Moreover, I got just as sun burned and had MORE mosquito bites than the racers did. General camping skills are a plus, but be especially prepared for the HEAT . A small stove, a pot and a spoon is all you need. Wear light cool clothing and a hat. A battery operated fan would be a luxury.
Tents are OK, but they take time to set up and take down.
I slept in my van and occasionally on a cot in the open by the river. If you have enough time, you can catch a quick shower at the Bastrop State Park. That way you will smell better than your crew at the finish line, but I guarantee they won't notice. Some sections of the river are much faster than others. They will be pretty out of it towards the end of the race.