Choosing the right vehicle can make or break your caravan. Whether you are planning a weekend getaway in local state parks or starting cross-country campaigns, your choice of transport directly affects comfort, convenience, and total experience. The best cars for camping in 2025 combine reliability, storage capacity, terrain capacity, and modern technology to increase all aspects of their external journey.

When evaluating vehicles for clay purposes, many important factors are worth ideas. The cargo space determines how much equipment you can bring, while ground clearance and four-wheel drive capacity affect your ability to reach remote camps. If you are planning to carry trailers or boats, trailer capacity becomes necessary, and fuel efficiency affects your budget during long road trips. Internal comfort, equipment charging functions, and the toughest conditions meet the criteria required to select the CAM vehicles.

1. SUVs and Crossovers

Subaru Outback Wilderness (2025)

The 2025 Subaru Outback Wilderness stands out among the best cars for road trips and camping with its rugged design and practical features. This lifted wagon offers 9.5 inches of ground clearance, standard all-wheel drive, and 32.5 cubic feet of cargo space behind the rear seats. The roof rails can handle up to 220 pounds, perfect for rooftop tents or cargo boxes.

Pros: Excellent fuel economy (26/33 mpg), reliable boxer engine, comfortable seating for five, and proven durability. The X-Mode system enhances off-road capability, while the large windows provide excellent visibility during scenic drives.

Cons: Limited towing capacity at 3,500 pounds, road noise at highway speeds, and the CVT transmission may feel sluggish when fully loaded with camping gear.

2. Toyota 4Runner TRD Pro (2025)

For serious off-road camping enthusiasts, the 2025 Toyota 4Runner TRD Pro remains one of the best SUVs for camping. Its body-on-frame construction, rear differential lock, and crawl control system tackle challenging terrain with confidence. The 47.2 cubic feet of cargo space accommodates substantial gear loads.

Pros: Unmatched off-road capability, 5,000-pound towing capacity, legendary reliability, and strong resale value. The skid plates and all-terrain tires come standard, while the KDSS suspension improves both on and off-road handling.

Cons: Poor fuel economy (17/20 mpg), dated interior technology, and firm ride quality on paved roads. The price point places it in premium territory compared to competitors.

3. Jeep Grand Cherokee L Summit (2025)

The three-row Grand Cherokee L offers families the space needed for extended camping trips. With 84.6 cubic feet of maximum cargo space and available air suspension, it balances comfort with capability. The Quadra-Trac II 4WD system handles various terrain conditions effectively.

Pros: Spacious interior for up to eight passengers, smooth V6 engine options, advanced infotainment system, and 6,200-pound towing capacity. The air suspension automatically adjusts ride height for different driving conditions.

Cons: Below-average predicted reliability, complex electronic systems, and higher maintenance costs compared to Japanese competitors.

Pickup Trucks

1. Ford F-150 Lightning Pro (2025)

Electric vehicles are revolutionizing camping, and the F-150 Lightning Pro leads this transformation. Its dual-motor setup delivers 452 horsepower while the Pro Power Onboard system turns your truck into a mobile power station, capable of running camping equipment for days.

Pros: Incredible towing capacity up to 10,000 pounds, 400+ mile range, silent operation perfect for wildlife areas, and the frunk provides additional weatherproof storage. The Lightning can power entire campsites through its 240V outlets.

Cons: Charging infrastructure limitations in remote areas, reduced range when towing, and higher initial purchase price. Cold weather significantly impacts battery performance.

2. Toyota Tacoma TRD Off-Road (2025)

The redesigned 2025 Tacoma addresses previous generations’ shortcomings while maintaining its reputation as one of the best cars for car camping. The turbocharged four-cylinder engine provides better fuel economy without sacrificing capability, while the 6-foot bed accommodates camping gear efficiently.

Pros: Outstanding off-road performance, 6,500-pound towing capacity, Multi-Terrain Select system, and excellent ground clearance. The bed features integrated tie-down points and a power outlet for camping accessories.

Cons: Rear seat space remains cramped for adults, wind noise at highway speeds, and the infotainment system lags behind competitors in responsiveness.

3. Chevrolet Colorado ZR2 Bison (2025)

Built in partnership with American Expedition Vehicles, the Colorado ZR2 Bison represents the ultimate midsize off-road truck. Its 33-inch tires, front and rear locking differentials, and Multimatic DSSV dampers conquer challenging terrain while maintaining daily drivability.

Pros: Exceptional off-road capability, comfortable interior, 7,700-pound towing capacity, and comprehensive skid plate protection. The crew cab configuration provides adequate passenger space for four adults.

Cons: Firm ride quality on pavement, premium fuel requirement, and limited bed space compared to full-size alternatives.

