Camping is a beloved outdoor activity that allows people to connect with nature, unwind, and create lasting memories. Whether you’re planning a weekend getaway or an extended adventure, having the right vehicle can make all the difference. SUVs, with their spacious interiors, robust off-road capabilities, and ample cargo space, are perfect for camping trips.
They offer the comfort and convenience of a car while providing the ruggedness needed for off-road adventures. In this guide, we’ll explore the top 10 SUVs that are ideal for camping, highlighting their features, advantages, and why they stand out as the best companions for your outdoor excursions.
From compact crossovers to full-size SUVs, these vehicles are equipped to handle various terrains and ensure a comfortable camping experience. Let’s go into the list and find the perfect SUV for your next camping adventure.
1. Jeep Wrangler
The Jeep Wrangler is a legendary SUV known for its off-road prowess and rugged design. It’s an ideal choice for camping enthusiasts who seek adventure in remote and challenging terrains.
The Wrangler’s solid front and rear axles, impressive ground clearance, and advanced 4×4 systems (such as the Rock-Trac and Selec-Trac) ensure that it can handle a variety of off-road conditions with ease.
The removable doors and roof provide an open-air driving experience, allowing you to fully immerse yourself in nature. Inside, the Wrangler offers a practical and functional interior with durable materials designed to withstand the elements. The rear seats can be folded down to create ample cargo space for camping gear, coolers, and other essentials.
One of the standout features of the Jeep Wrangler is its extensive range of aftermarket accessories and customization options. From roof racks and winches to off-road bumpers and lift kits, you can tailor your Wrangler to suit your specific camping needs. Additionally, the Wrangler’s ability to ford through water and tackle steep inclines makes it a versatile and capable companion for any camping trip.
Whether you’re going through rocky trails, crossing streams, or setting up camp in a remote location, the Jeep Wrangler’s combination of rugged capability and customizable features makes it a top choice for outdoor enthusiasts.
2. Toyota 4Runner
The Toyota 4Runner is a dependable and versatile SUV that has earned a reputation for its off-road capabilities and reliability. It’s an excellent option for camping trips, offering a blend of comfort, durability, and performance.
The 4Runner’s body on frame construction, high ground clearance, and available 4×4 drivetrain make it well-suited for tackling rough terrain and off-road trails. Inside, the 4Runner provides a spacious and well designed cabin with seating for up to seven passengers, depending on the trim level.
The rear seats can be folded flat to create a large cargo area, providing ample room for camping gear, tents, and other supplies. The available sliding rear cargo deck makes it easy to load and unload heavy items.
The 4Runner is equipped with advanced off-road features, such as a Multi-Terrain Select system, Crawl Control, and a locking rear differential. These features enhance the vehicle’s performance on challenging surfaces, ensuring that you can confidently go through mud, sand, and rocks. The 4Runner’s durability and reliability also mean that you can depend on it for long trips and extended adventures.
With its combination of off-road prowess, spacious interior, and advanced features, the Toyota 4Runner is a reliable and capable choice for camping enthusiasts looking to explore the great outdoors.
3. Subaru Outback
The Subaru Outback is a versatile crossover SUV that offers a perfect blend of comfort, utility, and off-road capability. It’s an excellent choice for camping trips, providing a smooth ride on paved roads and the ability to handle light off-road adventures.
The Outback’s standard Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive and X-MODE system ensure enhanced traction and stability on various surfaces, making it well-suited for exploring scenic trails and remote campsites. Inside, the Outback offers a spacious and well-appointed cabin with comfortable seating for five passengers.
The rear seats can be folded down to create a generous cargo area, providing ample space for camping gear, coolers, and outdoor equipment. The Outback’s roof rails with integrated crossbars add extra versatility, allowing you to carry additional gear, such as kayaks, bikes, or rooftop tents.
The Outback is equipped with a range of modern technology and safety features, including the Subaru EyeSight Driver Assist Technology, which enhances safety and peace of mind during your camping adventures. The vehicle’s high ground clearance and rugged design allow it to tackle gravel roads, muddy trails, and uneven terrain with ease.
Whether you’re heading to a remote campsite or exploring off the beaten path destinations, the Subaru Outback’s combination of comfort, capability, and practicality makes it an ideal SUV for camping enthusiasts who seek both adventure and convenience.
4. Ford Bronco
The Ford Bronco is a rugged and versatile SUV that has made a strong comeback with its latest generation. Designed for off-road enthusiasts, the Bronco is an excellent choice for camping trips that take you deep into the wilderness. Its body-on-frame construction, advanced 4×4 systems, and impressive ground clearance make it a formidable off-road vehicle.
