Patrick's parents, T.J. and Bev Patrick, met on a blind date at a snowmobile event in the 1970s when Bev was a mechanic for a friend's snowmobile. T.J. raced snowmobiles, motocross, and midget cars. They have owned a Java Hut and a plate glass company. Currently, T.J. helps his daughter by driving her motor coach, and managing her Web site and merchandise trailer. Bev handles the ins and outs of her business needs.

Prior to getting into auto racing, she was a cheerleader at Hononegah High School near Beloit in 1996.

Patrick is married to Paul Edward Hospenthal, who had previously been her physical therapist. She won the 2008 Kids Choice Award for favorite female athlete.