Where to Stay for Elements Festival: On-Site Camping, Hotels & Nearby Areas
Elements Music & Arts Festival takes place at Pocono Raceway in Long Pond, Pennsylvania, a remote track surrounded by forests and small towns. Where you stay shapes your entire weekend: on-site camping offers a nonstop festival experience, while hotels and rentals trade convenience for comfort and quiet. Because the venue is far from major city centers, your lodging decision also drives how you get to the grounds each day—so it’s worth planning ahead.
The festival's official FAQ confirms the location and outlines key entry rules, including that campgrounds are only open to 3-day pass holders. Single-day passes don’t include campground access, so if you’re only attending one day, you’ll need to stay off-site and commute. Keep this distinction in mind as you weigh your options; the right choice depends on your pass type and how much you value proximity versus comfort.
Overview of Accommodation Options
You have three broad paths: on-site camping (tent, car, or RV), premium accommodations like glamping and partner hotels, or off-site rentals and commuting. On-site camping gets you closest to the action but requires a 3-day festival pass and a separate camping or vehicle pass. Hotels, especially the official partner hotels, offer shuttle access so you don’t need to park or drive yourself.
If you prefer a rental or a non-partner hotel, you’ll need to plan your own transport—either a Commuter Parking Pass driving in daily, rideshare, or shuttle from a partner hotel. Off-site stays work best for those who value a good night’s sleep and don’t mind the commute. For a complete breakdown of getting to and from the venue, check our guide on how to get to elements festival.
On-Site Camping Options
On-site camping places you right next to the festival gates, letting you stroll back to your tent between sets. The main options are Tent Only Camping, Standard Car Camping, and Premium Car Camping, each with different levels of convenience. Tent Only Camping is for those arriving without a vehicle, though you can purchase a Park & Camp Parking Pass if you drive in just to set up.
Standard Car Camping lets you park beside your tent, so you can store gear and have a space to relax. Premium Car Camping puts you closest to the festival gates and adds enhanced amenities, which is a perk if you want to minimize walking. Note that camping passes don’t include a festival ticket—you need both, and all overnight camping requires a 3-day pass.
Campgrounds open on Thursday only if you purchase an Early Arrival Pass; otherwise, you’ll enter on Friday. According to the official FAQ, the Northside campground (Gate 3) serves Tent Only, Standard Car Camping, Premium Car Camping, and RVs, while Southside (Gate 7) hosts Vibe Villages and commuter areas. Entry hours vary, so verify the exact schedule on the official FAQ closer to the event.
Glamping and Premium Accommodations
For those who want to camp without sacrificing comfort, Elements offers glamping tents in two- and four-person configurations. These come with real beds, linens, and sometimes power, lifting the experience above standard tenting. Glamping passes are QR-code based and don’t require you to bring a tent, but you’ll still need a 3-day festival pass and a separate glamping parking pass if you drive.
Glamping suits first-timers or those who lack camping gear, but it’s pricier than standard options. The official tickets page lists glamping as a premium accommodation, which often includes perks like comfortable beds and communal lounges. Given the variable pricing, check the current glamping prices on the official tickets page to plan your budget.
Official Partner Hotels and Hotel Shuttle
If camping isn’t your style, official partner hotels offer a comfortable bed with the convenience of a dedicated shuttle to the festival. When you book a hotel room through the Official Elements Ticketing Page, you get access to the Elements Hotel Shuttle and don’t need to purchase a parking pass unless you prefer to drive. This simplifies logistics and often costs less than nightly rideshares.
The official ticketing page lists partner hotels like Camelback Resort and Camp Cedar, which are popular for their proximity to the venue and shuttle service. Booking through the festival’s hotel page is essential to access the shuttle; outside bookings won’t qualify. Because hotel prices fluctuate, the FAQ notes that you can upgrade or adjust passes, but for rates, check the official page directly.
Commuting from Nearby Areas
If you choose an off-site rental or stay with friends, you’ll need a Commuter Parking Pass to drive in each day. This pass lets you park in designated lots and is separate from festival admission. Alternatively, the official FAQ mentions rideshare and shuttle zones at Southside, so carpooling can cut costs and environmental impact.
Daily commuters should plan for secure parking and potential traffic around the raceway. The FAQ specifies that single-day passes don’t include campground access, so commuters with single-day tickets must use the single-day entrance and parking. For a smooth experience, review the parking and travel section of the official FAQ before you go.
Key Details for Different Pass Types
Your festival pass determines your lodging options. Three-day pass holders can access campgrounds and purchase camping passes, while single-day pass holders cannot use on-site camping or overnight accommodations. If you hold a single-day pass and want to stay on-site, you’d need to upgrade to a 3-day pass, which you can do within your Tixr account if available.
The official tickets page shows 2-day and 3-day passes, but note that elements festival tickets for 2026 may vary; always check the current ticketing page for the latest pass types and inclusions. For single-day entry, you’ll likely need to find off-site lodging and use the single-day entrance at Gate 6.
Tips for a Smooth Stay
Arrive early to avoid long lines and settle in before the music starts. If you’re missing any physical wristbands or vehicle stickers, you must stop at the offsite Box Office before heading to the venue; otherwise, you’ll be turned away. The Box Office is located at the West End Fair Association in Gilbert, PA, with specific hours listed on the official FAQ.
Packing for variable weather is crucial—Pocono summers can bring heat, rain, and cool nights. Bring layers, waterproof gear, and sturdy shoes. For a detailed packing checklist, see our elements festival packing list. Also note that campsites and shuttle schedules may change, so confirm current details on the official site before you head out.
Plan Your Visit
Deciding where to stay for Elements Festival boils down to your priorities: on-site camping maximizes festival immersion, but hotels offer comfort and reliable shuttles. If you’re new to the event, our guide on elements festival for first timers can help you navigate the grounds and social scene.
Whichever you choose, book early—accommodation near Pocono Raceway is limited, and official partner hotel blocks sell fast. Double-check pass requirements and shuttle schedules on the official FAQ, and always confirm current dates and hours. With a little planning, your stay will be as memorable as the festival itself.
Frequently Asked Questions
Where exactly is the elements festival?
Elements Music & Arts Festival is held at Pocono Raceway in Long Pond, Pennsylvania. The venue is located at 1234 Long Pond Road for Northside camping, and the main entrance address is 1 Hulman Drive. It’s a remote location, so planning your trip in advance is recommended.
Does the elements festival sell out?
There’s no official confirmation that the festival sells out. Ticket availability can vary by pass type and year, so it’s best to check the official ticketing page for current availability. Prices and tiers may change as the event approaches.
Do you have to camp at the elements festival?
No, camping is not mandatory. You can choose from on-site camping, premium accommodations like glamping, official partner hotels, or off-site rentals. Each option has different access rules, so ensure your pass type aligns with your lodging choice.
What is the alcohol policy at Elements Music & Arts Festival?
The festival’s FAQ details specific prohibited and allowed items, but alcohol policy specifics aren’t listed in this summary. To get precise rules, refer to the official FAQ’s food and beverage section, which outlines what you can bring into the venue and campgrounds.