Are you ready to ditch the pavement and explore the wild unknown? Whether you’re cruising in a Toyota Tacoma, a 4-Runner, or another adventure-ready rig, finding the perfect off-road camper can make all the difference in your journey. From carrying your mountain bikes and kayaks to ensuring a comfy stay in the middle of nowhere, we’ve got you covered.
In this guide, we’re diving into the best off-road campers under 5,000 lbs that balance usability, versatility, towability, and value. We’ve meticulously researched and tested a variety of options to suit different needs and budgets. Whether you’re after a compact yet rugged unit or a spacious and luxurious escape pod, there’s something here for everyone.
From the innovative TAXA Mantis Overland Edition to the heavy-duty ARKTO G12, we’ll weigh the pros and cons of each model, ensuring you can make an informed decision for your next off-grid adventure. So, buckle up, adventurers! It’s time to find your ultimate off-road companion.
Stay tuned as we break down each contender, highlighting what makes them stand out and why they deserve a spot on your off-road dream team. And remember, the right camper can transform your outdoor experiences from merely great to absolutely epic. Let’s get into it!
Table of Contents
- TAXA Mantis Overland Edition
- Winnebago HIKE 100
- Rockwood Geo Pro G19FBS
- Forest River No-Boundaries NB16.1 Beast Mode
- ARKTO G12
- Imperial Outdoors X145
- MDC Forte 9+
- Adventure Camper Comparison Table
- Off-Road Adventure Camper Accessories
- Adventure Camper Honorable Mentions
TAXA Mantis Overland Edition
Overview
The TAXA Mantis Overland Edition is a versatile, lightweight off-road camper designed for adventurers who want to explore off the beaten path. Its compact size and innovative design make it a great option for those with limited storage space, as it can fit into a standard garage. This camper is perfect for those who need to store it in their garage when not in use. It’s easy to tow, but the limited plumbing and lack of solar options may make extended stays challenging.
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See if Outdoorsy has a TAXA Mantis available to rent near you!
Dimensions
- Length: 19 ft
- Width: 7 ft 6 in
- Height: 7 ft (closed) / 9 ft 10 in (open)
- Interior Height: 7 ft 10 in
- Interior Width: 6 ft 10 in
Weight
- Dry Weight: 3,486 lbs
- GVWR: 5,000 lbs
- Tongue Weight: 510 lbs
Tank Capacities
- Fresh Water: 20 gallons
- Grey Water: 22 gallons
- Black Water: N/A
Frame Composition
- Powder-coated steel frame with painted aluminum composite panels
Price
- $48,500
Off-Road Features
- Timbren Axle-Less Suspension with Electric Brakes
- 16-inch wheels with all-terrain tires
- Great approach and departure angles
Additional Features
- Solar: No
- Outdoor Shower: Yes
- Full Bath: Yes (cassette toilet)
- Toy/Bike Mounting: Roof tracks for rack options and THULE® ProBar Evo 175 adjustable load bars with a built-in ladder for accessibility
- Towability: 8/10
- Livability: 6/10 (no solar, and cassette toilet)
- Slides: None, but has a popup tent roof
- A/C: Yes – window AC
Video Review
Pros
- Compact size fits in standard garages
- Good off-road capabilities
- Versatile toy and bike mounting options
Cons
- Limited livability due to lack of solar and basic bathroom facilities
- Higher price point compared to some competitors
Winnebago HIKE 100
Overview
The Winnebago HIKE 100 is designed for outdoor enthusiasts looking for a lightweight and versatile off-road camper. With its independent suspension and rugged exoskeleton, it’s ready for various adventures. This camper balances affordability with off-road capability. It’s spacious, lightweight, and offers plenty of storage and protection for outdoor adventures.
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See if Outdoorsy has a Winnebago Hike 100 near you!
