Destination trailers easily capture the imagination of current and would-be RVers. With massive bay windows, lofted bedrooms, and residential amenities, these charismatic towables exemplify what it means to enjoy the comforts of home at the campsite. In recent years, we’ve seen an increased interest in destination trailers. Many manufacturers have now added traditional destination trailer models to their lineups, while others have evolved this unique RV type into models with patios, fifth wheel versions that offer improved towability, and lofted “tiny home” floor plans that fit into a 30-foot campsite. So why the popularity now?
That question is especially warranted given that destination trailers, despite their interior appeal, are cumbersome, if not outright difficult, to tow. Further, they are designed for extended stays, not frequent trips. Understanding the recent trend of this bulky yet home-like towable may provide us with some insights into how some RVer’s habits are changing. We’ll also learn how they are incorporating this non-traditional RV into their annual trips. Maybe you’re among them…
Key Takeaways
- Growing Popularity – Destination trailers are rising in demand as an affordable vacation home alternative, fueled by RV trends, housing costs, and campground adaptations.
- Innovative Designs – New models feature lofts, patios, and fifth-wheel versions, expanding space and improving towability for long-term stays at designated campsites.
- Affordability & Convenience – With lower costs than luxury fifth wheels, destination trailers offer residential comfort for seasonal camping, though resale value and mobility remain considerations.
Why Destination Trailers Now?
Until fairly recently, destination trailers found their largest audience among select geographies, in regions like Minnesota and Michigan, where they served as stand-in lake houses on private properties. They were mostly considered tall travel trailers that were a relative pain to move, and that remains somewhat true today: destination trailers are intended for extended stays. Owning one, you lose a certain degree of mobility.
But drive by just about any RV dealership nationwide, and you’re likely to see destination trailers on the lot. So what changed? It’s what two sources I spoke with referred to as a “perfect storm.”
In 2020, the pandemic sparked a surge in RV demand as families sought safer travel options and remote workers turned to RVs for affordable living. At the same time, the housing market boomed due to low interest rates, but supply shortages and rising rates later drove prices higher.
Not only did RV travel and full-time RV camping gain popularity, but prices for vacation homes, cabins, rental properties, and secondary housing also surged as demand for remote-friendly living increased.
A Loft Alternative
By 2022 and 2023, prices in the full-profile fifth wheel segment (think luxury fifth wheels) had risen to record highs. Families and snowbirds who typically used a full-profile fifth wheel as a mobile vacation home were ready for a cost-friendly alternative.
In the spring of 2023, Forest River Salem Villa Grand introduced a new destination trailer model, a double-loft known as the 42VIEW, which quickly drew widespread attention. While other manufacturers made loft destination trailers prior to the 42VIEW—Keystone Retreat, and CrossRoads Hampton, to name a few—this new version featured modern improvements like panoramic windows, a super slide, a spiral staircase, and a uniquely extended kitchen table. This was also the first to introduce a double drop frame, enhancing interior space with higher ceilings and allowing for a more spacious double loft.
Does the Salem Villa Grand 42VIEW get credited for the rise of the destination trailer? At the very least, it and others of a similar ilk sparked the interest and, perhaps, the imagination of RVers who had not previously considered these bulkier RVs. It also drew attention to the price of destination trailers, which was lower and more attractive than many full-profile fifth wheels
A final note: as the pandemic drove RV sales to record-setting levels, manufacturers focused on producing travel trailers, which suited more RVers, were more affordable, and required fewer materials, making them quicker to build. With fewer destination trailers being built, demand grew, especially when more RVers discovered their affordability and suitability for seasonal camping—yet another reason for the influx of destination trailers when they made a comeback.
Destination Trailers Known & New
Since 2023, the hefty yet home-like destination trailer (DT) has received increased attention from consumers and manufacturers alike, evidenced by increasing sales numbers and a plethora of new models and innovative floor plans. At the 2024 Hershey RV show, for instance, we noted that new destination trailer models, or destination-style RVs, fronted the rows of many manufacturer displays.
Not only have destination campers become popular among RVers, but they have instigated a bit of an arms race among manufacturers. In 2024/2025 alone:
- Forest River Timberwolf launched the 16ML, a mini-loft destination trailer
- Keystone Coleman introduced Homestead, featuring two DT models
- Forest River Campsite Reserve launched a full line of destination trailers
- Palomino added loft floor plans to its Puma lineup, including the 402LFT
- Alliance RV launched Benchmark, its first destination trailer
- Forest River expanded its IBEX lineup with three DTs.
- The 44VIEW launched as a larger update to its famous predecessor
Some longstanding destination trailer manufacturers and lineups remain at the forefront: Forest River, Keystone, CrossRoads RV, and Jayco each have legacy destination trailer lines, represented through Cedar Creek Cottage, Salem Villa Grand and Wildwood Grand Lodge, Timberwolf, Hampton, Redwood, and Jay Flight Bungalow, among others. But 2024 and 2025 have brought significant changes, additions, and improvements.
Let’s explore a few of those updates.
