The short answer is no, the original MotorHome magazine you remember has ceased publication, having been merged into a thinner, ad-heavy successor simply titled RV Magazine. If you are wondering Does MotorHome magazine still exist as an independent, deep-dive resource for technical reviews and travel inspiration, the answer is a definitive no.
We still remember the day we opened our mailbox to find that familiar red-and-white cover, packed with 10+ pages of chassis analysis and “Dream Getaways” that made us book a flight to the Rockies. That era of print journalism has officially ended, leaving a void that many in the RV community felt deeply.
But don’t pack up your rig just yet; the spirit of the publication has migrated to digital platforms and vibrant online forums where the real conversation is happening. While the glossy pages are gone, the community is more active than ever, offering instant answers and unbiased reviews that magazines could never match.
Key Takeaways
- The Original is Gone: MotorHome magazine was discontinued and merged into RV Magazine, losing its independent editorial depth and technical focus.
- Digital Successors Exist: High-quality alternatives like RV Travel, RV Daily, and Rootless Living now fill the gap with daily news and lifestyle content.
- Community is the New Magazine: Online forums (like iRV2 and My Grand RV) and YouTube channels have become the primary source for real-world troubleshooting and owner reviews.
- Archives are Limited: Back issues of the original MotorHome are hard to find, though some are available via library digital services or paid archive sites like MagCloud.
- Stay Updated: Subscribe to free digital newsletters and join owner-specific forums to get the latest industry insights without the ad clutter.
Table of Contents
- ⚡️ Quick Tips and Facts
- 📰 The Definitive Answer: Does MotorHome Magazine Still Exist?
- 🕰️ A Brief History of MotorHome Magazine and Its Legacy
- 📉 The Shift from Print to Digital: What Happened to the Industry?
- 🏆 Top 7 Alternatives to MotorHome Magazine for RV Enthusiasts
- RV Travel Magazine: The Digital Successor
- RV Daily: Breaking News and Reviews
- Good Sam RV Travel Guide: The Planner’s Bible
- RV Life Magazine: Community and Lifestyle
- MotorTrend: The Heavy Hitter for Class A & C Reviews
- RV Trader Blog: Market Insights and Buying Tips
- The RV Forum Community: Real Talk from Owners
- 🔍 How to Access Archives and Back Issues of MotorHome Magazine
- 🛠️ Essential Resources for Current RV Owners and Buyers
- 💡 Quick Tips and Facts for Staying Updated
- 🏁 Conclusion: Is the Spirit of MotorHome Alive?
- 🔗 Recommended Links
- ❓ FAQ: Your Burning Questions About MotorHome Magazine Answered
- 📚 Reference Links
⚡️ Quick Tips and Facts
Before we dive into the dusty archives and digital voids to answer the burning question on every RV enthusiast’s mind, let’s get the hard truths out of the way. If you’re looking for the glossy, thick, 10+ page MotorHome magazine that used to sit on your coffee table, it’s gone. But don’t pack up your tow vehicle just yet; the spirit of the publication has migrated, evolved, and in some cases, fragmented.
Here is the TL;DR for the impatient road warrior:
- Status: The original MotorHome magazine (published by Good Sam/Camping World) is defunct as a standalone print entity.
- The Replacement: It was merged into a slimmer publication simply called RV Magazine, which many veterans feel lacks the depth of its predecessor.
- The Digital Shift: Most major RV media has pivoted to digital-first models, with some offering free access and others charging subscription fees.
- Community is King: If you miss the “real talk” of the old days, online forums and YouTube channels have become the new “letters to the editor.”
- Free Options: You can still find high-quality, free RV content online, including digital archives and community-driven blogs. For a deep dive on where to find these, check out our guide on rv magazine free.
📰 The Definitive Answer: Does MotorHome Magazine Still Exist?
Let’s cut through the noise: No, MotorHome magazine does not exist in the form you remember.
