Exploring the great outdoors is best done in a reliable, compact vehicle designed for adventure. That’s why we’re diving deep into the best small SUV for camping. These vehicles combine rugged performance, ample cargo space, and comfort in a size that’s easy to maneuver both on highways and rough terrains.
Choosing the right SUV for camping can make a significant difference in your outdoor experience. Whether you’re heading to the mountains or setting up near a serene lake, your SUV should provide enough space for gear, great fuel economy, off-road capability, and the option to sleep inside if needed. Below are our top picks to help you choose the perfect companion for your next adventure.
Best Small SUV for Camping
1. Subaru Outback
The Subaru Outback has long been a favorite among outdoor enthusiasts thanks to its all-wheel-drive system and off-road capabilities. It offers 8.7 inches of ground clearance, making it suitable for rugged paths. The cabin is spacious, with rear seats that fold down flat, giving you enough room to sleep inside during overnight stays.
The Outback comes with X-Mode for improved traction on slippery surfaces, and the roof rails are standard, allowing for easy attachment of gear like kayaks or cargo boxes. Its fuel efficiency is commendable for a crossover of its size, and it also boasts impressive safety features like adaptive cruise control and lane-keeping assist.
Inside, you’ll find comfortable seating and an intuitive infotainment system that includes Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. The quiet ride and smooth handling make long road trips to your favorite camping spots more enjoyable.
All in all, the Subaru Outback is a versatile and capable small SUV that caters well to camping needs.
Pros
- Standard all-wheel drive
- Ample cargo space
- Excellent safety features
Cons
- Not as compact as others
- Base engine could be more powerful
2. Honda CR-V
The Honda CR-V is one of the most popular compact SUVs for good reason. Its reliability, practicality, and spacious interior make it a top choice for camping enthusiasts. With fold-flat rear seats and a large cargo area, you can easily fit camping gear or sleep in the back with the seats down.
The CR-V also offers good ground clearance and an available all-wheel-drive system, which is ideal for getting in and out of campsites with loose gravel or mud. It has an efficient engine that makes long-distance camping trips more economical. The ride is smooth and quiet, even on less-than-perfect roads.
Inside, the CR-V feels more premium than many competitors. It includes a user-friendly infotainment system, generous rear legroom, and quality materials throughout. Safety features such as collision mitigation braking and adaptive cruise control are also standard on most trims.
The CR-V doesn’t scream “off-roader,” but for the casual camper, it offers everything you need in a compact and convenient package.
Pros
- Spacious cargo area
- Excellent fuel economy
- High safety ratings
Cons
- No real off-road modes
- Touchscreen can be slow
3. Toyota RAV4 TRD Off-Road
If you’re seeking an adventure-ready small SUV, the Toyota RAV4 TRD Off-Road trim is built specifically for rugged terrain. It features enhanced suspension, all-terrain tires, and standard all-wheel drive, making it perfect for off-grid camping trips. Ground clearance of 8.6 inches helps in clearing rocky paths and trails.
The interior is both durable and practical, with water-resistant materials and a roomy cargo area for your camping essentials. The rear seats fold flat, and the large rear hatch makes it easy to load gear or set up a sleeping area. Its 4-cylinder engine delivers strong performance while maintaining decent fuel economy.
The infotainment system includes standard Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and Amazon Alexa compatibility. It also features Toyota’s Safety Sense suite, including lane departure alert and dynamic radar cruise control, ensuring peace of mind on long drives to remote campsites.
The RAV4 TRD Off-Road is ideal for those who want compact size and serious off-road capability wrapped in one adventurous package.
Pros
- True off-road capabilities
- Rugged and practical interior
- Generous safety features
Cons
- Ride can be stiff on highways
- Limited luxury options
4. Mazda CX-5
The Mazda CX-5 combines sporty handling with upscale comfort, offering a great balance for campers who want driving enjoyment and utility. While not a hardcore off-roader, its available all-wheel drive and decent ground clearance make it suitable for light trails and unpaved roads. It’s a sleek and stylish option that doesn’t compromise on features.