Mini Loft
The elevated ceilings and loft floor plans of earlier destination trailers paved the way for a new line, often referred to as mini loft RVs, mini lofts, or travel trailers with a loft. From the exterior, they share the same boxy profile as destination trailers, but some are under 30 feet, and many include a now-iconic covered patio.
If this sounds familiar, perhaps you’ve seen the Forest River Timberwolf 16ML, one of the first to introduce this design. At just under 28 feet and with a dry weight of just over 7,000 pounds, it’s a far cry from the expansive destination trailers we’re used to—and that patio. This more nimble destination trailer offers a residential kitchen with accompanying appliances like a dishwasher and washer-dryer combo. It’s perfect for couples seeking the perfect mobile tiny home for extended staycations. Later models, longer in size, incorporated a full bedroom downstairs with the loft above, modeling the setup of many double-loft destination trailers.
Other models similar to the 16ML include:
Double-Loft
Following the 42VIEW, a number of double-loft, double-drop frame destination trailers hit the scene. These trailers incorporate the additional sleeping locations of the lofts and expanded storage for those looking for a more substantial towable. Given the extra space, many double lofts can sleep between 8 and 10 guests while providing good privacy, as many include separate bedrooms with lofts above. Just check out the progression from the 42VIEW to the 44VIEW above, and you’ll see how Salem ran with the thread.
These double lofts allow entire families to share an RV, which is great for joint family trips or vacationing with friends. If anything, these lofts expand on the original destination trailer concept, further functioning as an alternative vacation home or cabin. As demand has risen, manufacturers have noticed.
If your family is considering a double loft to accommodate guests, consider accessibility, head clearance, and which spaces better service children than adults. In the destination trailer double lofts we’ve toured, we also recommend accounting for storage in these secondary bedrooms.
Other double loft models similar to the 42VIEW include:
- Palomino Puma 403LFT
- Keystone Retreat 391CLDL
- Forest River Sierra Destination 40DUPLEX
- Alliance Benchmark 44LFT
Destination Fifth Wheels
In 2025, yet another innovation ruffled the world of destination trailers. The Forest River Heritage Glen ROOST43 was the first destination-style fifth wheel that incorporated a new towing design with an expansive interior. Notably, the Recreational Vehicle Industry Association (RVIA) maintains a 400-square-foot limit on travel trailers. And, until 2020, a 430-square-foot limit existed for fifth wheels. When they removed that fifth wheel designation in 2020, the decision paved the way for the development of larger, destination-style fifth wheels.
With 530 square feet of interior space, a bath and a half, essentially three bedrooms, and a large den, this new destination fifth wheel accommodates large groups in style. Plus, the fifth wheel design makes this massive RV easier to tow than most bumper-pull destination trailers
But the fifth wheel destination trailer wasn’t the only overly sized, unique destination trailer to hit the lot in 2025. Other unique destination trailer innovations include the 42VERANDA by Wildwood Grand Lodge, which incorporates a sliding rear deck. In addition, Forest River Cedar Creek Cottage introduced a second destination fifth wheel with the 41FWC, featuring a unique printed fiberglass exterior, among other notable upgrades.
Who Are Destination Trailers Best For?
Often referred to as “vacation property alternatives” and popular among snowbirds and those who own a campsite or want to “set it and forget it,” destination trailers are designed for long stays. More campers are setting them up at a designated location to drive to when they want to camp.
This trend of RVers securing annual campsites has been on the rise, driven by the increasing popularity of seasonal camping. Campers maintain a long-term presence at a specific campground, effectively creating a home base for extended periods.
In response, campgrounds are adapting by offering seasonal spots and amenities tailored for long-term guests. Many parks have added premium annual sites or “snowbird sections” to accommodate these larger trailers with decks, skirting, and sheds. This, in turn, encourages more people to buy destination trailers knowing there are suitable places to put them.
This shift towards securing annual campsites underscores a broader change in camping behavior. More campers opt for extended stays to accommodate their budget and for the convenience factor. In this light, destination trailers make a lot of sense. Many who would previously invest in a secondary residence, vacation home, real estate, or rental property can more economically use that money towards a destination trailer and a seasonal camping spot.
While smaller destination trailers like the Timberwolf 16ML and fifth wheel versions like the ROOST43 ease towability concerns, the design and construction of destination trailers are still to accommodate extended stays, not frequent trips. In fact, their near-permanent design helps keep their price tag low, too. In this regard, campers’ behavior and the purpose of the destination trailer are aligned.
So why are destination trailers more affordable?
More Square Footage for Less Money
Step inside a destination trailer, and these spacious units immediately feel more like a home than an RV—so much so that many buyers incorrectly assume the destination trailer is vastly outside their budget, which makes sense. Easily recognizable as the largest RV on the lot and with luxury features? Of course, you’d assume a hefty cost.
Actually, destination trailers are often far more affordable than most full-profile fifth wheel RVs.
Sales personnel at RV shows attested to this phenomenon. Customers would pass by destination trailers, assuming they were far more expensive than the list price inside.
