The Best Subaru Models for Camping

In the past several years, we’ve seen a lot more folks interested in getting out in nature. It makes sense—the U.S. has millions of square miles of parks and wilderness to explore, and tons of people are now working remote or hybrid these days. (Remember what whole pandemic thing? That was weird, right?)

With the recent surge of people running into the woods, we’ve also seen our National and State Parks reach record crowds, which has motivated some folks to get a little farther off the beaten path in search of solitude. But, in order to get there, you need a vehicle that can handle the rough terrain.

In that spirit, here’s the 411 on the top Subarus to consider for adventure seekers near Destin, FL and beyond.

Subaru Wilderness—the Most Rugged Subaru Available

If you’re looking for the most capable Subaru models, look for the trademark Wilderness badge. Subaru Wilderness models are specifically engineered with upgraded powertrain and suspension components to take your off-road game to the next level.

Available new Subaru Wilderness models include:

• 2024/2025 Subaru Outback
• 2024 Subaru Crosstrek
• 2024 Subaru Forester

Apart from features like Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive, which comes standard on nearly all Subarus, Wilderness models get a ton of upgrades that allow them to tackle demanding terrain with confidence. Features include:

• All-terrain tires
• Enhanced X-MODE® with settings for dirt, mud, and deep snow
• Retuned suspension
• Improved ground clearance (over 9 inches)
• Specially designed bumpers for greater approach and departure angles
• Stronger roof rails
• Durable StarTex® upholstery
• LED interior lighting

In addition to all these functional upgrades, Subaru Wilderness models gain some stylish aesthetic touches like extra cladding, matte black wheels, anti-glare hood decals, and Anodized Copper accents to further set them apart and make a bold statement on the trail.

Which Subaru SUV is Best for Camping?

Subaru has multiple SUV models that are great for getting out in nature, but everyone’s needs are different, so there’s no one-size-fits-all solution. Whether you decide on a Wilderness or any of the other great trims that Subaru has to offer, here’s a rundown of which may be best for you.

Subaru Outback

Many consider this to be the quintessential Subaru vehicle, and for good reason. The Outback has enjoyed a decades-long track record of safety, affordability, and reliability.

It has many standard features like X-MODE®, Active Torque Vectoring, and Hill Descent Control that make it sure-footed on tough trails, and even without the Wilderness upgrade, it boasts a solid 8.7 inches of ground clearance.

It also has two available powertrain options, including the 2.4-liter turbocharged SUBARU BOXER®, which cranks out 260 horsepower and 277 pound-feet of torque. With this engine, it’s capable of towing up to 3,500 pounds, making it perfect for families who want to bring a small camper or boat trailer along for the ride.

The Outback has a ton of space inside as well thanks to its wagon body style, allowing up to 75.6 cubic feet of cargo capacity, ideal for a car camper setup.

Subaru Crosstrek

As the smallest Subaru SUV, the Crosstrek has the advantage of being extremely maneuverable thanks to its weight and dimensions. This alone makes it a popular model with backcountry enthusiasts.

Despite its compact size, it still has ample cargo space, as well as standard roof rails on nearly all trims that allow you to stow cargo upstairs and save room for passengers. The Crosstrek Wilderness also has a mighty towing capacity of up to 3,500 pounds, putting it on par with larger models like the Outback.

The Crosstrek is also the most budget-friendly of the Subaru SUV lineup, with an affordable starting price of just $25,195 and fuel economy of up to 34 miles to the gallon on the highway.

Subaru Forester

The Forester is freshly redesigned for the 2025 model year, giving it a slick new look and the most up to date tech, safety, and comfort features, including Advanced Adaptive Cruise Control, dual climate control, and an available 11.6-inch multimedia center display with wireless Apple CarPlay®/Android Auto™ and in-vehicle Wi-Fi.

Although it has a shorter wheelbase than the Outback, it rivals the Outback in cargo capacity, with up to 74.4 cubic feet with the rear seats folded back. This gives it a great blend of maneuverability and versatile interior space.

For the first time, the 2025 Forester will also soon be available with a hybrid powertrain, which improves its already excellent fuel economy and is sure to make it one of the best road trip vehicles around when it finally arrives at our Subaru dealership near Shalimar, FL.

Subaru Ascent

With a length of 196.8 inches, the Ascent is the biggest Subaru SUV by far, and this gives it a massive edge for family camping trips. It boasts three rows with seating for up to eight people, plus up to 75.6 cubic feet of storage space and standard roof rails.

Its long body also makes it one of the best vehicles for car camping. The fold-flat seats allow even full-grown adults to sleep comfortably in the back, ensuring a space of supreme comfort away from the elements when you don’t feel like pitching a tent.

If you’re not into sleeping in the back, fret not, because the Ascent also has the highest towing capacity of any Subaru SUV—5,000 pounds, to be exact. Great for hauling a medium-sized travel trailer, which puts the Ascent firmly in the running for best family camping vehicle.

Find Your Ideal Camping Car for Sale Near Crestview, FL

With standard all-wheel drive, plenty of space, excellent safety ratings, and available features like X-MODE® and Hill Descent Control, the entire Subaru SUV lineup is purpose-built for fun in the forest—all that’s left to do is pick your favorite.

Step One Subaru Fort Walton Beach has tons of ways to save on a new Subaru, including special offers on new models and our college grad program. If you’re interested in setting up a test drive, contact us online or give us a call at (850) 665-2691 today.