Carolina Motorsports Park Track Guide

Carolina Motorsports Park — Just Track It Newcomer’s Guide

Version: 1.0 | Last updated: 2026-01-27
Status: Newcomer-oriented field guide (not an official rulebook). Always follow (1) track management, (2) JTI supplemental regs, and (3) your drivers’ meeting.

Carolina Motorsports Park (CMP) is the Carolinas’ only purpose-built road racing facility—a 2.27-mile, 14-turn clockwise circuit in rural Kershaw, South Carolina. Designed by track architect Alan Wilson and opened in 1999, CMP sits on 297 acres of a former World War II fighter training base. The track underwent a complete resurfacing in August 2020, transforming it from a notoriously rough surface into one of the smoothest club tracks in the Southeast.

Track Video

Quick Facts Card

Item	Detail
Track Address (GPS)	3662 Kershaw Highway, Kershaw, SC 29067
GPS Coordinates	34°29’18.3”N 80°35’38.6”W
Phone	(803) 475-2448
Email	info@carolinamotorsportspark.com
Website	carolinamotorsportspark.com
Track Length	2.27 miles, 14 turns, clockwise
Track Width	36 feet
Elevation Change	~98 feet
Sound Limit	105 dB before 6 PM; 100 dB after 6 PM (at 50 feet)
Quiet Hours	No race engines 7:30 AM – 8:00 PM only; Sunday 11:00 AM – 12:00 PM mandatory quiet
On-Site Fuel	Sunoco (93, 100 octane); race fuel in 5-gallon pails
Nearest Major Airport	Charlotte Douglas International (CLT) — ~1 hour north
Nearest Hospital	MUSC Health Kershaw Medical Center, Camden — ~20 minutes

How to Use This Guide
Rule Hierarchy
Just Track It Event Format
Arrival Flow
Printable Checklists
Location and Directions
Track Layout and Corner Analysis
Track Surface and Conditions
Sound Compliance
Tech Inspection
Safety Equipment Requirements
Paddock and Facilities
Camping and Overnight Policies
Weather Considerations
Hotels and Lodging
Food and Supplies
Emergency Services
Contact Information
Maintenance Notes

How to Use This Guide

This guide answers the “what do I do next?” questions before and during your first Just Track It weekend at CMP. Use it in three passes:

Before you leave home: Use the checklists to pack and avoid rookie failures (battery, numbers, loose items, fluids).
At the track: Use the arrival flow and compliance sections to get through gate/registration/tech without drama.
On track: Use the layout section for orientation, but treat the drivers’ meeting as the final authority on passing zones, flags, and session protocols.

CMP’s rural location means careful planning for provisions. Camden (20-25 minutes south) serves as the primary hub for hotels, restaurants, and supplies.

Rule Hierarchy

When something conflicts, follow this order:

Track management and posted track rules (including local ordinance)
Just Track It supplemental regulations (JTI’s written rules for that weekend)
Drivers’ meeting / chief instructor / control directives (what you are told that morning)
This guide (best practices and “how it usually works”)

If you ever feel uncertain: ask grid staff, pit-out, or an instructor before you roll.

Just Track It Event Format

Run Groups

Just Track It operates five run groups based on experience level:

Run Group	Description	Passing Rules
Novice Instructed	First-timers with mandatory in-car instruction	Straights only with point-by
Novice Solo	Signed-off novices driving without instructor	Straights only with point-by
Intermediate 1	Developing drivers building consistency	Designated zones with point-by
Intermediate 2	Experienced intermediate drivers	Anywhere on track with point-by
Advanced	Highly experienced drivers	Anywhere on track with point-by

Novice Instructed and Novice Solo share the same on-track sessions. Intermediate 2 and Advanced share passing rules (anywhere with a point-by).

Novice Instruction Program

Novice instruction is mandatory until you are signed off by an instructor to drive solo. Your instructor rides in the passenger seat, providing real-time coaching on braking points, turn-in references, and throttle application. You will not be sent onto the track alone until an instructor certifies you are ready.

To prepare for your instructor: ensure your passenger seat is clear and accessible. If your car has aftermarket harnesses for the driver, factory seatbelts must remain functional for the instructor, or you need a passenger harness installed.

Session Format

Standard JTI sessions run 20 minutes with five sessions per run group throughout the day. The last two sessions of the day extend to 30 minutes with combined groups (Novice Instructed + Novice Solo together; Intermediate 1 + Intermediate 2 together; Advanced may combine with I2).

Membership

Just Track It annual membership is offered but not required to participate in events. Registration occurs through MotorsportReg.

