10 Best Camping Cars & SUVs for 2025

 

When you're heading into the wilderness, the right ride makes all the difference. Whether you’re navigating steep gravel paths or packing for a weekend off-grid, these cars and SUVs are ready to roll.

But first—what makes a car great for camping?

Here are a few things to consider:

AWD and 4WD

Access roads to campgrounds aren’t always smooth. All-wheel or four-wheel drive gives you the confidence to tackle uneven terrain or unexpected weather conditions.

Towing Power

Whether you're hauling a teardrop trailer or a fishing boat, make sure your vehicle can handle the load. A small camper can weigh around 5,000 pounds, so plan accordingly.

Cargo Capacity

You’ll need space for tents, sleeping bags, coolers, and all the rest. Look for vehicles with flexible interiors (fold-flat seats are gold) and optional roof rails for extra gear.

Camping Accessories

From rooftop tents to truck-bed mattresses, today’s outdoor vehicles come with all kinds of add-ons to elevate your trip.

Now, here are our 10 favourite camping-ready vehicles for 2025.

1. Subaru Outback

2024 Subaru Outback Wilderness | Photo: Steve Lagreca - stock.adobe.com 

The Subaru Outback continues to be the go-to crossover for outdoor enthusiasts. With its all-wheel drive system standard, generous cargo space, and rugged trim options like the Wilderness, it’s ready for off-road adventures, rough terrain, and extended camping trips with ease. Whether you're tackling tight trails or packing for family camping trips, this off-road vehicle delivers a smooth ride, ample ground clearance, and flexible space for all your camping gear.

Wilderness Specs

• Engine: 2.4L Turbocharged Subaru Boxer, AWD
  
• Towing: Up to 3,500 lbs
  
• Cargo space: 75.6 cu. ft. (rear seats folded)
  
• Fuel economy: 9.7L/100km (combined)
  

2. Toyota 4Runner

2025 Toyota 4Runner TRD Off-Road | Photo: Toyota 

The 4Runner stays true to its roots—tough, off-road capable, and ideal for hauling heavy gear. It’s built for off-road enthusiasts seeking a rugged off-road vehicle with ample cargo space, making it a reliable companion for camping trips, rocky trails, and remote campsites. The TRD Off-Road trim adds serious off-road performance features like a locking rear differential, Crawl Control, Multi-Terrain Select, and skid plates. With ample ground clearance and durable body-on-frame construction, it’s a favourite among camping enthusiasts looking for durability and flexibility on longer camping trips.

TRD Off-Road Specs

• Engine: 4.0L V6, 4WD
  
• Towing: Up to 5,000 lbs
  
• Cargo space: Up to 89.7 cu. ft.
  
• Fuel economy: 13.5L/100km (combined)
  

3. Jeep Cherokee Trailhawk

2024 Jeep Cherokee Trailhawk | Photo: Maestro7 - stock.adobe.com 

Still built for trailblazing, but now with more space and comfort than the Wrangler, the Grand Cherokee Trailhawk is your best bet for serious off-roading without sacrificing interior comfort. It’s equipped with off road suspension, skid plates, and an all-wheel drive system that’s made for rocky trails and rugged terrain. Camping enthusiasts seeking the perfect camping vehicle will appreciate its smooth ride, fold-down seats, and ample cargo space for all your camping gear. Whether you're headed to a remote campsite or tackling tight trails, the Grand Cherokee delivers capability and confidence.

Trailhawk Specs

• Engine: 2.0L Turbo PHEV or 3.6L V6, 4WD
  
• Towing: Up to 6,000 lbs
  
• Cargo space: 70.8 cu. ft.
  
• Fuel economy: 10.5L/100km (combined)
  

4. Jeep Wrangler 4Xe

2025 Jeep Wrangler 4Xe | Photo: Erman Gunes - stock.adobe.com 

If there was a list of vehicles synonymous with an outdoor lifestyle, the Jeep Wrangler would inevitably be atop the list. For decades the Wrangler has represented backcountry escape and rugged performance. The 2-door Wrangler Rubicon is not a first choice for those in need of cargo space. It tops out around 32 cubic feet, meaning hauling a family of four to the campsite could be a challenge in terms of bringing all your gear. But if your campsite is high up on a mountain, this compact 4x4 will get you there confidently thanks in part to its heavy-duty suspension with gas shocks, tow hooks (rear and back), and cargo tie-down loops.

