
Coleman campers are a popular choice for adventurers looking for a reliable, affordable, and feature-packed home-away-from-home. The Coleman Company has been synonymous with camping gear and outdoor equipment since 1900. In 1967, Coleman introduced its first camper, a pop-up that combined tent camping with RVing. Over the years, Coleman has offered a wide range of pop-up camper models, each with unique features catering to different camping needs. While Coleman no longer produces pop-up campers, the brand name still exists in the RV market, with Dutchmen RV manufacturing a line of travel trailers under the Coleman brand. Today, Coleman campers are known for their durability, affordability, and versatility, making them a top choice for cross-country adventurers.
What You'll Learn
Coleman camper models
Coleman campers have been a staple of American camping culture since the first Coleman pop-up camper was released in 1967. Over the 44-year history of Coleman pop-up campers, Coleman and the RV manufacturers licensing the brand name introduced countless models, constantly evolving to meet campers' changing needs and preferences.
The first Coleman pop-up camper was born in 1967, offering a new model in the camping scene that mixed tent camping in nature with the comforts of a kitchen, a bathroom, and beds off the ground. The early Coleman pop-up campers were a game-changer, offering affordability, ease of towing, and quick setup.
Coleman's first pop-up models in 1967 included the CT-160, CT-161, CT-170, CT-171, CT-172, CT-180, and CT-190. By 1970, the lineup had expanded to include the CT-460, CT-470, CT-480, CT-481, CT-482, and CT-490. In 1971, the "CT" prefix was dropped, and the models were designated by numbers like 570, 580, 581, 582, 590, and 596.
In 1972, Coleman started using catchy, patriotic names for their models, such as the Valley Forge 680, Coleman Valley 680, and Gettysburg 681. The following year, they introduced the Somerset, Valley Forge, Brandywine, Brandywine II, and Yorktown. Throughout the 1970s and 1980s, Coleman continued to add new models and series, such as the Sun Classic, Sun Sprite, Sun Haven, Sun Lite, Colonial, Niagara, Shenandoah, and Williamsburg.
In the 1990s, Coleman organized its models into series, including the Americana Series, Colorado Series, Destiny Series, and Pioneer Series. The Americana Series included models like the Brandywine, Grandview, and Sequoia, while the Colorado Series featured the Colorado and Colorado Sport. The Destiny Series offered options like the Cedar, Roanoke, and Royale, and the Pioneer Series had models such as the Arcadia, Chesapeake, and Newport.
In the late 1990s and early 2000s, Coleman continued to evolve its lineup with series like the Grand Tour Series and Grand Tour Elite Series. The Grand Tour Series included models like the Key West, Niagara, Sun Valley, and Yukon, while the Grand Tour Elite Series featured the Bayside, Niagara, and Monterey.
After a brief hiatus, Coleman pop-up campers were manufactured again from 2008 to 2011 by FTCA Inc., which introduced models like the Highlander Series, Evolution Series, Americana Series, and Destiny Series. The Highlander Series included the Avalon and Niagara, while the Evolution Series offered the E1, E3, and Cobalt (Toy Hauler Pop-ups). The Americana Series had models such as the Utah, Bayside, Sun Valley, Santa Fe, and Cheyenne, and the Destiny Series featured the Sedona, Yuma, and Westlake Limited Edition.
Today, the Coleman name is still used on a line of high-quality travel trailers manufactured by Dutchmen RV. The Coleman by Dutchmen series includes both travel trailers and fifth wheels, ranging in length from 19 to 39 feet. Some of the models in this lineup include the Lantern Toy Hauler Series, Lantern LT Series, Lantern Series, Light Series, and Rubicon Series.
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Coleman camper features
Coleman campers are a popular choice for adventurers looking for a reliable, affordable, and feature-packed home-away-from-home. Here are some of the features that make Coleman campers stand out:
Comfortable Sleeping Arrangements
Coleman campers offer comfortable sleeping spaces, with some models accommodating up to 10 people. Whether you're a solo traveller, a couple, or a large family, there's a Coleman camper to suit your needs.
4G LTE Wi-Fi Compatible
Stay connected even when you're off the grid. Coleman campers are 4G LTE Wi-Fi compatible, so you can stay connected to the internet and your devices during your travels.