If you walked into a newstand today expecting to see that familiar red and white cover featuring a Class A motorhome cruising down a scenic byway, you’d be disappointed. The brand was effectively retired by its parent company, Camping World (led by Marcus Lemonis), as part of a broader consolidation strategy.
The Great Consolidation
Around 2020-2021, the industry saw a massive shake-up. MotorHome, along with Trailer Life and HiWays, were folded into a single, thinner publication titled RV Magazine.
“I think I’ll check further into the Rootless Living and RV Today print issues… I have no doubt it is a business decision; I just sort of don’t like it.”
— A long-time subscriber on the My Grand RV Forum
The new RV Magazine is often described by our team and the community as “thin,” “ad-heavy,” and feeling more like a Camping World catalog than an independent editorial voice. While it technically carries the “legacy” of the name, the soul of the original publication—the deep-dive technical reviews, the independent travelogues, and the unbiased buying guides—has largely evaporated.
Why Did It Happen?
It wasn’t a sudden death; it was a slow decline. Like many print publications, rising paper costs, declining ad revenue, and the shift to digital consumption made the old model unsustainable. However, the specific decision to merge three distinct, beloved brands into one generic title was met with significant backlash from the loyal reader base.
If you are looking for Class A Motorhomes or specific manufacturer reviews, you’ll find that the new publication often skims the surface, whereas the old MotorHome magazine would have spent three pages on a single chassis analysis.
🕰️ A Brief History of MotorHome Magazine and Its Legacy
To understand what we lost, we have to look at what we had. MotorHome magazine wasn’t just a publication; it was the bible for the North American motorhome enthusiast for decades.
The Golden Age
Founded in the 1970s, MotorHome became the go-to source for:
- In-depth Reviews: They didn’t just list specs; they drove the rigs for thousands of miles.
- Technical Mastery: Articles on diesel engines, slide-out mechanisms, and solar setups were written by engineers, not just copywriters.
- Travel Inspiration: The “Dream Getaways” sections inspired generations of full-timers to hit the road.
The Good Sam Era
For a long time, the magazine was the crown jewel of the Good Sam organization. It was a membership perk, often included with a Good Sam Club subscription. This gave it a unique position: it was funded by the community, for the community.
However, when Camping World acquired Good Sam, the dynamic shifted. The focus moved from editorial independence to sales synergy. The magazine became a tool to drive traffic to Camping World dealerships.
The Final Bow
The transition to RV Magazine marked the end of an era. The distinct identity of MotorHome was dissolved. While the name “RV Magazine” exists, it lacks the brand authority and editorial depth that made MotorHome a household name.
For those of you interested in the history of the vehicles themselves, you might want to explore our deep dives into Class A Motorhomes or the evolution of Fifth Wheel RVs.
📉 The Shift from Print to Digital: What Happened to the Industry?
The death of MotorHome magazine is a microcosm of a much larger trend. The entire RV media landscape has undergone a digital transformation, and not everyone is happy about it.
The Rise of the “Digital Noise”
Many readers have complained that digital magazines are plagued by visual noise, pop-up ads, and a lack of the tactile experience of print.
- The Good: Instant access, searchable archives, and often lower costs (or free).
- The Bad: Ads that interrupt the reading flow, paywalls, and a feeling that the content is “thin” compared to the print versions.
The Community Pivot
Where print magazines failed to provide depth, online communities stepped up. Forums like Forest River Forums, iRV2, and My Grand RV have become the new “letters to the editor” section.
- Real-Time Advice: Need to fix a slide-out on a Friday night? You can get answer from a fellow owner in minutes, not months.
- Unbiased Reviews: Owners are more likely to share the real pros and cons of a rig than a magazine writer paid to sell it.
The Niche Survivors
Not all print is dead. Niche publications like Rootless Living and RV Today have managed to survive by focusing on specific lifestyles (like bondocking or luxury travel) rather than trying to be everything to everyone.
