Small Class C owners, I want to hear from you...

GVWR. I don't think you'll have a problem with a 350/3500 chassis at that length.

One thing, in reading all your thoughts, is that it seems like you might be trying too hard to convince yourself. You listed a lot of things that you have grown to like, but you won't have any longer. I think the bottom line is, will you really do the day trips, girls weekends, etc.? If not, then a trailer makes more sense for a one destination camping vacation with kids, IMO.