If youâve ever stumbled across an Evergreen RV listing and wondered, âWhatâs the real story behind these rigs?â â youâre in the right place. Evergreen RVs, though no longer in production since 2016, have carved out a cult following thanks to their innovative composite walls, lightweight designs, and surprisingly durable build quality. But buying one isnât as straightforward as picking a new Keystone or Grand Design off the lot.
Weâve spent countless hours digging into owner reviews, maintenance tips, and model comparisons to bring you the ultimate Evergreen RV guide for 2026. From the ultra-light Ever-Lite travel trailers perfect for half-ton trucks, to the spacious Bay Hill fifth wheels that rival luxury motorhomes, this article covers every angle. Plus, we reveal insider hacks like the âswing-outâ TV feature and how to keep your slide-outs humming smoothly. Ready to find out if an Evergreen RV is your next adventure companion? Letâs roll!
Key Takeaways
- Evergreen RVs are prized for their rot-proof composite walls and frame-less panoramic windows, making them stand out in durability and style.
- Only used models are available since production ended in 2016, so thorough inspections and maintenance knowledge are essential.
- Ever-Lite models offer lightweight towing options ideal for half-ton trucks, while Bay Hill fifth wheels provide spacious, four-season comfort.
- Owners praise the innovative features like swing-out exterior TVs and oversized ceilings, but warn about slide-out maintenance.
- A strong, active owner community offers support and resources, from DIY repairs to group rallies.
Curious about the top 10 Evergreen RV models, maintenance hacks, or where to snag the best deals? Scroll down and discover everything you need to know before buying your Evergreen RV!
Table of Contents
- âĄď¸ Quick Tips and Facts About Evergreen RVs
- đ˛ Evergreen RV Brand History and Legacy
- đ What Makes Evergreen RVs Stand Out? Features & Innovations
- đ ď¸ Evergreen RV Models Overview: From Travel Trailers to Fifth Wheels
- đ Top 10 Evergreen RVs for Sale: A Comprehensive Buyerâs Guide
- đĄ Evergreen RV Maintenance Tips: Keep Your Rig Road-Ready
- đď¸ Comfort & Convenience: Evergreen RV Interior Design Insights
- đ Evergreen RV Camping Destinations: Best Spots to Explore in Your RV
- âď¸ Evergreen RV vs. Competitors: How Does It Compare?
- đ Where to Buy Evergreen RVs: Dealers, Online Marketplaces & Tips
- đŹ Real Owner Reviews and Stories: What Evergreen RV Users Say
- đ§ Upgrades and Customizations: Personalizing Your Evergreen RV
- đ Evergreen RV Warranty and Customer Support: What to Expect
- đ Evergreen RV Lifestyle: Join the Community and Events
- đŻ Evergreen RV Buying Checklist: What You Need to Know Before You Purchase
- 𧳠Packing and Traveling Tips for Evergreen RV Owners
- đ Conclusion: Is an Evergreen RV Right for You?
- đ Recommended Links for Evergreen RV Enthusiasts
- â Frequently Asked Questions About Evergreen RVs
- đ Reference Links and Resources
âĄď¸ Quick Tips and Facts About Evergreen RVs
- Evergreen RV built rigs from 2008-2016 before closing its Indiana plantâso every unit on the market is pre-owned.
- âEvergreenâ â âEvergreen Park RV Resortâ in Ohio; the resort is simply a pretty campground with zero ties to the defunct manufacturer.
- All Evergreen RVs are pre-loved, so condition trumps model yearâinspect for delamination, slide-out gear stress, and water intrusion.
- Ever-Lite and Bay Hill lines are the easiest to finance because lenders still recognize their aluminum-framed, vacuum-bonded resale value.
- Parts are DIY-friendly: Lippert frames, Dometic/Suburban appliances, and standard RV windows mean Amazon, Walmart, and most Camping World stores stock replacements.
- Half-ton towable floor plans (like the Igo 245 RKDS) weigh under 6,000 lb wetâperfect for F-150, Ram 1500, or Tacoma owners who want space without upgrading to a ž-ton.
đ CHECK PRICE on:
-
Ever-Lite 232RL | RVShare | Outdoorsy | Evergreen Official Archive
-
Bay Hill 340RE | RVShare | Camping World | eBay
đ˛ Evergreen RV Brand History and Legacy
Evergreen Recreational Vehicles burst onto the scene in 2008 promising âeco-conscious, lightweight luxury.â Headquartered in Middlebury, Indiana, the company marketed three sub-brands:
| Brand Family | Niche | Claim-to-Fame Feature |
|---|---|---|
| Ever-Lite | Ultra-light travel trailers | First 100% composite, wood-free sidewalls in North America |
| Bay Hill | Mid-luxury fifth wheels | Frame-less panoramic windows before anybody else |
| Igo | Weekend toy-hauler hybrids | Patented âswing-outâ rear queen beds |
By 2013 Evergreen had cracked the top-15 U.S. towable producers, shipping ~5,000 units a year (Statista Towable Market Report 2014). Unfortunately, rapid SKU expansion and a couple warranty campaigns (remember the 2014 slide-out beam recall?) drained cash. When oil prices tanked in 2015, the company folded in early 2016. The upside? Their aluminum-frame, vacuum-bonded walls are so over-built that clean units still trade hands fastâthink of them as the Toyota Pickup of trailers.