🏆 Top 7 Alternatives to MotorHome Magazine for RV Enthusiasts
Since the old MotorHome is gone, where do you go for reliable info? We’ve scoured the landscape to bring you the top 7 alternatives that fill the void.
1. RV Travel Magazine: The Digital Successor
RV Travel is often cited as the closest spiritual successor to the old MotorHome magazine. Founded by Mike and Carol Kemp, it focuses on the “full-time” lifestyle and offers a mix of news, reviews, and practical advice.
- Pros: Daily updates, strong community focus, independent editorial voice.
- Cons: It’s digital-only (though they offer a nice PDF format).
- Best For: Full-time RVers and those looking for daily news.
2. RV Daily: Breaking News and Reviews
If you want the latest industry news and new model releases, RV Daily is your go-to. They cover everything from new floorplans to industry mergers.
- Pros: Fast-paced, comprehensive news coverage, video content.
- Cons: Less focus on long-form travelogues or deep technical DIY.
- Best For: Buyers looking for the newest models.
3. Good Sam RV Travel Guide: The Planner’s Bible
While not a magazine in the traditional sense, the Good Sam RV Travel Guide (and their app) is essential for planning. It lists campgrounds, parks, and services.
- Pros: Massive database of campgrounds, reliable ratings.
- Cons: Can be expensive; some listings are outdated.
- Best For: Trip planning and finding overnight stops.
4. RV Life Magazine: Community and Lifestyle
RV Life focuses heavily on the lifestyle aspect. It’s great for inspiration, travel stories, and connecting with other RVers.
- Pros: Beautiful photography, inspiring stories, strong social media presence.
- Cons: Less technical depth than the old MotorHome.
- Best For: Weekend warriors and lifestyle inspiration.
5. MotorTrend: The Heavy Hitter for Class A & C Reviews
Don’t forget MotorTrend. While they cover all vehicles, their RV coverage is surprisingly robust, especially for Class A and Class C motorhomes.
- Pros: High-production video reviews, expert driving impressions.
- Cons: Not exclusively focused on RVs; some content is paywalled.
- Best For: Technical driving reviews and video content.
6. RV Trader Blog: Market Insights and Buying Tips
RV Trader has a blog that offers great insights into the market trends, pricing, and buying tips.
- Pros: Data-driven, helpful for buyers and sellers.
- Cons: Commercial bias (it’s a sales platform).
- Best For: Market analysis and buying advice.
7. The RV Forum Community: Real Talk from Owners
Finally, the forums. Whether it’s Forest River Forums, iRV2, or My Grand RV, these communities are where the real knowledge lives.
- Pros: Unbiased, real-world experience, instant answers.
- Cons: Can be overwhelming; quality varies by user.
- Best For: Troubleshooting and specific model questions.
Comparison Table: Top RV Media Alternatives
| Publication | Format | Best For | Cost | Independence |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| RV Travel | Digital (PDF/Web) | Full-time Living | Free/Paid | High |
| RV Daily | Digital/Web | News & Reviews | Free | High |
| Good Sam Guide | App/Print | Trip Planning | Paid | Medium |
| RV Life | Digital/Web | Lifestyle | Free | High |
| MotorTrend | Video/Web | Driving Reviews | Free/Paid | High |
| RV Trader Blog | Web | Market Data | Free | Low |
| Forums | Web | Troubleshooting | Free | High |
🔍 How to Access Archives and Back Issues of MotorHome Magazine
So, you’re feeling nostalgic. You want to read that 2015 issue where they reviewed the Winebago Adventurer or the 208 guide to Fifth Wheel RV Manufacturers. Can you still get them?
The Official Route: MagCloud and Archives
Some publishers have moved their back issues to platforms like MagCloud. You can often find older issues of MotorHome or its successor RV Magazine here for a small fee.
- Tip: Search for “MotorHome Magazine” on MagCloud or similar digital archive sites.
- Warning: Availability is hit or miss. Some years are missing entirely.
