Top 10 Destination Trailers – Your Perfect Mobile Retreat

Released on June 26, 2022, by Ray & Tammy Roman
This post was last revised on August 22, 2024.

In this piece, we’ll delve into our top suggestions fortop-rated destination trailers, their purpose, the intended audience, and a summary of various models currently on the market.

A destination trailer is a type of recreational vehicle designed for extended stays in one location rather than frequent travel.

A destination trailer is a type of recreational vehicle that resembles a home more closely than a standard camper. It is intended to be transported to a preferred spot, like a lakeside retreat or campground, and left in place for the entire season.

Destination trailers often include amenities that resemble those of a home, far surpassing what’s typically found in a travel trailer, with certain models emphasizing high-end comfort and style.

On average, the living spaces are far more spacious, with finishes and appliances designed in a residential fashion. Slide-outs create extra room, while added elements like patio doors and expansive bay windows give your destination trailer a home-like atmosphere.

Destination trailers are commonly utilized as cabins, residential trailers, or resort trailers, with park models being the most frequent application. While park models and destination trailers have numerous similarities, they also exhibit several key differences.

In 2012, the RVAA provided a somewhat broad definition of a park model. According to their guidelines, a park model must not surpass 400 SF in area, and the hitch assembly should be detached and substituted with a skirt after arriving at its final location.

STAY IN THE LOOP WITH THE LATEST RV LIVING NEWS

Register for the newsletter now!

Similar to a conventional trailer, a destination trailer is stabilized and positioned at its site, with the hitch staying connected.

Connecting a park model to water and sewer lines is necessary, as it does not come with built-in blackwater, greywater, or freshwater holding tanks in its standard configuration. In contrast, a destination trailer, similar to a bumper-pulled travel trailer, includes these features and can either connect to campground utilities or operate independently.

This RV is an excellent choice for full-time living, especially if you plan to stay in one place for extended periods. It offers ample room for big families, including children and pets.

Destination Trailers: A Comprehensive Explanation!

First-off destination travel trailers are notably heavy, typically weighing around 10,000 pounds, and sometimes even exceeding that. They are built for extended stays at a preferred site rather than frequent travel, unlike standard travel trailers or fifth wheels.

Destination trailers lack aerodynamic design, a trait desirable in travel trailers or fifth wheels but unnecessary for destination trailers.

Park models differ from destination trailers by allowing attached features such as decks, carports, and patio covers. In contrast, destination trailers typically come equipped with a retractable awning.

They are not as broad as certain park models, which may reach a width of 8 feet 6 inches.

A park model of that width will need a trip permit for transportation to its destination, while a destination trailer can be hauled by a 1-2 ton truck with the right setup.

While travel and destination trailers may appear quite similar externally, there are important distinctions between them that should be noted.

A destination trailer typically features a taller build, as it is crafted to provide increased headspace inside. These models often come equipped with exterior sliding doors, expansive bay windows, and full-length windows or French doors.

What truly matters is the interior of a Destination Trailer!

The interior of a destination trailer sets it apart significantly from a traditional bumper-pulled travel trailer.

In addition to the interior height, we noted that you’ll encounter residential-grade materials, decor, and furnishings with a home-like feel, including items like sofas and beds.

A destination trailer typically includes the following features:

• Fireplaces designed to produce heat
• Central vacuum systems are built-in cleaning solutions that provide powerful suction through a network of pipes installed within a structure. These systems feature a central power unit typically located in a garage or basement, along with inlet valves strategically placed throughout the home for easy access. Users connect a hose to these valves to remove dust and debris, which is then transported to a collection canister in the main unit. Unlike portable vacuums, central vacuum systems eliminate the need to carry heavy equipment from room to room and often offer superior air quality by venting exhaust outside the living space.
• Premium high-quality luxury furnishings
• Spacious undercounter kitchen basin
• Refrigerators designed for residential use (with a capacity of 18 cubic feet or more)
• Compact household stoves and kitchen storage areas
• Spacious dining space
• Solid surface countertops are crafted from a blend of acrylic or polyester resins combined with natural minerals, creating a durable and non-porous material. These countertops offer a seamless appearance, as joints and seams can be virtually invisible when professionally installed. They are resistant to stains, moisture, and bacteria, making them a hygienic choice for kitchens and bathrooms. Available in a wide range of colors and patterns, solid surface countertops can mimic the look of natural stone while providing easier maintenance and repair options.
• Cabinetry crafted from solid wood
• Spacious residential-style bathrooms, featuring bathtubs
• Certain floor layouts include an additional bedroom along with a half bathroom.
• Indoor and outdoor entertainment setups
• Ample storage capacity available

