Small RVs That You Can Take Anywhere
Are you avoiding dirt roads in your RV? If so, you could be missing out on some of the best locations.
For some people, sticking to RV-friendly routes and camping at popular RV parks is the norm. But for many, a little more adventure and less crowded areas are the keys to a great trip.
Can I use my regular RV on any terrain?
Most RVs are designed and built for on-road use; when used off-road, they can be damaged easily. Ground clearance is a big issue, along with components that are not designed for the toll that rough dirt roads and terrain demand.
Going off-road doesn’t always mean rocky mountain terrain and trails made for Jeeps. Having an RV to confidently take on rural dirt roads, unserviced roads, or roads that aren’t traveled often can lead to some awesome adventures!
Any camper can be taken off the highway within reason. A larger motorhome will be more difficult to maneuver and recover if you have issues, this is where a small RV has benefits. Rough dirt roads, rocky roads, and uneven ground can take a toll on RV components.
Are you looking to get off the beaten path? If so, having an RV designed for these conditions can make your travel more enjoyable for multiple reasons. From a towing confidence standpoint, they are great. Have you turned down a dirt road and asked, “Can we make it?”
A second big thing is not having to repair tires, suspensions, underbelly, and side panels. These repairs can add up over time. So, what is the best small RV for exploring dirt roads and taking your own path?
To cover a larger group of RVers, we’ll look at two great RVs capable of dirt road touring. The first RV is a purpose-built, high-end off-road camper, and the second is a very capable, yet more affordable option.
Black Series HQ 12
Black Series campers are serious off-road RVs that can go anywhere you can tow them. Sometimes dirt roads lead to rougher dirt roads or unused trails, and why stop if you don’t have to? With the Black Series HQ 12, you will always have an RV ready to tackle any route you choose.
Black Series offers small to mid-sized campers ranging from 12 feet to 22 feet long. The HQ 12 is the smallest model and features a pop-up hard top.
All of the campers are purpose designed and built for rough terrain and durability. The prices reflect this, as all components are high quality, with no expenses spared in materials or build.
Another reality about a camper of this quality is that they weigh more. The HQ 12 is right around 4,400 pounds of solid off-road camper.
Everywhere you look on this model, you’ll find unique features and options that make it perfect for towing anywhere you decide to go. You can get a full list of details at the Black Series website, but here are a few of the extra cool features.
HQ 12 Standard Features
- 12″ of ground clearance
- 265/75/16 off-road tires with 2 full-size spares
- 16″ powder-coated wheels
- Dual shock absorber independent suspension
- 360-degree aluminum diamond plate protection
- Full-length skid bars
- Recovery hooks
- Armored chassis with protected wiring for water crossing
- Anti-decoupling hitch system
Winnebago Hike 100
The name Winnebago needs no introduction. Not as well known for its towable RVs, Winnebago has a great RV for dirt road adventures.
The Hike 100 is the newest Hike model, measuring 15.8 feet. The Hike also offers a 20 and 25-foot model for extra room. The smaller Hike 100 option is great for exploring outside your roadside campgrounds.
Although not a full off-road RV, the Hike 100 is perfectly suited for dirt road travel and areas with light terrain. Build quality is on par with Winnebago’s reputation, and they have included some great features for those looking to get off the asphalt.
An off-road RV is going to cost you more in general compared to a standard RV. Also, weights can often be higher compared to a similar standard model. The Winnebago Hike 100 is a great option for a lightweight, affordable camper that isn’t afraid to get dirty.
Here are a few of the features that allow the Hike 100 to get you to your favorite spot. Full specs and options are at Winnebago.com.
Winnebago Hike 100 Features
- 225/75/16 Goodyear off-road tires
- Offset wheels and axle lift
- 7′ width for better rear visibility while towing
- Steel exoskeleton for body and undercarriage protection
- Fully enclosed underbelly and tanks
Going beyond the crowded streets to the rural back roads often leads to great sites and adventures. Being confident that your RV has the ability to get you there and back without beating it up will make the trip more enjoyable.
For all of your camping and trip planning needs, look no further than RV LIFE Campground Reviews and RV LIFE Trip Wizard. Campground Reviews is a trusted source of campground and RV park reviews offered by camping and RV enthusiasts just like you. With its accompanying RV LIFE App, RV Trip Wizard gets you to your camping destinations utilizing RV-friendly routes specific to your travel preferences.
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You should have brought up the topic of airing down tires. This goes a very long way to reducing the damage potential on any vehicle, whether it’s the trailer or the tow vehicle.