BajaNomad - What type of RV camper do you need for Baja Roads

What type of RV camper do you need for Baja Roads

mickeyr1999 - 9-30-2014 at 10:44 AM

I am looking for a Rig that I can take down to Baja and go from the main
road to the road dirt fishing villages.
Would a C class be too big at 25ft and they have good elevation.
Let me know
Timothy

woody with a view - 9-30-2014 at 11:07 AM

there was a Porsche at San Juanico one year maybe 1998ish. WAAAAY before any paved roads, so just about anything that rolls will make it. it more depends on the driver!

mojo_norte - 9-30-2014 at 11:09 AM

If you're looking to purchase I'd get a 4x4 pickup with an overhead camper. Loads of options and price ranges. While you may be able to get into some places with a class C you will find many spots inaccessible or will have problems .

mickeyr1999 - 9-30-2014 at 11:11 AM

are most of the roads that go from the main road to the fishing villages dirt?
So a c class rig under 25ft with clearance can mostly make it if the roads are not washed out or been banged by a hurricance?
What rig do you use?

chuckie - 9-30-2014 at 11:14 AM

Dodge 4wd Diesel w Lance camper

mickeyr1999 - 9-30-2014 at 11:15 AM

what would you recommend for a used 4by4 and camper for two and not too cramped
with kitchen

mojo_norte - 9-30-2014 at 11:22 AM

Quote:

Originally posted by mickeyr1999
what would you recommend for a used 4by4 and camper for two and not too cramped
with kitchen

They come in all sizes. Lance , Artic Fox make big ones with all amenities. They're even making overheads w/ side slideouts. You'll need a big truck 3/4- 1 ton.

mickeyr1999 - 9-30-2014 at 11:33 AM

where is a good website to look other than craigslist
I am in San Diego
What rig do you have
How often do you go south?
What is your favorite camping spot that is safe at night.?
I would be with my girl

woody with a view - 9-30-2014 at 11:35 AM

cooking inside is a drag as your oil splatter attracts dirt. once it gets gross it'll be too late. try to set up an outside kitchen. you really only need a folding table and a propane stove.

chuckie - 9-30-2014 at 01:12 PM

We take our housekeeper, Martina with us to do that stuff....

bajalearner - 9-30-2014 at 01:28 PM

What about a good tent trailer with a pick up or suv.

Might be a fun, versatile and relatively inexpensive way to start with.

If you can't take Martina, take martini and the cleaning won't seem so important. :?:

[Edited on 9-30-2014 by bajalearner]

mtgoat666 - 9-30-2014 at 01:59 PM

Quote:

Originally posted by mickeyr1999
What type of RV camper do you need for Baja Roads

"need?"
you NEED this: https://www.volkswagen-vans.co.uk/range/camper-vans/
unfortunately, it aint sold in USA

but you can find good used eurovans if you look

Udo - 9-30-2014 at 02:23 PM

Goat has the best solution for all around Baja roads.

Many os my early Baja travels were done in a Westfalia minivan, with full camping equipment. I modified mine by adding a lift kit, 16" wheels and tires, fender flares, a larger motor and a high flow water pump kit for the engine.

You can still find some available (also the Synchro version 4X4), especially in Baja.
You also may visit the website http://www.gowesty.com

mojo_norte - 9-30-2014 at 02:30 PM

Quote:

Originally posted by mtgoat666

Quote:

Originally posted by mickeyr1999
What type of RV camper do you need for Baja Roads

"need?"
you NEED this: https://www.volkswagen-vans.co.uk/range/camper-vans/
unfortunately, it aint sold in USA

but you can find good used eurovans if you look

Nice but big bucks for what you get. and no 4 wheel drive. I'm surprised to see the Goat recommending such a weekend poser-mobile

bajaboy1 - 9-30-2014 at 02:37 PM

I run a 3/4 ton Dodge 4x4 with 11ft. Lance camper. Then pull my tin boat. It works good for me. It's comfortable for 2 people and I can get almost everywhere.

BooJumMan - 9-30-2014 at 03:02 PM

If you want the ability to pick a point on a map and go there you'll definetly want what others have suggested... Full sized 4x4 with overhead camper.