Advantages and Disadvantages

Like all recreational vehicles, destination trailers come with their own set of advantages and drawbacks. Understanding these is essential if you’re considering whether a destination trailer fits into your plans.

Pros

• Generous living areas designed for comfort. Each room offers a warm, inviting atmosphere.
• The inclusion of slide-outs further expands the available living area
• Ceiling heights are typically greater than those in conventional travel trailers, enhancing the sense of spaciousness in the interior.
• These recreational vehicles offer ample storage space, enabling extended periods of use without the need for frequent resupply.
• Designed for convenient parking upon arrival at your location

Cons

• Built for hauling behind a heavy-duty truck, these sizable trailers demand a skilled operator to transport and position them correctly.
• Towing becomes more challenging because they lack aerodynamic design.
• Because of their tall stature, they might need adequate overhead space during transportation.
• Typically costlier than towable travel trailers
• Because of their substantial dimensions, locating suitable storage space for a single unit when it’s not being used can be challenging.

Manufacturers of Destination Trailers

Interested in learning more about destination trailers? While there are numerous travel trailer manufacturers, only a few companies specialize in building destination trailers.

Most destination trailers share comparable specifications, with the primary distinctions among manufacturers lying in the features and choices available across their different models and floor plans.

Our selection features the top destination trailers available.

Keystone RV Destination Trailers offer spacious and comfortable living spaces designed for extended stays. These trailers combine the convenience of home with the flexibility of RV travel, featuring high-end amenities and durable construction. Ideal for seasonal or long-term use, Keystone RV Destination Trailers provide a home-like experience wherever your journey takes you.

Keystone offers two types of destination trailers: the Residence model and the Retreat model. Below is a closer examination of both options.

Keystone Destination Travel Trailer Residence

The Residence is a 40-foot destination trailer offered in 14 different floorplans. Among these, the 40LOFT stands out as the most sought-after option, featuring a loft as indicated by its model name.

The majority of the floorplans share comparable specifications. The Keystone Residence has a shipping weight ranging between 10,000 lbs and slightly above 12,000 lbs. Additionally, all 14 floorplans feature a uniform height of 12 feet 7 inches.

The Keystone Residence can accommodate up to 4 guests, but with ample floor space, additional air mattresses can be set up for a few more visitors.

This destination trailer excels in its offerings, packed with numerous residential-grade amenities that enhance the comfort of living inside. Below is a selection of the features available on the Keystone Residence.

Appliances and Machinery

• Solid surface countertops are crafted from a blend of acrylic or polyester resins combined with natural minerals, resulting in a durable and non-porous material. These countertops offer a seamless appearance, as joints can be nearly invisible when professionally installed. They are resistant to stains, moisture, and bacteria, making them a practical choice for kitchens and bathrooms. Solid surface countertops can be easily repaired if scratched or damaged, and they come in a wide variety of colors and patterns to suit different design preferences. Their versatility and low maintenance requirements make them a popular option for both residential and commercial spaces.
• Leather furnishings
• Bistro-inspired faucet designs
• 16-gallon gas or electric water heating unit
• A heating duct system with fixed components
• Connection setup for Cable TV
• 40,000 BTU Forced Air Heating System Including Thermostat
• 18 Cubic Foot Home Refrigerator
• Three-Burner, High-Capacity Range Featuring a 22-Inch Oven

Bathroom

• Frameless shower enclosure
• Available with washer/dryer on certain models exclusively
• Skylight for Bathrooms
• Proper storage of linen

Kitchen

• Upper cabinets featuring raised panel designs
• Enhanced faucet fixtures
• Microwave
• Spacious walk-in storage room
• Water filtration system

