Hicks Family Subaru
Hit the trails in the perfect adventure-ready Subaru. Discover the best Subaru models for camping in Texas, including the Outback, Forester, and Crosstrek.
Planning your next summer camping adventure in Texas? Whether you’re headed to the Hill Country, Big Bend, or a breezy Gulf Coast retreat, a dependable Subaru is the perfect co-pilot. With legendary Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive, rugged capability, and cargo space to spare, Subaru models are made for getting off the grid.
In this guide, we’ll explore the best Subaru models for car camping, long road trips, and everything in between — plus tips for gearing up before you go. Ready to find your wild side? Let’s hit the trail.
When it comes to overlanding or car camping across Texas, not just any vehicle will do. You need something that combines capability, comfort, and smart storage with just the right amount of ruggedness. Here’s what matters most when choosing your adventure vehicle.
Texas terrain is no joke. From rocky hilltops to sandy beach trails, you’ll need enough ground clearance to keep your undercarriage protected and your ride smooth. Most Subaru models offer impressive clearance, especially Wilderness trims, so you can confidently tackle uneven trails and gravel roads without bottoming out.
Nature doesn’t pave the way, which means your camping vehicle needs to handle changing road conditions, from wet grass to rocky paths or mud. A solid off-road system ensures traction and control in unpredictable terrain, which is crucial for getting to (and back from) your favorite remote campsite. Most Subarus come standard with Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive, giving you enhanced traction and control in all kinds of terrain.
Many campers bring more than just a tent. Small travel trailers, teardrop campers, boats, and gear haulers make trips more comfortable and fun, but they require a vehicle with enough towing power to get them there.
Can a Subaru tow a camper? Yes! Depending on the model, a Subaru can tow between 1,500 and 5,000 pounds. The Outback and Forester easily handle small trailers, while the Ascent offers top-tier towing power, perfect for families or campers with more gear.
Camping means bringing a lot of gear: tents, coolers, sleeping bags, cooking supplies, and more. And for car camping, your vehicle may even double as your sleeping space. That’s why roomy interiors, fold-flat rear seats, and smart cargo design are crucial. The more space you have to organize and access your gear, the more enjoyable (and less cramped) your trip will be. Subaru vehicles are known for their flexible interiors, especially the Outback, Forester, and Ascent.
Every camper’s needs are different. Whether you’re a solo explorer or rolling deep with family and friends, there’s a Subaru that fits your lifestyle.
With generous cargo room, the Subaru Outback is a go-to for car campers. The flat-folding rear seats make setting up a sleeping area inside the cabin easy. At the same time, available accessories like a cargo organizer, crossbars, and all-weather floor mats add convenience and versatility. Plus, the Outback’s car-like ride and SUV-like utility make it a joy to drive on highways and trails alike.
The Subaru Forester is your gateway to the road less traveled. Its boxier shape means more headroom and cargo height, which is perfect for stacking gear or stretching out inside. It offers exceptional visibility, standard AWD, and 8.7 inches of ground clearance, making it ideal for navigating rutted paths and remote campsites.
Bringing the whole crew? The Subaru Ascent seats up to eight passengers and still leaves room for your gear. With available captain’s chairs, USB ports in every row, and up to 5,000 pounds of towing capacity, the Ascent is perfect for extended family road trips or hauling larger trailers. Its spacious cabin and third-row versatility make it a practical choice for group adventures.
Looking for a nimble, budget-friendly option? The Subaru Crosstrek is compact, capable, and made for spontaneous getaways. Despite its smaller size, it still offers over 55 cubic feet of cargo space with the seats folded and comes standard with AWD. The Crosstrek is ideal for weekend warriors, solo campers, or couples seeking freedom without the bulk.
Subaru Wilderness models — available on the Outback, Forester, and Crosstrek — are purpose-built for rugged escapades. These trims offer increased ground clearance, all-terrain tires, upgraded suspension, dual-function X-MODE® for better off-road control, and enhanced towing capacity. You’ll also get unique roof rails built for rooftop tents and adventure gear. A Wilderness edition might be your perfect match if you’re serious about camping.
Before you head out, a little prep goes a long way. Here are some essential steps to get your Subaru (and your gear) camp-ready:
And don’t forget to download your favorite playlists — half the fun is the drive!
The right camping vehicle doesn’t just carry your gear — it carries your spirit of adventure. With legendary Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive, generous cargo space, and trail-ready ground clearance, new Subaru models like the Outback and Forester are made for starry skies and off-grid weekends. Visit Hicks Family Subaru in Corpus Christi today and discover the perfect vehicle to take you beyond the pavement and straight into nature.