For me, I personally prefer lightweight. If I had the money, I'd get a pop-up style camper (like the http://www.fourwheelcampers.com/). You have a lower center of gravity for off-camber sections in the roads, as well as less aerodynamic drag on the highway.

With a large RV, you'll probably be able to get to a lot of places in Baja, but its more fun going to the less traveled areas. Not to mention the trans peninsular hi-way is about 3inches wide through some sections and when you have a semi-truck coming at you going 80mph on a hairpin turn, sometimes its nicer to have something a little narrower ; )

MMc - 9-30-2014 at 03:32 PM

When you say fishing villages do you mean the major places on the map or are you talking about fish camps? I do not us a camper at all, I am a tent and tarp guy, so this may not count much.

Over the last 10 years we see more of the pop-top campers at surf spots and most have a awing outside and do most of the cooking there, many have a outside shower too. They have a lower center of gravity and are easier to get down 2 tracks and rough roads. You will give up some comforts however; I never saw one with a nice bathroom. They tend to be on full sized truck with or with out 4X4. For what I do these would be they way I would lean, but I tend to get pretty remote. This one of many companies that make them
http://www.fourwheelcampers.com/

We used to see the flip top tents on smaller trucks but the seam to have fallen out of fashion. They are light and offer a bunch of room to sleep. Here is a company that makes flip tops
http://www.flippac.com/

If you are going to a place that has paved or graded roads anything will get you there. If you are going to fish camps something smaller and lighter is what you want. Remember that the reason Somebody loves something is the reason another hates it. You’ll have to look around and experiment as to what works for you.

Bob53 - 9-30-2014 at 04:30 PM

Back in the 80s I had an F250 4x4 with an overhead camper which worked great. In 91 I bought a 27' Bounder RV and have actually been able to travel a surprisingly amount of offroad destinations.

On the road to Mission Santa María...

David K - 9-30-2014 at 05:01 PM

Quote:

Originally posted by mickeyr1999
I am looking for a Rig that I can take down to Baja and go from the main
road to the road dirt fishing villages.
Would a C class be too big at 25ft and they have good elevation.
Let me know
Timothy

A motorhome built for 'the Baja'... contact edm1 'Art' for the ultimate 4WD motorhome with front and rear locking differentials.

edm1 wanted more comfort for his wife, so he built a bigger 4WD motorhome...

chuckie - 9-30-2014 at 05:07 PM

Retail price about 2000 Bucks? get real....

mickeyr1999 - 9-30-2014 at 05:54 PM

Lot of good input.
Suprised to hear the Bounder was able to hit the off road a bit. Why do you think that was? Good clearance?

Neal Johns - 9-30-2014 at 06:07 PM

Art's the man when it comes to 4x4 motorhomes - and he did all the work himself.
Inside is everything you need for 4wd travel; Welder, engine driven air compressor, fridge, etc. Up front is a Diesel he put in to replace the gas engine. I led him to Yubay, etc. He towed me out of Mision Santa Maria when I blew my differential!

In addition, he is a super nice guy - I don't even hold it against him that he is a software puke. :lol:

Whale-ista - 9-30-2014 at 06:38 PM

Re your questions on a camper for Baja use:
1) Try Expedition Portal for good Information on offroad rigs, equipment, modifications etc. I've learned a lot on that site

2) I use a small 1/2 ton pickup with a simple callen camper shell, overcab height. Lifted for clearance but not 4WD, rear airbags to ride smoother when fully loaded with gear; BFG AT tires work well.

3) I've made several trips this year, ranging from 4 days to 3 weeks

4) I use established RV camping sites, or campgrounds near lagoons to see whales; or if I caravan with friends and they use a hotel, I park nearby and sleep in camper.

Quote:

Originally posted by mickeyr1999
where is a good website to look other than craigslist
I am in San Diego
What rig do you have
How often do you go south?
What is your favorite camping spot that is safe at night.?
I would be with my girl

SFandH - 9-30-2014 at 06:49 PM

If you see a Callen camper advertised, go take a look at it. They used to make them in El Cajon. Welded steel frame. Aluminum outside, panelling inside with insulation in between. Tough campers.