Cozy Lounge Space

• Freestanding table set including four chairs
• Some models feature a swivel rocker mechanism.
• Oversized sliding picture window in the panel
• 60-inch double-panel sliding glass door
• Fireplace feature available on certain models

Primary Bedroom

• King bed featuring a plush pillow-top mattress
• Sliding overhead cabinets are installed in the bedroom.
• Ceiling fan (available on certain models)

• 16-inch radial tires
• Frosted safety glass panes
• Patio Cover
• Guest speakers
• An outdoor shower

Construction

• 12-inch powder-coated I-beam frame
• 2-inch by 3-inch floor joist spaced 12 inches on center
• 2-inch by 2-inch studs for sidewalls
• 5/8-inch thick floor decking
• A single-piece arched rubber roofing system

Choice Accessible for the Keystone Residence

• Stainless steel kitchen appliances
• Ceiling fans designed for bedrooms
• A secondary 13,500 BTU air conditioning unit can be added as an optional feature, but only on select models.
• Four stabilizing jacks
• Three distinct interior decor options are available for selection.

Explore a comprehensive overview, image collection, and full inventory of amenities and choices for the Keystone Residence by clicking here.

Keystone Destination Retreat Trailer

Keystone’s Retreat is the brand’s second design in the destination trailer lineup.

The Keystone Retreat offers seven distinct floor plan choices, one of which features a loft. Both the Residence and the Retreat have numerous shared specifications and options.

The Retreat offers several features and options that are not included with the Residence model. These exclusive additions are only available on the Retreat, such as the following.

• Ceilings that stand 8 feet in height
• 102-inch wide-body construction
• Removable Hitch Coupler
• Central Vacuum System
• Enclosed and heated underbelly (optional)

The Keystone Retreat seems to be a top-tier destination trailer, offering numerous home-like amenities for a comfortable experience.

To see a full overview of the Retreat, click here.

Forest River Destination Trailers offer spacious and comfortable living spaces designed for extended stays. These trailers combine the convenience of home with the freedom of the open road, featuring high-end amenities and durable construction. Ideal for long-term travel or seasonal camping, Forest River Destination Trailers provide a blend of luxury and practicality for adventurous lifestyles.

Forest River produces six distinct destination trailer models. These are the Cedar Creek Cottage, Cherokee Destination, Salem Villa, Sandpiper Destination, Sierra Destination, and Wildwood Lodge.

This image showcases the Wildwood Lodge Destination Trailer.

Cedar Creek Cottage Destination Travel Trailer

This destination trailer comes in three distinct floor plan options. The lengths vary, starting at 40 feet 4 inches and reaching up to 41 feet 6 inches for the largest model.

The GVWR varies between 13,565 pounds for the most lightweight floor plan and 13,961 pounds for the one with the greatest weight.

All three floor plans share an identical exterior width of 102 inches, as well as a uniform exterior height measuring 12 feet 10 inches.

The freshwater tank holds 76 gallons, while the gray water tank has a capacity of 120 gallons across all three-floor plans. Each model features an 18-foot awning.

Characteristics and Choices

The Cedar Creek Cottage offers an extensive range of features and options. Below is a selection of what’s included. For a complete overview of this destination trailer’s offerings, click here.

• European Beech cabinets featuring concealed hinges
• A fiberglass shower unit constructed as a single, seamless piece
• The Jensen Home Theater System delivers an immersive audio experience for your entertainment needs.
• Kitchen storage in homes
• 19 cubic foot fridge
• 20-gallon electric hot water tank
• Microwave made of stainless steel
• Decorative crown molding installed along the kitchen ceiling
• Freestanding table set including four chairs
• King-sized mattress paired with a full-size headboard
• Solid wood dresser, along with a variety of other items

Cherokee Destination Travel Trailer

The Forest River Cherokee destination trailer comes in five distinct floor plan options. Similar to its counterparts, this model is built for stationary living rather than frequent travel between locations.

The Cherokee’s exterior length ranges between 40 feet 2 inches and 42 feet 6 inches. Every model maintains a consistent width of 97 inches, while the exterior height measures 12 feet 10 inches.

The GVWR ranges from 11,543 pounds, with the top model reaching up to 11,808 pounds.