The cabin is one of the most premium in its class, with plush materials and a minimalist design. The rear seats fold flat, providing a decent sleeping or gear storage area. It also has an intuitive infotainment interface and comes standard with advanced driver aids.
Fuel economy is strong, particularly with the base engine. For those needing extra power, the turbocharged engine adds a sporty punch. Though not made for extreme terrains, the CX-5 is perfect for well-maintained campsites and scenic drives.
It’s a great option for those who want style and substance in one compact SUV.
Pros
- Premium interior feel
- Engaging driving experience
- Good fuel economy
Cons
- Smaller cargo space than rivals
- Less off-road capable
5. Ford Bronco Sport
The Ford Bronco Sport is designed with adventure in mind. It’s a rugged small SUV with real off-road chops, especially in the Badlands trim. With standard 4×4, G.O.A.T. (Goes Over Any Terrain) modes, and a terrain management system, it’s built to get you to remote campsites that other small SUVs might struggle with.
The cargo space is tall and square-shaped, ideal for packing gear. It also features clever storage touches like a flip-up rear glass and MOLLE strap system on the seats. The rear seats fold completely flat, which can be transformed into a sleeping space if needed. The roof can accommodate large cargo boxes or rooftop tents as well.
Inside, it has durable materials suited for dirt and mud, and the infotainment system includes SYNC 3 with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. Safety tech like blind-spot monitoring and lane-keeping assist come standard. It’s the perfect camping SUV for people who enjoy tougher terrain.
Fun, functional, and outdoorsy, the Bronco Sport lives up to the adventurous spirit of the Bronco nameplate.
Pros
- Impressive off-road capability
- Clever cargo features
- Durable interior
Cons
- Rear seat space is tight
- Ride can be noisy on highways
6. Jeep Compass Trailhawk
The Jeep Compass Trailhawk is a compact SUV with serious off-road capability, tailored for camping and rugged adventures. With Jeep’s Active Drive Low 4×4 system, hill descent control, and increased ground clearance, this model can handle challenging trails better than many of its compact rivals. Skid plates and tow hooks come standard, adding to its adventure-ready build.
The Trailhawk trim offers a versatile interior with a flat-folding rear seat and a decent cargo area. It’s not the largest in the category, but it is functional and configurable for hauling camping gear or converting to a sleeping area. The interior is durable and offers water-resistant materials ideal for muddy or wet gear.
Technology-wise, the Compass includes Uconnect with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, as well as a touchscreen that’s responsive and easy to use. Driver-assist features like blind-spot monitoring, adaptive cruise control, and forward collision warning are included for added safety.
For adventurers who want a trail-rated vehicle without going full-size, the Jeep Compass Trailhawk is a solid option.
Pros
- Excellent off-road features
- Trail Rated capability
- Compact but capable
Cons
- Less cargo space than competitors
- Average fuel economy
7. Hyundai Tucson
The Hyundai Tucson is an appealing option for those seeking a practical and comfortable SUV for camping. It combines sleek design, generous cargo space, and a refined cabin. Rear seats fold flat to create a spacious surface for gear or overnight sleeping.
The Tucson is available with HTRAC all-wheel drive, providing extra confidence on gravel roads and light off-road paths. It handles well in a variety of conditions and rides smoothly on highways. Ground clearance is moderate but enough for most maintained campgrounds and nature trails.
Inside, you’ll find a tech-forward design with a large touchscreen, wireless Apple CarPlay/Android Auto, and a digital instrument cluster. Advanced safety features such as lane keeping assist, forward collision warning, and rear cross-traffic alert are standard on most trims.
Overall, the Hyundai Tucson is a well-rounded SUV that’s great for camping trips, especially if you prefer convenience and comfort over off-road extremes.