Whale-ista - 9-30-2014 at 07:28 PM

Good point. Lots of them in San Diego. Check craigslist.

Quote:

Originally posted by SFandH
If you see a Callen camper advertised, go take a look at it. They used to make them in El Cajon. Welded steel frame. Aluminum outside, panelling inside with insulation in between. Tough campers.

Pescador - 10-1-2014 at 07:24 AM

I have a Lance Camper that is in perfect shape, always garaged when not on the road and it is going to go on sale next week when I get home from Rosarito Beach.

Martyman - 10-1-2014 at 11:42 AM

I've never considered a camper shell because I'm 6'4" and not enough headroom! Any camping setups out there for tall, fat guys?

MMc - 10-1-2014 at 11:57 AM

This will go to 6'6'. I don't know a bout width.

http://www.fourwheelcampers.com/index.php/products/for-full-...

chuckie - 10-1-2014 at 01:15 PM

Pescadors Lance will work for ya....

Desertbull - 10-1-2014 at 01:19 PM

Duramax Diesel 4x4 with a custom travel trailer style box attached to the frame ... with 40 inch Goodyear tires.

deykesrigII.jpg - 40kB

Pescador - 10-1-2014 at 04:17 PM

Quote:

Originally posted by Martyman
I've never considered a camper shell because I'm 6'4" and not enough headroom! Any camping setups out there for tall, fat guys?

Yeah, with the queen sized bed going the length of the camper 6'4" is no problem. Fat ain't a problem either, unless you get stuck in the overhead.

Ribbonslinger - 10-1-2014 at 06:24 PM

Last year was first time in Baja. I researched a lot on this site for best truck for off road. I ended up getting an old oil patch F350 with a 20yr old bigfoot camper. If you get a camper make sure you build a plywood base with 2x4 that will keep the camper from sliding side to side and forward. Then you will need to get some good quality camper tiedowns that are mounted to the frame. The tiedowns should have some sort of give or shock system or the side to side motion will tear the camper apart.

Tires are very important given the heavy load. I am a BC boy so I use HD Grapplers from Kaltire. The loggers use them up here so they are pretty tough. The last must have is a come-along with 5/16 Amsteel. Put a second block on the setup so you have a 2 to 1. I brought a Danforth anchor to use as a dead man if I got stuck in the sand. It saved me at Quadalupe Canyon Hotsprings when my truck sank into some black muck.

Ribbonslinger - 10-1-2014 at 06:34 PM

Forgot to mention. Make sure you have a locking rear diff. It made an amazing difference in loose boulders along the beach when we drove to the San Cosme hot springs. You have to be a little nuts to drive there though with a full size truck and camper, but I would not have made it without the locker.

mickeyr1999 - 10-2-2014 at 02:19 PM

Hi Slinger good advice. Can you send over a few photos of your rig ?

Ribbonslinger - 10-4-2014 at 06:00 PM

Mickey

I will get you some pictures in a few days. Can,t get it straight how to post photos. My son is a wiz at this stuff so he will do it for me next week.

Slinger

Alm - 10-4-2014 at 06:38 PM

Quote:

Originally posted by mickeyr1999
what would you recommend for a used 4by4 and camper for two and not too cramped
with kitchen

There is no camper that is "not too cramped" for two. It's a place to sleep, not to live. I'm a trailer guy, not much experience with campers , but those campers that I've seen here, were using outdoor kitchen. Especially when there are two people. As mentioned, you only need a folding table with small propane stove, and folding sink for dishwashing.

"Fishing villages"? All small coastal towns are of a "fishing" kind, whether they have some other industry there or not. Very often there is a paved road and even a public bus there. This isn't an Amazon jungle. Some have only dirt road. And then there are "fishing camps" accessible on 4WD, but often a 2WD would suffice, in a good weather. Some "fishing villages" you can reach in a compact car, no kidding.

Have your ever been to Baja? If not, then you should take a drive and see how it looks and what is what.

