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If you’ve been wondering what all the fuss is when it comes to boondocking or dry camping, you’ve come to the right place! What are some of the best options of Class C RVs for boondocking on the market today?
Maybe you aren’t even sure what exactly boondocking is, let alone what to look for in a rig to ensure that you have an excellent time dry camping.
Let’s take a look at the concept and rules of boondocking, and then I’ll give you a helpful buyer’s guide for shopping for a Class C RV that was made to dry camp!
What is Boondocking?
Boondocking is simple enough to understand. It applies to any and all dispersed camping that you do for free, on public land. You will not have any RV hookups at these locations, including water, power, and sewer.
Boondocking is referred to as dry camping because of this. If you’re planning to boondock with an RV, make sure your water tank is full and your rig’s batteries are working. Better yet, plan to completely unplug and enjoy your time camping without any usual amenities!
Boondocking usually involves a more remote travel destination than many campsites can offer. There will often be fewer people, less noise, and more beautiful natural environments to experience.
It is important to mention that, whether you’re boondocking in an RV or tent, you should plan to leave no trace. It is up to all of us to take care of the natural world, and boondocking is leading us further and further into these environments. Take care to clean up after yourself before you hit the road again!
What Are Class C RVs Like While Boondocking?
You may not even be sure what exactly a Class C RV is, but that’s why I’m here to help you out. You’ve come to the right place, and a Class C rig is a great rig to look at, both for dry camping and camping in a more traditional setting.
There are so many different varieties of rigs on the market: travel trailers, fifth wheels, Class A, B, and C motorhomes… And all of them have their own pluses and minuses when it comes to boondocking.
Why choose a Class C RV for your off grid journey?
While the name may not make any sense to you right now, a Class C RV is easy enough to understand, and it is known as being a very versatile type of rig, which could make it a perfect fit for boondocking!
Class C RVs are in-between sized motorcoaches, Class A being the largest and Class B being more campervan sized. Class C’s have a couple other great perks to them besides their length and amenities!
While Class C RVs range in length from 20-40 feet, these motorhomes are often built on a sturdy and maneuverable truck or van chassis. The rig’s above the cab bunk ultimately determines the class of this motorhome.
Because of these rigs having such flexibility and popularity among campers, you will find a wide variety of layouts in Class C’s. Many Class C’s are built with hookups or RV parks in mind, but some (and the ones you will find on the list for sure) are built for boondocking and other unplugged activities. Some Class C rigs are even built specifically for winter or other activities.
Class C’s are very popular options for campers, usually allowing enough space for everyone to feel comfortable without the added stress of towing or driving a bus-like Class A rig around. They are just the right size for the majority of the population, including full-timers, couples, and even families looking to boondock!
While every RV will take some getting used to, Class Cs offer a lot of high tech dry camping options. From large water tank capacities to solar power or generator options, Class Cs have a lot to offer.
But are there drawbacks to boondocking in a Class C? Let’s take a look at some of the pros and cons now.
What are the Pros and Cons of Class C RVs While Boondocking?
As I’ve already hinted, there may be some decisive pros and cons for Class C RVs, especially when it comes to maneuvering your Class C to remote boondocking locations! While you may have your heart set on a Class C, you may make a different decision based on some of these pros and cons.
Pro: Class C RVs have amazing dry camping technology
Class Cs haven’t been left behind when it comes to dry camping technology. RV manufacturers know that this style of rig is one of the most popular options on the market today, and boondocking has become one of the most popular styles of camping.
It would follow that Class Cs have been outfitted for dry camping or boondocking with some of the latest and greatest tech, including tech made specifically for going off the grid. Some of these advancements include solar panels, onboard generators, multiple batteries, and larger storage tank capacities.
It is important to note that not all of these options will come standard, so make sure that the rig you are looking to purchase has these options available, and that you order them in addition to your standard, included features.
Con: Class Cs can be pretty noisy
There’s nothing like finding a peaceful and quiet place to boondock. You’ve managed to find a place to camp that is remote and full of bountiful natural environments, as well as wildlife. It’s a beautiful experience!
However, your Class C didn’t get the memo that peace and quiet is key to enjoying boondocking.
While Class Cs have grown quieter with more and more technological advances, these rigs are pretty noisy when turning the ignition, and the engine roar could interrupt the peace and quiet of wherever you have chosen to boondock.