Wrangler 4xe Specs

• Engine & drivetrain: 2.0L Turbo PHEV, 4WD
  
• Towing: Up to 3,500 pounds
  
• Cargo space: Up to 72.4 cu. ft. (seats folded)
  
• Fuel economy: 4.8Le/100km (electric + gas combined)

5. Nissan Pathfinder Rock Creek Edition

2025 Nissan Pathfinder Rock Creek Edition | Photo: Виталий Сова - stock.adobe.com 

The Pathfinder is built for family camping trips and rugged weekend escapes alike. With seating for up to eight, fold-down rows for flexible cargo space, and a strong AWD system, it’s ideal for camping adventures that demand both comfort and power. The Rock Creek Edition adds off road suspension, all-terrain tires, and roof rails—making it a reliable off road vehicle for longer camping trips. Whether you're hauling camping gear or towing a small trailer to a remote campsite, the Pathfinder delivers ample room, smooth ride quality, and off-road capabilities that make all the difference.

Rock Creek Specs

• Engine: 3.5L V6, AWD
  
• Towing: Up to 6,000 lbs
  
• Cargo space: Up to 80.5 cu. ft.
  
• Fuel economy: 10.3L/100km (combined)
  

6. Ford Expedition Tremor

2025 Ford Expedition Tremor | Photo: Ford 

If your idea of camping includes bringing everything, the Ford Expedition is your ultimate gear-hauler. With seating for up to eight and cavernous cargo space, it’s a top pick for extended camping trips. The Tremor trim adds off road suspension, skid plates, a two-speed transfer case, and ample ground clearance—making it ideal for rocky trails and outdoor adventures. It handles rough terrain with confidence and includes a Terrain Management System to adapt to various surfaces. Whether you're towing a camper or packing for a family camping trip, this rugged off road vehicle offers all the space and power you need.

Tremor Specs

• Engine: 3.5L EcoBoost V6, 4WD
  
• Towing: Up to 9,200 lbs (with Max Trailer Tow)
  
• Cargo space: Up to 104.6 cu. ft.
  
• Fuel economy: 13L/100km (combined)

7. Ford Bronco

2024 Ford Bronco Raptor | Photo: Mike Mareen - stock.adobe.com 

The Bronco remains a fan-favourite among off road enthusiasts thanks to its rugged build, removable doors, and terrain-ready drive modes. The Everglades and Raptor trims ramp up the Bronco’s off road performance, but even the base model handles rocky trails, rough terrain, and tight trails with ease. It’s a perfect camping vehicle for adventurers who want to explore remote campsites or trailheads. With ample cargo room, a locking rear differential, and G.O.A.T. Modes™, the Bronco was built for outdoor adventures that don’t stick to the pavement.

Base Specs

• Engine: 2.3L EcoBoost I4, 4WD
  
• Towing: Up to 3,500 lbs
  
• Cargo space: Up to 83 cu. ft.
  
• Fuel economy: 11.8L/100km (combined)

8. Subaru Forester Wilderness

2025 Subaru Forester Wilderness Edition | Photo: Subaru 

A smaller footprint with big capability. The Forester is one of the most fuel-efficient AWD SUVs on this list and still manages decent towing and flexible cargo space. It’s a smart choice for solo or small-group camping adventures, offering a smooth ride and impressive off road capabilities. The Wilderness trim includes all-terrain tires, off road suspension, and ample ground clearance to confidently navigate rough terrain and tight trails. With its all-wheel drive system, EyeSight driver assist technology, and compact size, it’s the perfect camping vehicle for those looking to pack light and venture far.

Wilderness Specs

• Engine: 2.5L Boxer 4-cylinder, AWD
  
• Towing: Up to 3,000 lbs
  
• Cargo space: 69.1 cu. ft.
  
• Fuel economy: 9.2L/100km (combined)
  

9. Toyota RAV4 Trail Edition

2025 Toyota Rav4 Trail Edition | Photo: Toyota 

The Toyota RAV4 Trail Edition brings rugged capability to one of Canada’s best-selling SUVs. Designed for camping enthusiasts and off road adventures, it features an advanced all-wheel drive system with dynamic torque vectoring, a multi-terrain select mode, and bridge-type roof rails perfect for hauling your camping gear or rooftop tent. It offers ample ground clearance and a comfortable ride, making it ideal for car camping, road trips, and weekend getaways. With flexible cargo space and solid fuel efficiency, the RAV4 Trail makes all the difference on your next camping trip—especially when the road gets rough.

Trail Specs

• Engine: 2.5L 4-cylinder DOHC, AWD
  
• Towing: Up to 3,500 lbs
  
• Cargo space: Up to 69.8 cu. ft.
  
