If you’re a fan of vintage camping trailers, then you’ve probably heard of the iconic Shasta Camper. These retro-style trailers first appeared in the 1940s and quickly became a popular choice among outdoor enthusiasts.
But are manufacturers still making Shasta Campers today? The answer is yes! The company has evolved over the years, offering a range of modern amenities while staying true to its classic design. In this article, we’ll examine what makes Shasta Campers unique and explore some of the models available today. Let’s dive in!
What Is a Shasta Camper?
A Shasta Camper is a type of travel trailer dating to 1941. These trailers quickly gained popularity among outdoor enthusiasts due to their lightweight design, affordable price point, and unique “toaster on wheels” look.
In the decades after its first appearance, Shasta Campers became synonymous with classic Americana camping culture, appearing in countless movies and TV shows. Shasta is one of the brands that helped forge Americans’ love affair for RV travel.
Over the years, Shasta Campers have undergone numerous design changes and updates to keep up with changing trends and technologies. Today, people know them for their 80-plus years in the RV industry, staying true to their design aesthetic but with a sleeker look, and modern amenities like air conditioning, full kitchens, and comfortable sleeping areas.
Is the Shasta Camper Still Being Made?
Shasta Campers have been in production from 1941 to 2004. They were reintroduced in 2008 and continue to be made today. Shasta Campers have undergone many changes throughout the years aesthetically, regarding available amenities, and owners.
Shasta was started as a small company in Los Angeles, California by Robert Gray in 1941. The W.R. Grace Company purchased Shasta in 1972, and then Coachmen bought them 4 years later in 1976. Coachmen built and sold Shasta travel trailers until 2004.
In 2008, Forest River purchased Coachmen Industries including the Shasta camper assets, which it reintroduced to the market in 2008. Since then, they’ve reissued old models and created new variations of the nostalgic trailer.
Pro Tip: Get the inside scoop on Who Makes Forest River RVs?
What Types of Camper Does Shasta Produce?
Shasta produces fifth wheels and travel trailers, each with unique features and benefits. They no longer regularly manufacture the iconic vintage-style “toaster on wheels” Shasta Campers. However, they produced a unique line of retro-inspired campers in 2015 and 2016 because of popular demand.
Shasta’s fifth wheels are for those who want a spacious and luxurious camping experience, with options ranging from 29 feet, 10 inches to 42 feet, 7 inches long. These trailers have high-quality materials like composite sidewalls, aluminum frames, and vinyl floors for durability.
Shasta’s travel trailers, on the other hand, are perfect for those who want a more compact and lightweight option. These trailers come in sizes ranging from 23 feet to 36 feet, 7 inches long, and feature many of the same amenities in their larger fifth wheel models. They also have sturdy materials like a steel frame and an aluminum-skinned exterior.
How Can You Tell a Vintage Shasta Camper From a New One?
It’s usually pretty easy to tell Shasta’s current travel trailers and fifth wheels apart from the iconic “toaster on wheels” campers of the past. But because Shasta recreated that retro look in 2009 and again in 2015/2016, it can be challenging to tell the retro campers apart from the actual vintage Shasta trailers.
Forest River fastidiously constructed the 2015 Airflyte reissue to match the famous 1961 original in size and shape. It has the famous Shasta wings, the same window dimensions, matching cabinetry, the exact three original colors (Matador Red, Seafoam Green, and Butternut Yellow), and Shasta’s trademark logo on the magazine rack.
However, there are differences. The 2015 model includes LED lighting, modern appliances, and updated plumbing. Some appliances are a 3-burner cooktop, a microwave, and stainless steel refrigerator/freezer. The original 1961 Airflyte didn’t have the hidden Bluetooth speakers and covert stereo of the 2015 retro model. The newer model also has a full-size bed instead of a twin, with an option for a bunk bed.
About the Shasta Travel Trailer
Shasta Travel Trailers are a lightweight, affordable way to travel with all the conveniences of home. Although they don’t come in the classic shape of yesteryear, these modern travel trailers have little touches offering a nod to Shasta’s 80-plus-year history.
Floor Plans
The travel trailer comes in 14 layouts. Whether packing everything you need into the shorter, more compact versions or spreading it out in the lengthier trailers, Shasta has done an excellent job arranging the various floorplans to balance what you need with comfort for long travels.