While this may not be an issue if you have found a solitary place to boondock, your wildlife neighbors may not appreciate the noise. This is especially true if you plan to run a generator all night long!
Pro: Easy to drive
If you’ve got a Class C and an open road, it’s nice when the rig is easy to drive. Class Cs are fantastic RVs to maneuver, both on highways and remote roads. Once you adapt to your rig’s specific dimensions, you should have little trouble making your way to a more remote destination.
Built on a van or truck chassis depending on the size of your rig, Class Cs move like a car rather than a dangerous trailer. Driving one of these could give you more peace of mind over driving a fifth wheel or travel trailer, both of these types of RVs prone to sway and other anxiety inducing things.
Con: May be tricky to maneuver on some rural roads
Class Cs are easier to drive than other RV options, but they aren’t exactly built for the roughest roads out there. There are some that are built with all wheel drive and more, but these are often expensive rigs, and you’re still driving a miniature bus down a dirt road at the end of the day.
Hitting potholes or other large bumps in a rural road could spell disaster for your Class C. While these rigs are built on sturdy chassis options, the chances of something being damaged on your rig while attempting to reach a remote boondocking destination are high.
Pro: These rigs usually always have bathrooms
The worst part of boondocking? Finding a suitable place to go to the bathroom. While many hikers and tent campers have no problem digging a hole far away from any sources of water, this might not be your ideal when it comes time to dry camp.
Thankfully, most all Class Cs have made room for bathrooms, and these bathrooms can be used while boondocking. In some models, you can find absolutely amazing bathrooms so there’s a good chance you can find what you’re looking for.
It’s important to keep an eye on your black water tank to ensure it doesn’t get full while you are in the middle of nowhere, but at least you’ll have a bathroom!
Con: You’ll need to tow another vehicle if you want to explore
All boondocking locations have the same single perk and drawback: they are free. It’s great to boondock because of this, as you won’t be paying high prices to camp.
However, since these remote locations are free, there are no reservations. Therefore, leaving your site or boondocking location leaves your site open for other boondockers to take it.
Boondocking has become an extremely popular form of camping, and if you are hoping to pick up supplies in town or go see the local sites in your Class C, you may lose your spot to sleep for the night.
The good news is that you can tow an additional vehicle and use that for your day trips. However, towing may not be ideal while traversing remote roads or camping locations, so consider this before deciding on a Class C.
What are Good Brands of Class C RVs for Dry Camping?
With countless RVs and RV manufacturers out there today, it can be important to know the top names in the game. These particular RV manufacturers have been in business a long time, and know the importance of manufacturing RVs that can dry camp efficiently!
Thor
You may not have heard of Thor brand motorhomes yet, but they are popular! Known for being budget friendly like Winnebago, Thor is proving to be another reliable brand in the RV world. They are great for boondocking, and have countless layouts! They are also a great choice for travel trailers too.
Coachmen
Coachmen is another classic RV brand with some fantastic dry camping perks. They use their space wisely more often than not, and are a well-known brand. While their interior design may be simple, they focus more on versatile layouts made for the whole family.
Winnebago
Who hasn’t heard of Winnebago in the RV world? Known for their affordability and overall customer service, Winnebago keeps wowing RVers with their innovations, usually for a good price. Their off grid camper vans are excellent alternatives to Class Cs should you be looking for something smaller.
Forest River
Forest River is well regarded in the RV world, and has been for decades. They make a great variety of rigs, from fifth wheels to Class Cs, so definitely keep them on your short list! They have many layouts and styles of Class Cs, all with nonstandard boondocking features. And their customer service team is top notch.
Jayco
Much like Forest River, Jayco has been talked about among RVers for some time. This brand seems to often focus on durability, advertising special, sturdy RV frames. They use a lot of custom woodworking, and they make Class Cs to last a lifetime, especially ones that are used to boondock!
What Should I Consider in a Class C RV when Boondocking?
There’s a lot to consider when choosing a Class C made for boondocking. From floor plans that better support battery life to your budget, here are some of my top considerations when shopping for a dry camping Class C RV.
Floor Plans Built for Dry Camping
While Class C layouts and floor plans aren’t reinventing the RV wheel here, your overall floor plan should be a huge consideration for you. There are floor plans that are built for boondocking, especially if you are looking for a smaller Class C.
