While many RV manufacturers are finding new ways to squeeze additional luxuries into their class-level motorhomes and large fifth wheels and travel trailers, the humble popup camper still maintains a large following. You’re just as likely to find new RVers sampling the lifestyle with a popup camper as you would veteran adventurers downsizing to a popup for its back-to-basics camping experience.
Folding campers can provide all the joys of tent camping while adding some the comforts and amenities you’d rather not leave at home. They also ensure you never have to sleep on the ground. In addition, popups are easier to tow for most vehicles because of their low profile and light weight, and easier to park because of their small footprint.
As one of the best-selling manufacturers of tent campers in the United States, Rockwood by Forest River is leading the charge with an assortment of popup campers that offer varying floor plans and levels of amenities. Rockwood prides itself on its superior fit and finish as well as its high levels of standard equipment. The manufacturer produces two main lines with five distinct sub-models.
Rockwood’s entry-level Freedom series keeps much of the extra equipment optional and offers a few arrangements in a stripped-down LTD form for the more value-conscious buyer. Stepping up to the Premier series means owners will enjoy a fiberglass exterior less prone to denting, an independent suspension less likely to suffer from axle hop, a standard lift mechanism for easier setup and a larger assortment of storage options. The interior of the Premier models also offers more standard amenities, including innerspring mattresses — an important consideration for those RVers who want to ensure restful sleep for longer trips.
The Premier line has two distinct offshoots. The High Wall series provides up to 8 inches more headroom plus additional amenities not found in other models, including an oven, microwave, bathroom enclosure with holding tank, larger fridge, double sinks and a galley that you don’t have to swing down for transport. The Hard Side line is for those willing to sacrifice a little interior space and sleeping accommodations for solid walls that are quickly erected.
Not that you will spend too much time erecting a standard popup campup. As you can see in the time-lapse video, setup is easy and typically takes only 30 minutes for one person at a leisurely pace.
Whether you’re a first-time RV buyer or someone downsizing from a motorhome, you’ll find that a Rockwood popup camper from Forest River makes “roughing it” significantly less rough, while still allowing you to immerse yourself in nature with a full camping experience.
Subscribe to receive updates on this series