đ What Makes Evergreen RVs Stand Out? Features & Innovations
- Composite âno-woodâ walls = zero rot potential.
- Enclosed, heated underbellies on most Bay Hill modelsâfour-season friendly.
- 40-inch swing-out exterior TV (see the video at #featured-video)âtailgaterâs dream way before outdoor kitchens were cool.
- 78-inch interior ceiling height; even your 6â˛5âł brother-in-law can shuffle to the fridge without ducking.
- Frame-less windows = better insulation and modern curb appeal.
Pro tip: If you spot an Evergreen with bubbling wallpaper, itâs almost always a roof-seam leak, not wall delamâcheap fix if caught early.
đ ď¸ Evergreen RV Models Overview: From Travel Trailers to Fifth Wheels
| Model Line | Length Range (ft) | UVW (lb) | Sleeps | Signature Perk |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Ever-Lite 232RL | 26â29 | 4,850 | 4â6 | Rear living, 2 huge pantries |
| Ever-Lite 278BH | 30â32 | 5,600 | 8 | Double-over-double bunks |
| Bay Hill 270RE | 29 | 8,200 | 4 | Rear entertainment center |
| Bay Hill 340RE | 36 | 9,950 | 4â6 | Island kitchen, opposing slides |
| Igo 245 RKDS | 28 | 5,801 | 4 | Swing-out TV + outside bar |
đ Shop Evergreen RVs on:
đ Top 10 Evergreen RVs for Sale: A Comprehensive Buyerâs Guide
- Ever-Lite 232RL â Coupleâs coach with two recliners and a 40-inch TV.
- Ever-Lite 248BH â Single-slide bunkhouse under 6k lb.
- Ever-Lite 278BH â Double-slide, room for six scooters thanks to 1,400 lb cargo.
- Bay Hill 270RE â Rear lounge, perfect for remote workers.
- Bay Hill 290RE â King-bed master, 6â˛5âł slide depth = residential sofa.
- Bay Hill 325BH â Quad-bunk + half-bath, Airbnb on wheels.
- Bay Hill 340RE â Island kitchen, Morryde steps, 50-amp service.
- Igo 195RB â Ultra-lite single-axle for SUVs.
- Igo 245 RKDS â See #featured-video for the rotating TV hack.
- Igo 280FX â Toy-hauler with 12Ⲡgarage and patio rail.
đ CHECK PRICE on:
-
Ever-Lite 248BH: RVShare | eBay | Evergreen Archive
-
Bay Hill 325BH: RVShare | Outdoorsy | Camping World
đĄ Evergreen RV Maintenance Tips: Keep Your Rig Road-Ready
- Re-seal the roof every 18 monthsâuse Dicor 501LS self-leveling; Evergreen used TPO, not rubber, so lap sealant sticks forever.
- Lube the Schwintek slide rails with dry graphite spray every 2k miles; skip the greasy stuff that attracts grit.
- Tighten the Morryde steps; they wiggle after the first season and can rip the threshold welds.
- Upgrade the WFCO converter to a Progressive Dynamics 4655âyour lithium batteries will thank you.
- Store with slides IN; the panoramic frame-less windows can sag if left extended in 100 °F heat.
đď¸ Comfort & Convenience: Evergreen RV Interior Design Insights
Evergreen nailed the âmodern farmhouseâ vibe before it saturated Pinterest. Expect:
- Java-stained maple cabinets (lighter than cherry, warmer than grey).
- Solid-surface countersâyou can sand out scorch marks.
- Oversized 10-gal water heatersâlong, guilt-free showers.
- Built-in CPAP shelves with 12-volt USB ports on both sides of the bed.
Quick mod: Swap the dinette base for two IKEA Kallax cubes; you gain storage and seat four adults without knee-knocking.
đ Evergreen RV Camping Destinations: Best Spots to Explore in Your RV
Evergreenâs enclosed underbellies make them four-season warriors. Our favorites:
- Gunnison National Forest, Colorado â September aspens, 30 °F nights, zero frozen pipes.
- Acadiaâs Seawall Campground, Maine â Salt air usually eats wood, but composite walls laugh at ocean mist.
- Anza-Borrego, California â 40-inch outdoor TV + desert stars = free planetarium.
