This thread has proven to be very informative - and given us several ideas.
First, we'll attempt to repair the existing steps. It's anybody's guess whether that will be successful or not.
Second, we're working on a design for a small rear deck - roughly 80" wide & 18" long. The deck will likely be about 6-9" deep with internal storage (BBQ, Lynx Levelers, etc). We'll also add two small storage boxes to fill the space between the camper and the rear of the bed; roughly 10-11" long. We're also liking the idea of mounting a 2000i generator on a raised platform on the left side of the deck.
Structure? Either steel or aluminum framed & either plywood or diamond plate. The goal is to make it as light as possible, yet very durable and affordable. Not always an easy combination.