Characteristics of the Cherokee Destination Trailer

This trailer includes the following features, though the list is not exhaustive.

• Window mini blinds installed throughout
• Radius windows feature a curved design, offering a sleek and modern aesthetic for both residential and commercial spaces. Their smooth, rounded edges create a visually appealing contrast to traditional angular windows, enhancing architectural appeal. Available in various sizes and materials, Radius windows can be customized to fit specific design requirements while maintaining structural integrity and energy efficiency. Ideal for creating unique focal points, they seamlessly blend form and function.
• Nightstands flanking both sides of the bed
• Refrigerator with dual doors
• Enhanced backsplash installed behind the cooktop
• 40-inch dinette available on specific models
• Cabinets in the shaker style with a mocha-colored finish
• Frameless shower screen
• Powerful stove with high heat capacity
• 13,500 BTU air conditioning unit
• Patio Cover
• Seamless Single-Layer Rubber Roofing Membrane

Along with the standard package, the Cherokee offers multiple optional packages that enhance or upgrade various features. All the details and specifications for this destination trailer can be found here.

Salem Villa Destination Trailer

The Salem Villa collection of destination trailers includes 13 distinct floor plans, all equipped with numerous amenities commonly seen in high-quality residences.

The Salem Villa is available in three distinct styles: the Salem Villa Gran, the Salem Villa Classic, and the Salem Villa Estate.

The Salem Villa’s exterior length ranges from a minimum of 38-feet 6-inches to a maximum of 41-feet 0-inches. Its exterior width typically measures 102-inches, though certain models may not list this dimension—confirm with the dealer for accuracy.

The Forest River website does not provide the GVWR, but it does list the UVW, or unloaded vehicle weight rating. The Salem Villa’s lightest model weighs 8,679 lbs, whereas the heaviest variant reaches 12,719 lbs.

Salem Villa Destination Trailer Highlights

The Salem Villa is a comprehensive travel trailer designed for destination trips, packed with numerous high-quality amenities. Below is a selection of its standout features. For a complete overview of all available features, click the provided link.

• Cathedral ceilings soaring to 84 inches in height
• Motorized sliding chambers
• Roller blinds featuring an automatic stop mechanism in contemporary designs
• 13,500 BTU air conditioning unit
• Heating systems with ducts installed beneath the flooring
• Solid wood drawer construction
• A spacious 50-inch walk-in shower featuring a built-in seating area
• Toilet with a foot-operated flushing mechanism made of porcelain
• 16-cubic foot refrigerator (Villa Classic)
• 1.7 cubic feet capacity microwave oven

Numerous additional features are included, though some are exclusive to certain models. In general, the Salem Villa could be an ideal choice if you seek a destination travel trailer that combines elegant styling with a straightforward design.

Sandpiper Destination Travel Trailer

The Forest River Sandpiper destination trailer comes in 7-floor plan options, one of which includes a loft. It stands out as one of the more substantial models in Forest River’s lineup of destination trailers.

The lightest model has a Gross Vehicle Weight Rating of 13,180 lbs, while the heaviest reaches slightly above 13,600 lbs.

All models share an exterior height of 12 feet 7 inches and a width of 96 inches. However, the exterior length varies depending on the Sandpiper’s different floor plans.

The Forest River Sandpiper destination trailer has an exterior length ranging from 40 feet 2 inches at its shortest to 42 feet 3 inches at its longest.

Features of the Sandpiper Destination Trailer

This Sandpiper is yet another Forest River destination trailer packed with amenities.

From the sleek, gel-coated fiberglass exterior to the gracefully curved barrel ceiling inside, this destination trailer offers unique features unmatched by other models.

Here are some of the most notable features. For the complete list of features and a photo gallery, click here.

• The exterior fiberglass features a high-gloss gel coating with precisely matched colors.
• Large tinted windows featuring an 80/20 UV blocking capability
• Dometic One-Touch electric awning featuring LED lighting and customizable arm positions
• 2 outdoor speakers
• A 60-inch outdoor sliding door
• Durable stain-resistant carpeting for homes
• Solid surface countertops (optional)
• Swivel rocking recliner chairs
• Dual zone temperature control for the living room and bedroom air conditioning system
• A refrigerator with a capacity of 20 cubic feet
• 10-gallon DSI water heating unit
• Water filtration system and so much more…

The Forest River Sandpiper is a spacious destination trailer designed with an array of features and customizable options.

