RC COURSE

Backer Patch RC Park — RC Track Racing in Marshall, North Carolina

A Grassroots RC Racing Spot in the Mountains

Backer Patch RC Park sits just outside of Marshall, North Carolina, tucked into the rolling countryside of Madison County not far from Asheville. Built on what used to be a tobacco field, the track carries a bit of local history right in its name — “Backer Patch” being the old country way of saying baccer (tobacco). Now in its 6th year, the park has grown into a tight-knit, welcoming RC racing community where hobbyists, families, and competitive drivers come together to run laps, hang out, and enjoy the outdoors.

What Makes the Racing Special

What really sets Backer Patch apart is the track itself and the atmosphere around it. The track stretches roughly 1,200 feet in length, with lap times averaging around 19 seconds, giving racers a fast, flowing layout that’s fun for beginners but still challenging enough for experienced drivers. It’s the kind of track where you can settle into a rhythm, hit your lines, and really enjoy driving.

The park runs weekly races every Saturday once the season kicks off, creating a consistent, community-driven racing schedule. Classes vary and are regularly posted on their Facebook group page, so racers can stay up to date on what’s running each week. Beyond racing, Backer Patch mixes things up with crawler days, testing sessions, and even swap meets, keeping things fresh and engaging for regulars.

Another standout feature is how accessible and welcoming the place is. Whether you’re a seasoned racer or just curious about getting into RC, there are sometimes loaner or rental vehicles available, making it easier for newcomers to jump in and try it out without a big upfront investment.

Operating Season & Hours

Backer Patch RC Park operates seasonally, typically starting up toward the end of April and running through the warmer months. Racing is held every Saturday during the season, with timing adjusted based on the weather:

• Cooler weather: Races typically start around noon
• Warmer weather: Racing shifts to the later evening hours

The track is also equipped with lights, allowing for those later race nights, and includes power hookups for drivers who need to charge batteries or run equipment.

Prices for Racing & Track Use

Backer Patch keeps things simple and affordable:

• $15 Track Fee
• $10 per race class

There are no complicated pricing tiers — just straightforward fees that make it easy for racers to plan their day. Spectators can come and enjoy the action for free, making it a great low-cost outing for families or anyone curious about the hobby.

Important: The track operates cash only, so be sure to bring cash with you.

How to Race or Spectate

Getting involved at Backer Patch is easy:

• Racers: You can usually just show up and race, but it’s strongly recommended to check their Facebook group page ahead of time to learn the rules, class structure, and weekly updates.
• Spectators: Always welcome — and completely free. Just pull up, find a good spot, and enjoy the racing.

Since the community is very active online, the Facebook group is the best place to stay informed about race schedules, class lists, and any changes.

What You Need to Know Before You Go

• Cash only — no cards accepted
• Family-friendly atmosphere — great for kids and beginners
• Lights and power hookups available for evening racing and charging
• Food trucks sometimes on-site, but not guaranteed — bring snacks just in case
• Rules and race formats are posted on Facebook, so check before you go
• Bring your own gear, unless rentals/loaners are available that day
• Expect a laid-back, welcoming vibe, not a high-pressure race environment

Backer Patch RC Park is one of those places where it’s just as much about the people as it is the racing — a true community-driven track with roots in the land it sits on.