The 20 Best SUVs for Camping

If you’ve ever packed your whole family into the car for a camping trip, you know it’s not just about the destination—it’s about having the right vehicle to get you there without stress. I’m talking about enough space for the kids, the tent, the cooler, maybe even the dog… and still being able to drive comfortably without feeling like you’re bursting at the seams.

That’s where the right SUV makes all the difference.

I’ve put together this list for people like us—families who love getting outdoors but still need to think about space, fuel, reliability, and cost. These SUVs aren’t just big—they’re smart. They’ve got room to stretch out, they can handle dirt roads, and they’ve got the features that actually matter when you’re camping—things like fold-flat seats, roof racks, and power outlets for that morning coffee setup.

Whether you’re a weekend camper or planning a big summer trip, these SUVs make it easier. No fluff, just good options that can carry what you need and take your family where you want to go.

Let’s get into it;

20. Tesla Model Y

Photo: Tesla Model Y

The Tesla Model Y is a great option if you want a quiet, low-maintenance ride that still handles adventure like a pro. With its roomy interior, fold-flat seats, and impressive range, it’s built for road trips and spontaneous camping weekends.

The all-wheel drive handles dirt roads and gravel trails with ease, while the 330-mile range on the Long Range AWD model gives you the freedom to explore without worrying about finding a charger. Inside, you get Tesla’s signature clean layout, a huge touchscreen for entertainment and maps, and even a panoramic glass roof—perfect for watching the stars from your sleeping bag.

It’s electric, efficient, and surprisingly rugged for a sleek city-looking SUV. Whether you’re heading to the mountains or parking by the ocean, the Model Y can take you (and your gear) there in comfort.

Highlights:

• Spacious Interior – Fold-flat seats and generous cargo room make packing simple.
• Extended Range – Go up to 330 miles on a single charge.
• AWD Capability – Confidently handle unpaved roads and remote campsites.
• Camping Comforts – Autopilot for easy long drives and a panoramic roof for night views.

19. Suzuki Jimny

Photo: Suzuki Jimny

If your idea of camping means getting as far from civilization as possible, the Suzuki Jimny is made for you. This small but seriously capable SUV punches well above its weight when it comes to off-road performance. With four-wheel drive, high ground clearance, and a tough ladder-frame chassis, the Jimny can crawl through mud, climb rocky paths, and get you to remote campsites where bigger vehicles wouldn’t dare go.

Its 1.5-liter engine won’t win drag races, but it delivers more than enough power for off-road exploring. And because it’s compact and lightweight, the Jimny stays nimble on narrow trails and sharp turns—perfect for squeezing into secluded spots most SUVs can’t reach.

Inside, the Jimny is simple and durable. The no-nonsense interior is built to handle dirt, wet gear, and everything else that comes with outdoor life. And while it’s not built for hauling a large family, the fold-flat rear seats give you enough cargo room for two people’s camping gear, tools, and even a cooler or two.

It may be one of the smallest SUVs on the list, but the Suzuki Jimny brings a big sense of adventure wherever it goes.

Highlights:

• Built for the Wild – 4WD, ladder-frame, and high ground clearance for serious off-road performance.
• Compact Explorer – Fits where big SUVs can’t—ideal for narrow trails and hidden campsites.
• Lightweight & Capable – 1.5L engine and agile design handle rough terrain with ease.
• Smart Utility – Fold-flat rear seats and rugged interior make it a practical camping tool.

18. Lexus GX 550

Photo: Lexus GX 550

The Lexus GX 550 proves you don’t have to sacrifice comfort to enjoy a rugged camping adventure. This luxury SUV combines serious off-road power with a smooth, quiet ride that makes long drives feel easy—even with a full load of gear and family.

Under the hood, a 4.6-liter V8 engine delivers strong, confident performance on all kinds of terrain. With full-time four-wheel drive and a locking center differential, the GX 550 stays planted and stable, whether you’re climbing rocky hills or navigating slippery forest roads.

Inside, it’s pure Lexus—spacious, refined, and feature-packed. With three rows of seating, there’s room for the whole crew, and when you need cargo space instead, the rear seats fold flat to make room for tents, coolers, and everything else.