Vans and Minivans

Mercedes-Benz Sprinter 2500 (2025)

The Sprinter continues dominating the van life segment with its spacious interior and customization possibilities. Standing height inside allows comfortable movement, while the 319 cubic feet of cargo space accommodates full living setups. The available 4×4 system opens access to remote locations.

Pros: Massive interior volume, excellent build quality, powerful turbodiesel engine options, and extensive aftermarket support for conversions. The high roof variant allows installation of shower and kitchen facilities.

Cons: Expensive purchase price and maintenance costs, complex electronics, and poor fuel economy when heavily loaded. Parts availability can be challenging in rural areas.

Toyota Sienna Woodland Edition (2025)

Toyota’s hybrid minivan receives camping-focused updates for 2025, including all-wheel drive, roof rails, and rugged cladding. The 144.9 cubic feet of cargo space with seats removed rivals many SUVs, while hybrid efficiency reduces fuel costs during long trips.

Pros: Excellent fuel economy (36/36 mpg), spacious interior, reliable hybrid powertrain, and surprisingly capable in light off-road conditions. The low load floor simplifies gear loading and unloading.

Cons: Limited ground clearance, modest towing capacity at 3,500 pounds, and stigma associated with minivan ownership among outdoor enthusiasts.

Electric and Hybrid Vehicles

Rivian R1T (2025)

Purpose-built for adventure, the R1T electric truck combines innovative features with serious capability. The “Tank Turn” mode, wading depth of over three feet, and quad-motor setup tackle extreme conditions. The unique “Camp Mode” maintains cabin comfort while minimizing battery drain.

Pros: Cutting-edge technology, 11,000-pound towing capacity, air suspension with multiple height settings, and the front trunk provides secure, weatherproof storage. The truck bed features an innovative tonneau cover and power outlets.

Cons: Limited charging network in remote areas, high purchase price, and uncertain long-term reliability. Service network remains sparse outside major metropolitan areas.

Ford Mustang Mach-E GT (2025)

While unconventional for camping, the Mach-E GT offers surprising practicality for car camping enthusiasts. Its 29.7 cubic feet of cargo space accommodates weekend gear, while the low center of gravity provides excellent handling on winding mountain roads.

Pros: Impressive performance (480 horsepower), modern interior technology, competitive pricing, and expanding charging network. The Frunk provides additional storage for valuables.

Cons: Limited ground clearance, no towing capability, and reduced cargo space compared to traditional camping vehicles.

Comparison Table

Vehicle	Cargo Space (cu ft)	Towing Capacity (lbs)	Fuel Economy (mpg)	Starting Price	Ground Clearance (in)
Subaru Outback Wilderness	32.5	3,500	26/33	$38,000	9.5
Toyota 4Runner TRD Pro	47.2	5,000	17/20	$52,000	9.6
Jeep Grand Cherokee L	84.6	6,200	19/26	$45,000	8.6
Ford F-150 Lightning Pro	52.8	10,000	78 MPGe	$55,000	8.6
Toyota Tacoma TRD Off-Road	38.3	6,500	20/24	$42,000	9.4
Chevy Colorado ZR2 Bison	35.6	7,700	18/25	$48,000	10.7
Mercedes Sprinter 2500	319.0	5,000	21/24	$65,000	7.5
Toyota Sienna Woodland	144.9	3,500	36/36	$42,000	6.5
Rivian R1T	54.0	11,000	70 MPGe	$75,000	14.9
Mustang Mach-E GT	29.7	0	78 MPGe	$62,000	5.7

Conclusion

Choosing the best car for camping trips depends heavily on your unique desires, price range, and journey style. Weekend warriors looking for gas efficiency and reliability will respect the Subaru Outback Wilderness or Toyota Sienna Woodland Edition. Serious off-road lovers need to consider the Toyota 4Runner TRD Pro or Chevrolet Colorado ZR2 Bison for their verified functionality in difficult terrain.

For those embracing electric-powered car technology, the Ford F-a hundred and fifty Lightning Pro and Rivian R1T provide remarkable talents with environmental advantages, even though charging infrastructure remains a concern for faraway camping. Van enthusiasts will find that the Mercedes Sprinter 2500 provides unequalled dwelling space, while households enjoy the Jeep Grand Cherokee L’s combination of passenger and cargo capability.

The best cars for car camping ultimately balance your priorities between comfort, capability, performance, and budget. Consider checking using multiple options and comparing how each car’s features align with your common camping spots and locations.

Call to Action

What’s your experience with camping vehicles? Have you found features that make or break a camping trip? Share your stories and recommendations in the comments below – your insights help fellow outdoor enthusiasts make informed decisions.

For more detailed reviews and camping gear recommendations, explore our related articles on essential camping equipment and destination guides for your next adventure.