Easy Set-Up
Coleman campers are designed for ease of use, with power stabilizers and tongue jacks that make setting up camp a breeze. You'll be ready to enjoy your outdoor adventure in no time.
Enclosed and Insulated Underbelly
The enclosed and insulated underbelly of Coleman campers provides protection from the elements, keeping you warm and cosy even in colder weather.
Custom Flooring and Decor Options
Coleman campers offer custom flooring and decor options, allowing you to personalise your space and make it feel like home. Choose from a variety of styles to create your own unique camping experience.
Lightweight and Towable
Coleman campers are known for their lightweight design, making them easy to tow. Even relatively small vehicles can handle towing a Coleman camper, making it a versatile option for campers.
Spacious Interiors
Coleman campers offer spacious interiors, providing ample room for sleeping, cooking, and relaxing. You'll have all the comforts of home while enjoying the great outdoors.
Innovative Features
Coleman is known for its innovative features and attention to detail. From well-equipped kitchens to comfortable sleeping areas, their campers are designed to enhance your camping experience and make it more enjoyable.
Affordable Pricing
Coleman campers are renowned for their affordable pricing, making them accessible to a wide range of campers. You can enjoy all the benefits of a high-quality camper without breaking the bank.
Coleman campers have a rich history and have been a trusted brand for outdoor enthusiasts for decades. With their unique features and amenities, they continue to be a popular choice for adventurers seeking a reliable and comfortable home-away-from-home.
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Coleman camper history
The Coleman Company, Inc. is an American brand of outdoor recreation products, especially camping gear, now owned by Newell Brands. The company was founded by William Coffin Coleman, who began selling gasoline pressure lamps in 1901 in Wichita.
In the early 1900s, Coleman started as a lantern company, and by the 1940s, it had expanded its product line to include the Coleman Camp Stove. In the 1950s, the company began manufacturing insulated coolers, and in 1967, Coleman created its first camper, the pop-up trailer. These innovative trailers offered a unique blend of tent camping and RVing, featuring a mobile design with half-canvas and half-solid walls.
The Folding Camper Division was established in 1966 by Sheldon Coleman, the son of the company's founder. The pop-up trailers were an immediate success, offering a lightweight, durable, and convenient option for campers. By 1979, Coleman had become the best-selling brand of camping trailers in the United States, a position it held until 2010.
In 1989, Fleetwood RV bought the rights to the Coleman trailer brand, and in 1996, the company achieved its highest revenues. However, by 2008, Fleetwood negotiated a new licensing agreement, and the pop-up campers once again fell under the Coleman name. In 2011, Fleetwood filed for bankruptcy and stopped producing folding camping trailers.
Today, the Coleman brand continues to be associated with a line of high-quality travel trailers manufactured by Dutchmen RV. While the iconic pop-up campers are no longer in production, the current Coleman travel trailers carry on the legacy of providing innovative and comfortable outdoor experiences for adventurers and families alike.
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Coleman camper cost
Coleman campers are a popular choice for cross-country adventurers looking for a reliable, affordable, and feature-packed home-away-from-home. The Coleman Company has been manufacturing camping gear and outdoor equipment since 1900 and is known for its high-quality products.
Today, Coleman campers are manufactured by Dutchmen RV and are known for their innovative features and value. The cost of a Coleman camper can vary depending on the model, age, and condition. Here are some factors that can influence the cost:
- Model: Coleman offers a range of models, including the Lantern, Lantern LT, Light, and Rubicon, each with different features and price points.
- Age and Condition: The age and condition of the camper can significantly impact the cost. Newer models with updated features and minimal wear and tear will typically be more expensive than older models or those in need of repairs.
- Size and Capacity: Coleman campers vary in size and sleeping capacity, which can affect the price. Larger models that can sleep up to 10 people will generally be more expensive than smaller models designed for solo travellers or couples.
- Features and Amenities: The cost of a Coleman camper can also depend on the features and amenities included. Models with features like 4G LTE Wi-Fi compatibility, spacious interiors, fully-equipped kitchens, and custom flooring options will typically be priced higher.