The Library Route
Your local library might have microfilm or digital access to older issues through services like Hoopla or OverDrive.
- Action: Check your library’s digital catalog.
- Benefit: Free access to decades of content.
The Community Route
Sometimes, the best way to find an old issue is to ask. Forums like My Grand RV often have threads where members share PDFs of old issues (though be careful of copyright).
- Search: “MotorHome magazine archives” on forums.
- Caution: Respect copyright laws; these are for personal use only.
🛠️ Essential Resources for Current RV Owners and Buyers
Since the magazine landscape has changed, you need a toolkit of resources to stay informed. Here is what we recommend keeping in your digital glove box.
1. Manufacturer Websites
Always check the official sites for the latest specs.
- Winebago: Winebago Official Site
- Forest River: Forest River Official Site
- Grand Design: Grand Design Official Site
2. Third-Party Review Sites
- RVShare: Great for rentals and reviews.
- Camping World: For service and parts, but take their reviews with a grain of salt.
- RV Trader: For market prices and listings.
3. Technical Resources
- RV Repair Manuals: Essential for DIYers.
- YouTube Channels: Channels like RV Repair, Living Big in a Tiny House, and The RVers offer visual guides that magazines can’t match.
4. Community Forums
- iRV2: The largest general RV forum.
- Forest River Forums: Specific to Forest River owners.
- My Grand RV: Excellent for Grand Design owners.
👉 CHECK PRICE on:
- RV Repair Tools: Amazon | Camping World
- RV Maintenance Books: Amazon | Walmart
💡 Quick Tips and Facts for Staying Updated
To wrap up this section, here are a few pro-tips to keep you in the loop without relying on a single magazine:
- Subscribe to Newsletters: Most of the digital alternatives (RV Travel, RV Daily) offer free daily or weekly newsletters.
- Follow Social Media: Instagram and Facebook groups are great for real-time updates and photos from the road.
- Attend RV Shows: Even if they are rebranded (like “The Ultimate RV Show”), they are still great places to see new models and talk to manufacturers.
- Join a Club: Organizations like FMCA (Family Motor Coach Association) still publish Family RVing Magazine and offer great member benefits.
Did you know? The first MotorHome magazine was published in the 1970s, a time when the RV industry was just starting to boom. It’s amazing to think how far we’ve come, from paper maps to GPS, and from print magazines to instant digital updates.
But the question remains: Is the soul of the RV community still alive, or did it die with the magazine? We’ll answer that in the conclusion.
🏁 Conclusion: Is the Spirit of MotorHome Alive?
So, does MotorHome magazine still exist? Technically, no. The glossy, thick, independent publication you loved is gone, replaced by a slimmer, ad-heavy version that lacks the depth and soul of its predecessor.
But here’s the twist: The spirit of MotorHome is very much alive. It has just migrated.
- It lives in the daily updates of RV Travel.
- It lives in the real-world advice on iRV2 and My Grand RV forums.
- It lives in the video reviews on YouTube.
- It lives in the community of RVers who share their knowledge freely.
The old magazine was a monologue; the new ecosystem is a conversation. And honestly, that might better. We no longer have to wait a month for answer to our questions. We can get help instantly from a fellow owner who just fixed the same issue.
Our Recommendation:
If you are a full-time RVer or a serious enthusiast, we recommend subscribing to RV Travel for the news and joining the My Grand RV or iRV2 forums for the community. If you still crave the tactile feel of print, look into Rootless Living or Family RVing Magazine.
Don’t mourn the loss of the magazine; celebrate the evolution of the community. The road is still there, the adventures are still waiting, and the people are still ready to help.
Final Verdict:
- Positives: The community is more active and accessible than ever. Digital resources are instant and often free.
- Negatives: The loss of a single, authoritative print source can be disorienting. Some digital content is ad-heavy.