EdwardTeach - 10-4-2014 at 08:00 PM

[Edited on 5-10-2014 by EdwardTeach]

Ribbonslinger - 10-4-2014 at 08:06 PM

I have to disagree with you Alm. I have a 9'6" Bigfoot 3000. It is huge and has a ton of room. For me it is multiple purpose. I can take it to the mountain to ski in BC or go to Baja in the desert.

I use to think people who had campers were total jam tarts since I always tented back then. But once you get use to hot showers and fresh baked bread it is hard to go back to a tent.

Don,t get into a camper unless you really want to go off road and like being by yourself. A trailer is usually cheaper and you can setup at a nice beach with it and go exploring with your truck. I love the challenge of exploring crazy roads to get to beautiful spots but it is not for everybody.

Maybe save yourself some cash and drive down to Mulege and stay in a bed and breakfast. Take day trips to Conception Bay and visit Coco,s or Coyote beach and see what you think. It is a real community at these places and you might really like it. Happy hour and socializing every night. If so then get a nice trailer and setup shop.

Alm - 10-4-2014 at 09:50 PM

Forgot to tell: website to look for RV: Rvtrader.com
Click on Ca in the left menu, sort by Price->Lowest, and see what you get.

I bought my trailer online, new from dealer - after researching on makes, options and my needs, and then picked it up. There were some disappointments due to buying it sight unseen, but not too many, and they were not defects. Just something that you can only see when you walk into it. Can you close the toilet door while sitting there, without hitting your knees? Can you stretch on the bed without your feet hanging down (those beds are often shorter than regular furniture)? Is there enough storage space, and is it easily accessible? And so on.

I would NEVER buy a used RV of any kind online, sight unseen. A used rig you need to inspect thoroughly, preferably with somebody who knows how to do it. Ask questions, make appointment, then go and check it. Drive 3 hours if you have to. There are dozens of dealerships between Sacramento and SD, and in the valleys to the East.

Consult with somebody who owned particular model(s) that you are thinking to buy. I hope you heard about Open Roads forum. The best place to ask technical and other questions on RV. Be precise. A broad question like "whatta best make for me" will fetch you a response so broad that it will be useless.

Check Rvtrader listings every few days, bargains go quickly.

Agreed with Ribbonslinger - even though he disagrees with me

... Though Bigfoot is called so for a good reason - they are roomier than some other shells. Good quality, molded fiberglass shell, not cheap, even when used. Assess your needs first. Throw a tent, blue foam pad and warm sleeping bag in your truck, drive down Mex 1 in winter - not during holidays - it's crazy. See how people live on camps, what rigs, what you like or dislike. It's warm enough for tent until mid-December, and then again after mid-February.

[Edited on 10-5-2014 by Alm]

mickeyr1999 - 10-5-2014 at 09:28 AM

Thanks I have been to Baja quite a few times but the advice to load up my subauru and hit the Baja road is a good one.
Thanks

boe4fun - 10-5-2014 at 09:29 AM

I bought a junker Alaskan 8' cabover camper to use on my GMC 3500 longbed. It's pretty much bullet proof, and collapses so it's better for fuel mileage and lowers the CG so it's more stable. I love it.

SUBARU 4WD... super sand bug

David K - 10-5-2014 at 10:15 AM

Quote:

Originally posted by mickeyr1999
Thanks I have been to Baja quite a few times but the advice to load up my subaru and hit the Baja road is a good one.
Thanks

That's how I explored and camped in Baja from 1978-1992... after reading how happy Tom Miller was with his on the beach south of San Felipe, calling it a 'super sand bug'.

Sadly for us off roaders, Subaru stopped offering 4WD and went to AWD.. but that is still better than 2WD!

First time on bottomless sand of Shell Island, 1978:

10 psi was the ticket with these little 13" tires!

