Forum Discussion

JHinman's avatar
JHinman
Explorer
Aug 28, 2020

New rig for boondocking?

I am thinking of a new rig, and maybe a fifth-wheel this time. I have never towed a fifth-wheel before, though, and am uncertain whether that would be a good choice. Perhaps I can benefit from the expertise on this forum.

Our camping is almost exclusively boondocking, and typically older Forest Service campgrounds or “dispersal sites”. Maneuverability into these older facilities can be challenging, and the roads to and from can be rudimentary. Most of the rigs I see advertised are too big, but there are some 30-ft models that might be suitable.

I have been using an Arctic Fox travel trailer for the last 10 years, and a Nomad (by Skyline) of similar size for years before that. With a gross dry weight of 7200lb and a length of 28’-6”, the AF is easy to tow. Any TT or 5er I get will be fairly easy to tow, but what about backing in to a site? Any advantage to a 5th wheel in terms of control and maneuverability? Getting my current rig into a site without running over trees and rocks can take some doing.

What brands or models cater to boondockers? No fireplaces, crystal chandeliers, or TV Is needed, and I don’t think I have ever turned on the AC in any RV I have had. I do need cold-weather capability.

Thanks for any thoughts, or for issues that I ought to be thinking of.

17 Replies

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  • bigorange's avatar
    bigorange
    Explorer
    Aug 28, 2020
    I agree with other’s comments, especially with regard to overall height and bed clearance. We like the increased space in our 30’ 5th wheel, but not as maneuverable as a shorter travel trailer in tight older campgrounds. I don’t think we’d go back to a travel trailer, but just something to consider. That said, from an overall length standpoint a 30’ 5th wheel is more like a 25’ travel trailer, but the full 30’ of usable space inside. Height has probably been our biggest barrier in boondocking...hasn’t stopped us, but have to be a little more careful.
  • MFL's avatar
    MFL
    Nomad II
    Aug 28, 2020
    I don't think you will notice any difference in fuel consumption, unless you get a FW 13+ feet tall, and tow at freeway speed. My FW is 12' 2"s tall, and mileage towing my 7x23 enclosed v-nose, much lighter snowmobile trailer is only slightly better.

    An F350 SRW does sit quite tall. The shorter 30', sometimes referred to as 1/2 ton tow able FWs likely won't allow much bed rail clearance to your truck. Be sure to do some measuring before purchase.

    Jerry
  • JHinman's avatar
    JHinman
    Explorer
    Aug 28, 2020
    Interesting point about the height of a FW, considering trees and clearance to the truck bed.

    I have an F350 Superduty, and that bed is quite high.

    Taller means more wind resistance when towing, too. I have the power to tow, but maybe there will be a noticeable effect on fuel consumption.
  • MFL's avatar
    MFL
    Nomad II
    Aug 28, 2020
    A FW is normally taller, so not the best choice maneuvering in the trees. Also, dirt roads, with washouts, and rolling hills require a more than normal amount of clearance between FW and truck bed rail. I'd say 8"s minimum.

    Jerry
  • gbopp's avatar
    gbopp
    Explorer
    Aug 28, 2020
    I believe groundhogy is talking about a Mini Wood Stove for RV and not a full size unit.
    Check Youtube, there are several videos on stoves in RV's.

    I've seen a wood stove mounted in the back seat of a car. And it worked.
  • groundhogy's avatar
    groundhogy
    Explorer
    Aug 28, 2020
    I have a 29 foot airstream and like how i can tuck it in and under trees.

    I have camped in pretty cold. In my wish list would be some type of heat back up plan. Like if the furnace breaks down and its out for a few days or week.
    Would love a wood stove.

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