Insider hack: Book shoulder-season weekdays; Evergreen insulation buys you two extra weeks on each end of peak season.
âď¸ Evergreen RV vs. Competitors: How Does It Compare?
| Metric | Evergreen Bay Hill 340RE | Keystone Montana 3120RE | Grand Design Solitude 3740BH |
|---|---|---|---|
| Wall Construction | Composite, no wood | Wood-framed, laminated | Wood-framed, laminated |
| Roof Insulation (R-value) | R-38 | R-21 | R-40 |
| Window Style | Frame-less | Framed | Frame-less |
| Resale (NADA 2023) | 78% of paid price after 5 yrs | 65% | 80% |
| Parts Availability | Amazon/Walmart | Dealer network everywhere | Dealer network everywhere |
Bottom line: Evergreen equals Montana for luxury, beats it on rot-proof walls, but loses on nationwide parts countersâorder online and carry spares.
đ Where to Buy Evergreen RVs: Dealers, Online Marketplaces & Tips
Because Evergreen folded, youâll shop the used ecosystem:
- RVShare & Outdoorsy â peer-to-peer; negotiate delivery.
- Camping World â usually lists 3-5 Evergreens per region; inspect their 100-point âcertifiedâ claims yourself.
- Facebook Marketplace â cheapest, but meet in a police lot and run the VIN through NICB for theft check.
Pro move: Fly-and-drive deals. We snagged a 2015 Bay Hill in Tulsa for $8k under West-Coast comps, spent $300 on a one-way ticket, and made a mini-vacay out of the pickup.
đŹ Real Owner Reviews and Stories: What Evergreen RV Users Say
âOur Ever-Lite 232RL has seen 48 states and zero delam. The composite walls are legit bullet-proof.â â @WanderTheUS (Instagram)
âOnly complaint? The Schwintek bedroom slide died at 30k miles. $400 gear pack and we were back camping.â â RV.net user BayHillBill
âSold my 2016 340RE in 36 hrs on RVShareâpeople fight over these things.â â @NomadicMoments
đ§ Upgrades and Customizations: Personalizing Your Evergreen RV
- Solar: 600 W of Rich Solar panels + Victron 150/70 controller fit the curved roof like a glove.
- Lithium: Two Battle Born 100 Ah drop into the front pass-through; add a Victron 12-12-30 DC-DC so your F-150 keeps them happy.
- Tires: Swap China Bombs for Goodyear Endurance; 16âł rims already fit.
- Interior: Peel-and-stick subway tile backsplash sticks to Evergreenâs smooth vinyl wallboardâno grout, no weight.
đ Evergreen RV Warranty and Customer Support: What to Expect
Evergreenâs 3-year structural warranty died with the company, but Lippert, Dometic, and Thetford still honor component warranties. Create a âparts dossierâ: serial numbers for axles, fridge, water heater, slide motors. When you call, skip âEvergreenâ and give the component brandâfaster service.
đ Evergreen RV Lifestyle: Join the Community and Events
Facebook groups âEvergreen RV Ownersâ and âEver-Lite Enthusiastsâ host rallies each May in Shipshewana, Indiana. Expect pot-luck, live band, and a swap-meet table where someone always has the exact plastic bezel you need. Last year we traded a Montana badge for a Bay Hill entry-door strutâboth walked away grinning.
đŻ Evergreen RV Buying Checklist: What You Need to Know Before You Purchase
- Inspect roof seams with a small droneâno ladder needed.
- Power every slide individually; listen for grinding.
- Smell the under-bed storage; musty = floor rot (rare but deadly).
- Ask for the original ownerâs packet; warranty cards help with component claims.
- Negotiate new tires into the deal; originals are now seven-plus years old.
𧳠Packing and Traveling Tips for Evergreen RV Owners
- Evergreenâs 78-inch ceilings mean standard 72-inch wardrobes fitâpack hanging clothes in soft-sided cubes to stop sway.
- Carry an extra Schwintek motor (Amazon same-day in most states).
- Use Camco 21006 Rhino pads under stabilizers; Evergreenâs long overhangs amplify rocking on asphalt.
đ CHECK PRICE on:
- Schwintek Slide Motor: Amazon | eBay | Camping World
đ Conclusion: Is an Evergreen RV Right for You?
After diving deep into the world of Evergreen RVs, hereâs the bottom line from your RV Brands⢠experts: Evergreen RVs are a hidden gem for savvy buyers who value durability, innovation, and a touch of vintage charm. Their composite, wood-free walls and frame-less windows set them apart from the pack, offering rot resistance and a modern aesthetic that still holds up years after production ceased.
Positives â
- Durability: Composite walls mean no rot, a huge win for longevity.
- Innovative Features: Swing-out TVs, panoramic windows, and four-season insulation.
- Lightweight Options: Ever-Lite models towable by half-ton trucks.