It’s not just about luxury either—the GX 550 comes ready for real adventure, with skid plates, off-road suspension, and a towing capacity of up to 6,500 lbs. So if you’re hauling a small camper or extra gear, it won’t break a sweat.

The GX 550 is ideal for campers who want both capability and class in one solid, dependable package.

Highlights:

• Spacious Interior – Three-row comfort with fold-flat seats for gear and supplies.
• Strong Performance – 4.6L V8 with full-time 4WD for smooth, stable off-road driving.
• High Towing Capacity – Bring along a trailer or extra equipment with 6,500 lbs of muscle.
• Off-Road Ready – Features like skid plates and rugged suspension make it trail-capable and campsite-ready.

17. Rivian R1S

Photo: Rivian R1S

If you’re looking for a next-generation SUV that blends off-road strength with eco-friendly tech, the Rivian R1S is hard to beat. This all-electric SUV is built for adventure—whether you’re heading deep into the woods or setting up camp by the lake.

With dual-motor AWD (or an available quad-motor system for even more control), the R1S handles mud, snow, steep climbs, and tricky trails like a champ. Its adaptive air suspension adjusts ride height, making it easier to clear obstacles or cruise smoothly on the highway.

You’ll get up to 316 miles on a single charge, so range anxiety isn’t an issue on longer trips. Inside, the three-row layout seats up to seven, and both the second and third rows fold flat, giving you a large, flat space for coolers, tents, and anything else you’re bringing along.

With a rugged yet modern design, a towing capacity of up to 7,700 lbs, and a commitment to sustainability, the R1S is a strong pick for campers who want the capability of a traditional SUV—without the gas.

Highlights:

• Spacious Interior – Seats up to seven with fold-flat rows for flexible cargo space.
• Powerful Performance – Dual or quad-motor AWD system tackles tough terrain with ease.
• Long Range – Travel up to 316 miles on a full charge.
• Towing Capacity – Pull up to 7,700 lbs—ideal for trailers or extra camping gear.

16. Mazda CX-50

Photo: Mazda CX-50

The Mazda CX-50 is perfect for families who want a little more adventure without giving up comfort or style. It’s a crossover that looks great in the city but feels right at home on dirt roads and forest trails.

With standard all-wheel drive, the CX-50 is ready to take on uneven terrain and light off-road routes. Its 2.5-liter engine gives you a good mix of power and fuel efficiency, and if you want more muscle, the available turbocharged version adds some serious kick for hilly drives or towing.

Inside, the cabin is clean, quiet, and spacious enough for five. The rear seats fold flat, so it’s easy to load up your tent, cooler, and all your camping gear. It also comes with smart utility features like a rugged suspension setup, optional skid plates, and a towing capacity of up to 3,500 lbs—great for hauling a small trailer or bikes.

The Mazda CX-50 is a solid pick if you want an SUV that looks sharp, drives smooth, and is always ready for the next camping trip.

Highlights:

• Spacious Interior – Comfortable seating for five and fold-flat rears for your gear.
• All-Wheel Drive – Confident handling on dirt roads and uneven ground.
• Strong Engine Options – Choose between a standard 2.5L or a more powerful turbo engine.
• Towing Capability – Pull up to 3,500 lbs—ideal for small trailers or extra equipment.

15. Volkswagen Atlas

Photo: Volkswagen Atlas

If you’re camping with the whole family—or a few friends too—the Volkswagen Atlas has the space to make everyone comfortable. With three rows of seating, it fits up to seven passengers, and when it’s time to pack up the gear, the rear seats fold flat to give you a wide, open cargo area for tents, coolers, and bags.

You can choose between a 2.0L turbocharged four-cylinder for solid everyday driving or a more powerful 3.6L V6 for added muscle. Add in the available all-wheel drive, and the Atlas can confidently take on gravel paths, muddy sites, or forest roads without a problem.

Need to haul a camper, kayaks, or a small trailer? No issue—when properly equipped, the Atlas can tow up to 5,000 pounds. It also comes with modern tech and comfort features, so even long drives to remote campsites feel relaxed.