Your floor plan will affect your bed layouts, bathroom set up, and more. Are you planning on bringing the entire family boondocking? Or are you a couple looking for a rig to travel full time in? No matter what, your layout will make all the difference.
It may be tough to determine your needs right away, so I always recommend touring many different options if you’re able. At the very least, look at a rig’s various floor plans on the company’s website so that you can see all your possibilities! They even have 360 degree video tours now.
If you are planning to boondock in the winter, choosing a floor plan that best supports your heating system may be beneficial. Choosing a rig that allows you to close off your bedroom or living area could mean less electricity wasted while heating your Class C!
There’s a lot to consider in an RV floor plan, so definitely spend the most time on this particular consideration.
Length and Subtlety of the RV
While all Class C’s are built on a truck or van chassis, length is an important consideration for you while you’re shopping around for a Class C that can boondock efficiently. If you’re planning some remote destinations, you may not want the biggest and best Class C out there!
The main thing for you to consider when it comes to length in Class C’s is the same thing you have to consider for any longer rig: where are you planning on taking it? Are you boondocking with subtlety in mind? A longer rig may not suit you, though it may have ample space.
If you’re planning on hitting the road with few plans, I always think it’s smart to err on the side of caution when it comes to the length of your rig. The last thing you need is to pull onto a rural road that can’t accommodate the length or width of your Class C!
If you’re more concerned about having enough interior space, don’t worry about the overall length of your rig. Go for what layout suits you best. However, just know you may not fit everywhere, and maneuvering in cities or towns or anywhere rural is always tougher the longer your rig is!
Budget
It goes without saying, but choosing a rig that fits your budget is important. It is easier than you think to go over your budget while you’re shopping for a rig, usually due to adding on non standard features that suit a boondocking lifestyle.
Class C’s are a very popular rig these days due to their versatility and ease of driving. However, this has caused a bit of an uptick in the cost of Class C’s, and the range is pretty wide depending on what you’re looking for.
Class C’s can cost between $60,000 to upwards of $300,000! There are a lot of factors to consider before making your final purchase, but most Class C owners end up spending an average of $150,000.
To get a rig fully outfitted for long term dry camping, you may be spending a bit more than this. It of course depends on your needs and wants in an RV, but getting a rig made for fully off-grid boondocking often results in a heftier price tag.
However, I know a lot of boondockers who are completely comfortable with “roughing it”; they don’t care about solar or water efficient shower heads. They just want a quiet place to sleep and a reliable Class C engine!
Secondary Vehicle Towing Capacity
While Class C rigs are great because you don’t have to tow them like travel trailers, you may have the desire to tow a regular car with your Class C. Depending on the model, many Class C rigs can tow the average small car, and potentially more!
While it often requires an additional purchase of a specialized hitch, most Class C’s can tow your car so that you don’t have to worry about driving your rig everywhere while you’re dry camping. It’s something to consider, especially if you would like to leave your rig at camp and see the sights in a more maneuverable vehicle.
The only thing to keep in mind is how heavy your conventional car is, and what the towing capacity is on the Class C you’re considering. You never want to tow something heavier than your Class C’s towing capacity, but thankfully these numbers are readily available from your rig’s manufacturer.
It would make sense that most RVers are looking to tow with their Class Cs, especially since you may lose your precious boondocking spot if you drive your Class C around! Having an easier to drive vehicle is usually preferred, and it allows you to “reserve” your dry camping location.
Off Grid Capabilities
A huge and necessary factor for Class Cs while boondocking is how powerful you’d like your off grid capabilities to be. Some RVers are content just having a rig with water storage and larger black or gray water tanks, and some battery power.
However, these are not all of the options available to you as a boondocker. Solar capabilities, on board generators, even larger storage tanks- the options are endless, though most do not come standard.
You may also be hoping to have a Class C with all wheel drive and a beefier chassis. This is important if you plan to boondock on any dirt or gravel roads, and anywhere that is a bit more rural. The last thing you need is to get stranded in the middle of nowhere!
Fuel Type
While this may not be a factor for you right away, fuel type is a big consideration for many RVers, especially full timers. Class C RVs are built with either a gas or diesel fuel system, and the two fuel types are hotly debated. While the interiors and features on these two types of rigs don’t vary much, the fuel efficiency will.