Flash flood, stuck with water rising, Matomi Canyon, 1978... letting air out of tires got me out!:

On the old Gonzaga road south of Puertecitos to Calamajue & El Crucero, 1979:

On the beach north of Laguna Manuela, 1983:

On the beach, Punta San Francisquito:

Exploring Parral (Azufre Wash) in 1982:

On the beach, Bahia San Luis Gonzaga, 1986:

I bought three 4WD Subaru wagons: in 1977, 1980, and 1986. The last one had a bigger 1.8 liter engine and a 2 speed transfer case. The other two only had high range 4WD and the first one a 1.6 liter engine. I put over 100,000 miles on them all... and the quality was outstanding, speciall after I had just experienced owning a new Jeep with nearly everying failing in less than two years!:

1975 Cherokee Chief, 401 V-8, Quadra Trac full time 4WD.

pappy - 10-5-2014 at 10:29 AM

any 3/4 ton 4x4 with a pop-up camper. check outfittermfg.com for the camper. anther option is sportmobile. they are 4x4 vans built for camping with many variations to choose from.

ultimate might be the earth roamer rv's but big $$$

Tomas Tierra - 10-5-2014 at 10:35 AM

Get a used Four Wheel pop up, or an All Terrain pop up, put it on a good used Toyota 4x4...... Off to see Baja you will be!

DK, seems like I've seen those photos somewhere before??? lol

David K - 10-5-2014 at 10:42 AM

Maybe, it is one of the things I have to share, my photos from nearly 50 years of Baja traveling! :cool:

gnukid - 10-5-2014 at 10:46 AM

Mercedes 4x4 camper 2015
http://www.thecarconnection.com/overview/mercedes-benz_sprin...

mickeyr1999 - 10-5-2014 at 01:30 PM

The Subaru is what I own. The 2000 so going fit it out and hit the Baja road soon for some long week trips to see what I can see and meet some of the other campers.

Ribbonslinger - 10-5-2014 at 01:59 PM

Those Alaskan campers are great if you can find a good one.

Alm - 10-5-2014 at 02:31 PM

Pop-up campers cost more than rigid shells. And, if (or when) you install a solar on the roof, routing the wires will be difficult. For boondocking in Baja, there is no excuse not to carry a small solar, a single 180-200W panel will cover all your needs 9 days out of 10 for a total parts cost under $500.

Mileage is better with pop-up, less wind resistance. Depends on the priorities - if you travel a lot, then get pop-up. If you stay longer in one place, then a rigid camper - or even a trailer.

MMc - 10-5-2014 at 02:52 PM

This looks like a nice rig.
http://forums.bajanomad.com/viewthread.php?tid=75748

norte - 10-5-2014 at 03:44 PM

This is the only place I have seen where a Subaru is called a RV. Kinda cramped sleeping isn't it?

David K - 10-5-2014 at 05:28 PM

It was my recreational vehicle for many years, and I did sleep in the back many times, with my spouse even, but that was like 50-80 fewer pounds ago! :lol:

Alm - 10-5-2014 at 06:44 PM

Quote:

Originally posted by norte
This is the only place I have seen where a Subaru is called a RV.

Nobody was calling it "RV". What DavidK was trying to tell is that any 4WD will get you there. And, as I could see, locals in those "fishing villages" are often making it with 2WD as well.

Skipjack Joe - 10-5-2014 at 07:01 PM

The alaska. camper is the model which all current popup campers copied. If you're getting a popup make sure it's constructed over an aluminum frame. It will be lighter and more durable.

dtbushpilot - 10-5-2014 at 07:07 PM

Short bed 3/4 ton 4X4 Dodge diesel with an overhead camper. Mine is an extended cab over so that the queen size bed goes front to back, the only way to go when you need to get up in the middle of the night and not crawl over your partner. Truck has a HD antisway bar and air bags. I usually pull a trailer behind me with a Polaris or boat, goes anywhere especially if you aren't afraid of a few Baja pin stripes or replacing some plastic trim. Unless you plan to leave the camper on the truck for extended periods I would avoid a pop up.

[Edited on 10-6-2014 by dtbushpilot]

norte - 10-5-2014 at 07:33 PM

Quote:

Originally posted by Alm

Quote:

Originally posted by norte
This is the only place I have seen where a Subaru is called a RV.

Nobody was calling it "RV". What DavidK was trying to tell is that any 4WD will get you there. And, as I could see, locals in those "fishing villages" are often making it with 2WD as well.

