8 Best Fifth Wheel RV For Boondocking

If you are looking for a cheap and easy way to go for an off-grid excursion, boondocking is an ideal alternative.

Popular in the camper van, RV, and outlander community, boondocking refers to off-grid RV camping without using any developed campground.

That’s right! No water, no restrooms, no electrical hook-ups, and no sewer lines.

It is simply parking your RV and sleeping in a parking lot, which can be practically anywhere.

Let us look at the best fifth-wheel RV for boondocking.

BEST FIFTH-WHEEL RV’S FOR BOONDOCKING

If you plan on boondocking with your family or some friends, 5th wheel RV’s are an excellent choice.

Not only do they offer ample space for everyone, but it also hosts several luxurious amenities, large storage tanks, and plenty of roof space for solar panels.

As a result, you can spend more time off-grid, exploring the unknown and creating new memories with your family and friends. Without further do, let us look at 8 of the best fifth wheel RV’s for your boondocking expedition.

1. Escape 5.0

Escape is one of the most reliable manufacturers of fifth-wheel trailers on the market. In particular, the Escape 5.0 is their only fifth-wheel trailer.

It features a sleek-looking and lightweight design made from high-quality and durable fiberglass material. At USD 29,995, this trailer is fairly priced and is among the smallest fifth-wheelers on the market.

It also has a length of 21’2″ only.

Its premium quality construction material eliminates multiple seams and improves the aerodynamics of the 5th wheel. As a result, you can easily tow this trailer using a medium-sized truck.

With a gross vehicle weight of 5,500lbs, Escape 5.0 has a unique aerodynamic design and low center of gravity. As a result, the trailer features decreased wind resistance and improved fuel economy.

The Escape 5.0 is packed with plenty of amenities, including a full bath with a fiberglass enclosure, a separate living and sleeping area, and a fully equipped kitchenette.

Its sleeping area can fit a 5’6″ bed. At the same time, the kitchenette has a two-burner flush mount stainless steel cooktop, a stainless-steel faucet and sink, a microwave-ready cabinet, and ample storage for your personal belongings.

SPECIFICATIONS

Gross vehicle weight of 5,500lbs
Two 28-gallon fresh water and grey water holding tanks
30-gallon holding tank for toilet and bathroom use
Easily towable by a mid-sized truck
Fully enclosed wet bath
Separate living, sleeping, and cooking areas
Premium quality and durable building materials

2. Northwood Fox Mountain 235RLS

If you plan to go boondocking in the mountains, the Fox Mountain 235RLS from Northwood is an ideal option.

It features a one-piece fully welded aluminum frame and an Equaflex suspension system, perfect for off-roading to the mountains.

With a cargo capacity of 3000 pounds and a length of 27’10”, this fifth wheel is the best companion for all your boondocking adventures.

Inside, there are several luxurious in-home amenities. Some of them include a kitchenette with durable countertops, a dinette table, and an in-built microwave.

There is also a 3-burner high output gas cooker with a range cover, an extra-large fridge, and several stainless steel appliances.

The trailer also consists of TruRest Queen Mattress and bedspreads, storage cabinets, a prewired and blocked flat screen area in the bedroom, and multiple electrical outlets/reading lights.

At a price of about USD 48,995, you can get this fifth wheeler, enabling you to take anything Mother Nature throws at you comfortably and conveniently.

It is vital to note that it consists of excellent holding tank capacity as it comes with a 42-gallon grey water tank, 59-gallon freshwater tank, and 36-gallon black water tank. Thus, you can stay enjoy your off-grid camping adventures for prolonged periods.

SPECIFICATIONS

Gross vehicle weight of 12000 pounds
Four season insulation
Dump valves and heated holding tanks
Durable one-piece aluminum frame construction
An exterior shower, convenience center, and LED lighting
45-watt solar panel
A fully-equipped kitchenette with an in-built microwave, extra-large fridge, and solid surface countertops
A booth dinette
A jackknife sofa with beautifully decorated throw pillows
Comfortable Northwood TruRest Queen Mattress and bedspread
Ample storage cabinets and drawers
Several safety features, including a fire extinguisher, break-away switch, smoke detectors, and emergency escape routes, among many others

3. Winnebago Micro Minnie 2405rg

With a starting price of $34,751, Winnebago Micro Minnie 2450RG is a simple 5th wheel RV considered as one of the best small fifth-wheel RVs on the market.