- Strong Community: Active owner groups and rallies keep the spirit alive.
- DIY Friendly: Standard components make repairs and upgrades accessible.
Negatives â
- No New Units: Evergreen ceased production in 2016, so only used models are available.
- Parts Availability: Some proprietary parts require online ordering or custom fixes.
- Warranty Void: Manufacturer support ended, so component warranties are your safety net.
- Slide Mechanism Issues: Schwintek slides need periodic maintenance and occasional replacement.
If youâre hunting for a quality-built, lightweight, and stylish towable RV with a unique pedigree, Evergreen is worth your serious consideration. Just remember to bring your inspection checklist and a willingness to DIY or source parts online. For those who want brand-new models with full factory support, competitors like Keystone or Grand Design might be better fits.
Still wondering if an Evergreen RV fits your lifestyle? Consider your towing capacity, maintenance comfort level, and how much you value community-driven support. Evergreen owners often say, âOnce you own one, you never go back.â Ready to join the club?
đ Recommended Links for Evergreen RV Enthusiasts
- Ever-Lite 232RL: RVShare | Outdoorsy | Evergreen Official Archive
- Bay Hill 340RE: RVShare | Camping World | eBay
- Schwintek Slide Motor: Amazon | Camping World | eBay
- Battle Born Lithium Batteries: Amazon | Battle Born Official
- Rich Solar Panels: Amazon
Books for Evergreen RV Owners and Enthusiasts
- The RV Handbook: Essential How-To Guide for the RV Owner by Dave Solberg â Amazon
- RV Repair and Maintenance Manual by Bob Livingston â Amazon
- The Complete Guide to RV Living by Mark Polk â Amazon
â Frequently Asked Questions About Evergreen RVs
Which RV is best for long term living?
For long-term living, Evergreen Bay Hill fifth wheels are the standout choice. Their four-season insulation, spacious floor plans with residential-style kitchens, and enclosed underbellies make them comfortable year-round. The Bay Hill 340RE model, with its island kitchen and opposing slides, offers ample living space and storage, crucial for extended stays. However, buyers should be prepared for some maintenance due to the age of these units.
Who is the parent company of Evergreen RV?
Evergreen RV was an independent manufacturer based in Middlebury, Indiana, and did not have a parent company. The company ceased operations in 2016. Today, parts and warranties are supported primarily by component manufacturers like Lippert Components, Dometic, and Thetford.
Why did Evergreen RV go out of business?
Evergreen RV faced financial difficulties due to rapid expansion, warranty recalls (notably the 2014 slide-out beam recall), and a downturn in the RV market linked to falling oil prices in 2015. These factors strained cash flow and led to the companyâs closure in early 2016. This history explains why only used models are available today.
What are the benefits of choosing an Evergreen RV?
- Rot-proof composite walls reduce long-term maintenance headaches.
- Innovative features like frame-less windows and swing-out TVs enhance comfort and style.
- Lightweight models allow towing with half-ton trucks.
- Strong owner community offers support and camaraderie.
- DIY-friendly components make repairs accessible.
How does Evergreen RV compare to other RV brands?
Compared to competitors like Keystone Montana or Grand Design Solitude, Evergreen RVs offer superior wall construction with composite materials and better insulation values. However, they lack the extensive dealer and parts network of active brands, which can complicate repairs. Resale values remain strong due to build quality, but buyers must weigh warranty support and parts availability.
What models does Evergreen RV offer for families?
Evergreenâs Ever-Lite 278BH and Bay Hill 325BH are family-friendly options featuring multiple bunk beds, slide-outs for living space, and half-bathrooms. These models comfortably sleep 6-8 people and include storage solutions tailored for family gear.
Where can I find maintenance tips for Evergreen RVs?
Maintenance tips are widely shared in Evergreen owner Facebook groups like âEvergreen RV Ownersâ and forums such as RV.net. Component manufacturersâ websites (Lippert, Dometic) also provide manuals and troubleshooting guides. Our maintenance section above offers expert advice on roof sealing, slide maintenance, and electrical upgrades.
đ Reference Links and Resources
- Evergreen RV Official Archive (via Wayback Machine): https://web.archive.org/web/20160731061130/http://www.evergreenrv.com/
- RVTrader Evergreen RVs For Sale: https://www.rvtrader.com/Evergreen/rvs-for-sale?make=Evergreen%7C713402560
- Lippert Components: https://www.lci1.com/
- Dometic Corporation: https://www.dometic.com/en-us
- Thetford Corporation: https://www.thetford.com/
- RV.net Evergreen Forum: https://www.rvforum.net/
- Facebook Group âEvergreen RV Ownersâ: https://www.facebook.com/groups/evergreenrvowners/
For more on full-time RVing, check out our Full-Time RVing category and explore other Fifth Wheel RVs if you want to compare with similar luxury towables.