Affordability is a big factor for those using destination trailers for extended stays. Previously, as fifth wheel owners, their RV spent much of the year in the same location, either on private property or a designated campsite they own, even though fifth wheels are designed for frequent towing. For a far lower price, they could camp the same with a destination trailer.
The Affordability Factor
Part of the reason many luxury 5th wheels are expensive is that they are designed for full-timers who move frequently. Consider the expenses saved without that burden. Destination trailers don’t require heavy-duty frames and hitching mechanisms for towing stability, and they use more straightforward construction since they are typically moved infrequently. In addition:
- Weight is less of a concern, so heavier but more affordable materials reduce construction costs.
- Many don’t include auto-leveling or hydraulic leveling, nor hydraulic slides.
- They often skip high-end towing features like pin boxes, disc brakes, and independent suspension since they aren’t meant for frequent movement.
- With less need for aerodynamics, you get more square footage for a lower price.
The perks remain: destination trailers are residential, often designed to host two families, include dining and entertainment options, come with upgraded appliances, and achieve that “home base” feel many campers desire from an extended-stay RV.
Given the number of new destination trailers hitting the market, we wanted to hear from a relative newcomer to this segment—one that has received high praise for its new destination trailers.
An Exciting Destination Trailer Newcomer: Campsite Reserve
Campsite Reserve came on the scene in 2023 with an impressive lineup of affordable travel trailers that have set the standard, in some respects, for offering a more substantial camping experience than entry-level RVs.
Read more about Campsite Reserve travel trailers here.
In 2025, Campsite Reserve launched three new destination-style RVs, effectively representing the small, medium, and large segments. The largest of these, the Campsite Reserve 39JD, debuted at the Hershey RV Show and has since made a significant splash in the market.
Left to right – 16SW, 20JW, and 39JD
We spoke with Campsite Reserve Regional Sales Manager Jesse Balch to better understand the intent behind their Campsite Reserve destination trailers. In a word? Customer-driven. Jesse discussed the many practical applications of these campers, from the largest—the 39JD—to their smaller mini lofts, like the 16SW.
“The mini lofts are great for that true weekend warrior who wants to get to their spot, not have to worry about running the slides out—not worry about all the equipment—it’s ready to go from the day you get there. You can even do laundry Sunday morning before heading home,” Jesse said. With the smaller trailers, you still get the components of a 40-foot destination trailer, but in a smaller box, and convenience is key. He spoke of the campers who keep their destination trailer set up at a nearby campground throughout the year.
“People are leaning toward the permanent site… Some people just want to drive a half-hour to their spot where they don’t have to set up,” he continued.
Customer-Centric RV Designs
When designing the 39JD, a customer-centric approach was important. “What do our customers want? And what can we add to these campers that our customers can’t? Two of the biggest things were biggest windows in our class and biggest storage.”
Open concept layout, plenty of seating, big windows, big storage. Walk through the 39JD, and you quickly see how Campsite Reserve achieved those goals in remarkable fashion. So much so that availability has been a concern for many RVers seeking these destination trailers.
Seasonal camping is different from what many campers are used to. But, as Jesse notes, the right destination trailer can be an especially valuable tool for long-term camping.
“We overbuild our campers and use the best materials available to us. We’re paying more for our chassis than anyone else in the industry with upgraded steel. We overbuild our sidewalls far more than industry standards, meaning instead of 20” framing we do 12” framing. We frame every one of our cutouts, too…Because it’s not always easy to get them serviced, we overbuild, over-inspect, [and] over-do, especially with destination trailers. Because once it hits its destination, it’s likely staying there,” Jesse said.
“They turn so fast,” Jesse said. With the 39JD, the folks at Campsite Reserve have had to work with dealerships to send customers across state lines to track down available units. “We learned we’re absolutely on the right track,” he added.
Is A Destination Trailer Right for You?
For an RV that sometimes gets a bad wrap for its inconvenience due to towing, it seems more campers are using destination trailers to their advantage—and it’s saving time and money. We spoke with one dealership that noted more local campgrounds were opening bigger sites specifically to accommodate long-term stays and destination trailers. This is another sign that RVers and campgrounds are aligning, and the destination trailer is uniquely positioned to fit the bill.
There are many considerations when deciding if this RV type is right for you. Many areas have restrictions on full-time RV camping, and many campgrounds do not allow destination trailers due to their size and semi-permanent nature, so before shopping for a destination trailer, have a plan for when and where you will camp.
In addition, many of the factors that make destination trailers affordable may lead to a lower resale value. Luxury fifth wheels, for example, may be better positioned to accommodate a second or third-generation owner, which may not be the case with destination trailers. Consider these factors closely as you weigh the pros and cons of a more permanent destination camper.
This is an exciting trend that promises new innovations, models, and adaptations. To continue to learn more about this RV type, check out the following resources:
- Forest River Destination Trailers
- Destination Trailers with Loft Floor Plans
- The Best Luxury Destination Trailers
Would you consider a destination trailer for your next RV? Let us know why in the comments below.
Looking for one story as my wife has Parkinson ‘s
Love the trailers you show!