Specs
Length: Ranges from 23 feet to 36 feet, 7 inches
Width: 96 inches
Height: Ranges from 10 feet, 6 inches to 11 feet, 8 inches
Weight Range: 5,050 lbs. to 9,673 lbs.
Features
Most folks appreciate the solid construction of Shasta Travel Trailers. They are steel-framed with wood wall studs and rafters. The campers have an exterior aluminum skin with a Tufflex PVC roof. On top of the build, these trailers come with oversized and lighted pass-through storage, a double bowl stainless steel sink, a 3-burner cooktop, stainless steel refrigerator, a Bluetooth soundbar, and numerous upgrade options. Additionally, they come with a dry bath.
About the Shasta Phoenix Fifth Wheel Camper
The Shasta Phoenix Fifth Wheels offer high-end features and luxurious interiors while maintaining ease of towing by most modern half-ton and three-quarter-ton trucks. If you’re resolute in what you want, you’ll likely find one of the numerous floorplans to fit your style.
Floorplans
The Shasta Phoenix Fifth Wheel comes in three categories with multiple floorplans. They divide floorplans primarily on the length and personal style.
Phoenix Lite Fifth Wheels come in five floorplans. The midsize Phoenix Fifth Wheels have eight plans. Upper-end Phoenix X-Editions come in two layouts configured around more living space in one versus more sleeping capacity in the other.
Specs
Length: Ranges from 29 feet, 10 inches to 42 feet, 7 inches
Width: 96 inches
Height: Ranges from 11 feet, 10 inches to 12 feet, 6 inches
Weight Range: 9,800 lbs. to 15,500 lbs.
Features
The features in the Shasta Phoenix Fifth Wheels are off the charts regarding luxury. From stainless steel appliances, including a wide range of options for devices like the refrigerator, extra-large tinted windows, a spacious sink with a high-rise faucet, dual-ducted air conditioning units, and LED mood lighting. Shasta Phoenic Fifth Wheels also come with a dry bath.
That’s just the interior. The exterior comes with lightweight but robust Azdel composite sidewall construction; a heated, insulated, and enclosed underbelly; an electric auto leveler; and 100% LED lighting. It comes ready for solar and increased wifi capabilities.
Pro Tip: Vintage RV fans will love these 9 Coolest Blast-From-the-Past Vintage Motorhomes.
How Much Are Vintage Shasta Campers Worth?
When talking about anything vintage, how much an item is worth is mainly in the eye of the beholder. In short, it’s worth whatever someone will pay for it. However, many elements determine how much a Vintage Shasta Camper is worth. How old it is, its condition, and its rarity are all factors. Even in poor condition, you’d probably have to pay a few thousand dollars for an authentic vintage camper.
That said, the Shasta Campers from the 1960s are the most sought-after. The stylings over this decade are what inspire the “toaster on wheels” iconic images that come to mind when you think of a Vintage Shasta Camper.
The 1960s or similar-era Vintage Shasta Camper in good condition will likely cost at least $10,000 on the low end. Trailers in better shape and with unique styling – like the 1961 Airflyte – frequently sell for $15,000 to $20,000 or more.
Are New Shasta Campers Worth It?
If you’re in the market for a new camper and are considering a Shasta, it’s crucial to weigh the pros and cons of buying a vintage, newer retro-style model, a modern travel trailer, or a fifth wheel.
While vintage Shastas have a unique charm and appeal, they may require more maintenance and upkeep due to their age. On the other hand, the newer retro models offer much of the charm but with modern amenities and updated features that can make camping more comfortable and convenient.
If comfort and quality are all you want, Shasta is a reliable brand with a reputation for building quality, modern travel trailers, and fifth wheels. With several decades in the RV business, you can’t ask for more assurances.
Regardless of which type of Shasta camper you choose, there’s no denying that these trailers are a sound choice among camping enthusiasts. With their timeless design, quality construction materials, and reputation for durability, owning a Shasta will surely provide years of happy camping memories for you and your family.
Would you look for a modern or vintage Shasta camper for your next purchase? Tell us your thoughts in the comments!
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