The Dallas Cowboys are negotiating to continue holding their training camp in Southern California.

Dallas Cowboys in Talks to Keep Training Camp in Southern California: A Long-Standing Relationship

The Dallas Cowboys are one of the most iconic franchises in the National Football League (NFL), boasting a rich history and a global fan base. Part of their success on the field has been attributed to their ability to stay ahead of the competition by consistently honing their skills and preparing meticulously during the offseason. A significant element of this preparation is their annual training camp, an event that has garnered much attention over the years due to its location, its facilities, and the fan engagement that it fosters. In recent years, the Cowboys’ training camp has taken place in Southern California, a location that has become synonymous with the team’s preparation. Recent discussions indicate that the team and the city of Oxnard are in talks to keep the Cowboys’ training camp in California for the foreseeable future. These talks come as part of the ongoing effort to extend their mutually beneficial relationship, which has flourished over the years.

History of the Cowboys’ Training Camps in California

The relationship between the Dallas Cowboys and California dates back several decades. In 1963, the Cowboys held their first-ever training camp in California at California Lutheran University in Thousand Oaks. The franchise was beginning to establish itself as a prominent force in the NFL, and California, with its ideal weather conditions, provided a perfect environment for the team to prepare. This initial stint lasted until 1989, after which the Cowboys explored several other locations for their training camps. The franchise then took a brief hiatus from California before making a grand return in 2001, setting up camp in Oxnard, a coastal city located in Ventura County.

The Oxnard Partnership

Oxnard, with its temperate climate and proximity to Los Angeles, offered a unique opportunity for the Cowboys. The city not only provided excellent weather conditions for training but also helped to bolster the team’s brand, especially in the southern California region, where a significant portion of the Cowboys’ fan base resides. The partnership between Oxnard and the Cowboys has been mutually beneficial, with both parties seeing substantial rewards.

For the Dallas Cowboys

For the Cowboys, maintaining a training camp in Southern California has allowed them to tap into a broader fan base. Los Angeles, being one of the largest sports markets in the United States, provides an unparalleled platform for the team to connect with existing and new fans alike. The presence of the Cowboys in California has also offered a chance for media exposure and promotional opportunities. Fans flock to Oxnard each year, creating an atmosphere of excitement and anticipation that resonates throughout the region.

Moreover, the proximity to Los Angeles provides a logistical advantage, as players and coaches are able to easily travel to other key NFL markets if necessary. This has led to enhanced visibility for the team as they prepare for the season ahead. It is not only about football; the Cowboys’ training camp in Oxnard is also a spectacle, a celebration of the sport and the Cowboys’ rich legacy.

For the City of Oxnard

The city of Oxnard has also reaped numerous benefits from this relationship. Hosting one of the most recognizable teams in sports has done wonders for the local economy. An economic impact study conducted in previous years found that the annual event brought in significant revenue, with more than 50,000 people attending the Cowboys’ training camp every year. This surge in visitors translates to millions of dollars being spent on local hotels, restaurants, and other services.

Additionally, the presence of the Cowboys has elevated Oxnard’s status, putting it on the map as a destination for NFL fans. While the city itself is relatively small compared to Los Angeles or other major metropolitan areas, the training camp has made it an essential stop for any NFL enthusiast visiting California. The local businesses benefit from this influx of people, especially during the summer months when the training camp takes place.

The Economic Impact of the Cowboys’ Training Camp

The economic benefits of the Cowboys’ training camp extend far beyond just Oxnard. Ventura County as a whole, including nearby cities, sees a considerable boost in tourism during the summer months when the team is in town. As fans travel to the area to attend the camp, they spend money on lodging, dining, transportation, and other local attractions.

The training camp also creates job opportunities for local residents, as temporary positions in areas like hospitality, security, and event management are required to accommodate the large number of visitors. This has a positive ripple effect throughout the local economy, and many Oxnard residents look forward to the event each year.

For example, hotels and motels experience increased bookings, especially during the opening weeks of camp when the Cowboys’ fan base is most active. Restaurants and local eateries often see a spike in business, with fans eager to experience the local culture and cuisine while attending the training camp. The increased foot traffic also benefits local retailers, many of whom capitalize on the Cowboys’ brand by selling team merchandise to visiting fans.

The long-term impact of this economic boost cannot be overstated, as the city of Oxnard has become accustomed to the annual event, which has become a staple of its summer economy.

The Current Negotiations

As of February 2025, reports indicate that the Cowboys and the city of Oxnard are currently engaged in discussions regarding the continuation of their partnership. Both parties have expressed a desire to maintain the status quo, which has been highly successful for both the Cowboys and the city. However, the specific terms of any potential extension have not been disclosed.

According to sources, the Cowboys are keen on securing a multi-year deal with the city of Oxnard, ensuring that their training camp remains in Southern California for the foreseeable future. While the Cowboys have expressed satisfaction with the facilities and the location, they are also looking for continued improvements that could enhance the overall experience for the team and their fans.

The negotiations are focused on ensuring that both the team and the city continue to see significant returns from the partnership. The Cowboys are not only interested in providing top-notch facilities for their players but also want to ensure that their fans have an enjoyable experience at the training camp. Oxnard, for its part, is eager to maintain the economic windfall generated by the annual event and further solidify its relationship with the Cowboys.

At the time of writing, it is expected that these negotiations will result in an official extension of the partnership, allowing the Cowboys to continue holding their training camps in Oxnard for several more years. The decision will ultimately benefit both the team and the local community, cementing the long-standing bond between the Cowboys and Southern California.

What This Means for the Future of the Cowboys’ Training Camps

If the negotiations are successful, the Cowboys will continue to make Southern California their home for training camp, a location that has served them well over the years. For the team, this is an opportunity to continue their connection with a region that is central to their fan base. The Cowboys have a passionate following in California, and holding training camp in the state provides them with an opportunity to engage with those fans in person. This level of fan interaction is invaluable for building the Cowboys’ brand, especially in a region that is home to millions of potential supporters.

For Oxnard, this extension will ensure the continued influx of tourism and economic benefits. The city’s businesses will continue to thrive, and Oxnard will remain a key destination for NFL fans, with the Cowboys’ training camp acting as a major annual event that puts the city on the map.

 A Partnership Built to Last

The ongoing talks between the Dallas Cowboys and the city of Oxnard are indicative of a partnership that has stood the test of time. Since 2001, the Cowboys have enjoyed a productive and beneficial relationship with the city, leveraging California’s favorable climate and thriving fan base to set the stage for another successful NFL season. The economic impact, the community engagement, and the enhanced visibility for the Cowboys and the city of Oxnard are just a few of the reasons why this partnership has proven to be successful.

As the Cowboys move forward with their offseason preparations, the expectation is that the team’s training camp will remain a fixture in Southern California for many years to come. For both the Cowboys and Oxnard, this partnership is not only about football; it’s about community, tradition, and shared success. Fans of the Cowboys can look forward to continuing to see their team train in the heart of California, while Oxnard’s economy and identity will continue to thrive as a key location for one of the NFL’s most popular teams.