Passing Protocol

The slower car gives the point-by signal by extending their left arm out the window, pointing toward the passing side. When giving a point-by, stay on the racing line and lift slightly off the throttle.

At CMP, primary passing zones for lower run groups are typically:

Turn 7-8 straight
Turn 8-10 section
Turn 13-1 (front straight)

Blocking is strictly prohibited. If a car appears in your mirrors and stays there for more than a few corners, give the point-by at the next appropriate location.

Arrival Flow

A clean first-time flow at CMP:

Arrive via Highway 521 → track entrance directly off highway, ~4 miles south of downtown Kershaw.
Gate: Sign waiver(s) at registration building (immediately right after front gate) → receive wristband → pay any track fees (power/camping/garage if applicable).
Paddock: Proceed to grassy paddock area → claim a spot → unload → set up canopy/tools → apply car numbers.
Tech Inspection: Present car, helmet, and completed tech form at open-air shed near garages.
Drivers’ Meeting: Mandatory attendance (typically 8:00-8:30 AM) — confirm passing zones, flags, and black-flag procedure.
Grid for Session 1: Arrive at False Grid early → listen to grid workers → go out calm.

Recommended Arrival Timeline

Time	Activity
6:00 PM (night before)	Car/trailer drop-off typically begins; gate locks overnight
7:00 AM	Registration and tech inspection open
7:15 AM	Recommended arrival time for first-timers
8:00-8:30 AM	Mandatory drivers meeting
~8:30 AM	First track sessions begin
~5:00 PM	Track sessions typically end; pit gate locks

Printable Checklists

Week Before (or Earlier)

Register on MotorsportReg and confirm run group assignment
Download and complete the JTI tech inspection form
Verify helmet meets current Snell/FIA requirements (see Safety Equipment section)
Order car numbers or plan painter’s tape (12”+ height, 2”+ stroke recommended)
Book lodging in Camden (20-25 minutes away)
Plan fuel: arrive with full tank; do not rely solely on on-site pumps
Stock up on supplies in Camden before heading to track

Night Before / Load-In

At the Gate (First 10 Minutes)

Sign waiver at registration building; receive wristband
Pay camping/power fees if applicable; get power sticker for cord
Confirm quiet hours (Sunday 11 AM – 12 PM)
Locate: registration, tech shed, restrooms, fuel pumps, waste stations
Note: Cell coverage is spotty; Verizon has best signal

Between Sessions

Lug torque check after first session and periodically throughout day
Check tire pressures hot; adjust to target; inspect for wear (especially left-front)
Quick under-hood check: oil level, coolant, any seepage
Brake pedal feel check; inspect pads if fade detected
Hydrate; eat light snacks; review notes; debrief with instructor

End of Day

Confirm next day schedule and drivers’ meeting time
Top fluids; set cold tire pressures for morning
Lock up tools; stow paddock items; respect quiet hours
Keep wristband visible for 24/7 security verification

Location and Directions

Carolina Motorsports Park
3662 Kershaw Highway, Kershaw, SC 29067

The track is located directly on Highway 521 (Kershaw Highway) in Lancaster County, approximately 4 miles south of downtown Kershaw and 17 miles north of Camden. The main entrance sits right off the highway—simply enter the address into GPS and follow the entrance road approximately quarter-mile to the main gate.

From Major Cities

From Charlotte, NC: Travel approximately 1 hour south via Highway 521. Charlotte Douglas International Airport (CLT) is the nearest major airport.

From Columbia, SC: Travel approximately 45 minutes north via Highway 521.

The regional setting is distinctly rural. Kershaw is a small town with limited amenities, while Camden (20-25 minutes south) serves as the primary hub for hotels, restaurants, and supplies.

Track Layout and Corner Analysis

CMP’s 2.27-mile circuit runs clockwise with 14 turns (4 lefts, 10 rights), 36 feet of width, and approximately 98 feet of total elevation change. The track is built on a former WWII airfield but is anything but flat—significant grade changes create blind crests and challenging weight transfer management.

Turn-by-Turn Breakdown

Turn 1 — “Camden Corner”
A 90-degree left-hander requiring late apex technique. Brake at the 2 marker (adjust for power/weight), pivot the car sharply, and aim for rumble strips at apex. Common passing zone, though aggressive entry may compromise the following esses. Typical gear: 2nd or 3rd. Caution: Cold tires make this corner treacherous on out-laps.

Turns 2-3 — “The Esses”
Fast right-left sweepers rising on a gentle grade. The second esse is faster than the first, with its apex on a hill crest. Minimal braking—use maximum track width at turn-in and track-out. Warning: Exiting T3 too wide risks a dangerous ditch on the left. Extended curbing was added at T3 exit in February 2021 and is usable. Typical gear: 3rd or 4th.