Diesel Class C’s are usually preferred by full timers because of their long term fuel efficiency and overall lower cost because of this. Diesel rigs are pricier up front more often than not, but because of this they usually have more luxury features.
Gas rigs are more common, and they’ll do the trick, especially if you don’t plan on using your RV regularly. The price point is usually more reasonable, but there’s no way these gas guzzlers will be cheaper in the long term. Definitely an important consideration for you to make!
Saving money on gasoline could be a smart decision for any boondocker to make, especially since diesel rigs are more fuel efficient. You don’t want to get stranded with an empty tank anywhere! However, diesel rigs are more expensive upfront, so it’s definitely an important decision to make.
Size of the Water Tanks
Boondocking or camping without any hookups such as water, electricity, or sewer, may take some getting used to. Many RVs have ample water tank storage, but some may have more than others.
If you anticipate using more water than the average RVer, you should keep an eye out for Class Cs with more tank capacity, both freshwater and gray water. Unless it is freezing outside, you can no doubt survive without electricity; you can’t survive without water!
Bringing water jugs along with you to cook and drink from is a good idea if you are boondocking for some time and are worried about how much water your tank has left in it. However, buying a rig with larger capacity tanks in the first place should remedy you needing to bring along additional fresh water.
Alternative Rigs Built for Boondocking
Still on the fence about whether or not a Class C RV will suit your boondocking needs? Perhaps you should consider other options instead! Here are my top recommendations for boondocking that are not Class C RVs.
Class Bs
Class C’s little brother is undoubtedly the most popular boondocking option on the market today. Class Bs are also known as camper vans, and these compact RVs are built for off grid living.
Easy to maneuver, outfitted to the max with dry camping capabilities, and hipper than anything, Class Bs are an excellent choice should you be looking for something smaller than a Class C rig. Class Bs may be even more expensive than Class Cs right now due to their popularity, definitely something to consider.
However, they are made for off-roading and traveling lightly, and some even have onboard bathrooms. These vans are all the rage, and perhaps they will suit your needs better overall.
Teardrop Travel Trailers
If you have a vehicle with a hitch, you may consider a teardrop travel trailer as a Class C alternative, given their tiny footprint and maneuverability. These little guys are fantastic for a single person or a couple to hit the road in, especially ones made for offroading!
However, very few (if any) teardrops have bathrooms in them. They also have their kitchens outside, off the back of the rig. If you are boondocking in great weather, then a teardrop could be right for you.
However, if you’re looking for a few more creature comforts and something that can fit the whole family, you should stick with Class C options for your off grid adventures. However, the price tag on many teardrops just can’t be beat, so definitely keep this in mind while shopping!
Just Hike or Drive In with Your Gear!
Okay, I’m sure I won’t sway many of you on this one but hear me out. You don’t necessarily need an RV to boondock, and many people can’t fathom why you would bring an RV out to a beautiful and remote destination.
Many campers prefer to simply hike in with their gear, like their sleeping essentials and cooking tools. Some campers drive their standard vehicle to a remote destination and camp in a tent. These are other boondocking options for you to consider, especially if you just want to get the feel for these remote natural areas.
However, if you know you will need a few more creature comforts, keep Class Cs on your list of boondocking rigs.
The Best Class C RVs for Boondocking
Feeling confident about your needs and wants in a Class C RV? Have you looked over various off grid technologies or non standard features? Great! Let’s check out some of the best Class C RVs for boondocking and dry camping!
1. Best Overall: Winnebago View
Looking for more time off the grid? The industry-leading features on the Winnebago View take my top spot for best Class C RV for dry camping. Not only do you have countless dry camping perks, but you also have Winnebago’s name and reliable customer service behind the purchase of your new rig.
With large holding tanks, standard 200W solar, Group 31 batteries (or available lithium smart batteries), and a 2,000W inverter, you can extend your boondocking escape much farther than you ever thought you could. Showcasing boundless freedom combined with upscale comfort, the View is designed to create memories that last lifetimes.
With luxurious details and features throughout, the View’s industry-leading amenities promise an unparalleled Class C experience. And with the new, dependable diesel-powered Sprinter chassis, you can stay in control, even off-grid. Some floor plans even have large, 37 gallon fresh water tank capacities!