The Sierra Destination Trailer offers a perfect blend of comfort and mobility for travelers seeking a home-like experience on the road. Designed with spacious interiors and modern amenities, it ensures a relaxing stay wherever your journey takes you. Ideal for extended trips or seasonal getaways, this trailer combines convenience with the freedom to explore new destinations.

The Sierra Destination trailer comes in seven distinct floor plans, one of which features a loft. With its abundance of windows, the Sierra ensures you can fully appreciate your surrounding views.

The Sierra destination trailer comes with seven floor plan options, one of which features a loft.

The Sierra maintains a uniform exterior width of 96 inches for every floor plan. Its length ranges between 39 feet at the shortest and 43 feet at the longest.

The interior measures 12 feet 7 inches in height across all floor plans. Similar to the Sandpiper, the GVWR exceeds 13,000 pounds for every floor plan.

The Sierra is packed with amenities that ensure a highly comfortable destination trailer experience. Its offerings closely mirror those found in the Sandpiper model mentioned earlier.

Explore the full range of features and options offered by the Forest River Sierra destination trailer by clicking here.

Wildwood Lodge Destination Travel Trailer

The Forest River Wildwood Lodge is available in three variations: the Wildwood Lodge, the WildwoodDLX, and the Wildwood Grand Lodge.

The Wildwood Grande Lodge is available in a single floorplan known as the 42DL. This design includes a loft featuring three bunk mats, all sized 62×74.

The Wildwood DLX comes in six different floor plans, while the Wildwood Lodge offers seven. For full details on the Wildwood Lodge’s specifications and features, check out the Forest River website.

Gulfstream Destination Travel Trailers

Gulfstream Coach produces three distinct models of destination travel trailers. These include the following:

• The Conquest Lodge Collection
• The Innsbruck Lodge Collection
• The Kingsport Lodge Collection

Next, we will examine just one of their models.

Regrettably, the Gulfstream website lacks clarity regarding the specifications for the remaining models. Identical images and details are displayed for the other two options. Improving their online presentation would help prevent misunderstandings about their destination trailers.

The Gulfstream Coach Conquest Lodge Destination Trailer offers a comfortable and spacious travel experience. Designed for extended stays, this trailer combines luxury with practicality, providing all the amenities needed for a home away from home. With its durable construction and stylish interiors, the Conquest Lodge ensures a relaxing retreat wherever your journey takes you.

The Conquest Lodge destination trailer is crafted to feel just like home. It optimizes living space by incorporating several slide-out rooms. This lineup of destination trailers comes in four distinct floor plan options.

Conquest Lodge Amenities and Choices

The Conquest Lodge, like numerous destination travel trailers, is equipped with high-end residential amenities.

This model of destination trailer includes a selection of highlighted features. For a complete overview of available options, floor plans, and additional details, please explore their official website.

• Maple Cabinetry featuring Solid Wood Doors and Drawers
• Premium High-Performance Wood Grain Vinyl Flooring
• Heat and Spill-Resistant Laminate Countertops
• 13,500 BTU Ducted Roof-Mounted Air Conditioning Unit
• 35,000 BTU Gas Furnace featuring Insulated In-Floor Heating Ducts
• 35,000 BTU Gas Furnace featuring Insulated In-Floor Heating Ducts
• Smoke Alarm, Combined Carbon Monoxide/Liquid Propane Alarm
• 4-Burner Residential Oven Range
• Dual Door Refrigerator/Freezer for Home Use
• Frameless Glass Door Designed for Neo-Angle or Corner Shower Enclosures
• Radius Safety Glass Windows
• Color-Matched Retractable Awning
• Seamless One-Piece Roof with a 12-Year Warranty
• Powder-coated Steel I-Beam Frame featuring a welded Outrigger
• (2) Barrel Chairs replaced with Recliners (Optional)
• Sun Room featuring a Dinette Table and Four Chairs (Optional)

Coachmen Recreational Vehicles

Coachmen RV manufactures the Catalina destination trailers, offering six distinct floor plans crafted to optimize spaciousness, storage capacity, and comfort.