Whether you’re heading into the woods or pulling up to a lakeside spot, the Atlas brings the space and strength to make your camping trip smooth from start to finish.

Highlights:

• Room for Everyone – Three-row layout fits up to seven passengers.
• Flexible Cargo Space – Fold-flat seats make loading gear simple.
• Confident on Trails – Available AWD handles uneven, unpaved roads with ease.
• Ready to Tow – Up to 5,000 lbs of towing capacity for trailers or toys.

14. Chevrolet Suburban

Photo: Chevrolet Suburban

If you need serious space and strength for your camping trips, the Chevrolet Suburban delivers both in a big way. This full-size SUV offers room for up to nine passengers, making it perfect for large families or group getaways. And when it’s time to load up, the second and third rows fold flat, giving you a massive cargo area that can fit everything from tents and chairs to coolers and hiking gear—maybe even a sleeping setup in the back.

Under the hood, the Suburban gives you options: a 5.3L V8, a more powerful 6.2L V8, or a 3.0L Duramax turbo-diesel that’s great on fuel for long-distance drives. All three bring plenty of power, especially if you plan to tow. When properly equipped, the Suburban can tow up to 8,300 lbs, making it ideal for campers, boats, or off-road toys.

With available four-wheel drive and an adaptive suspension system, it smooths out rough roads and handles uneven terrain with confidence. Whether you’re going deep into the woods or just want extra comfort at a nearby campground, the Suburban is built to take you there—with everything you need.

Highlights:

• Unmatched Space – Seats up to nine with generous cargo room and fold-flat seating.
• Powerful Performance – V8 or diesel engines for confident driving and hauling.
• Impressive Towing – Up to 8,300 lbs—great for trailers, campers, or boats.
• Off-Road Ready – 4WD and adaptive suspension make rough roads feel easy.

13. Hyundai Palisade XRT

Photo: Hyundai Palisade XRT

The Hyundai Palisade XRT brings a rugged look and real capability to the table—making it a great pick for families who want a little extra adventure in their camping trips. With skid plates, all-terrain tires, and blacked-out trim, it looks ready for the trail and performs just as well on it.

Under the hood, the 3.8L V6 engine puts out 291 horsepower, offering a smooth and responsive drive whether you’re cruising the highway or bouncing down a gravel road. Add the available all-wheel drive, and you’ll feel confident heading into tougher terrain.

Inside, the Palisade XRT is built for group travel, with three-row seating for up to eight. Need more cargo space? Just fold down the rear seats to create a flat loading area perfect for camping gear, coolers, or even inflatable mattresses.

It also handles towing like a champ—up to 5,000 lbs when properly equipped, ideal for bringing a small camper or outdoor toys along for the ride. With extra touches like a panoramic sunroof for stargazing and durable materials throughout, the Palisade XRT makes roughing it feel a lot less rough.

Highlights:

• Rugged Design – Skid plates, all-terrain tires, and bold styling for off-road confidence.
• Powerful Performance – 3.8L V6 with 291 hp and AWD available for smooth, capable driving.
• Spacious Comfort – Three rows of seating plus flat-folding rears for flexible cargo room.
• Towing Capability – Tow up to 5,000 lbs—perfect for campers, trailers, or extra gear.

12. Mitsubishi Montero

Photo: Mitsubishi Montero

If you’re the kind of camper who doesn’t shy away from rough trails and remote spots, the Mitsubishi Montero is a name you can trust. Built on a body-on-frame platform with full-time four-wheel drive and a locking rear differential, this SUV was made for real off-road work—and it’s earned its reputation over decades of tackling tough terrain around the world.

Power comes from a reliable 3.8L V6 engine, delivering enough strength for both highway cruising and serious trail use. With generous ground clearance and a well-tuned suspension, the Montero soaks up rocks, ruts, and dips without beating up your passengers.

Inside, there’s room for up to seven, and the rear seats fold flat, turning the cargo space into a wide, useful area for all your camping essentials—tents, coolers, backpacks, and more. It’s also rated to tow up to 5,000 lbs, which means you can bring along a small camper, a trailer, or even a couple of dirt bikes.

Whether you’re exploring desert trails, mountain passes, or forest roads, the Montero is built to get you there—and back—with confidence.

