Like every summer, many Canadians take to the road for vacation in their recreational vehicles, whether it’s a pop-up camper, a travel trailer, or a motorhome. The latter place a trailer body on a chassis equipped with a drivetrain, making them self-sufficient. While the vast majority of these vehicles were assembled by specialized companies acting independently of the automakers from whom the mechanical components were borrowed, some of these automakers also ventured into the market by offering factory-adapted vehicles for camping.
This gallery presents a few examples of recreational vehicles from the past sixty years that were either designed by an automaker or available for purchase through an auto brand’s dealership network.
Kaiser-Jeep CJ-5 Camper (1969)
The 1969 Kaiser-Jeep CJ-5 Camper is one of the rarest and most unusual recreational vehicles in automotive history. Born in the late 1960s to capitalize on the American craze for road trips, this model was based on an invention patented by Charles Prater and produced in partnership with the Honorbuilt company.
To bypass the load constraints of the CJ-5’s short wheelbase, the living module incorporated its own rear axle, suspension, and electric brakes. This six-wheeled articulated assembly required the 3.7L Buick “Dauntless” V6 engine (160 hp) paired with a short 4.88:1 axle ratio. The camper unit offered full accommodations for four people (propane stove, water tank, toilet) and could be detached in under 15 minutes to free the Jeep. Offered directly through the official Kaiser-Jeep dealer network, only 336 units of this adventure “unicorn” were ever produced.
GMC Motorhome (1973–1978)
Marketed by General Motors’ Truck & Coach division, the GMC Motorhome is the only Class A motorhome entirely produced by a major automaker. Its innovative front-wheel-drive architecture (powered by an Oldsmobile V8) eliminated the rear driveshaft, providing a completely flat floor, very low step-in height, and 6 feet 4 inches (1.93 meters) of interior headroom.
Offered in 23-foot and 26-foot lengths, the vehicle boasted exceptional versatility with up to 11 interior layout options. Amenities included a full kitchen (Frigidaire refrigerator, oven, stove), a bathroom with a shower, and seating that converted into bunk beds or double beds. GM offered iconic 1970s interior trims (Palm Beach, Eleganza, Canyonlands) featuring intricate woodwork, vibrant fabrics, and plush shag carpeting.
Toyota Chinook (1973–1978)
The result of a novel 1973 industrial partnership between Toyota Motor Sales USA and Chinook Motor Coach, the Toyota Chinook pioneered the “micro-camper” category in North America. Sold and warranted directly through Toyota’s dealer network, this model was built on the robust chassis-cab of the Hilux light pickup truck.
The vehicle stood out thanks to its one-piece molded fiberglass shell topped with a pop-up canvas roof, providing comfortable standing height when deployed while maintaining a very compact profile on the road. The interior layout maximized space with a modular dinette that converted into a double bed, a complete kitchenette (stove, sink, water tank), and clever storage solutions. Powered by the durable 2.2L 20R 4-cylinder engine, the Chinook offered exemplary reliability and fuel efficiency far superior to large American RVs. With over 15,000 units produced, it remains an icon of accessible adventure.
Chevrolet Blazer Chalet / GMC Jimmy Casa Grande (1976–1977)
Introduced in 1976 by General Motors in partnership with Chinook Mobilodge, the Chevrolet Blazer Chalet (and its twin, the GMC Jimmy Casa Grande) combined genuine 4×4 off-road capability with the comfort of a camper shell. Built on the rugged chassis of the K5 Blazer SUV, this model featured a major factory modification: the removal of the rear bulkhead to allow direct pass-through access from the driver’s seat to the living area.
Inside, its pop-up roof boosted interior height to over six feet. The layout maximized space with a kitchenette featuring a propane stove, a stainless steel sink, and an icebox, along with a dinette that converted into a double bed. Equipped with a 5.7L or 6.6L V8 engine and four-wheel drive, only about 1,800 units were produced.
Ford Econoline Cruising Van (1977–1978)
Launched by Ford in 1977 to capitalize on the massive American craze for custom vans, the Econoline Cruising Van offered a recreational setup delivered straight from Detroit assembly lines. Based on the third-generation Econoline E-150, this model allowed buyers to purchase a factory-customized leisure vehicle backed by a manufacturer warranty.
On the outside, it was instantly recognizable by its side porthole windows and factory-applied, three-tone gradient graphic stripes. The interior, designed for light camping and weekend getaways, was fully carpeted from floor to ceiling. It featured plush, swivel front bucket seats and a rear bench seat that folded down into a bed. Powered by a 5.0L or 5.8L Windsor V8 engine, it remains one of the most original examples of a major manufacturer adopting 1970s nomad subculture.
Volkswagen EuroVan Camper (1995–2003)
Specifically developed for the North American market, the Volkswagen EuroVan Camper (based on the T4 platform) was the result of a direct partnership between Volkswagen of America and the famous American manufacturer Winnebago Industries. Volkswagen shipped long-wheelbase chassis from Germany to Winnebago’s plant in Iowa, where the camper conversions were installed according to brand standards. The vehicle was then sold, financed, and warranted directly through VW’s dealership network.
The interior design made full use of space with a pop-up roof housing an upper double bed, a folding rear bench for a lower bed, swivel front seats, and a full kitchen (two-burner gas stove, sink, refrigerator). Powered by the ultra-compact 2.8L VR6 engine, it delivered excellent handling and welcome highway power, especially compared to the Westfalia-built models it replaced.
Mercedes-Benz Metris Getaway / Weekender (2020–2023)
Unveiled in 2020 to mark Mercedes-Benz’s official return to the North American compact camper van market, the Metris Getaway (also known as the Weekender) was developed under the brand’s official MasterSolutions program. Designed in partnership with Driverge Vehicle Innovations and Peace Vans, this vehicle was sold, financed, and warranted directly through Mercedes-Benz dealerships across North America.
Built on the mid-size Metris van platform and powered by a 208 hp 2.0L turbocharged engine, it combined the maneuverability of a city minivan with a modern recreational setup. Its pop-up roof accommodated a double bed with a spring mattress and USB ports, while its sliding rear bench converted into a second bed to sleep four people in total. With 180° swivel front seats, a standard auxiliary battery, and options for a side awning or rear kitchen pull-out, it represented a high-end, contemporary vision of the adventure van.