Like all destination trailers, the layouts were crafted to provide residential conveniences for those intending to enjoy a prolonged visit at their preferred location.

The Coachmen Catalina destination trailer offers a variety of amenities, making it an excellent choice for long-term trips.

Here is a partial overview of available features. To explore the full range of standard options offered on the Catalina destination trailer, check their official website.

• Curved structural steel I-beam framework
• 3/8″ fully reinforced walkable roof surface
• Central heating systems designed for homes with ducts installed beneath the flooring.
• Seamless, one-piece rubber roofing material backed by a 12-year warranty
• Wall studs spaced 16 inches apart from center to center
• R-7 fiberglass insulation is installed in the sidewalls, roof, and floor.
• 5/8” tongue-and-groove plywood flooring subdeck
• Grace Cherry interior wood
• La-Z-Boy® Recliners (as per floor plan)
• Home furnishings for living spaces
• Solid doors installed in every unit
• Full-size household refrigerator
• 3-Burner Stove featuring a 9,000 BTU SuperBurner™
• The under-bed storage compartment is effortlessly raised with the assistance of gas struts.
• Prepared for washer/dryer installation (39MKTS, 39RLTS, 40FKDS)
• 35K BTU self-igniting furnace featuring a wall-mounted thermostat
• Heated-enclosed lower compartment (N/A non-self-contained version)
• Motorized remote-controlled awning with optional LED lighting

The Palomino Puma Destination Travel Trailer

Puma, a subsidiary of Forest River, offers a destination trailer line known as the Puma Destination. This model features seven distinct floor plans, with some providing choices like a 2-bedroom layout or a den to suit various family requirements. Each unit is equipped with residential-grade furnishings and a spacious master bedroom that includes either a queen or king-sized bed.

The Puma Destination offers a range of standard features along with multiple optional additions. The following highlights only a selection of the features available in the Puma.

For a full overview of features, choices, and available layouts, check out the Palomino Puma Destination website.

• Radius Entry Doors
• Powder-Coated Frame Structures
• Tinted Protective Glass
• Diamond Plate Colored Front Fiberglass Cap (FW)
• Rubber Roof – 12-Year Manufacturer’s Guarantee
• Rain Gutters Featuring Oversized Drop Spouts
• Automotive-Inspired Fender Skirts
• Darco Encased Underbody Protection
• Single-piece, 24-foot Sheet, 5/8-inch Floor Decking (25-year limited warranty from the manufacturer)
• Rack & Pinion Electric Slide System featuring Manual Override (Included as standard equipment on all slide-out models)
• 80″ Inside Vertical Measurement
• Ducted Floor Heating System
• 14″ Deep Overhead Cabinets available in Super-Slide configurations.
• Push-back Recliner(s) (Included with Certain Models)
• Solid Surface Countertops (Optional)
• Theater Seating (Included with Certain Models) (Optional)

Top Picks for Destination Trailers Overview

Not everyone will find a destination trailer suitable. If you prefer frequent travel between locations or face lengthy journeys to reach your destination, a destination trailer isn’t the right choice.

If your preferred campground or lake is nearby and you plan to stay for an extended period—whether a week or several months—a destination trailer is the ideal RV choice.

The cost will significantly exceed that of a standard tow-behind camper, but it includes high-end home-like furnishings, several sleeping areas, lofts or bunk beds, and considerably more room for living and storage.

If a destination trailer doesn’t suit your needs, explore our guide on the Top 10 Best Pop Up Camping Trailers, which represents the opposite extreme in terms of size.

If you liked this content, feel free to share it.

Similar Articles:

The Science of Tornadoes: Essential Spring Weather Safety Tips for RV Travelers

5 Benefits of Choosing a Full-Time RV Lifestyle Over Traditional Living

Key Takeaways from RV Insurance Claims After My RV Was Declared a Total Loss in a Disaster

Do RV Surge Protectors Truly Need to Be Used?

About the Author:

• About
• Complete Biography