Highlights:

• Spacious Interior – Seats seven with fold-flat cargo space for all your gear.
• Powerful Performance – 3.8L V6 delivers strong, steady power in any terrain.
• Legendary Durability – Full-time 4WD, body-on-frame build, and locking rear differential for serious off-roading.
• Towing Strength – Haul up to 5,000 lbs of extra equipment or a small trailer.

11. Nissan Xterra

Photo: Nissan Xterra

The Nissan Xterra is built for people who love getting off the grid. With its tough body-on-frame construction, available four-wheel drive, and high ground clearance, the Xterra is made to handle dirt roads, rocky trails, and hard-to-reach campsites without breaking a sweat.

Under the hood, it runs on a 4.0L V6 engine that puts out 261 horsepower, giving you the muscle you need for steep climbs, highway hauling, or towing gear. Speaking of towing, the Xterra can handle up to 5,000 lbs, making it a great choice if you’re pulling a small camper, boat, or a few ATVs.

Inside, it keeps things simple and smart. The interior is durable and easy to clean, perfect after a muddy weekend outdoors. The fold-flat rear seats create a generous cargo area, and roof rails with available crossbars let you bring along extra gear like kayaks or a rooftop tent.

If you want an SUV that’s truly trail-tested and built for adventure, the Nissan Xterra still stands tall as a reliable camping companion.

Highlights:

• Powerful Engine – 4.0L V6 with 261 hp for confident off-road and towing performance.
• Practical Interior – Easy-to-clean layout, fold-flat seats, and roof rails for outdoor gear.
• Versatile Towing – Tow up to 5,000 lbs with ease.
• Off-Road Toughness – Built strong with 4WD, skid plates, and high clearance for real trail use.

10. Ford Expedition Timberline

Photo: Ford Expedition Timberline

If you need an SUV that’s big, bold, and built to handle whatever the trail throws at you, the Ford Expedition Timberline fits the bill. Designed with off-road capability in mind, this rugged trim comes standard with four-wheel drive, underbody skid plates, and an impressive 10.6 inches of ground clearance—perfect for reaching those remote, hard-to-access campsites.

Power comes from a 3.5L EcoBoost V6 engine pushing out a massive 440 horsepower and 510 lb-ft of torque. Whether you’re cruising the highway or climbing rough terrain, this SUV has the strength to do it all. And with a towing capacity of up to 9,200 lbs, it can easily pull campers, boats, or a trailer full of gear.

Inside, the Expedition Timberline offers three rows of seating for up to eight, and when the rear rows fold down, you’ve got a massive cargo area for tents, coolers, and all your outdoor essentials. It also features off-road-tuned shocks and a terrain management system that adapts to the surface beneath your wheels, adding confidence to every drive.

If your idea of camping includes adventure, power, and plenty of room, the Timberline delivers.

Highlights:

• Impressive Power – 3.5L EcoBoost engine with 440 hp and 510 lb-ft torque.
• Spacious Comfort – Seats up to eight with fold-flat rows for huge cargo flexibility.
• Heavy Towing – Up to 9,200 lbs—ideal for campers, boats, or heavy equipment.
• Off-Road Dominance – 4WD, skid plates, and high clearance for rugged exploration.

9. GMC Yukon AT4

Photo: GMC Yukon AT4

The GMC Yukon AT4 is a full-size SUV that doesn’t just look ready for adventure—it absolutely is. With standard four-wheel drive, a two-speed transfer case, skid plates, and an off-road suspension with adaptive dampers, this trim is built to take on everything from muddy trails to steep inclines, making it a great choice for campers who like to go a little farther off the grid.

You can choose between two strong engine options: a 5.3L V8 with 355 horsepower, or for more punch, a 6.2L V8 with 420 horsepower. Both offer smooth power for long highway drives and plenty of muscle for rougher terrain. The Yukon AT4 can tow up to 8,400 lbs, so bringing along a camper, trailer, or even a boat is no problem.

Inside, it’s just as impressive. The three-row cabin seats up to eight and offers lots of stretch-out space, while the rear seats fold flat for packing your gear. Extras like all-terrain tires and an available panoramic sunroof round it out, giving you both function and fun for weekend getaways.