The Bronco offers a range of engine options, including a turbocharged four-cylinder and a powerful V6, providing ample power for tackling challenging terrains. The available Sasquatch Package enhances the Bronco’s off-road capabilities with features such as front and rear locking differentials, 35-inch all-terrain tires, and a high-performance suspension system.
Inside, the Bronco provides a practical and functional interior with durable materials designed to withstand the rigors of outdoor adventures.
The removable doors and roof allow you to enjoy an open-air driving experience, while the spacious cargo area accommodates all your camping gear and supplies. The available MOLLE straps and built-in attachment points add to the vehicle’s versatility, allowing you to secure your equipment easily.
The Bronco’s Trail Control and G.O.A.T. (Go Over Any Terrain) Modes optimize performance on various surfaces, ensuring that you can go through mud, sand, rocks, and snow with confidence. Whether you’re embarking on a weekend camping trip or an extended off-road expedition, the Ford Bronco’s rugged design and advanced features make it a top choice for adventurers.
5. Land Rover Defender
The Land Rover Defender is an iconic SUV renowned for its legendary off-road capabilities and timeless design. It’s an ideal choice for camping enthusiasts who seek both luxury and ruggedness in their vehicles. The Defender’s unibody construction, permanent all-wheel drive, and impressive ground clearance make it a formidable off-road vehicle, capable of tackling challenging terrains with ease.
The Defender offers a range of engine options, including a turbocharged four-cylinder, a six-cylinder mild hybrid, and a powerful V8, providing ample power and performance for any adventure. The vehicle’s Terrain Response system allows you to optimize the Defender’s performance on various surfaces, such as mud, sand, gravel, and snow.
Inside, the Defender combines luxury with functionality, offering a spacious and well-appointed cabin with seating for up to seven passengers. The durable materials and practical design elements make it a perfect choice for outdoor adventures.
The rear seats can be folded flat to create a large cargo area, providing ample space for camping gear, coolers, and other supplies. The Defender’s roof rack and towing capabilities add to its versatility, allowing you to carry additional equipment or tow a trailer.
The Land Rover Defender’s combination of luxury, off-road capability, and practicality makes it a top choice for camping enthusiasts who want to explore the great outdoors in style and comfort.
6. Toyota Land Cruiser
The Toyota Land Cruiser is a legendary SUV known for its durability, reliability, and exceptional off-road capabilities. It’s an excellent choice for camping trips that take you off the beaten path and into rugged terrain. The Land Cruiser’s body-on-frame construction, advanced 4×4 systems, and high ground clearance make it a formidable off-road vehicle capable of tackling challenging environments.
Under the hood, the Land Cruiser is powered by a robust V8 engine that delivers ample power and torque for towing and off-road driving. The vehicle’s Multi-Terrain Select system, Crawl Control, and locking center differential enhance its performance on various surfaces, ensuring that you can confidently go through mud, sand, rocks, and snow.
Inside, the Land Cruiser offers a luxurious and spacious cabin with seating for up to eight passengers. The premium materials and advanced technology create a comfortable and upscale environment, perfect for long camping trips. The rear seats can be folded down to create a large cargo area, providing plenty of space for camping gear, coolers, and other supplies.
The Land Cruiser’s towing capabilities add to its versatility, allowing you to bring along trailers, boats, or other equipment for your camping adventures. Its reputation for reliability and durability means that you can depend on the Land Cruiser for extended trips and challenging conditions.
With its combination of luxury, off-road prowess, and practical features, the Toyota Land Cruiser is a top choice for camping enthusiasts who seek both comfort and capability in their vehicles.
7. Honda Passport
The Honda Passport is a midsize SUV that offers a perfect blend of comfort, versatility, and off-road capability. It’s an excellent choice for camping trips, providing a smooth ride on paved roads and the ability to handle light off-road adventures.
The Passport’s available all wheel drive system, high ground clearance, and Intelligent Traction Management system ensure enhanced performance on various surfaces, making it well-suited for exploring scenic trails and remote campsites.
Inside, the Passport offers a spacious and well-appointed cabin with comfortable seating for five passengers. The rear seats can be folded down to create a generous cargo area, providing ample space for camping gear, coolers, and outdoor equipment.
The Passport’s roof rails with available crossbars add extra versatility, allowing you to carry additional gear, such as kayaks, bikes, or rooftop tents.