Dimensions
- Length: 15 ft 11 in
- Width: 8 ft 1 in
- Height: 9 ft 11 in
- Interior Height: 6 ft 5 in
Weight
- Dry Weight: 3,156 lbs
- Tongue Weight: 566 lbs
Tank Capacities
- Fresh Water: 31 gallons
- Grey Water: 25 gallons
- Black Water: 4.75 gallons
Frame Composition
- NXG engineered frame
- 2″ thick FILON® MAX fiberglass sidewalls with Azdel Onboard® composite panels
Price
- $40,952
Off-Road Features
- Goodyear Wrangler 16″ off-road tires
- BAL Independent Suspension with Dexter TorFlex torsion stub axles
Additional Features
- Solar: Yes, 200 watts
- Outdoor Shower: Yes
- Full Bath: Wet bath with cassette toilet
- Toy/Bike Mounting: Rear 2″ accessory receiver hitch with 350 lbs capacity
- Towability: 7/10
- Livability: 7/10
- Slides: None
- A/C: Yes, 13,500 low-profile roof A/C
Video Review
Pros
- Affordable price
- Decent off-road capabilities
- Good livability with a wet bath and cassette toilet
Cons
- Limited black water capacity
- Moderate towability
Rockwood Geo Pro G19FBS
Overview
The Rockwood Geo Pro G19FBS is an aluminum-constructed camper with a slideout, offering plenty of space and a large bathroom. It’s ideal for those who want comfort and livability while exploring off-road locations. Surprisingly spacious and livable, this camper makes an excellent choice for extended stays in off-road locations. Its aluminum construction and slideout provide extra comfort and functionality.
Rent Here
See if Outdoorsy has a Rockwood GeoPro near you!
Dimensions
- Length: 20 ft 2 in
- Width: 7 ft 6 in
- Height: 9 ft 11 in
- Interior Height: 6 ft 5 in
Weight
- Dry Weight: 3,543 lbs
- Tongue Weight: 437 lbs
Tank Capacities
- Fresh Water: 31 gallons
- Grey Water: 27 gallons
- Black Water: 27 gallons
Frame Composition
- Aluminum cage dinette bases and beds
- 6-sided aluminum cage construction
- Vacuum laminated roof and walls
- Interior & exterior composite sidewall construction
- 5/8″ tongue and groove plywood flooring
Price
- $41,182
Off-Road Features
- 15” Mud Rover Radial Tires and Lift Kit
- Dexter Torsion Axles with Aluminum Wheels
Additional Features
- Solar: Yes, 200 watts
- Outdoor Shower: No
- Full Bath: Yes, nice-sized
- Toy/Bike Mounting: Tongue mount bike rack, 2” receiver on back
- Towability: 7/10
- Livability: 9/10
- Slides: 1 for sofa
- A/C: 13,500 roof A/C
Video Review
Pros
- Spacious interior with slideout
- Good livability with a full bath and solar power
- Aluminum construction for durability
Cons
- Not ideal for rugged off-road conditions
- No outdoor shower
Forest River No-Boundaries NB16.1 Beast Mode
Overview
The Forest River No-Boundaries NB16.1 Beast Mode is a compact, off-road camper designed for adventure enthusiasts. It features a robust suspension system and ample storage for outdoor gear. Forest River has packed a lot of features into this small camper, including a pizza oven and a versatile suspension system. It’s ideal for short trips with lots of gear, but the limited interior space may not be suitable for long-term living. For larger options, be sure to check out the NB16.6 and 19.2 which still tick the box for under 5k lbs!
Rent Here
See if Outdoorsy has a Forest River No-Boundaries near you!
