The 12 Best Trucks For Camping

Not all trucks are equally suited for car camping. Some have more space, more features, or more off-road capability than others. To help you find the best truck for your next car camping adventure, we have compiled a list of 12 trucks that excel in different aspects of car camping. Whether you are looking for a spacious full-size, a rugged midsize, or a versatile compact, there is a truck for you on this list.

 

ARE PICKUP TRUCKS GOOD FOR TRUCK CAMPING? 

1. Versatility: Pickup trucks offer a lot of flexibility. You can use the truck bed for sleeping or carrying camping gear. With the right setup, you can convert the bed into a comfortable sleeping area.

2. Durability: Pickup trucks are built to handle rough terrains, making them ideal for off-road camping adventures. They can take you to remote locations that other vehicles might struggle to reach.

3. Storage Space: The truck bed provides ample space for storing all your camping essentials, from tents and sleeping bags to coolers and cooking gear. You can even install a camper shell or a bed tent for added protection and comfort.

4. Towing Capability: If you have a larger camper or trailer, a pickup truck’s towing capacity makes it a great option for hauling your home away from home.

5. Comfort: Modern pickup trucks often come with comfortable cabins and amenities, making long trips more enjoyable. Some models also offer features like climate control, entertainment systems, and advanced safety features.

6. Customization: There are numerous aftermarket accessories available for pickup trucks, allowing you to customize your truck camping setup. You can add things like bed liners, storage boxes, roof racks, and more to enhance your camping experience.

Ford F-150

Image source: Ford

Ford F-150 The Ford F-150 is the best-selling truck in America, and for good reason. It offers a wide range of options and features that make it a great choice for car camping. It has a spacious cabin that can seat up to six people, and a large bed that can fit a truck tent, a tonneau cover, or a camper shell, depending on your preference. The F-150 can tow up to 14,000 pounds, which means you can bring along a trailer, a boat, or a jet ski. It also has a 12-inch touchscreen, a wireless hotspot, and a Bang & Olufsen sound system that keep you connected and entertained on the road. Some of its advantages for car camping are:

• Pro Power Onboard and Power Tailgate for providing electricity and convenience at your campsite
• Trail Control and Terrain Management System for optimal off-road performance
• Zone Lighting and Tailgate Work Surface for enhancing visibility and functionality
• Five engine options to choose from, including a hybrid and a diesel

Toyota Tacoma

Image source: Toyota

Toyota Tacoma The Toyota Tacoma is a reliable and capable midsize truck that can handle any terrain and weather. It has a durable body and a 4x4 system that can conquer any trail. It also has a roomy cabin that can seat up to five people, and a 5-foot or 6-foot bed that can fit a truck tent, a bed rack, or a rooftop tent, depending on your needs. The Tacoma can tow up to 6,800 pounds, which means you can bring along a small camper or a trailer. It also has a 8-inch touchscreen, a wireless charger, and a JBL sound system that keeps you connected and entertained on the road. Some of its advantages for car camping are:

• Multi-Terrain Select and Crawl Control for superior traction and control
• Composite Bed and Deck Rail System for durability and versatility
• Panoramic View Monitor and Multi-Terrain Monitor for enhanced visibility and safety
• 120-volt power outlet in the bed and 10 cup holders in the cabin
• Two engine options to choose from, a 2.7-liter four-cylinder and a 3.5-liter V6

Jeep Gladiator

Image source: Jeep

The Jeep Gladiator emerges as an exemplary choice for camping enthusiasts, blending Jeep's renowned off-road prowess with the practicality of a pickup truck. Its defining feature is the advanced 4x4 system, tailored for navigating tough terrains, a boon for reaching secluded campsites. The Gladiator's bed, measuring over five feet in length, provides ample and adaptable space for all camping necessities, from tents to coolers. A key aspect is its impressive towing capacity, clocking in at up to 7,650 pounds, which accommodates a variety of trailers and camping accessories. The vehicle’s interior doesn’t skimp on comfort, offering spacious seating and modern amenities, crucial for long journeys to nature retreats. Unique to the Gladiator is its convertible nature; the ability to remove the roof and doors invites a profound open-air experience, immersing occupants in their natural surroundings. Furthermore, the Gladiator is equipped with sophisticated navigation and infotainment systems, ensuring connectivity and guidance even off the beaten path. These features collectively render the Jeep Gladiator not just a mode of transport, but an integral and dynamic component of the camping experience.