It features premium quality aluminum and fiberglass construction, versatile floor plans, and plenty of amenities, depending on your preferred package.

This trailer is perfect for getting in and around rugged and narrow paths at 26.75ft long, 7ft wide, and 11.25ft high. It has a gross vehicle weight of 7,700 pounds and a cargo loading capacity of about 1000lbs, which is not much for prolonged use on off-grid camps.

Available in white champagne and platinum, the Micro Minnie 2405RG consists of a power awning with LED lighting, patio speakers, and has three large-capacity holding tanks.

It includes a 31-gallon freshwater tank, a 50-gallon grey water tank, and a 25-gallon black water tank. Once you step inside the remarkable trailer, you will find a kitchenette, a living area, and a sleeping area.

The kitchenette features a medium-sized refrigerator, a flush mount 3-burner range with oven and a glass top, and several stainless steel appliances.

Additionally, there is a separate sleeping area, complete with a queen-sized bed and a living space at the trailer’s center. It is also worth noting that there two convertible sofas, enabling a maximum count of six people to live in the trailer.

SPECIFICATIONS

Easy to tow and park
It comes with a Universal Docking Station for easy connections to cords and other hook-ups
Incredibly convenient and comfortable
Premium and durable build
Plenty of storage due to its drop frame design and walk-in pantries
Well-equipped kitchenette as it comes with an in-built microwave, cooktop, stainless steel sink, double door refrigerator, and a flush mount three burner range with glass top
A separate sleeping area and living area with a queen-sized mattress
Plenty of entertainment due to its power awning with LED lights and exterior patio speakers

4. Palomino Puma 253fbs

With a gross vehicle weight of 8800 pounds and a length of 28″, Palomino Puma 253FBS is among the most widely used small 5th wheelers in the RV and boondocking community.

For $42,995, this is a reasonably priced trailer with plenty of luxurious amenities. Some of these amenities include spacious pass-through storage, an exterior shower, solar prep, backup camera prep, and an electric awning with LED light strip.

There are also exterior speakers, with an option to upgrade your trailer with an exterior kitchen for more camping and entertainment convenience.

Inside the trailer, there are decorative finishes, including a beautiful and functional backsplash in the kitchen.

There is a U-shaped dinette, a rear living area, an entertainment center, and a private bedroom with a high-density foam mattress. The trailer also features two jackknife sofas, one with drink trays and another with under bunks.

If you have a big family, you can transform these sofas into extra sleeping areas.

SPECIFICATIONS

Gross vehicle weight of 8800lbs and a cargo capacity of 2012lbs
4- 3-gallon freshwater tank capacity
A private bedroom with a high-foam queen size bed with two nightstands and shirt closets
A U-shaped dinette slide
Ample storage space
An exterior shower and patio speakers
69-gallon grey water tank
34.5-gallon black water tank
Relatively high-quality build for lasting performance

5. Forest River Rockwood Ultra Lite 2441ws

If you love boondocking, you will also love the Forest River Rockwood Ultra Lite 2441WS. Made from full-frame aluminum material and laminated fiberglass on its sidewalls, it hosts several features that will make you feel like you are at home.

The 5th wheel trailer contains plenty of space throughout the rig, with overhead cabinets, a wardrobe slide, a linen closet, a pantry, and an exterior pass-through storage.

For USD 48,226, this sleek and sturdy unit is relatively durable, with the capability to last a lifetime.

Some of its luxurious features include a dual-entry bath, a king U-shaped dinette, a master suite, and a 76″ sofa.

The trailer also features an outdoor grill and exterior surround sound speakers, enabling you to entertain your guests.