The Passport is equipped with a range of modern technology and safety features, including the Honda Sensing suite of driver-assist technologies, which enhances safety and peace of mind during your camping adventures. The vehicle’s high ground clearance and rugged design allow it to tackle gravel roads, muddy trails, and uneven terrain with ease.
Whether you’re heading to a remote campsite or exploring off the beaten path destinations, the Honda Passport’s combination of comfort, capability, and practicality makes it an ideal SUV for camping enthusiasts who seek both adventure and convenience.
8. Chevrolet Tahoe
The Chevrolet Tahoe is a full-size SUV that offers a spacious interior, robust performance, and impressive towing capabilities, making it an excellent choice for camping trips. The Tahoe’s powerful V8 engine options provide ample power for both on-road and off-road adventures, ensuring that you can tackle various terrains with confidence.
Inside, the Tahoe provides a comfortable and roomy cabin with seating for up to eight passengers. The rear seats can be folded down to create a large cargo area, offering plenty of space for camping gear, coolers, and other supplies. The Tahoe’s advanced infotainment system, which includes features like Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and a Wi-Fi hotspot, keeps you connected and entertained during your travels.
The Tahoe’s off-road capabilities are enhanced by its available four-wheel-drive system and advanced traction control features. The vehicle’s high ground clearance and sturdy suspension allow it to going through rough trails and uneven terrain with ease. The Tahoe’s towing capacity of up to 8,400 pounds makes it ideal for hauling trailers, boats, or other heavy equipment for your camping adventures.
In addition to its impressive performance and capabilities, the Tahoe offers a range of safety features, such as forward collision alert, lane keep assist, and adaptive cruise control, providing peace of mind during your trips. Whether you’re heading to a remote campsite or embarking on a cross-country journey, the Chevrolet Tahoe’s combination of space, power, and versatility makes it a top choice for camping enthusiasts.
9. Nissan Armada
The Nissan Armada is a full-size SUV that combines power, luxury, and off-road capability, making it a great option for camping trips. The Armada’s robust V8 engine delivers strong performance, providing ample power for both highway cruising and off-road adventures. The vehicle’s body-on-frame construction and available four wheel drive system enhance its ability to tackle challenging terrains.
Inside, the Armada offers a luxurious and spacious cabin with seating for up to eight passengers. The high-quality materials, comfortable seating, and advanced technology features create a premium environment for long trips.
The rear seats can be folded down to create a large cargo area, providing plenty of space for camping gear, coolers, and other supplies. The Armada also offers a range of convenience features, such as a power liftgate and remote start, making it easy to load and prepare for your camping adventure.
The Armada’s off-road capabilities are further enhanced by its advanced traction control system and high ground clearance. The vehicle’s rugged design and powerful engine make it well-suited for going through rough trails and off-road paths. The Armada’s towing capacity of up to 8,500 pounds allows you to bring along trailers, boats, or other heavy equipment for your camping trips.
Safety is also a priority in the Armada, with features such as blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, and intelligent cruise control providing added peace of mind during your journeys. With its combination of power, luxury, and capability, the Nissan Armada is an excellent choice for camping enthusiasts looking for a reliable and versatile SUV.
10. Jeep Grand Cherokee
The Jeep Grand Cherokee is a midsize SUV that offers a perfect blend of luxury, off-road capability, and advanced technology, making it an ideal choice for camping trips. The Grand Cherokee’s robust construction, available four wheel drive system, and high ground clearance make it well-suited for going through various terrains, from rocky trails to muddy paths.
Under the hood, the Grand Cherokee offers a range of engine options, including a powerful V8 and a fuel-efficient diesel, providing excellent performance and versatility. The vehicle’s Quadra-Trac and Quadra-Drive systems enhance its off-road capabilities, ensuring that you can confidently tackle challenging conditions.
Inside, the Grand Cherokee provides a luxurious and well-appointed cabin with seating for up to five passengers. The high-quality materials, comfortable seating, and advanced technology features create a premium environment for your camping trips.
The rear seats can be folded down to create a large cargo area, offering ample space for camping gear, coolers, and other supplies. The available roof rack adds extra versatility, allowing you to carry additional gear, such as kayaks, bikes, or rooftop tents.
The Grand Cherokee is equipped with a range of modern technology and safety features, including the Uconnect infotainment system, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and advanced driver-assist technologies like adaptive cruise control and lane-keeping assist. These features enhance safety and convenience during your camping adventures.
Whether you’re heading to a remote campsite or exploring off the beaten path destinations, the Jeep Grand Cherokee’s combination of luxury, capability, and advanced features makes it a top choice for camping enthusiasts seeking both adventure and comfort.
