Buttonwillow Raceway Park

Buttonwillow Raceway Park is a prominent motorsports facility located in Kern County, California, approximately 35 miles northwest of Bakersfield. Established in 1995, the track has become a staple in the West Coast racing community, offering a versatile venue for a wide range of motorsport activities, including club racing, driver education, and professional testing.

The main circuit at Buttonwillow is a 2.68-mile (4.31 km) road course featuring 15 turns. The track layout is known for its technical complexity, combining a mix of high-speed straights, tight hairpins, and challenging esses. This configuration demands a balanced setup from drivers and teams, emphasizing precision braking, cornering technique, and acceleration out of turns. The elevation changes are minimal, but the track’s flow and corner variety provide ample challenge for both amateur and professional drivers.

Buttonwillow is highly regarded for its multiple track configurations, which allow event organizers to tailor the course to different racing disciplines and skill levels. The facility can be reconfigured into several variations ranging from short technical loops to longer, faster layouts. This adaptability makes Buttonwillow a popular choice for various racing series, including the Sports Car Club of America (SCCA), National Auto Sport Association (NASA), and the California Sports Car Club (Cal Club).

In addition to the main circuit, Buttonwillow features a dedicated karting track and ample paddock space, supporting a broad spectrum of motorsport activities. The venue also hosts numerous driver schools and corporate events, contributing to its reputation as a hub for driver development on the West Coast.

Overall, Buttonwillow Raceway Park combines a challenging course design with operational flexibility, making it a key destination for racing enthusiasts and professionals alike. Its role in fostering grassroots motorsports and providing a testing ground for various racing disciplines underscores its importance in the American racing landscape.