SPECIFICATIONS

Gross vehicle weight of 9,695lbs and a cargo capacity of 2065lbs
Measures 28’5” long, 13’1” high, and 8ft wide
60-gallon freshwater capacity and 40-gallon grey water holding tank and black water holding tank
Master suite with a queen Serta bed, overhead cabinets, wardrobe slide, a private entrance to the dual-entry bath, and an option to add a TV
Ample storage with several overhead cabinets, linen closets, pantry, and exterior pass-through storage spaces
King U-shaped dinette
A full bath that features a radius shower with a skylight
Well-built and sturdy built
An outdoor grill and exterior surround sound speakers

6. KZ Durango Half-ton D230RKD

The 5th wheel trailer contains plenty of space throughout the rig, with overhead cabinets, a wardrobe slide, a linen closet, a pantry, and an exterior pass-through storage.

For USD 48,226, this sleek and sturdy unit is relatively durable, with the capability to last a lifetime.

Some of its luxurious features include a dual-entry bath, a king U-shaped dinette, a master suite, and a 76″ sofa.

The trailer also features an outdoor grill and exterior surround sound speakers, enabling you to entertain your guests.

SPECIFICATIONS

Gross weight of 9000lbs and cargo capacity of 1750lbs
Measures 26’9” long, 12”1” high and 8ft wide
Large holding tanks including 55-gallon tank for fresh water, 93-gallon tank for greywater, and 53-gallon tank for black water
A rear kitchen with a 3-cooktop burner, 8-cubic refrigerator, and a hide-a-bed sofa
A booth dinette
An entertainment center with an LED TV

Ample storage with sealed and heated basement storage and a pantry

A private bedroom with a queen-sized bed
The exterior features an electric awning with LED lights and exterior speakers

7. KZ Sportsmen 231RK

If you are looking to travel comfortably and in a worry-free and contemporary style, The KZ Sportsmen 231RK is an excellent choice. It features modern décor styles, mid-profile looks, and several versatile floor plans to make your stay as remarkable as possible.

The trailer has a gross weight of 7500lbs and a cargo-carrying capacity of 1350lbs.

For $45,830, this trailer has several standard amenities and plenty of storage spaces.

Some of its amenities include a rear skylight kitchenette with a three burner cooktop, a microwave with turntable, an oven, and a stainless steel sink and faucet.

There is also a main living area with a booth dinette, a 64″ sofa, and an LED TV. It also features a front master bedroom with plenty of storage space, a walk-around queen bed, and a private entry to the bathroom and toilet.

SPECIFICATIONS

Large capacity holding tanks including a 45-gallon freshwater holding tank, 8-gallon grey water holding tank, and a 53-gallon black water holding tank
High-quality and durable aluminum frame construction with fiberglass sidewalls with walk-on Tufflex roofing material
15” retractable electrical awning
Equa-Flex suspension for a smooth and comfortable ride
Fully-equipped rear kitchen with seamless countertops
Front master bedroom with a walk-around queen bed and private entry to the bathroom
Separate living area with LED TV
Booth dinette with a 64” sofa

7. Scamp 19’ Deluxe Small 5th Wheel Trailer

As one of the smallest trailers available on the market, the Scamp 19” Deluxe 5th Wheel trailer is the largest in its line. It is easy to tow as it weighs a lot less than the standard small 5th wheel trailer.

Although it is small, it still packs a punch when it comes to its amenities.

Featuring a queen size loft bed with 5” decorative throw pillows, this 5th wheel sleeps a maximum of six people.

The sleeping area is enclosed from the main floor and bathroom, providing plenty of space for a comfortable sleeping experience.

The camper also has several oak and Bircher cabinets to accommodate all your storage needs.

It also has a kitchen with a two-burner propane stove, an upgradeable 3.7 Cubic Foot refrigerator, and a microwave oven, among other kitchen appliances.

SPECIFICATIONS

Gross vehicle weight of 3500lbs and cargo capacity of 560lbs
Exterior dimensions of 19” X 6’8” X 8’10”
Durable fiberglass construction material
Well-fitted kitchen with a 3.7 cubic foot refrigerator, microwave oven, and a two propane burner stove
A private sleeping area with queen size bed, main living area, and a full bathroom with a shower
12-gallon freshwater tank,21-gallon grey holding tank water, and 9-gallon black water tank

Choosing right RV For Boondocking

Generally, it is possible to use just about any RV for your boondocking or dry camping adventure.