Turn 4 — “Conspiracy Corner” / “Dam Hill”
After climbing 30 feet up Dam Hill, this left-hander is a “throwaway” turn—keep it in fourth gear, tap brakes late, and straighten the line for optimal carousel entry. Do not sacrifice Carousel entry speed for a faster T4. Typical gear: 4th.

Turns 5-6-7 — “The Carousel” / “Faith, Hope and Charity”
A sweeping 180-degree right-hand complex with multiple radii. Very technical, requiring trail-braking to rotate the car through the long arc. Correct line is crucial—mistakes here cost significant speed down the back straight. Many drivers use left-foot braking through this section. Extended curbing at Carousel exit (added 2021) is usable. Typical gear: 3rd, maintaining throttle balance throughout.

Turn 8 — “Angels Angle”
A fast right-hander with 7 feet of banking. Brake earlier than feels natural and get back on throttle earlier than comfortable—the banking holds the car. Do not use the apex curbing (too aggressive). Extended exit curbing (post-2021) is usable. Typical gear: 3rd or 4th; entry speed approximately 80-100 mph depending on vehicle.

Turn 9 — “The Swoop”
A heavily cambered, barely perceptible right kink taken flat in most cars. Part of a 1,990-foot high-speed section. Typical gear: Stay in gear from T8; flat out.

Turn 10 — “The Kink”
CMP’s signature corner. This high-speed right kink requires either heavy braking or a confident lift depending on vehicle and skill level. The notorious bump that once “launched cars” was eliminated in the 2020 repave, making the corner much more approachable. Post-repave, many drivers take this nearly flat in lower-powered cars; high-powered cars still require a lift or light brake. Caution: The Kink exit curbing should be used cautiously—it can point the car toward dirt when the curbing ends. Typical gear: 3rd or 4th; approach speed 100-120+ mph in fast cars.

Turn 11 — “The Hairpin” / “Mulligan’s Corner”
A 140-degree left-hander and the best passing initiation point on track. Heavy braking zone with significant trail-braking; extremely patient throttle application required. Do not apply power until the car is pointed at the exit curb. Typical gear: 2nd in most cars.

Turns 12-13-14 — The Chicane Complex
Added in 2007 for safety reasons. Turn 12 (“Charlie’s Corner”) offers great inside passing opportunity. Turn 13 flows into Turn 14 (“Last Chance Corner”), a tight right-hander—take a traditional slow-in, fast-out approach with a late apex. Use the right rumble strips for rotation at T14 but avoid the outside curbs, which can destroy alignment. Typical gear: 2nd through the complex.

Key Braking Zones Summary

Corner	Braking Intensity	Critical Notes
Turn 1	Moderate-Hard	Late apex; cold tire danger on out-laps
Turn 8	Earlier than expected	Banking provides grip; early throttle
Turn 10 (The Kink)	Lift or light brake	Signature corner; work up gradually
Turn 11 (Hairpin)	Threshold	Best passing zone; patience on throttle
Turn 14	Moderate	Late apex; avoid outside curbs

Pit Lane Procedures

Pit-Out: Feeds directly onto the racing surface approaching Turn 1. Stay right and blend safely, yielding to cars already on track.
Pit-In: Located on driver’s right after Turn 14. Signal your intent to pit by raising a hand or extending a fist entering the final corners. First-timers often miss the pit entry—look for it immediately after T14.
False Grid: The 100’ × 300’ paved staging area where cars line up before sessions.

Track Surface and Conditions

The August 2020 complete resurfacing transformed CMP from one of the roughest tracks in the region to one of the smoothest. The project used specially formulated asphalt binder and dramatically improved the driving experience.

Post-Repave Characteristics

Significantly improved grip; many drivers report 2-7+ seconds faster lap times
Smooth surface throughout; old landmarks and seams eliminated
Dramatically improved tire wear (previously described as “killer on tires”)
The Kink is now much smoother—the dangerous launch-inducing bump eliminated
Higher grip creates more demand on brakes; pad consumption has increased

Curbing Upgrades (February 2021)

New extended curbing installed at Turn 3 exit, Carousel exit, Turn 8 exit, and Kink exit. Turn 8 exit curbing is particularly usable; Kink exit curbing should be used cautiously.

Tire Wear and Management

Post-repave tire wear is moderate. A set of 200tw performance tires can last a full track weekend. The right-hand-heavy layout still stresses left-front tires more than others. Consider rotating tires mid-day for extended events.

Cold tires require 1-2 laps to build heat—be cautious through Turn 1 and Turn 3 on out-laps.