• Fuel economy: 8.4L/100km (combined)
  

10. Hyundai Santa Cruz XRT

2025 Hyundai Santa Cruz XRT | Photo: jetcityimage - stock.adobe.com 

A compact truck that camps like a crossover. The Santa Cruz XRT trim features all-terrain tires, beefy bumpers, and skid plates—plus a 4.3-ft bed for your gear. It’s a great option for camping enthusiasts seeking off road capability in a smaller, city-friendly footprint. The all-wheel drive system, off road suspension, and ample ground clearance make it surprisingly capable on rough terrain and gravel roads. With enough power to tow your trailer and enough storage for all your camping essentials, the Santa Cruz XRT is a perfect companion for outdoor adventures and remote weekend getaways.

XRT Specs

• Engine: 2.5L Turbo, AWD
  
• Towing: Up to 5,000 lbs
  
• Bed Length: 4.3 ft
  
• Fuel economy: 10.6L/100km (combined)

 

Best SUVs for Camper Conversions (Vanlife Vibes, SUV-Style)

If you’re thinking beyond tents and dreaming about sleeping in your vehicle, these SUV models offer enough space, flat-folding seats, and modular options for a DIY camper setup.

▸ Kia Telluride

2025 Hyundai Telluride | Photo: Kia 

The 2025 Kia Telluride remains a favourite among camping enthusiasts thanks to its spacious interior, comfort-focused design, and versatile cargo layout. Flat-folding second and third rows create a level sleeping surface—perfect for DIY camper setups and longer camping trips. Many trims include an all-wheel drive system and ample ground clearance, making it suitable for light off-road adventures and access to more remote campsites. It’s ideal for car camping with the family, especially when comfort and flexibility are key.

▸ Hyundai Palisade

2025 Hyundai Palisade | Photo: Виталий Сова - stock.adobe.com 

The Palisade delivers a luxurious camping experience for those who want more than just rugged capability. With its massive interior cabin, ventilated seats, and USB ports throughout, it’s designed for extended camping trips in style. Fold down the seats and you’ll have ample room to sleep or store all your camping gear. Available AWD and a smooth ride make it a solid option for road trips, light off road trails, and camping adventures that prioritize comfort without sacrificing capability.

▸ Chevrolet Suburban

2025 Chevrolet Suburban | Photo: Erman Gunes - stock.adobe.com 

It’s basically a tiny home on wheels. The Suburban offers immense cargo space, fold-down seating, and enough interior length to sleep two adults side-by-side. Whether you’re packing for a long road trip or heading off to a remote campsite, it has all the room you need for camping gear, a mattress platform, and more. With 4WD available, impressive towing power, and rugged off-road capabilities, it’s a go-to for camping enthusiasts seeking space, durability, and flexibility.

▸ Toyota Sequoia

2023 Toyota Sequoia | Photo: Виталий Сова - stock.adobe.com 

The Toyota Sequoia combines a powerful hybrid powertrain with off road capabilities and serious cargo space. It offers improved fuel efficiency for extended camping trips and enough space for a full platform bed conversion. With fold-down seats, available AWD, skid plates, and off road suspension, the Sequoia is built to handle rough terrain while still offering a comfortable ride. Perfect for camping enthusiasts who need ample room and the ability to venture beyond the beaten path.

▸ Bonus: Ford Transit Connect

Ford Transit Connect | Photo: Ford 

Though it’s not an SUV, the Ford Transit Connect remains a top pick for camping enthusiasts focused on practicality, space, and ease of conversion. Its tall roofline, flat load floor, and customizable interior make it a blank canvas for car camping or DIY micro-camper builds. While it’s not designed for off-road adventures or rugged terrain, it’s perfect for paved road trips, urban vanlife setups, or reaching well-maintained campsites. You’ll have ample storage space for camping gear, plus room to sleep in comfort—all in a compact, fuel-efficient package.

 

Final Thoughts

Whether you’re towing a trailer, pitching a tent, or turning your SUV into a cozy camper, the right vehicle transforms a basic road trip into a memorable outdoor experience. The good news? There’s never been more options for every camping style and budget. From rugged off road vehicles with skid plates and locking rear differentials to crossover SUVs offering impressive fuel efficiency and fold-down seats, today's camping vehicles are built for versatility. Whether you're navigating tight trails to a remote campsite or packing for a family camping trip, the right vehicle makes all the difference—turning outdoor adventures into unforgettable memories.

 

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