The diesel-powered Mercedes-Benz Sprinter chassis includes advanced safety features like active brake assist, lane keeping assist, and the MBUX touchscreen infotainment system with interactive voice interface, navigation, Wi-Fi hotspot and more. While it doesn’t sleep more than 4, the View has plenty of perks and interior features.
Fine touches like the available theater seating and optional entertainment package, plus the innovative LP/Induction cooktop, eye-catching curved cabinets, lighted soft close galley drawers and sprung-cushion dinette and sofa seats transform the interior into an upscale living experience. You don’t have to give up anything while traveling off the grid!
2. Best for Couples: Jayco Melbourne
Is it just you and your significant other going off the grid? I’d definitely check out the compact and efficient Jayco Melbourne. While it can be made to sleep up to four comfortably, I find this model to be the perfect size for just 2! And you’ll never go wrong with the purchase of a sturdy and reliable Jayco RV.
Having a reliable diesel engine isn’t where the perks stop. From two twin beds to walk around master suites, this compact Jayco will have a floor plan that suits any couple. There’s dinettes and different bathroom options, including ones with a separated shower and toilet. And the interior is nothing to scoff at; stylish and elegant, you will forget that you’re dry camping!
Jayco installs stress-tested seatbelts in every designated seating location to ensure the safety of you and your partner. Plus, Jayco has designed their overhead bunks to hold 750 lbs.- this is 250 lbs. more than any other RV. In a Jayco overhead bunk, two adults can comfortably rest and relax, or you can safely read a book to your kids at night.
Jayco is a fantastic brand for many reasons: warranty, resale, and advanced handling technologies. JRide, which offers a powerful blend of precise handling and renowned stability, is Jayco’s special chassis addition not found on any other Class C. These important additions make your trip more comfortable without the need for expensive aftermarket upgrades.
Jayco’s warranty is the best in the RV business. The two-year limited warranty is twice as long as the industry standard, keeping you covered for two full camping seasons. Add to that the three-year limited structural warranty and you’ve got the most complete coverage, the coverage that provides a peace of mind. Plus, these rigs are known to last, having been built with more thought and premium products than other RVs! If you want to explore other options for couples, check out our favorite travel trailers for couples here.
3. Best Diesel Option: Tiffin Wayfarer
Looking to boondock with a reliable diesel engine and top notch interior design? You are looking for the Tiffin Wayfarer, a relatively unknown brand in the RV world. But this isn’t to say they aren’t amazing; if you have the budget for it, the Tiffin Wayfarer is a compact and impressive Class C to boondock in, and you’ll be saving in the long run because of that diesel engine!
With only four floor plans to choose from, you may think you’re missing out. Check out our next selection if you want a lot of floor plans, especially for rigs that fit the entire family! The Wayfarer doesn’t need very many floor plans, as it has plenty packed into these four choices. And there’s plenty of boondocking perks too!
Two large batteries and a diesel generator come standard on this rig. It also is pre-wired for solar and has heated tanks as a standard feature. You can get an entire solar system added on, as well as a decent amount of storage space should you need room for camping gear. While the water tank could be larger, you can definitely plan to boondock for a few days with this rig.
An instant hot water heater is just the beginning to the other great features on this rig. This rig has 4 available interior decor options, handcrafted wood cabinetry, and solid countertops in both the kitchen and bathroom. A power awning with speakers, and standard hydraulic leveling systems are only two of the many exterior features as well!
A one piece, seamless fiberglass roof is installed to give you the peace of mind you’re looking for. What else can Tiffin give you to help you out for the life of your rig? Many warranties, including a 1 year limited warranty, a 3 year paint delamination limited warranty, a 5 year chassis powertrain limited warranty, a 3 year Mercedes Benz-specific chassis limited warranty, and finally 1 year of roadside services!
4. Most Floor Plan Options: Forest River Forester
Worried about finding a floor plan that’s right for you? Thankfully Forest River has you covered with their Forester model of Class C motorhome. With four different models- the Classic, LE, MBS, and TS- you will no doubt find a floor plan that suits your needs perfectly. And, best of all, these rigs make for a great dry camping experience!