Pros
- Spacious and tech-rich interior
- Good value for features offered
- Smooth and quiet ride
Cons
- Not suitable for heavy off-roading
- Some touchscreen controls lack physical buttons
8. Chevrolet Trailblazer ACTIV
The Chevrolet Trailblazer ACTIV trim is tailored toward outdoor enthusiasts, offering a small SUV that’s nimble, affordable, and adventure-ready. It features a specially tuned suspension for light off-roading, skid plates, and sport terrain tires. With 8 inches of ground clearance and optional all-wheel drive, it’s suitable for a variety of terrain types.
The Trailblazer may be compact, but it makes smart use of space. Its rear seats fold flat, and the front passenger seat also folds down, allowing for longer items like tents or surfboards. While the cargo area isn’t huge, it’s functional and adaptable for camping needs.
Standard tech includes a user-friendly touchscreen interface, wireless smartphone integration, and active safety features. The interior is simple but durable, and the ACTIV trim adds some rugged design elements that are both functional and stylish.
For campers who want a compact and capable SUV without breaking the bank, the Trailblazer ACTIV is a practical pick.
Pros
- Trail-ready suspension and tires
- Fold-flat front and rear seats
- Compact yet functional
Cons
- Limited cargo capacity
- Interior materials could be higher quality
9. Volkswagen Tiguan
The Volkswagen Tiguan is a compact SUV that offers a unique advantage for campers: available third-row seating. While this limits cargo space slightly, the second and third rows fold down completely, creating a large and versatile sleeping platform. Its spacious interior makes it ideal for family camping trips.
With available 4MOTION all-wheel drive and decent ground clearance, the Tiguan can handle dirt roads and trails with confidence. It provides a balanced ride that’s comfortable on highways and capable on gravel. The steering is responsive, and its compact footprint makes it easy to park at campsites or trailheads.
The infotainment system is intuitive and responsive, with modern features such as wireless phone integration and multiple USB ports. Safety tech like forward collision warning, blind-spot monitoring, and rear traffic alert enhance your camping journey’s security.
All things considered, the Tiguan stands out for its interior space and European design, making it a great road-trip and camping companion.
Pros
- Available third-row seating
- Comfortable and spacious interior
- Good balance of road and trail capability
Cons
- Limited cargo with third row up
- AWD not standard
10. Kia Sportage X-Pro
The Kia Sportage X-Pro trim is a bold addition to the compact SUV segment, aimed squarely at adventure seekers. It features all-terrain tires, a center-locking differential, and standard all-wheel drive, making it capable of traversing muddy or rocky roads. With a ground clearance of 8.3 inches, it’s well-suited for off-the-beaten-path camping trips.
Inside, the Sportage surprises with a high-end feel, including dual panoramic screens, ambient lighting, and ventilated front seats. The rear seats fold flat, and cargo space is among the best in its class. There’s also an available hands-free power liftgate to simplify gear loading.
Advanced safety and driver assistance features are included, such as highway driving assist, forward collision-avoidance, and blind-spot view monitoring. The X-Pro trim adds unique styling and off-road touches, offering both substance and flair for outdoor adventures.
For campers who want modern technology wrapped in off-road capability, the Sportage X-Pro delivers a compelling mix of comfort and ruggedness.
Pros
- All-terrain capability
- High-tech and premium interior
- Excellent cargo space
Cons
- Ride can feel firm
- Fuel economy dips with AWD
| Product Name | Off-Road Capability | Interior Space | Key Feature | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Subaru Outback | Excellent | Spacious | X-Mode AWD | All-around camping |
| Honda CR-V | Moderate | Very roomy | Fuel efficiency | Family campers |
| Toyota RAV4 TRD Off-Road | Great | Good | All-terrain tires | Off-grid trips |
| Mazda CX-5 | Light trails | Compact | Premium interior | Stylish campers |
| Ford Bronco Sport | High | Moderate | G.O.A.T. modes | Rugged camping |
| Jeep Compass Trailhawk | Trail Rated | Compact | Low-gear 4×4 | Adventure trails |
| Hyundai Tucson | Moderate | Spacious | Smart safety tech | Comfort seekers |
| Chevrolet Trailblazer ACTIV | Light off-road | Compact | Fold-flat seats | Budget camping |
| Volkswagen Tiguan | Moderate | Very roomy | Third-row seating | Family camping |
| Kia Sportage X-Pro | High | Very spacious | All-terrain tires | Modern adventurers |
Best Small SUV for Camping: Buying Guide
Ground Clearance and Off-Road Capability
When camping off the beaten path, your SUV must handle rough terrain without scraping the undercarriage. Look for ground clearance of at least 8 inches and off-road driving modes. Features like skid plates, all-terrain tires, and locking differentials enhance capability significantly.
