I do plan on rigging something between the bumper and a hitch mounted cargo carrier that will protect the tailgate. I got the idea from a picture I saw of a protector between an RV and a toad. Also planning on putting some closed-cell foam layers between the tailgate and the bumper to try and minimize the stress. The tailgate gives me a bit of a step outside the camper door and I will want it when I get to my destination and take the camper back off.
I have got to figure out how to connect the camper to the battery tomorrow. Running out of time. So much to do. I'm very much on the stressed side right now...