Henry County, are equipped to handle thousands of campers. Camping spots will be available free of charge for dry RV and tent campers in the Legends Campground.

For travelers with RVs and other camping vehicles that need to hook up to water, power and sewer, spots are available for $20 per night in the Premier Campground.

The Rinnai Shower Station, which is equipped with restrooms and hot show- ers, will also be open, free of charge. Pets are also allowed to stay for no addi- tional costs.

More than 100 camp- ers came to the speedway during Hurricane Irma. Doz- ens more came last month to escape Hurricane Florence.

The speedway was built in 1960 and its president, Ed Clark, said evacuees first came to the track’s camp- grounds in 2004, when Flo- ridians were trying to escape Hurricane Frances.

“We did it that time,” Clark told the AJC last year. “And going forward, any time there’s been a storm, folks will call us and it’s an automatic yes. It’s easy for us to do. We’ve got 843 acres.”

Those interested in RV or tent camping in the free Legends Campground at the speedway should enter the facility at Entrance “E” off Ga. Highway 41.

For more information, contact Atlanta Motor Speedway at 770-946-4211 or visit atlantamotorspeedway.com.