Highlights:

• Rugged Performance – 4WD, skid plates, adaptive suspension, and a two-speed transfer case for real trail use.
• Spacious Comfort – Seats up to eight with fold-flat seats and optional panoramic sunroof.
• Towing Capacity – Up to 8,400 lbs—ideal for campers, trailers, or boats.
• Power Options – Choose between a 5.3L V8 or a 6.2L V8 for serious performance.

8. Chevrolet Tahoe

Photo: Chevrolet Tahoe

The Chevrolet Tahoe is a full-size SUV that’s just as comfortable navigating rough trails as it is cruising down the highway. With its roomy interior, strong engine options, and off-road capability, it’s a solid pick for camping trips with family or friends—especially if you like to bring everything with you.

You’ve got three engines to choose from: a 5.3L V8 with 355 hp, a 6.2L V8 with 420 hp, or a 3.0L Duramax turbo-diesel that offers great fuel economy for longer road trips. Combine that with available four-wheel drive, skid plates, and adaptive suspension, and the Tahoe becomes just as capable off the pavement as it is on it.

Inside, there’s room for up to nine passengers, depending on the configuration, and the rear seats fold flat to create a large cargo space—perfect for tents, coolers, or even setting up a sleeping area. And if you’re hauling a trailer, camper, or a couple of ATVs, the Tahoe has you covered with up to 8,400 lbs of towing power.

Whether you’re driving into the mountains or pulling into a quiet lakeside spot, the Tahoe gives you space, strength, and confidence to enjoy the trip.

Highlights:

• Powerful Performance – Choose from two V8s or a fuel-efficient turbo-diesel engine.
• Off-Road Capability – 4WD, adaptive suspension, and skid plates for trail readiness.
• Spacious Interior – Seats up to nine with fold-flat rears for serious cargo room.
• Impressive Towing – Up to 8,400 lbs—great for trailers, boats, or extra gear.

7. Honda Passport

Photo: Honda Passport

The Honda Passport strikes a perfect balance between everyday comfort and weekend adventure. Designed with outdoor trips in mind, it comes standard with all-wheel drive, intelligent traction management, and 8.1 inches of ground clearance—great for handling dirt roads, rocky trails, and uneven terrain without worry.

Under the hood, a dependable 3.5L V6 engine delivers 280 horsepower and 262 lb-ft of torque, paired with a smooth 9-speed automatic transmission. Whether you’re cruising down the highway or heading into the backcountry, the Passport drives confidently. It’s also ready to tow, with a capacity of up to 5,000 lbs—ideal for pulling a small camper, trailer, or watercraft.

Inside, the Passport seats five passengers comfortably, with fold-flat rear seats to give you the space you need for coolers, tents, and all your camping gear. There’s also a hidden underfloor storage compartment in the cargo area, perfect for keeping essentials tucked away and organized.

If you’re after an SUV that’s rugged enough for off-road escapes but still practical for everyday life, the Honda Passport is a dependable choice.

Highlights:

• Rugged Performance – AWD, traction control, and 8.1″ ground clearance for off-pavement confidence.
• Powerful Engine – 3.5L V6 delivers strong and smooth performance.
• Towing Capacity – Pulls up to 5,000 lbs—perfect for weekend getaways.
• Spacious Interior – Roomy cabin, fold-flat seats, and underfloor storage for camping gear.

6. Land Rover Defender

Photo: Land Rover Defender

The Land Rover Defender is built for serious adventure. Whether you’re heading deep into the backcountry or exploring rugged trails, this SUV is made to handle it all. With legendary 4×4 capability, adjustable air suspension, high ground clearance, and advanced terrain management, the Defender doesn’t flinch when the road disappears.

You can choose between two solid engine options: a 2.0L turbocharged four-cylinder or a 3.0L inline-six mild-hybrid. Both offer a good mix of power and efficiency, paired with an 8-speed automatic transmission that keeps the ride smooth whether you’re climbing rocks or cruising the highway.