The Classic model is built on a Ford chassis and features many convenient slide outs; the 2441DS has a spacious rear bathroom! The Forester LE is on a Chevy chassis, making it a bit more compact, but with the same fantastic standard features from Forest River. The MBS is built on a- you guessed it- Mercedes Benz chassis, with the entire left side of the rig made up of slide outs. And finally the TS is built on a Ford Transit chassis, making it the most compact of them all.
Forester Class C motorhomes offer comfortable floor plans with spacious interior living, well-appointed décors, and several slide-out floor plan options. Plus, all Foresters are Certified Green by TRA Certification. With 14 floor plans and 3 chassis platforms, you’ll have no problem finding the perfect motorhome to suit your camping style. Some can even come with a generator, both for gas or diesel, which is a must for those of you hoping to camp off the grid.
There’s an optional solar power charging system and an automatic generator bypass installation option as well. Plus, these rigs all have pretty good sized water tanks and storage solutions so that you won’t have to worry about bringing all of the supplies that you need to efficiently dry camp. This isn’t the only Forest River rig on this list, and for good reason.
Forest River builds reliable and capable Class C RVs, among many other RV options. With the amount of floor plans available with the Forester, you’ll find something that fits everyone. And you will have the peace of mind knowing that boondocking is always a possibility!
5. Best on a Budget: Coachmen Prism
Named the 2021 Class C Motorhome of the Year by RV News, the Coachmen Prism is a wonderful Class C rig to check out, especially for boondocking. Built on a classic Mercedes Sprinter Van chassis, this rig is ready to hit the road with Lane Assist technology. What else makes this rig great? Let’s read on, and know that you have a reliable diesel engine to take you wherever you want to go!
The Prism is a luxurious, easy to drive, multi-use touring vehicle that provides unique styling and amenities. From the interior’s solid surface countertops, soft touch ceiling, residential flooring and versatile interior storage to the exterior’s industry leading warehouse storage space, LED running lights, tinted windows and aerodynamic, stylish full fiberglass cap, Prism is ideal for short or long trips, especially dry camping.
With a full sized fridge, intimate dinette, and conventional oven, this rig is perfect for both recreational purposes or full time living. It has many large windows with convenient day to night shades, as well as solar prep so that you can have the option to stay wherever, whenever. Plus this rig has a load of other options, such as an outdoor entertainment system and auto leveling jacks and stabilizers.
You can choose between the Prism Select or the Prism Elite, allowing you to choose how luxurious you want your interior and features to be. While the Select should have everything you need to get started, Coachmen doesn’t leave you hanging when it comes to the Elite. Featuring an on demand hot water system, wifi, and a low profile A/C unit, you should have everything you need between the two models!
It is important to note that this rig doesn’t have the largest freshwater tank capacity, so this may be a deal breaker for some of you. However, if you don’t plan to boondock for more than a couple nights without access to water, the five versatile floor plans on this rig should be enough to entice you! Plus, you know that this rig is budget friendly as well, making it an affordable way to boondock!
6. Most Compact: Forest River Sunseeker LE
Looking for an easy to drive and compact Class C to hit the road in? Check out the Sunseeker LE from Forest River, a reliable and well-known name in the RV game. Tasteful design, combined with a unique combination of style, value and preferred amenities make travel in the Sunseeker comfortable and loads of fun.
Sunseeker’s unique split level design provides maximum headroom in the living area, while still offering pass-through storage on every floor plan. Plus, all Sunseekers are “Certified Green” by TRA Certification. This particular model offers two different chassis options: one is on a Chevy, and another is on a larger Ford chassis.
While there are perks to every individual chassis and floor plan option, all of these Class C’s come with a 12 month warranty as well as a chassis warranty from Forest River. Solar is an option on all of these models, as well as digital antennas. Some can even come with a generator, both for gas or diesel, which may appeal to those of you hoping to camp off the grid.
This rig also has further off grid systems and capacities, such as a large 44 gallon fresh water tank, as well as an onboard super quiet generator. I love this Class C for the quiet, conscientious boondocker; your rig doesn’t take up too much space, and most of its systems are built with peace and quiet in mind!
While it may take time to sort through all 10 of the Sunseeker’s floor plans, I think it’s brilliant of Forest River to offer so many options. Some floor plans are more compact than others, so definitely make sure you don’t end up with something too large. They pay attention to every detail, from black out roller shades to power patio awnings with LED strips. Now all that’s left to do is narrow down all these great choices, but no matter what, you’ll be set to boondock whenever, wherever!