Interior Space and Cargo Flexibility
A great camping SUV needs versatile cargo space for gear, coolers, and possibly even a mattress. Fold-flat seats, wide rear access, and modular storage are crucial. Prioritize models with smart interior layouts and high cargo volumes for the best usability.
All-Wheel Drive vs. Four-Wheel Drive
AWD is perfect for light trails and slippery conditions, while 4WD excels in deep mud, snow, and uneven terrain. AWD systems are often lighter and more fuel-efficient. Choose based on the type of camping you plan—national parks vs. remote wilderness.
Fuel Efficiency for Long Trips
Fuel economy becomes important on long drives to remote campsites. Some compact SUVs offer hybrid versions that greatly increase range. Consider models with smaller turbo engines or hybrid powertrains for the best efficiency without sacrificing utility.
Comfort and Tech Features
Camping doesn’t mean sacrificing comfort. Features like ventilated seats, panoramic sunroofs, and wireless charging improve the trip. Also, consider infotainment with navigation and a solid sound system for enjoyable drives and convenience at campgrounds.
Roof Rails and Towing Ability
Roof rails allow extra storage like rooftop tents, kayaks, or bikes. Towing capacity is also important if you plan to bring a small trailer. Ensure your SUV is rated for towing and comes with necessary hitches or trailering packages if needed.
FAQ
Can you sleep comfortably in a small SUV?
Yes, many small SUVs offer fold-flat rear seats and enough cargo space to accommodate an air mattress or sleeping pad. Models like the Subaru Outback and Volkswagen Tiguan provide generous space, allowing two people to sleep inside comfortably with minimal setup.
Do I need AWD or 4WD for camping?
It depends on where you camp. For maintained forest roads and campgrounds, AWD is usually sufficient. However, if you’re heading into rugged backcountry terrain or off-season camping in snow or mud, 4WD offers better performance and control.
Which small SUV has the most cargo space?
The Honda CR-V and Kia Sportage lead the segment in terms of usable cargo space with the seats down. They provide ample room for gear, coolers, tents, and other camping essentials while still leaving enough room to sleep inside.
Are compact SUVs good for off-road camping?
Many compact SUVs can handle light to moderate off-road conditions. Options like the Toyota RAV4 TRD Off-Road, Ford Bronco Sport, and Jeep Compass Trailhawk are built with trail-ready features that make them ideal for remote and rugged campsites.
Can I install a rooftop tent on a small SUV?
Yes, most small SUVs with factory or aftermarket roof rails can support rooftop tents. It’s important to check your vehicle’s dynamic roof load capacity and follow the tent manufacturer’s installation guidelines to ensure safety and durability.
What’s the best small SUV for camping with pets?
The Hyundai Tucson and Subaru Outback are excellent for pet-friendly camping. Both offer low cargo floors, wide-opening rear hatches, and plenty of ventilation. Features like rear climate vents and wipeable interiors make them great for traveling with furry companions.
Verdict
Choosing the best small SUV for camping depends on your destination, space needs, and comfort preferences. Whether you prioritize off-road performance like the RAV4 TRD Off-Road, premium feel like the Mazda CX-5, or all-around versatility like the Subaru Outback, there’s an SUV here that fits your camping lifestyle perfectly.