Inside, the Defender keeps things versatile and comfortable. It offers seating for up to seven, and the rear seats fold flat to create a wide cargo space for camping gear, coolers, tents—whatever you’re bringing along. Plus, with a towing capacity of up to 8,201 lbs, you can easily haul a trailer, camper, or even a small boat.

It’s rugged, refined, and ready for whatever your next camping trip throws its way.

Highlights:

• Off-Road Excellence – 4×4 system, air suspension, and terrain modes for ultimate off-road control.
• Powerful Engine Choices – Turbocharged or hybrid options for strong, efficient performance.
• Towing Strength – Up to 8,201 lbs—ideal for trailers and gear-heavy adventures.
• Spacious Comfort – Seats seven with fold-flat rears and generous cargo room.

5. Ford Bronco

Photo: Ford Bronco

The Ford Bronco is built for adventure—and it shows. With its tough build, modern off-road tech, and iconic design, the Bronco is made for campers who like to go where others won’t. It comes standard with four-wheel drive, an advanced suspension system, and the option for 35-inch all-terrain tires, giving you the grip and clearance to handle rough trails, mud, sand, and rocky backroads.

You’ve got two strong engine options: a 2.3L EcoBoost four-cylinder with 300 horsepower or a 2.7L EcoBoost V6 with 330 horsepower. Both offer plenty of power for weekend getaways, and the Bronco can tow up to 3,500 lbs, so bringing a small camper, trailer, or watercraft is no problem.

Inside, it seats up to five passengers, with fold-flat rear seats to help you pack your tent, cooler, chairs, and more. And if you really want to embrace the outdoors, just pop off the doors and roof—a unique Bronco feature that turns your drive into part of the camping experience.

Whether you’re pitching a tent in the woods or exploring unmarked trails, the Ford Bronco brings both capability and pure outdoor fun.

Highlights:

• Trail-Tackling Power – 4WD, advanced suspension, and available 35-inch tires for off-road confidence.
• Engine Options – Choose from 300 hp or 330 hp EcoBoost engines.
• Towing & Hauling – Up to 3,500 lbs of towing capacity for your gear or camper.
• Adventure-Ready Interior – Seats 5, fold-flat rears, and removable roof and doors for open-air camping vibes.

4. Toyota Land Cruiser

Photo: Toyota Land Cruiser

The Toyota Land Cruiser has long been the gold standard for off-road reliability—and for good reason. Whether you’re navigating rocky trails, muddy roads, or steep climbs, this SUV’s full-time four-wheel drive, locking center differential, and high ground clearance help you tackle the toughest conditions with confidence.

Under the hood, the Land Cruiser packs a powerful 5.7L V8 engine that delivers 381 horsepower and 401 lb-ft of torque. It’s strong, smooth, and built to last—making it just as comfortable on a cross-country drive as it is deep in the backcountry. With a towing capacity of up to 8,100 lbs, you can bring along a camper, boat, or gear-heavy trailer without a second thought.

Inside, the Land Cruiser offers a rare mix of luxury and practicality. It seats up to eight passengers, and when the rear seats fold down, you get a flat, spacious area perfect for loading camping equipment, coolers, or even sleeping bags for an overnight stay inside the vehicle.

If you’re heading off the grid and want a vehicle you can trust—no matter what—the Land Cruiser delivers strength, space, and legendary durability.

Highlights:

• Power & Performance – 5.7L V8 with 381 hp and 401 lb-ft of torque.
• Spacious Interior – Seats eight with flat-folding rears for flexible cargo space.
• Off-Road Dominance – Full-time 4WD, locking diff, and excellent clearance for rugged terrain.
• Towing Capacity – Up to 8,100 lbs for campers, boats, and heavy gear.

3. Jeep Wrangler

Photo: Jeep Wrangler

The Jeep Wrangler is one of the most iconic adventure vehicles out there—and for good reason. Built to take on the harshest trails and wildest terrains, it’s a top choice for campers who like to go way off the beaten path. With four-wheel drive, advanced traction control, and a rugged, trail-tested design, the Wrangler is ready for whatever the wilderness throws your way.