Oh. I am sorry. I thought the title of the thread was "What type of RV camper do you need for Baja Roads ". My mistake.

mickeyr1999 - 10-5-2014 at 07:41 PM

bush pilot what was the cost of your truck and camper? Who makes the camper?

dtbushpilot - 10-6-2014 at 08:53 AM

Quote:

Originally posted by mickeyr1999
bush pilot what was the cost of your truck and camper? Who makes the camper?

Don't remember what I paid for the truck, I bought it new and it has been my daily driver ever since. The camper is a Fleetwood, I bought it used from an RV dealer, it was about 7 years old and I think I paid around $9,500 for the camper including installation of the tie down kit and camper. If you are thinking about buying a motorhome I think a truck and camper is a better option for Baja. Upside is: you can go more places and you can use the truck for other things when you aren't camping. Downside is: Less room, Jill can't go back and make me a sandwich unless I pull over, it takes 2 spaces to park them when you aren't camping. Ours has a bathroom with shower, 3 way frig, microwave, oven, cook top, AC etc., of course you need to be plugged in somewhere to use the AC or microwave.

Ribbonslinger - 10-6-2014 at 04:24 PM

Here you go Mickey. My old camper cost $8000 and the used truck was $27000 CDN.

Slinger

Ribbonslinger - 10-6-2014 at 04:35 PM

The first photo is the road into Guadalupe canyon hot springs. The other pics are the road into San Cosme hot springs. Wife got out of the truck when it started to lean hard. She was on the low side on the way in.

woody with a view - 10-6-2014 at 06:10 PM

I would have had her holding on to the high side for added balance!

JEEZ!!!

David K - 10-6-2014 at 07:28 PM

Quote:

Originally posted by Ribbonslinger
The first photo is the road into Guadalupe canyon hot springs. The other pics are the road into San Cosme hot springs. Wife got out of the truck when it started to lean hard. She was on the low side on the way in.

Great photos... It was high tide when I was at San Cosme, but I sure wanted to go to the springs... next time! Oh, I should ask (for the mrs.), do they stink like sulfur/ rotten eggs (as the Puertecitos springs do)? We sure loved Guadalupe hot springs... no smell... but are sad that Arturo's side has changed ownership and fear it has lost that special-ness it had.

Ribbonslinger - 10-6-2014 at 07:53 PM

The Hotsprings there have a mild odour. You only notice it at lower tide, but the water is too hot then anyways. We loved that place! Lots of great hiking on trails and the snorkelling was very good.

Guadalupe hot springs is great. We stayed at La Rana tub. Oscar (host) is a great guy. The other side of the creek was in rough condition.

bajacalifornian - 10-6-2014 at 08:11 PM

I bought an old Alaskan from the factory. Had electric lift.

Spent a week fishing Sta. Domingo, camped near the lighthouse one time.

Chico would pick me up mornings to fish.

Finally used it as a spare bedroom in Lopez. Exploded during hurricane Jimena.

Check the factory for used.

Alm - 10-6-2014 at 08:20 PM

Yeah, well, 9K for an old camper... Slightly longer trailer would cost the same - NEW. Not a Bigfoot of course - those are expensive, old or new. You'll have a better mobility with a camper, no hitching up pain, but there will be very few places - worth going and staying at - that you won't be able to reach with a trailer. Dirt roads are OK, it's tight turns that can be a problem with trailer. The cost? 14K total for a new trailer and old half-ton truck, 3 years ago. Both are still alive.

I guess, Ejido next door qualifies as a "fishing village"

David K - 10-6-2014 at 11:44 PM

Quote:

Originally posted by Ribbonslinger
The Hotsprings there have a mild odour. You only notice it at lower tide, but the water is too hot then anyways. We loved that place! Lots of great hiking on trails and the snorkelling was very good.

Guadalupe hot springs is great. We stayed at La Rana tub. Oscar (host) is a great guy. The other side of the creek was in rough condition.

Thanks... San Cosme sounds great.
The south side of Guadalupe Canyon has no privacy compared to Arturo's Campo #1, at least what we saw. Arturo's was special indeed. Good things don't always last... If you have photos... maybe in a different forum/ thread, I would like to see them?