• Advanced 4x4 System: Facilitates access to challenging terrains and remote camping locations.
• Spacious and Versatile Bed: Over five feet of length for comprehensive gear storage.
• High Towing Capacity: Up to 7,650 pounds, suitable for a variety of trailers and camping equipment.
• Convertible Open-Air Design: Removable roof and doors for an immersive outdoor experience.
• Integrated Navigation and Infotainment: Ensures connectivity and entertainment in isolated areas.

Ram 1500

Image source: Ram Trucks

The Ram 1500 stands out as a formidable choice for camping enthusiasts, offering a harmonious blend of comfort, capability, and versatility. A hallmark of the Ram 1500 is its spacious and innovative bed design, featuring the available RamBox® Cargo Management System, which provides weatherproof, lockable storage integrated into the bed rails. This feature is a game-changer for securely storing camping gear. The truck's robust towing capacity, capable of handling up to 12,750 pounds, allows campers to easily tow large trailers or boats. On rough terrain, the Ram 1500's air suspension system ensures a smooth and controlled ride, enhancing off-road capability. Inside, the cabin boasts luxurious comfort and advanced technology, making long drives to remote campsites a pleasure. The truck's Uconnect® system offers navigation and connectivity, keeping you on course and connected even in off-grid areas. Additionally, the Ram 1500's fuel efficiency, particularly in its EcoDiesel variant, makes it an economical choice for long-distance travel. These features make the Ram 1500 not just a vehicle, but a reliable and luxurious companion for outdoor adventures.

• RamBox® Cargo Management System: Offers innovative, secure storage solutions integrated into the bed.
• High Towing Capacity: Capable of towing up to 12,750 pounds, suitable for large trailers and boats.
• Air Suspension System: Provides a smooth ride, enhancing off-road capability and comfort.
• Luxurious Interior with Advanced Technology: Ensures comfort and connectivity on long journeys.
• Fuel Efficiency: Especially with the EcoDiesel variant, ideal for economical long-distance travel.

Honda Ridgeline

Image source: Car and Driver

The Honda Ridgeline is a unique pick for camping enthusiasts who value comfort and innovation. Unlike traditional trucks, the Ridgeline offers a unibody construction, which contributes to a smoother, more car-like ride, ideal for long drives to campgrounds. Its 5-foot bed includes a lockable In-Bed Trunk®, providing a secure and watertight storage space, perfect for sensitive camping gear. This trunk also houses a drain plug, allowing it to double as a cooler. Notably, the Ridgeline features a dual-action tailgate that can be opened down or swung out, offering easier access to the bed. Its towing capacity, while more modest at 5,000 pounds, is sufficient for smaller trailers and boats. Inside, the Ridgeline presents a comfortable and tech-savvy cabin, with features like Apple CarPlay® and Android Auto™ for seamless smartphone integration. Additionally, its all-wheel-drive system, though not as rugged as some competitors, provides ample capability for light off-road adventures. These attributes make the Honda Ridgeline a versatile and comfortable choice for camping trips.

• Unibody Construction: Ensures a smooth, car-like ride.
• Innovative In-Bed Trunk®: Provides secure, watertight storage with a drain plug.
• Dual-Action Tailgate: Offers versatile access to the truck bed.
• Moderate Towing Capacity: Adequate for towing smaller trailers at 5,000 pounds.
• Advanced Cabin Technology: Includes features like Apple CarPlay® and Android Auto™ for connectivity.

Chevrolet Colorado

Image source: Car and Driver

The Chevrolet Colorado emerges as a strong contender in the realm of camping-friendly vehicles, offering a blend of utility and comfort that appeals to outdoor enthusiasts. Its standout feature is the versatile bed, available in two sizes (5-foot-2-inch and 6-foot-2-inch), providing ample space for all camping gear. Enhanced by an array of available bed accessories, such as cargo dividers and tonneau covers, it ensures secure and organized storage. The Colorado's towing capacity is noteworthy, capable of hauling up to 7,700 pounds when properly equipped, making it ideal for towing camping trailers or boats. The off-road prowess, particularly in the ZR2 model, is exceptional, featuring a lifted suspension and advanced 4x4 capabilities, allowing access to remote and rugged camping sites. Inside, the Colorado offers a comfortable and user-friendly cabin, with modern tech amenities to keep occupants connected and entertained. Its fuel efficiency, especially in the diesel variant, is a significant advantage for long-distance camping trips. These features make the Chevrolet Colorado a practical, versatile, and enjoyable companion for any camping adventure.

• Versatile Bed Options: Two sizes with customizable accessories for organized storage.
• Impressive Towing Capacity: Up to 7,700 pounds, suitable for various trailers and boats.
• Off-Road Capability: Especially in the ZR2 model, ideal for accessing remote areas.
• Comfortable and Tech-Savvy Cabin: Enhances the overall camping experience.
• Fuel Efficiency: Particularly in the diesel variant, beneficial for long trips.