You’ve got options under the hood: a classic 3.6L V6 with 285 horsepower, or a 2.0L turbocharged four-cylinder with 270 horsepower and plenty of torque for low-speed climbing. It’s not just built for fun either—with a 3,500 lb towing capacity, the Wrangler can easily haul a small camper, trailer, or even a couple of kayaks.

Inside, it seats up to four, with fold-flat rear seats that make room for all your camping gear. What sets it apart? The removable doors and roof, which let you connect directly with the outdoors. Whether you’re cruising a forest trail or parking at a scenic overlook, the Wrangler delivers freedom, fun, and capability in one tough package.

Highlights:

• Off-Road Excellence – 4WD, traction control, and rugged design built for trails.
• Engine Power Options – Choose from a 3.6L V6 or 2.0L turbo for flexible performance.
• Towing & Hauling – Tow up to 3,500 lbs for boats, campers, or gear.
• Outdoor Adventure Ready – Seats four with fold-flat seats and removable doors/roof for full immersion.

2. Toyota 4Runner

Photo: Toyota 4Runner

The Toyota 4Runner is a tried-and-true off-road SUV that’s built for people who don’t stop where the pavement ends. With its rugged body-on-frame construction, high ground clearance, and available four-wheel drive, the 4Runner can take on rocky trails, muddy backroads, and remote campsites without hesitation.

Under the hood, it runs on a dependable 4.0L V6 engine producing 270 horsepower, paired with a smooth five-speed automatic transmission. It’s got the power you need for long highway stretches and rough trail climbs—and with a towing capacity of up to 5,000 lbs, you can easily bring along a trailer, small boat, or a gear-packed utility hauler.

Inside, the 4Runner offers seating for up to seven, and the rear seats fold flat to open up a large cargo space for tents, coolers, and everything else you need for a weekend outdoors. The interior is also built tough, with materials made to handle dirt, mud, and wear from real adventure.

If you want a reliable, off-road-ready SUV that’s earned its reputation for getting families in—and out—of the wild, the 4Runner is a hard one to beat.

Highlights:

• Powerful Performance – 4.0L V6 and 5,000 lbs of towing capacity for gear-heavy trips.
• Off-Road Ready – Body-on-frame build, high clearance, and 4WD for rugged terrain.
• Spacious Interior – Seats seven with fold-flat rears for big cargo flexibility.
• Durable Design – Built to handle real dirt, real mud, and real adventure.

1. Subaru Outback

Photo: Subaru Outback

The Subaru Outback is a favorite among outdoor lovers—and for good reason. This versatile crossover SUV blends everyday comfort with off-road capability, making it one of the best vehicles you can take on a camping trip. With standard all-wheel drive, 8.7 inches of ground clearance, and Subaru’s X-Mode traction system, the Outback can confidently handle dirt trails, gravel roads, and even the occasional muddy climb to a remote site.

You can choose between two engines: a 2.5L four-cylinder with 182 horsepower, or a 2.4L turbocharged engine with 260 horsepower for more punch on long drives or when towing. And speaking of towing—it can handle up to 3,500 lbs, which is great for small campers, kayaks, or utility trailers.

Inside, the Outback is just as ready for the trip. It seats five comfortably, and with the rear seats folded flat, there’s a surprising amount of space for tents, sleeping bags, and coolers. It’s also fuel-efficient, so you’ll spend less time at the pump and more time in nature.

If you’re looking for an SUV that’s ready for the trail but still smooth enough for daily driving, the Subaru Outback is a dependable, go-anywhere choice.

Highlights:

• All-Wheel Drive Capability – AWD, X-Mode, and high clearance for confident off-road access.
• Powerful Engine Options – Choose between 182 hp or 260 hp, with 3,500 lbs towing capacity.
• Spacious Interior – Seats five with fold-flat rears and generous cargo space.
• Fuel-Efficient & Rugged – Balances outdoor capability with excellent mileage for longer adventures.

Final Word

The perfect SUV for camping isn’t about size or flash—it’s about what works. You need space for your gear, traction for rough roads, and comfort for the long haul. Add in reliability, towing power, and decent fuel economy, and you’ve got a vehicle that can handle any trip.

Pick the SUV that fits your family, your gear, and your kind of adventure—and the outdoors will always be within reach.