7. Best 4WD Option: Winnebago Ekko
Winnebago is back on our list with a sturdy, compact, and unstoppable Class C. The Winnebago Ekko is far more than meets the eye, and is a Class B/Class C hybrid, for lack of a better term. They’ve reinvented the RV wheel yet again, and this Class C can take you anywhere.
Combining the efficiency of a camper van and the capacity of a Class C coach, the Ekko takes the phrase ‘big things in small packages’ to a whole new level. From the massive heated pass-through gear garage – large enough to store bicycles, inflatable kayaks and other outdoor gear – to the large living, sleeping, and cooking space, the Ekko is sure to become your favorite adventure vehicle.
The 3.5L EcoBoost V6 delivers 310 horsepower and 400 lb.-ft. of torque, while the 31-gallon fuel tank greatly extends the Ekko’s range. Standard safety features include Adaptive Cruise Control, Lane-Keeping System, Pre-Collision Braking, Driver Alert and more, plus the Winnebago-added Blind Spot Monitoring system.
Camp almost anywhere! Three solar panels that pump out 455-watts, a second alternator dedicated to charging the batteries while driving, and the standard lithium-ion batteries provide further energy independence. The 50-gallon freshwater tank plus proportionate waste tanks make extended stays possible.
With all tanks and water lines inside the coach above the floor, extensive all-season insulation in the roof, walls and floor, dual-pane acrylic windows, and multiple insulated exterior compartments, the camping season doesn’t have to end when the temperature drops. The Ekko has also been Gold Certified for cold weather capability by Truma, a world leader in RV heating and cooling.
A full galley equipped with energy-efficient appliances, a Flex Bed system with an innovative new WinnSleep system, and a dry/wet bath with pivoting wall that separates the shower area, will make owners feel right at home anywhere. Guests on board? No problem, thanks to dinette seating with three-point seat belts and child seat tether anchors, not to mention the added sleeping capacity – and penthouse views – of the optional pop-top. This rig is a gem for boondockers!
8. Best for Boondocking with the Whole Family: Thor Quantum
Boasting that this Class C is best for the entire family, the Thor Quantum does indeed tick a lot of my boxes. While it’ll take a few add ons, this Class C is perfect for boondocking, as it has large capacity tanks, an onboard generator, as well as solar panel and battery options. But what makes this rig perfect for a family looking to get off the grid? Let’s check it out.
Unique Quantum floor plans ensure finding the right fit for your family. The versatility and living amenities make this Class C motorhome suitable for full-time living or weekend travel. Bunk beds and washer and dryer prep are perfect for families and are available on select floor plans. Thor Quantums are homes-on-wheels with seating and sleeping options, a fully-equipped kitchen and bathroom.
You know that Quantum is functional and space-efficient, so now it’s time to tell you about the chic interior design. Decorative glass inserts in the kitchen’s cabinets and vinyl flooring give these Class C campers a residential feel. With three modern color schemes, you’ll no doubt feel at home even in the middle of nowhere!
Save money on the road with home-cooked meals. Quantum’s kitchen has a gas cooktop, a large stainless steel sink with a pull-down sprayer and a double door refrigerator. Some floor plans come with a flip-up countertop extension, microwave or convection microwave, pop-up outlet and kitchen pantry. Keep an eye on your little ones through the large kitchen window and prepare their favorite camping meals!
Even the exterior has features that make the Quantum easy to love. With the MEGA-Storage compartment on select floor plans and the standard rotocast storage compartments, the sky’s the limit when it comes to packing. Organizing your Class C motorhome is simple when there’s plenty of space for camping necessities.
Quantum also comes prepped for a solar system. Choose a factory-installed 100-watt solar panel to charge your house batteries. The power controller monitors the batteries to prevent overcharging and damage. Want to prolong your dry camping ability? This is the way to go. You can get away from the crowds and be one with nature. There’s never been a better time than now to live out your dreams.
Conclusion
Boondocking with an RV may seem like a daunting task at first, especially if you haven’t ever camped off the grid before. However, with this helpful buyer’s guide and list of some of the best Class C RVs for dry camping, you should feel confident and capable of taking your rig anywhere!