The RV world can feel like a vast expanse — a forest filled with dozens of brands and models. So much so that the number of options can be intimidating to new RV buyers. But what often comes as a surprise to new RVers is that nearly all of the biggest RV brands in this amazing industry — with all its diversity — are controlled by four dominant original equipment manufacturers (OEMs).
These giants — Forest River, REV Group, Thor Industries, and Winnebago – own most of the well-known brands in the market. Through a series of acquisitions and expansions, these ever-growing conglomerates have built extensive product portfolios. They can encompass everything from compact trailers to luxury motorhomes. Each company offers RVs under multiple brand names. This enables them to target a huge array of price points, with corresponding levels of luxury, RV classes, and build qualities.
Here, we break down the family trees of these four major players. Doing so gives you a closer look at how they’ve shaped the RV world and which major brands they control. And, like any look at ancestry, you may be surprised which family your favorite RV brand falls into.
Whether you’re an RV enthusiast or just starting to explore the world of RVs, understanding these big families can help you make more informed decisions when it comes to choosing your next home on wheels.
Forest River: A Broad and Expansive Empire
Founded in 1996 by Peter Liegl, Forest River has grown into one of the largest and most influential RV manufacturers in the world. Today, it operates as a subsidiary of Warren Buffett’s Berkshire Hathaway and boasts an extensive portfolio of brands, ranging from budget-friendly models to high-end luxury vehicles. Forest River’s acquisition strategy has allowed it to cater to every kind of RV enthusiast. Here are its brands, some of which are among the biggest RV brands in the industry:
Coachmen RV
One of the most recognizable names in the industry, Coachmen was founded in 1964 and joined the Forest River family in 2008. The brand produces a wide variety of RVs, including motorhomes, fifth wheels, and travel trailers. They specialize in offering reliable and affordable options for families and individuals alike.
Prime Time Manufacturing
Established in 2009, Prime Time RV is relatively new to the scene. Even so, it has quickly become a strong player under the Forest River umbrella. It focuses on travel trailers and fifth wheels, delivering comfort and luxury at competitive prices.
Palomino RV
Known for producing lightweight and easily towable RVs, Palomino specializes in travel trailers, truck campers, and pop-up campers. They’re perfect for adventurers seeking versatile, budget-friendly RV options without sacrificing quality.
Shasta RV
With a cool factor that only comes with a long history, Shasta dates back to 1941, making them one of the oldest RV brands in the world. Now part of Forest River, Shasta offers travel trailers and fifth wheels known for their classic designs and dependable performance.
Dynamax
For those looking to travel in luxury, Dynamax offers high-end motorhomes with cutting-edge features and superior craftsmanship. Understandably, it’s a popular choice for full-time RVers and luxury travelers.
Forest River’s own vast lineup also includes other familiar names like Cherokee, Rockwood, and Cedar Creek, allowing it to serve nearly every niche in the RV market. Additional subsidiaries also include East to West RV and OGV Luxury Coach.
REV Group: Focused on Motorhome Excellence
The REV Group may not be as widely known as some of the other OEMs, but the brands it owns certainly are. Specializing primarily in motorhomes, REV Group also appeals to a range of RV enthusiasts. These run from budget-conscious families to those who want to drive in the lap of luxury.
Fleetwood RV
One of the most recognizable names in the motorhome segment, Fleetwood has been a leader in the industry for decades. Acquired by REV Group in 2009, Fleetwood offers a wide range of Class A and Class C motorhomes. They have long been known for their reliability and innovation.
American Coach
A high-end brand under the REV Group umbrella, American Coach is synonymous with luxury. Their motorhomes feature top-of-the-line amenities, making them the perfect choice for those looking to combine comfort and style while on the road.
Holiday Rambler
Originally founded in 1953, Holiday Rambler is another classic name in the RV world. Known for its innovations, such as introducing aluminum frames to reduce weight, Holiday Rambler continues to offer quality motorhomes that blend durability with modern conveniences.