Dimensions
- Length: 14 ft 4 in
- Width: 7 ft 4 in
- Height: 10 ft 4 in
Weight
- Dry Weight: 2,889 lbs
- Tongue Weight: 315 lbs
Tank Capacities
- Fresh Water: 30 gallons
- Grey Water: 30 gallons
- Black Water: 30 gallons
Frame Composition
- Aluminum cage with Azdel exterior
- PVC roof with fully enclosed underbelly
Price
- $35,931
Off-Road Features
- Aluminum wheels wrapped in all-terrain tires
- CURT BEAST MODE Independent Suspension System
Additional Features
- Solar: Yes, 200 watts with 2000W inverter
- Outdoor Shower: Yes
- Full Bath: Yes
- Toy/Bike Mounting: Rhino Rack RVT track, two vortex bars, J-cradle kayak holder
- Towability: 9/10
- Livability: 5/10
- Slides: None
- A/C: 13.5K A/C
Video Review
Pros
- Excellent off-road capabilities
- Ample storage and toy mounting options
- Affordable price
Cons
- Limited interior space for extended stays
- Lower livability compared to larger models
ARKTO G12
Overview
The ARKTO G12 is designed for rugged off-road adventures, built with heavy-duty materials and a unique convertible roof. Its super heavy-duty construction and independent suspension make it an ideal choice for serious off-road enthusiasts. While it lacks some indoor comforts like air conditioning and a standard toilet, it excels in durability and outdoor functionality.
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See if Outdoorsy has an Arkto G12 near you!
Dimensions
- Length: 19 ft 4 in
- Width: 7 ft 2 in
- Height: 7 ft 10 in
- Interior Height: 6 ft 8 in
Weight
- Dry Weight: 3,600 lbs
- Tongue Weight: 397 lbs
Tank Capacities
- Fresh Water: 37 gallons
- Grey Water: N/A
- Black Water: N/A
Frame Composition
- Galvanized steel chassis with a 75-year lifespan
Price
- Starts at $50,000
Off-Road Features
- 17-inch all-terrain tires
- Great approach and departure angles
- Underbelly skid plates
- Timbren Axle-Less HD suspension with a 4″ lift
Additional Features
- Solar: Yes, with various options
- Outdoor Shower: Yes, with Overland Vehicle Systems enclosure
- Full Bath: No, cassette toilet optional
- Toy/Bike Mounting: None
- Towability: 8/10
- Livability: 4/10
- Slides: Roof
- A/C: No, but has a Maxxair roof vent
Video Review
Pros
- Extremely rugged and durable
- Good off-road capabilities
- Compact and easy to tow
Cons
- Limited indoor amenities
- No standard toilet or air conditioning
Imperial Outdoors X145
Overview
The Imperial Outdoors X145 is a high-end off-road camper built for deep wilderness exploration. With an air ride suspension and extensive water storage, it’s perfect for long-term off-grid adventures. This camper features a modern interior, advanced suspension, and ample storage, making it an excellent choice for those who prioritize comfort and durability.
Rent Here
See if Outdoorsy has an Imperial Outdoors X145 near you!
Dimensions
- Length: 21 ft 7 in
- Width: 7 ft 7 in
- Height: 9 ft 9 in
- Interior Height: 6 ft 3 in
Weight
- Dry Weight: 4,400 lbs
- GVWR: 6,172 lbs
- Tongue Weight: 450 lbs
Tank Capacities
- Fresh Water: 60 gallons
- Grey Water: 60 gallons
- Black Water: N/A
Frame Composition
- 1/4” closed tube steel, powder-coated
Price
- $112,950
Off-Road Features
- Full skid plates
- 16” off-road tires
- On-board air compressor
- Off-road rock lighting
Additional Features
- Solar: Yes, with multiple options
- Outdoor Shower: Yes, with an outdoor spray hose
- Full Bath: Full bathroom with shower and dry flush toilet
- Toy/Bike Mounting: Yes, with custom roof mounts
- Towability: 7/10
- Livability: 7/10
- Slides: None
- A/C: Yes, 12V 6,824 BTU
Video Review
Pros
- Extensive water storage
- Advanced suspension system
- High-end interior amenities
Cons
- High price point
- Small A/C unit may struggle in extreme climates
MDC Forte 9+
Overview
The MDC Forte 9+ is a compact, lightweight off-road trailer that packs a punch with its durable construction and essential features. It’s designed for weekend warriors who want a reliable and easy-to-tow camper that can handle tough terrains. Although it’s more of a weekender style, it comes packed with features and is built to go nearly anywhere.