Examples of Coleman Camper Prices
- A 2024 Coleman Lantern 17B, used for two camping trips, is listed for sale at $111/month based on 15% down, 6.99% APR, and 180 months.
- A 2022 Coleman 285BH camper, owned for almost a year and used at a hunting camp, is listed for sale at a negotiable price.
- A 2020 Coleman Lantern 337BH in excellent condition is for sale, with some appliances never used.
- A 2022 Coleman Light 2835BH, described as having a large slide and being in impeccable condition, is for sale at an unspecified price.
- A 2019 Coleman Lantern LT 18RB, a lightweight and versatile travel trailer, is for sale at an unspecified price.
- A 2022 Coleman Light 2835BH, featuring a large slide and described as being in beautiful condition, is listed for sale at an unspecified price.
Secondary Market
It is important to note that Coleman no longer produces pop-up campers, having discontinued them in 2011. However, these campers can still be found on the secondary market, with prices ranging from $2,000 to $17,000, depending on the condition of the canvas and equipment. Many consider these campers collectibles due to their discontinued status.
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Coleman camper pros and cons
Coleman campers are a popular choice for adventurers looking for a reliable, affordable, and feature-rich home-away-from-home. They are known for their pop-up campers, but also offer a range of travel trailers and toy haulers. Here are some pros and cons to help you decide if a Coleman camper is right for you:
Pros:
- Affordability and Value: Coleman campers are known for offering good quality at a reasonable price. Their travel trailers are packed with features and amenities, making them a great value for the money.
- Lightweight and Towability: Many Coleman campers are designed to be lightweight, making them easy to tow even for smaller vehicles like SUVs. This makes them a good option for those who don't have a heavy-duty truck.
- Variety of Floor Plans and Models: Coleman offers a wide range of floor plans and models to choose from, including options for couples, families, and those who need extra space. They have models that can sleep up to 10 people and offer features like bunkhouses, outdoor kitchens, and toy haulers.
- Ease of Use and Setup: Coleman campers are known for their ease of use and setup. They are a breeze to get road-ready and often include features like power awnings, power stabilizer jacks, and power tongue jacks.
- Storage and Functionality: Coleman campers offer ample storage space that is easily accessible and functional. They also have efficient indoor kitchens with workable surfaces.
- Quality Assurance and Warranty: Coleman campers come with a 253-point inspection before delivery, ensuring that you receive a high-quality product. They also offer a 3-year structural warranty, which is one of the best in the industry.
Cons:
- Material Quality: While Coleman campers offer good quality for the price, they are not the highest-end trailers on the market. The materials used are fairly inexpensive and may not be as durable as some other brands, especially with repeated use.
- Warranty Claims and Service: Some customers have reported issues with getting warranty work approved and completed in a timely manner. There have been concerns about delays in getting repairs approved and the requirement to use authorised dealers.
- Cheaper Materials and Construction: Coleman campers use less expensive materials and construction techniques to keep costs down. This can result in cosmetic issues like trim pulling away, bubbling linoleum, and peeling wallpaper.
- Leaks and Slide-out Issues: There have been some reports of leaks, particularly on the roof, and issues with slide-outs leaking. These problems may require regular maintenance and inspection to prevent.
- Limited High-End Features: Coleman campers focus on affordability and functionality, so they may not offer as many high-end features as some other brands. If you're looking for a luxury experience, Coleman may not be the best option.
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Frequently asked questions
Over its 44-year history, Coleman introduced countless models, with dozens of unique names and configurations. It's challenging to give an exact count, but the number of Coleman pop-up camper models is staggering.
While personal preferences vary, some models stand out over the years for their quality, features, and popularity among campers. Here are some of the most popular models:
- Coleman Bayside (Americana Series)
- Coleman Avalon (Highlander Series)
- Coleman Sedona (Destiny Series)
- Coleman Saratoga (Highlander Series)
- Coleman Sun Valley (Americana Series)
- Coleman Westlake (Destiny Series)
The price of a used Coleman pop-up camper can vary depending on age, model, condition, and features. They can range from as little as $500 to as much as $17,000. Newer models in good condition generally cost between $3,000 and $8,000.