Best 2025 Side-by-Sides for Camping Adventures

If you're planning your 2025 camping trips and want to go further, haul more, and camp in remote terrain, a side-by-side (UTV) is the ultimate outdoor tool. Unlike traditional vehicles, UTVs are built to conquer rugged trails, cross streams, climb steep inclines, and tow everything from coolers to rooftop tents.

But which side-by-side is best for camping in 2025? Whether camping solo, with family, or building a full-blown overlanding rig, this guide covers the top 2025 side-by-sides for camping, based on power, comfort, cargo capacity, and value.

1. Polaris Ranger XP 1000 NorthStar Edition– Best for All-Weather Comfort

Ideal for: All-season campers, hunters, and overlanders who value comfort and utility.

Key Specs:

• Engine: 999cc ProStar engine, 82 HP

• Towing Capacity: 2,500 lbs (1,134kg)

• Cargo Bed Capacity: 1,000 lbs (454kg)

• Cab: Fully enclosed with heating and air conditioning

• Seats: 3 (single-row)

Why It’s Great for Camping:

The Ranger XP 1000 NorthStar is a luxury-class utility SxS with enough muscle to tow a trailer and enough comfort to camp in cold or wet conditions. The enclosed cab with climate control lets you camp year-round, while its massive cargo bed handles tents, generators, food, and more.

2. Can-Am Defender MAX Limited HD10 – Best for Group Camping

Ideal for: Family or group campers who need space, power, and protection from the elements.

Key Specs:

• Engine: 976cc Rotax V-Twin, 82 HP

• Seats: 6 (two-row configuration)

• Cargo Bed: 4.5 x 6 ft long, 1,000 lbs (454kg)

• Cab: Enclosed with HVAC

• Towing Capacity: 2,500 lbs (1,134kg)

Why Campers Love It:

The Defender MAX Limited offers room for the whole crew, plus a quiet, smooth ride. Its full cab protects you from bugs, dust, wind, and rain, while the massive rear bed is perfect for camping bins, water tanks, and even a small pop-up tent.

3. Honda Pioneer 1000-6 Deluxe Crew – Best for Reliability & Versatility

Ideal for: Weekend campers and off-roaders who need a tough, low-maintenance ride.

Key Specs:

• Engine: 999cc liquid-cooled twin

• Seats: 6 with QuickFlip seat system

• Towing Capacity: 2,500 lbs (1,134kg)

• Transmission: Dual-clutch automatic

• Ground Clearance: 12.5 in

What Makes It Special:

HondaPioneer 1000-6 is all about flexible space management, thanks to its QuickFlip rear seating that can switch from people-hauler to cargo carrier in seconds. Legendary Honda reliability makes it a worry-free choice for long-distance campers.

4. Yamaha Wolverine RMAX4 1000 XT-R – Best for Trail Camping & Off-Road Thrills

Ideal for: Adventure campers who want sport-style performance and high-tech features.

Key Specs:

• Engine: 999cc DOHC parallel-twin

• Suspension: FOX 2.0 QS3 shocks

• Seats: 4

• Navigation: Built-in Adventure Pro GPS

• Drive Modes: Sport, Trail, Crawl

Why It’s a Top Choice:

The Yamaha RMAX4 is a high-performance hybrid, offering trail-ready power and utility-class cargo space. Its advanced suspension smooths out rough terrain, while the built-in GPS helps you find your way through unmarked trails and backcountry campgrounds.

5. CFMOTO ZForce 950 H.O. EX – Best Budget-Friendly SxS for Solo Campers

Photo By CFMOTO

Ideal for: Solo or two campers looking for off-road fun without a high price tag.

Key Specs:

• Engine: 963cc V-Twin, 90 HP

• Ground Clearance: 13.5 inches

• Wheelbase: 90 inches

• Towing Capacity: 700 lbs

• Transmission: CVTech automatic

Why It’s a Winner:

CFMOTO continues to shake up the UTV market with affordable machines packed with premium features. The ZForce 950 H.O. EX is compact, agile, and ready for narrow trails or tight campsites — and it doesn’t compromise on horsepower.

What to Consider When Choosing a Side-by-Side for Camping

When shopping for the best camping UTV in 2025, keep these key factors in mind:

Essential Accessories for UTV Camping Adventures

Equipping your side-by-side with the right accessories can dramatically enhance your camping experience. Here are the most useful add-ons for 2025:

1. Roof Racks and Cargo Boxes

Store camping gear, recovery tools, or even your tent on the roof. A great way to free up bed space.

2. UTV Camping Tents and Bed Racks

Turn your UTV into a mobile base camp. Bed racks allow rooftop tents, water tanks, or fuel cans to be mounted securely.

3. UTV Soft Cab Enclosures

Don’t have a full cab? Add a soft enclosure for protection against wind, rain, bugs, and sun.

4. LED Light Bars and Whip Lights

Light up your campsite or trail at night. LED light bars are essential for visibility after dark.

5. UTV Storage Bags and Saddle Bags

Keep your tools, emergency gear, and food organized with waterproof storage solutions.

6. Windshields and Windshield Extenders

Full or half windshields reduce wind fatigue and dust during long rides. Some models include vents for airflow control.

7. Gun/Bow Racks and Tool Mounts

For hunting or backwoods maintenance, secure your gear with lockable, vibration-resistant mounts.

Explore a full range of camping-ready UTV accessories at  kemimoto.com — from soft enclosures to roof racks and storage solutions designed for Polaris, Can-Am, Honda, CFmoto, and more.

FAQs About Side-by-Sides for Camping

Q1: Can I sleep in a side-by-side while camping?

Not inside directly, but you can attach a rooftop tent or tow a camping trailer. Some cargo beds also fit compact tent systems.

Q2: What’s the best type of UTV for group camping?

4- to 6-seater models like the Can-Am Defender MAX or Honda Pioneer 1000-6 are ideal for families or friends camping together.

Q3: Do I need a UTV windshield or enclosure for camping?

Highly recommended, especially for cold or dusty trails. A windshield and soft cab enclosure improve comfort dramatically.

Q4: Are rooftop racks safe for carrying camping gear?

Yes, if properly installed. Use UTV-specific roof racks to ensure stable transport of tents, storage boxes, or recovery gear.