Rent Here
See if Outdoorsy has an MDC Forte 9+ near you!
Dimensions
- Length: 15 ft 1 in
- Width: 7 ft 7 in
- Height: 7 ft 9 in
Weight
- Dry Weight: 3,090 lbs
- Tongue Weight: 317 lbs
Tank Capacities
- Fresh Water: 31 gallons
- Grey Water: N/A
- Black Water: N/A
Frame Composition
- 5″ x 2″ Q345 galvanized steel hot-rolled rectangle tube frame
Price
- $45,500
Off-Road Features
- 16” off-road tires
- 12” electromagnetic brakes with a handbrake and drawbar-mounted emergency breakaway system
Additional Features
- Solar: 525W with 200Ah battery and 2000W inverter
- Outdoor Shower: Yes
- Full Bath: No
- Toy/Bike Mounting: No
- Towability: 10/10
- Livability: 2/10
- Slides: Roof pop-up
- A/C: Optional portable A/C
Video Review
Pros
- Super easy to tow
- Packed with essential features
- Rugged construction for tough terrains
Cons
- Limited livability for extended stays
- No standard indoor toilet
Adventure Camper Comparison Table
| Camper Model | Dimensions (L x W x H) | Dry Weight | Tongue Weight | Fresh Water | Grey Water | Black Water | Frame Composition | Price | Off-Road Features | Special Suspension | Solar | Outdoor Shower | Full Bath | Toy/Bike Mounting | Towability | Livability | Slides | A/C |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| TAXA Mantis Overland Edition | 19 x 7’6″ x 7′ (closed) | 3,486 lbs | 510 lbs | 20 gal | 22 gal | N/A | Powder-coated steel w/ painted aluminum panels | $48,500 | 16″ wheels, axle-less suspension, all-terrain tires | Timbren Axle-Less Suspension | No | Yes | Yes (cassette toilet) | Roof tracks, THULE ProBar Evo 175 | 8/10 | 6/10 | None | Yes (window A/C) |
| Winnebago HIKE 100 | 15’11” x 8’1″ x 9’11” | 3,156 lbs | 566 lbs | 31 gal | 25 gal | 4.75 gal | NXG engineered frame | $40,952 | Goodyear Wrangler 16″ tires | BAL Independent Suspension | Yes | Yes | Wet bath w/ cassette toilet | Rear 2″ accessory receiver hitch | 7/10 | 7/10 | None | Yes (13,500 low-profile) |
| Rockwood Geo Pro G19FBS | 20’2″ x 7’6″ x 9’11” | 3,543 lbs | 437 lbs | 31 gal | 27 gal | 27 gal | Aluminum cage construction | $41,182 | 15″ Mud Rover tires, lift kit | Dexter Torsion Axles | Yes | No | Yes | Tongue mount bike rack, 2″ receiver | 7/10 | 9/10 | 1 | Yes (13,500 roof A/C) |
| Forest River NB16.1 Beast Mode | 14’4″ x 7’4″ x 10’4″ | 2,889 lbs | 315 lbs | 30 gal | 30 gal | 30 gal | Aluminum cage, Azdel exterior | $35,931 | All-terrain tires, aluminum wheels | CURT BEAST MODE Independent Suspension | Yes | Yes | Yes | Rhino Rack RVT track, J-cradle kayak holder | 9/10 | 5/10 | None | Yes (13.5K A/C) |
| ARKTO G12 | 19’4″ x 7’2″ x 7’10” | 3,600 lbs | 397 lbs | 37 gal | N/A | N/A | Galvanized steel chassis | $50,000 | 17″ all-terrain tires, skid plates, great angles | Timbren Axle-Less HD Suspension | Yes | Yes | No | None | 8/10 | 4/10 | Roof Pop-up | No (Maxxair vent) |
| Imperial Outdoors X145 | 21’7″ x 7’7″ x 9’9″ | 4,400 lbs | 450 lbs | 60 gal | 60 gal | N/A | 1/4” closed tube steel, powder-coated | $112,950 | Skid plates, 16″ off-road tires, rock lighting | Cruisemaster ATX Independent Suspension | Yes | Yes | Yes (dry flush toilet) | Custom roof mounts | 7/10 | 7/10 | None | Yes (12V 6,824 BTU) |
| MDC Forte 9+ | 15’1″ x 7’7″ x 7’9″ | 3,090 lbs | 317 lbs | 31 gal | N/A | N/A | Galvanized steel hot-rolled rectangle tube frame | $45,500 | 16″ off-road tires, 12″ electromagnetic brakes | X-TRACK Independent Coil Spring | Yes | Yes | No | None | 10/10 | 2/10 | Roof Pop-up | Optional portable A/C |
Off-Road Adventure Camper Accessories
What’s the point of going on an adventure if you can’t bring along some toys?