Nissan Titan

Image source: Nissan USA

The Nissan Titan stands as a robust choice for camping enthusiasts, blending power with functionality. One of its core strengths is the powerful 5.6-liter V8 engine, which provides ample power and a towing capacity of up to 9,310 pounds, making it well-suited for pulling heavier campers or boats. The Titan’s bed is designed with utility in mind, featuring an available Utili-track® Channel System, which offers adjustable tie-down points to secure a wide range of camping gear efficiently. The truck's interior strikes a balance between ruggedness and comfort, offering a spacious and well-equipped cabin that includes modern infotainment options, perfect for long drives to remote campsites. Additionally, the Titan's robust chassis and suspension contribute to a smooth ride and competent handling, even on rough terrain. The truck also offers a range of driver-assistance features, adding an extra layer of safety for off-road adventures. These attributes position the Nissan Titan as a capable and comfortable vehicle for both the journey and the destination in camping escapades.

• Powerful 5.6-liter V8 Engine: Delivers robust performance for all terrains.
• High Towing Capacity: Up to 9,310 pounds, ideal for towing large camping gear.
• Utili-track® Channel System: Provides flexible and secure gear storage options.
• Comfortable and Equipped Cabin: Ensures a pleasant and connected journey.
• Advanced Safety Features: Offers added security for off-road camping trips.

Toyota Tundra

Image source: Toyota Tundra

The Toyota Tundra is an excellent choice for camping enthusiasts, thanks to its blend of durability, capability, and comfort. Key to its appeal is the robust 5.7-liter V8 engine, offering a blend of power and reliability, essential for both highway travel and off-road adventures. This power translates into an impressive towing capacity of up to 10,200 pounds, making it easy to haul large campers or boats. The Tundra's spacious bed, available in several lengths, is a boon for carrying all sorts of camping equipment, and the available deck rail system allows for versatile and secure storage solutions. Inside, the Tundra offers a roomy and comfortable cabin, equipped with user-friendly technology to make long drives enjoyable. Notably, its off-road capabilities are enhanced in models like the TRD Pro, which includes upgrades like specialized shocks and tires, perfect for navigating challenging terrains to reach remote camping sites. These features, combined with Toyota's reputation for reliability, make the Tundra a reliable and capable companion for camping trips.

• Robust 5.7-liter V8 Engine: Ensures powerful and reliable performance.
• Impressive Towing Capacity: Up to 10,200 pounds, great for hauling large camping gear.
• Versatile Bed with Deck Rail System: Offers adaptable storage solutions for camping equipment.
• Comfortable and Technology-Rich Cabin: Enhances the overall travel experience.
• Enhanced Off-Road Capabilities: Especially in the TRD Pro model, ideal for accessing remote areas.

Ford Maverick

Image source: Ford

The Ford Maverick emerges as a compelling option for camping enthusiasts, particularly those who appreciate compact versatility and efficiency. Its standout feature is the FlexBed™ system, which offers innovative cargo solutions in the 4.5-foot bed, including adjustable tie-downs and a multi-position tailgate, making it adept at securing a variety of camping gear. The Maverick's smaller size does not hinder its capability; it boasts a respectable towing capacity of up to 4,000 pounds with the optional towing package, suitable for small trailers and boats. Notably, it's available in a hybrid model, offering excellent fuel efficiency for long road trips while reducing environmental impact. The interior is surprisingly spacious and modern, equipped with essential technology features, ensuring comfort and connectivity on the journey. Additionally, its nimble handling and maneuverability make it an ideal choice for both urban environments and more remote camping locations. These attributes make the Ford Maverick an innovative, eco-friendly, and practical vehicle for camping adventures.

• Innovative FlexBed™ System: Provides versatile cargo solutions for camping gear.
• Respectable Towing Capacity: Up to 4,000 pounds, perfect for small trailers and boats.
• Hybrid Model Available: Offers excellent fuel efficiency and reduced environmental impact.
• Spacious and Modern Interior: Ensures comfort and connectivity during travel.
• Agile Handling and Maneuverability: Ideal for diverse environments, from urban to rural.

