Willow Springs Raceway, a legendary desert racing facility in California, has entered a new era. After 63 years under family ownership, the track was purchased by a partnership between CrossHarbor, a private equity firm, and Singer Vehicle Design, a renowned Porsche customization house. The ownership transition marks a significant moment for automotive enthusiasts, especially given that publicly accessible racetracks in Southern California have become increasingly rare.
The new owners have ambitious plans for the facility, which sits on sprawling grounds capable of hosting multiple racing configurations. While longtime fans expressed both excitement and concern about the changes, the inaugural Willow Springs Reimagined event last year and its second iteration this October provided concrete evidence that the track is being thoughtfully upgraded while maintaining its storied character.
What Has Changed at Willow Springs
The transformation is real and measurable. The track has received new asphalt and fresh paint, modernizing the racing surface while preserving the original buildings and signage that give the facility its distinctive identity. The facility now operates as a members-only venue, a shift from its previous public access model. Membership comes with a hefty price tag: a $450,000 initiation fee plus ongoing monthly dues. This move represents a fundamental change in how the track operates, limiting access to serious enthusiasts who can afford the premium.
Despite the members-only structure, the track has invested heavily in improving the day-to-day experience. The café has been completely updated, food service has expanded with catering stations for VIP guests, and transportation logistics have been dramatically improved. Where last year’s inaugural event suffered from long entry lines and parking confusion, this year’s Willow Springs Reimagined event ran smoothly with frequent shuttle service moving attendees across the expansive property.
What the Members-Only Model Means for Shoppers
The shift to membership-only access creates a significant barrier for casual car enthusiasts and buyers considering performance-oriented vehicles. Previously, the track offered relatively open access to the public, allowing any interested driver to experience track days or attend events. Now, this opportunity is exclusively reserved for those willing to make a substantial financial commitment.
For car shoppers interested in performance driving, this change effectively removes one of Southern California’s few accessible venues for testing vehicles in a controlled racing environment. Several attendees told us they had evaluated other West Coast private tracks before committing to Willow Springs membership, suggesting there are alternatives available, but options remain limited. Performance-focused drivers serious about track experience may now need to budget for membership fees in addition to vehicle purchases.
Current Amenities and Ongoing Construction
The October event showcased meaningful improvements. Free ridealongs were offered in Rivian vehicles for off-road experiences, and professional rally instructors from DirtFish provided rides in rally cars. Go-kart racing was available for just $40, offering more accessible entertainment options. A Formula Drift experience with professional drivers commanded $75 per ride, adding to the premium experience.
The car show component displayed rare vehicles including a Bugatti EB110 and vintage rally cars, though organizers acknowledged the display could expand to feel more inclusive of local car clubs and collectors. The track hosted multiple racing events, from Porsche Cup races to vintage motorcycle competitions and hill-climb events, with impressive entries including a modified Tesla that won its class.
Construction projects are actively underway to expand hospitality infrastructure. Plans include cabins, condos, and overnight accommodations for members and guests, though these facilities remain incomplete. Shade structures are notably absent in most areas outside restricted lounges, a practical concern given the desert location’s extreme temperatures and occasional sandstorms. Proper protection from the elements remains essential for vehicles stored at the facility.
What’s Coming Next
The ownership partnership has promised substantial future developments. Open test-and-tune days are planned for members, along with instructional track days. Most ambitiously, leadership has discussed bringing Goodwood-style events (inspired by the legendary British automotive gathering) to Willow Springs within the next two years. These events would position the track as a destination venue for serious collectors and enthusiasts willing to travel for marquee automotive experiences.
Current members expressed satisfaction with the track’s “soul” and appreciation for improvements being made while maintaining historical authenticity. However, the extent to which mainstream racing fans and casual visitors will have future access remains unclear. The VIP-focused direction appears intentional, raising questions about whether future events will prioritize premium experiences over broad public participation.
Bottom Line for Car Buyers
If you’re a car enthusiast considering membership at a premier racing facility, Willow Springs has clearly made serious capital investments and demonstrated operational competence. The facility is worth evaluating if you can afford the membership premium. For budget-conscious performance-oriented buyers, however, the members-only model creates a new barrier. Track enthusiasts managing multiple vehicles should research remaining public-access options in Southern California, as private facilities continue consolidating under membership-only models.
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