- First up is a dual bicycle carrier that mounts to the rear hitch of your camper.
- Never run out of battery with the convenience of an EcoFlow DELTA 2 or the Bluetti AC180
- Upgrade your batteries to LifePO4 with the Goldenmate 12v 100AH lithium battery
- Enhance your outdoor cooking with the SylvanSport Dine-o-Max and Dine-o-Mite camp kitchen organizers (I LOVE these things!)
- And lastly, keep your drinks cool with a cooler from RTIC or a portable fridge from BougeRV!
Adventure Camper Honorable Mentions
Ultralight Off-Road Adventure Campers
Sylvan Sport Go-X
The Sylvan Sport Go-X is a unique trailer that can store your toys, go anywhere and provide a surprisingly large living area to relax in while only weighing 1,200 lbs.
Escapod TOPO2
The Escapod TOPO2 takes an off-road approach to the very popular teardrop camper. Packed with features like solar, off-road tires with proprietary shock-in-spring Freeride Suspension System, and roof mount rack options, this little guy will be perfect for the adventure enthusiast in all of us!
Over 5k Off-Road Adventure Campers
Palamino Pause
I normally don’t associate Palamino with high-end campers, but this thing is gorgeous! They have lots of different floor plans to choose from, and sit on an aluminum frame and chassis. The Pause 16.4 was the 2024 RV News Adventure Trailer of the Year, and we can see why. It has a small footprint while be packed with features like a full bath, rear hatch opening, and front dinette.
Opus OP13
I was REALLY hoping the Opus OP13 would weigh under 5k lbs to make it on to the main list. While it is technically only 4,800 lbs dry, adding ANY water, supplies, gear will put it over our target weight. The electric pop-up roof makes for easier towing, the 405 ah Lithium batteries make boondocking a breeze, and very heavy duty off-road suspension means you can explore the ends of the world. Be sure to check the rest of the Opus lineup too.
Black Series HQ12
And last, but certainly not least is the beautiful Black Series HQ12 adventure trailer. This trailer is similar to the Opus13, but a bit lighter and a lot cheaper too, starting at $43,899. It also features a pop-up roof, wet bath, off road independent suspension, and sleeping arrangements for 4 people. That is a low price for a camper that has 600 watts of solar, water tanks of 64/26/26 for fresh / gray / black, and an instant water heater. The main reason it sits here in the honorable mention is that they are relatively untested, and have questionable reliability here in the USA, since they are manufactured in China and shipped over. Be sure to check out this video from ROA Off-Road before investing in their campers!
Conclusion
Choosing the perfect off-road camper under 5,000 lbs can feel like picking the ultimate adventure sidekick. Each of these rugged contenders brings its own flair to the off-road game, from the garage-friendly TAXA Mantis to the beastly Imperial Outdoors X145. Whether you’re planning a weekend getaway or a long-term escapade deep into the wilderness, there’s a camper on this list ready to make your off-grid dreams a reality.
Remember, the best camper is the one that fits your unique style of adventuring. So hitch up, pack your gear, and let the wild call you away from the ordinary. Happy trails and may your off-road adventures be as epic as the stories you’ll tell around the campfire!