Nissan Frontier

Image source: Nissan News USA

The Nissan Frontier stands as a robust and reliable choice for camping enthusiasts, blending practicality with off-road readiness. A key feature of the Frontier is its powerful engine - a 3.8-liter V6, delivering ample horsepower and torque for navigating both highways and challenging terrains. This power translates to a commendable towing capacity of up to 6,720 pounds, enabling the transport of medium-sized campers or boats. The truck bed, equipped with the Utili-Track® system, offers versatile cargo-carrying capabilities with adjustable tie-downs, crucial for securing a wide range of camping gear. The Frontier's interior strikes a balance between ruggedness and comfort, with a user-friendly design and modern infotainment options, making long drives to campgrounds more enjoyable. Additionally, the Pro-4X trim offers enhanced off-road capabilities, including a rugged suspension and all-terrain tires, ideal for reaching remote camping sites. These features, coupled with Nissan's reputation for durability, make the Frontier a practical and dependable companion for camping adventures.

• Powerful 3.8-liter V6 Engine: Ensures strong performance on various terrains.
• Good Towing Capacity: Up to 6,720 pounds, suitable for hauling campers or boats.
• Utili-Track® Cargo System: Provides flexible and secure gear storage options.
• Comfortable and User-Friendly Interior: Enhances the overall travel experience.
• Pro-4X Off-Road Capability: Ideal for navigating to remote camping locations.

Hyundai Santa Cruz

Image source: Edmunds

The Hyundai Santa Cruz offers a unique blend of crossover comfort and pickup utility, making it a versatile choice for camping enthusiasts. Its standout feature is the compact yet functional bed, equipped with a lockable tonneau cover and an under-bed storage compartment, providing secure and organized space for camping gear. Though smaller in size, the Santa Cruz boasts a respectable towing capacity of up to 5,000 pounds when properly equipped, suitable for small trailers or boats. The vehicle's all-wheel-drive option enhances its capability on varied terrains, offering stability and confidence on off-road trails. Inside, the Santa Cruz features a comfortable, well-appointed cabin with modern infotainment and connectivity options, ensuring a pleasant journey to the campsite. Its compact dimensions and agile handling also make it easy to navigate both urban settings and narrow campsite roads. These features, combined with Hyundai's reputation for reliability and efficiency, position the Santa Cruz as an innovative and practical vehicle for camping adventures.

• Functional Bed with Lockable Cover: Offers secure storage for camping essentials.
• Under-Bed Storage Compartment: Provides additional organized space.
• Respectable Towing Capacity: Up to 5,000 pounds, great for small trailers and boats.
• All-Wheel-Drive Capability: Enhances off-road performance and safety.
• Comfortable and Tech-Equipped Cabin: Ensures a pleasant and connected travel experience.

GMC Canyon

Image source: MotorTrend

The GMC Canyon stands out as a capable and comfortable choice for camping enthusiasts, offering a blend of power, versatility, and comfort. One of the Canyon's key advantages is its engine lineup, including a robust V6 and a torque-rich Duramax® turbo-diesel, both providing ample power for hauling and navigating varied terrains. This power translates into a substantial towing capacity, up to 7,700 pounds with the diesel engine, ideal for towing campers or boats. The truck's bed is thoughtfully designed, featuring the available GMC-exclusive MultiPro™ Tailgate, which enhances loading and unloading convenience for camping gear. Off-road capability is especially prominent in the AT4 model, equipped with off-road suspension and advanced hill descent control, making it suitable for exploring remote camping sites. Inside, the Canyon offers a refined and technologically advanced cabin, ensuring comfort during long drives. These features, combined with GMC's build quality and durability, make the Canyon a reliable and versatile vehicle for camping adventures.

• Powerful Engine Options: Includes a V6 and Duramax® turbo-diesel for strong performance.
• High Towing Capacity: Up to 7,700 pounds, perfect for various camping trailers.
• GMC-Exclusive MultiPro™ Tailgate: Enhances loading efficiency and versatility.
• AT4 Off-Road Capability: Ideal for navigating to challenging camping locations.
• Refined and Advanced Cabin: Offers comfort and connectivity on the road.

Tips for Pickup Truck Camping:

- Bed Setup: Consider getting a truck bed tent or camper shell to create a cozy sleeping area. You can also use an air mattress or foam pad for added comfort.

- Organize Gear: Use storage boxes, bed organizers, and cargo nets to keep your camping gear organized and easily accessible.

- Weather Protection: Make sure to have weatherproof gear and tarps to protect against rain or harsh weather conditions.

- Safety: Always be mindful of wildlife and follow campground rules. Keep a first aid kit and emergency supplies handy.

- Comfort: Bring along camping chairs, portable stoves, and other comfort items to make your camping trip enjoyable.

Overall, pickup trucks provide a great combination of space, durability, and versatility for truck camping, making them a popular choice for outdoor enthusiasts.