Fifth wheels are generally not the perfect RV if you want to go boondocking every other day. Since fifth wheel are little larger and heavier they may be little hard to go off grid.

But, if you want comfort and a bit of maneuverability, fifth wheel RVs are an excellent option. They offer enough space and luxurious amenities to make your adventure as convenient and comfortable as possible.

However, your off-grid camping options may be somewhat limited compared to those using trucks, camper vans, and smaller RVs.

The models and brands that I have listed above are much better and you can still go off grid in them.

With a wide range of fifth-wheel RV’s available on the market, it can be an overwhelming process to choose the best one suitable for your needs.

Here are some common features to consider when purchasing a fifth-wheel RV for boondocking.

OFF-ROADING CAPACITY

The type of boondocking you want to do is crucial when selecting a fifth-wheel RV.

Ensure that the kind of RV you choose can handle the terrains and roads you wish to conquer. Some things you might look at include traction, suspension, and tires required to tackle your off-grid locations.

Another factor involving capacity includes the overall size of the RV and how it tackles the tight roads on your dry camping adventure.

If it is too big to steer on the roads or position under or between trees, it can be challenging to find the best remote location. However, it is possible to find boondocking sites that are friendly to big rigs.

You can also consider the weight of the RV. Since Boondocking sites are often undeveloped campgrounds, you have to factor in the ground stability of where you will park your RV.

Heavy motorhomes, 5th wheel RVs, can easily sink or get stuck in the mud, sand, or loose gravel. Rainy and grassy camp spots may also make it difficult to park your RV.

You also have to consider the wheelbase and clearance of your RV. Often, you will find that many boondocking sites are in narrow, rutted, washboard, or windy locations.

These areas may have steep inclines or berms that can damage the bottom of your RV as you go off-road. If your RV has a long wheelbase, it is likely to get scraped or stuck by berms and inclines.

CAPACITY OF THE TANK

From gray tanks to water tanks, a reliable RV consists of large tank capacities to allow ooners’ maximum off-grid camping convenience.

Your habits dictate how fast you run through freshwater and how frequently you need to dispose of your grey tank. It is worth noting that it is often illegal to dispose of your waste tank on the boondocking ground.

Installing a compost toilet can reduce freshwater use and the frequency of dumping your grey tank.

Such toilets only require emptying in a trash bag until you find proper garbage disposal. It is also advisable to carry extra water containers for freshwater storage.

AVAILABLE POWER SYSTEM FOR YOUR BOONDOCKING ADVENTURE

Another primary consideration when dry camping is available power sources when off-grid camping. You have to think of how much power you need, the best available battery storage, and how you will recharge the batteries for continued use of your RV.

Luckily, all RV’s possess a type of battery storage, often differing in energy capacity and quantity.

The best RV for boondocking consists of 12-volt AC power or 110-volt DC-powered batteries, depending on your power needs. From lighting appliance circuits to ceiling lights, these batteries can last for several days or weeks.

It is also advisable to have multiple power options, like a portable battery jump starter when boondocking. Such power sources can come in handy during emergencies and stranded in the middle of nowhere.

A good RV should also contain adequate space to storehouse batteries. It should also have provision for the highest reserve capacity batteries available on the market.

As a general rule of thumb, the bigger the battery bank, the longer you can off-grid camp without the need to recharge them.

Also, it is crucial to factor in how you will recharge these batteries. Often, the batteries are rechargeable through your car’s alternator as you drive.

But you can also charge them using solar panels, stand-alone generators, or an onboard generator that usually comes with the RV.

Conclusion

Choosing the best fifth-wheel RV for your boondocking needs depends on your needs, lifestyle, personal preferences, and budget. However, you can also consider its weight, length, and holding capacity to help in narrowing down your choices.

The above-mentioned fifth wheelers are some of the most popular and reliable ones on the market. By choosing any one of them, you are sure to have a remarkable boondocking experience.