Monaco Coach
Monaco is one of the most luxurious names in the RV world. And under REV Group’s ownership, it continues to produce high-end Class A motorhomes with exquisite craftsmanship and attention to detail. These RVs are designed for travelers who seek nothing but the best.
REV Group’s smart focus on motorhomes has allowed it to become a key player in the motorized segment of the RV industry. Additional notable subsidiary brands include Renegade RV and Lance Camper.
Thor Industries: The Acquisition Titan
Since Thor Industries was founded in 1980, it’s grown into one of the largest and most influential OEMs in the RV world. Known for its aggressive acquisition strategy, Thor has brought many of the most iconic brands into its family, offering a vast range of RVs that cater to all kinds of travelers. The dynamic Thor Motor Coach brand itself is the result of a 2010 strategic merger of Damon Motor Coach and Four Winds International. Here’s a closer look at a few of the many big brands under Thor.
Airstream
As most RVers’ pick for the most iconic RV brand in the world, Airstream’s all-metal, silver bullet-shaped trailers have become a symbol of adventure, quality, and design. Acquired by Thor in 1980, Airstream continues to innovate while maintaining its timeless appeal and reputation for quality.
Jayco
Acquired by Thor in 2016, Jayco is an RV giant in and of itself. It’s name is one of the biggest RV brands in the industry. And it is synonymous with family-friendly RVs, including travel trailers, fifth wheels, and motorhomes. With a reputation for solid construction and value for the price, Jayco has long been a favorite among RVers looking for a reliable and versatile vehicle.
Keystone RV
Keystone is one of Thor’s largest brands, offering primarily fifth wheels and travel trailers. Their Montana and Cougar lines are particularly popular.
Dutchmen
Dutchmen, another brand in the Thor family, is known for producing budget-friendly RVs. Their lightweight travel trailers and toy haulers are popular with first-time RV buyers. They’re especially attractive to young families who are just dipping their toes in the RV waters.
Thor Industries has built its reputation on acquiring strong brands and allowing them to continue delivering quality products while benefiting from the resources of a larger company. In addition to the brands listed about, several more big-name brands are subsidiaries of Thor Industries: Crossroads RV, Cruiser RVs, DRV, Entegra Coach, Heartland RVs, Highland Ridge, KZ-RV, Starcraft, Tiffin, and Venture RV.
Winnebago: The Trusted Household Name
Winnebago is one of the most recognized names in the RV industry, synonymous with motorhome living. Founded in 1958, Winnebago Industries has evolved from a single brand into a major player with a number of RV brands in the family, including motorhomes, travel trailers, and fifth wheels.
Newmar
Acquired by Winnebago in 2019, Newmar is known for producing luxury Class A motorhomes. Newmar’s focus on craftsmanship, innovation, and customer service has made it a favorite among high-end RV buyers. For buyers looking for a premium, full-time RV living experience, Newmar is a particularly favored brand.
Grand Design
Since joining the Winnebago family in 2016, Grand Design has become a leading brand in the travel trailer and fifth wheel market. Known for its attention to detail and strong customer support, Grand Design offers a range of models that appeal to both families and full-time RVers.
With more of a focus on their primary brand name, Winnebago’s reputation for quality, reliability, and innovation has made it a staple in the RV world. And, of course, its acquisitions have only strengthened its position in the market.
Learning the Biggest RV Brands
When you dig deeper into the RV industry, it becomes clear that a handful of major players control much of the industry. (Not only that several of the brands above have famous RV brands as their subsidiaries.) What’s really helpful is that some of the biggest RV brands also may offer similar packages, products, or services that you may like. Interestingly, too: The RV brands within the same OEM family are often competing to outperform one another. You know, good ole family rivalries. But what we like about that is that the buyer is the winner.
As you search for the RV that fits you and your particular needs, just know that there’s an RV out there just for you. And no matter whose brand name is on the outside, it’s what and who you put on the inside that really matters. Now, if you’ve master the major brands (and understand the different types of RV), you just might be ready to start your RV buyer journey.