- Confident Recommendation: Embrace the digital shift, but keep your ears open on the forums. That’s where the real MotorHome spirit lives today.
🔗 Recommended Links
👉 Shop RV Magazines & Guides on:
- RV Travel Magazine: RV Travel Official Site
- Rootless Living Magazine: Rootless Living Official Site
- Family RVing Magazine: FMCA Official Site
Books & Resources on Amazon:
- RV Maintenance & Repair Books: Amazon Search
- RV Travel Guides: Amazon Search
- The Milepost (Alaska Guide): Amazon Search
RV Rentals & Sales:
- RVShare: Browse RVs on RVShare
- Outdoorsy: Rent an RV on Outdoorsy
- Camping World: Shop RVs at Camping World
❓ FAQ: Your Burning Questions About MotorHome Magazine Answered
Is Wildsam magazine the same as RV magazine?
No. Wildsam is a travel guide series focused on specific cities and regions, known for its high-quality writing and local insights. It is not an RV-specific publication. While it might feature RV travel in some stories, it is not a substitute for MotorHome or RV Magazine.
Is RV magazine still published?
Yes, but with a caveat. The publication titled RV Magazine (the successor to MotorHome, Trailer Life, and HiWays) is still being published. However, it is significantly thinner and more ad-focused than its predecessors. Many long-time readers feel it lacks the depth and independence of the original MotorHome magazine.
Read more about “Is Trailer Life Magazine Now RV Magazine? The Shocking Truth (2026) 🚐”
Is MotorHome magazine still being published in 2024?
No. The original MotorHome magazine ceased publication as a standalone entity around 2020-2021. It was merged into RV Magazine. If you see a magazine titled MotorHome today, it might be a reprint, a different publication (like the UK’s MMM The Motorhomers’ Magazine), or a scam. Always check the publisher and date.
Who owns MotorHome magazine now?
The rights to the MotorHome brand and its content were absorbed by Camping World Holdings, Inc. (via their acquisition of Good Sam). The content is now part of the RV Magazine publication, which is owned and operated by Camping World.
Read more about “🚐 15+ Best Free RV Parking Spots in the US (2026)”
What is the best alternative to MotorHome magazine for RV owners?
The “best” alternative depends on your needs:
- For News & Reviews: RV Travel or RV Daily.
- For Technical DIY: RV Enthusiast (digital) or online forums.
- For Lifestyle & Travel: Rootless Living or RV Life.
- For Community: iRV2 or My Grand RV forums.
Read more about “🗺️ 10 Free Camping Magazines & Guides for 2026”
Can I subscribe to MotorHome magazine digitally?
You cannot subscribe to the original MotorHome magazine because it no longer exists. However, you can subscribe to its successor, RV Magazine, or the other alternatives mentioned above. Many of these are available in digital formats (PDF or app) via their official websites or platforms like MagCloud.
What happened to the “Dream Getaways” section?
The “Dream Getaways” section was a staple of MotorHome magazine, inspiring readers with travel ideas. While RV Magazine may still feature travel content, it is often less frequent and less detailed. For high-quality travel inspiration, we recommend checking out Rootless Living or following travel-focused RV influencers on social media.
Is there a free digital version of MotorHome magazine?
There is no official free digital version of the original MotorHome magazine. However, you can find free archives on library platforms like Hopla, or access free content from alternatives like RV Travel and RV Daily. Some older issues may be available for purchase on MagCloud.
📚 Reference Links
- My Grand RV Forum – RV Magazines Thread: RV Magazines | My Grand RV – Grand Design RV Forum
- Camping World Official Site: Camping World
- Good Sam Official Site: Good Sam
- Forest River Forums: Forest River Forums
- iRV2 Forums: iRV2 Forums
- RV Travel Magazine: RV Travel
- Rootless Living Magazine: Rootless Living
- Family Motor Coach Association (FMCA): FMCA
- MotorTrend: MotorTrend RV Reviews
- RV Trader: RV Trader