Sound Compliance

Decibel Limits

Time Period	Decibel Limit
Before 6:00 PM	105 dB at 50 feet
After 6:00 PM	100 dB at 50 feet

Vehicles exceeding limits receive a black flag and must comply or withdraw. No race engines may run before 7:30 AM or after 8:00 PM.

Sunday Quiet Time

Sunday 11:00 AM to 12:00 PM — absolutely no engines may run during this period in observance of local church services. This is strictly enforced; plan your sessions accordingly.

Tech Inspection

JTI Tech Process

Complete your tech form before arrival. Bring the completed form, your helmet, numbered car (12”+ height recommended, 2”+ stroke), and driver’s license to tech inspection at the open-air shed near the garages.

Inspectors verify:

Brake light function
Absence of fluid leaks
Removal of loose interior items
Helmet certification (Snell sticker date)
Roll bar compliance for convertibles
Battery terminal security
Brake pad thickness

Common Tech Failures

Loose items in cabin (floor mats, water bottles, phone mounts)
Expired helmet certification
Fluid leaks (check ground under car before tech)
Non-functional brake lights
Missing or undersized car numbers
Loose lug nuts or missing wheel studs

Safety Equipment Requirements

Helmet Standards

Snell SA-2015 or newer certification required—no exceptions. Only closed-face helmets accepted; motorcycle-rated (M-rated) helmets are not permitted. Confirm the currently accepted JTI helmet standard in your event confirmation and during on-site tech inspection.

Required Driver Attire

Long-sleeved shirts and long pants of natural fiber (cotton or wool) are mandatory.
Synthetic materials are prohibited because they can melt to skin in a fire.
Cotton socks and closed-toe shoes required.

Vehicle Requirements

Convertibles: Must have a roll bar meeting SCCA or PCA Club Race specs unless a factory hardtop is installed. Roll bar must pass the broomstick test.
Camera Mounting: Cameras must be mounted to the vehicle; helmet-mounted cameras are prohibited.
Electric Vehicles: Fully electric vehicles are not permitted. Hybrids may be allowed at organizer’s discretion.

Fire Extinguisher

Just Track It does not mandate fire extinguishers. However, CMP track rules require each competitor to have at least one 10-pound BC dry chemical fire extinguisher in good working condition in their pit area—not locked in a trailer, but accessible and visible. Comply with track requirements.

Paddock and Facilities

Paddock Layout

The paddock spans well-maintained grass with mature shade trees across the 297-acre property. Key landmarks:

Registration/Admin Building: Immediately right after front gate; service windows for check-in
Performance Center (Timing Tower): Race control, timing/scoring, medical room, WiFi, meeting space
24-Bay Garage Building: Near tech inspection; individual bays 15’ × 25’ with 20A receptacles
Trackside Grill: On-site concession; breakfast 7:00-10:00 AM, lunch 10:30 AM-2:00 PM
Restrooms with Showers: Centrally located, air-conditioned, available 24/7 for campers
Fuel Pumps (Sunoco): Located near skidpad gate, center of paddock
Quantum Motorsports Shop: 4,800 sq ft repair facility near front gate
Bark Park: Fenced dog park (leashes required elsewhere)
False Grid: 100’ × 300’ paved staging area

Paddock Rules

Critical: Paddock roads are designated emergency fire lanes—no parking, repairs, refueling, or equipment placement on any paddock road. Paddock speed limit is 15 mph. The on-site lake is completely off-limits.

Electrical Hookups

General paddock outlets are standard 15A sockets (some on restroom building, some on power poles)—free to use but limited. Bring a long extension cord and splitter. 30A/50A service primarily reserved for RV sites. Generators permitted but must observe 10:00 PM quiet hours.

On-Site Fuel

Pay-at-pump fuel available when gates are open (see table).
5-gallon pails available 8:00 AM-5:00 PM: 98 unleaded ($86), 110 leaded ($74), 112 leaded ($85), E85 ($76).
Critical Warning: Pumps have experienced outages. Do not rely solely on on-site fuel—arrive with a full tank and sufficient reserves.

Fuel	Price (as of 2025)
93 Octane (Ethanol-Free)	$5.99/gallon
100 Octane (Ethanol-Free)	$10.99/gallon

On-Site Services

Service	Provider/Location
Mechanical Repairs	Quantum Motorsports (front gate shop)
Tire Vendors	Stickboy Racing, Pit Lane Moto, Mize Mobile (event-dependent)
Waste Oil Disposal	Yellow 55-gallon drums throughout paddock
Antifreeze Disposal	Blue 55-gallon drums
Timing/Transponders	AMB timing loop installed; MyLaps supported
WiFi	300 Mbps fiber at Performance Center

Cell Coverage

CMP’s rural location means cell coverage is spotty. Verizon has best signal; other carriers may struggle. CMP’s PA system broadcasts over FM radio 88.7—bring a small FM tuner or use your car radio.

Camping and Overnight Policies

On-Site Camping

CMP permits camping for most multi-day events (verify with JTI). Primitive tent camping on paddock grass is generally free for participants. No ground fires; campfires only in raised fire pits.

RV Sites with Hookups

Site Type	Price/Night
30A Electric	$50
50A Electric	$55
30A + Water	$75
50A + Water	$80

Restrooms with showers available 24/7. Keep wristband visible for security verification.

Gate Hours

Gates typically lock at 5:00 PM after day’s activities. If you must arrive after standard hours, contact the event organizer or track in advance—CMP can arrange a night gate attendant for a fee.

Weather Considerations

Kershaw experiences a humid subtropical climate with hot, muggy summers and mild winters.

Seasonal Breakdown

Season	High Temps	Conditions
Winter (Dec-Feb)	54-58°F	Cool; occasional ice possible
Spring (Mar-May)	66-81°F	Pleasant; excellent from late April
Summer (Jun-Aug)	86-90°F	Hot and humid; heat index to 107°F+
Fall (Sep-Nov)	64-82°F	Excellent conditions

Best Periods

Late April through early June and late August through mid-October offer most pleasant conditions.

Summer Considerations

Mid-June through mid-August brings extreme heat, high humidity, and frequent afternoon thunderstorms. Schedule important sessions for morning hours. Hydrate aggressively—heat exhaustion is a real risk.

Hotels and Lodging

Hotels in Camden (20-25 minutes)

Property	Rate (approx.)	Notes
Hampton Inn Camden	$135-175/night	Cleanest option; book early
Holiday Inn Express	$120-150/night	Reliable chain amenities
Quality Inn	$90-120/night	Budget option
Comfort Suites	$110-140/night	Extended stay friendly

Book early for race weekends—Camden hotels fill quickly.

Food and Supplies

On-Site Concession (Trackside Grill)

Hot breakfast 7:00-10:00 AM, lunch 10:30 AM-2:00 PM on track days. Expect American fare: breakfast sandwiches, burgers, hot dogs, barbecue. Cash and card accepted.

Kershaw (5-10 minutes)

521 Filling Station — American diner attached to gas station
Kershaw House of Pizza (Gus’s) — Pizza
Bojangles — Fast food/Southern
Subway — Sandwiches

Camden (25 minutes) — Best Dining Selection

Sam Kendall’s — Fine dining; CMP-recommended
B. Colson’s Steak, Seafood & Bourbon — Upscale steakhouse
Steeplechase Bar & Grill — Sports bar; popular with motorsports crowd
Mill Pond Steakhouse — Unique upscale experience in nearby Boykin

Grocery and Auto Parts

Kershaw: Kershaw IGA Foodliner, Dollar General

Camden: Walmart Supercenter (2240 W DeKalb St), AutoZone, NAPA Auto Parts

A round-trip to Camden costs nearly an hour—plan ahead.

Emergency Services

CMP maintains professional EMT and ambulance staff on-site for every event. If injured, corner workers and EMS will respond on track.

Nearest Hospital: MUSC Health Kershaw Medical Center
1315 Roberts Street, Camden, SC 29020
Approximately 20 minutes from track.

Track Medical Room: Located in Performance Center (timing tower building).

Track Office Emergency Contact: (803) 475-2448

If you have a specific medical condition, inform your instructor and consider wearing a medical alert bracelet.

Contact Information

Carolina Motorsports Park
3662 Kershaw Highway
Kershaw, SC 29067
Phone: (803) 475-2448
Email: info@carolinamotorsportspark.com
Website: carolinamotorsportspark.com
Just Track It
Website: MotorsportReg.com (search “Just Track It”)

Maintenance Notes

High-Drift Items (Verify Before Every Event)

Helmet standards accepted and expiration dates
Event gate hours and load-in windows
Fuel pricing and pump availability
Camping/power fees
Sound enforcement details
Hotel rates and availability
Schedule specifics (tech hours, drivers’ meeting time)

Suggested Update Cadence

Quarterly: Verify track contact info, pricing, and facility changes
Per event: Verify JTI supplemental regs and drivers’ meeting notes

Version History

v1.0 (2026-01-27): Initial Just Track It reformatted guide

Prices and policies current as of January 2026. Verify current information with Carolina Motorsports Park and Just Track It before attending.

Carolina Motorsports Park Guide