QUICK QUESTION? TEXT US AT 530-241-7848 TO SPEAK TO SOMEONE AT THE DEALERSHIP
QUICK QUESTION? TEXT US AT 530-241-7848 TO SPEAK TO SOMEONE AT THE DEALERSHIP

Forest River RV: History, Manufacturing, Leadership, and Product Overview

If you're in the market for an RV or Trailer, you've likely come across Forest River. As one of the largest and most popular manufacturers of RVs, travel trailers, campers, and trailers, Forest River RV has built a name for itself based on trusted quality and craftsmanship, innovation, and a strong commitment to customer satisfaction. This is why at TowTally Camping, our dealerships in Redding and Anderson, California, continue to choose to be a Forest River RV dealer. Discover our selection of Forest River RVs for Sale here, and find your match today!

Over the next 10 minutes, you'll learn more about the history of Forest River, where their RVs are manufactured, and other commonly asked questions the community often has about Forest River RV.

Whether you're looking for a Forest River travel trailer, RV, or trailer, understanding the legacy and reputation of Forest River will help you make an informed purchasing decision!

The History of Forest River RV

The Founding of Forest River: Early History

Forest River, Inc. was founded in 1996 by Peter Liegal, an entrepreneur with a vision and a passion for RVs. The company was born out of a desire to create RVs that offered better quality, more innovation, and most importantly, superior value compared to what was currently available in the RV market. Legal's goal was to build a company that could cater to all lovers of the outdoors, providing them with a range of options from luxurious RVs for large families, to affordable travel trailers - and everything in between.

Based in Elkhart, Indiana - often referred to as the "RV Capital of the World" - Forest River was born, starting with a modest lineup of products. Under Liegals leadership, the company quickly expanded, adding new RV categories like travel trailers and fifth wheels. By the early 2000s, Forest River had established itself as a major player in the RV industry.

Growth and Expansion of Forest River RV

Forest River's rise was rapid. The company initially focused on manufacturing travel trailers, but soon expanded into motorhomes, toy haulers, park models, and even pontoon boats.

Forest River RV began acquiring other popular RV manufacturers, bringing them into the Forest River brand. By bridging companies like Coachmen, Dynamax, and Prime Time Manufacturing under its umbrella, First River has been able to leverage the expertise, resources, and brand recognition of these companies to provide more value and selection to its customers.

Acquisition by Berkshire Hathaway

In 2005, Forest River was acquired by Berkshire Hathaway. Warren Buffet, the chairman and CEO of Berkshire, saw the great potential in Forest River, particularly in the company's strong reputation.

Innovation and New Features Found in Forest River RVs for Sale

This investment by Berkshire brought Forest River RVs the resources needed to drive further innovation, bringing forth the creation of many of the advanced features and amenities found in modern Forest River travel trailers and campers. Some standout innovations include:

  • Versatile Living Spaces: Forest River campers redefine the concept of space utilization. Every square inch is optimized for maximum functionality.
  • Smart Climate Control: Sensors throughout Forest River travel trailers adjust the interior temperature and airflow automatically, creating a comfortable environment tailored to your preferences.
  • Solar-Powered Amenities: Eco-friendly solar panels offer off-grid energy, allowing you to explore off-the-grid locations, without sacrificing comfort and conveniences.
  • Expandable Slide-Outs: At the push of a button, designated areas of your Forest River trailer can extend, providing additional room for various activities. Whether it’s dining, lounging, or sleeping.
  • Intelligent Lighting Systems: LED lights with adjustable brightness and color options to set the ambiance.

For a detailed look at all these features, visit our article on the Top 10 Innovative Features found in Forest River Travel Trailers.

These features reflect Forest River RVs continued innovation, and drive to deliver superior value to its RV owners - giving them a superior camping experience.

Discover our Forest River RVs for Sale here, and take the step forward in experiencing it for yourself.

Forest River RV Manufacturing Process

Design and Planning Stage

Forest River RVs are made by a dedicated team of engineers, designers, and craftsmen who are vetted thoroughly by Forest River - ensuring they are passionate about delivering top-quality products.

The manufacturing process begins with the design and planning stage, where engineers work on creating floor plans that maximize space, comfort, and functionality. This is what brought to life some of the most popular brands such as the Rockwood Travel Trailer. Learn more about the Rockwood Camper lineup here. Each RV is designed with the end-user in mind, ensuring that it meets the needs of all travelers, with options for solo travelers, all the way to large families - and everything in between.

Production Stage

Once the designs are finalized, production begins at one of Forest River's state-of-the-art manufacturing facilities. Each RV is built using only the highest quality materials and components, with a strong emphasis on both durability and safety. The production stage involves multiple stages, including the framing, installation of electrical and plumbing systems, and finishing touches like cabinetry and upholstery.

Quality Assurance Stage

Forest River RV takes quality control very seriously. Each RV goes through rigorous testing and inspection at various points of the production stage to ensure it meets a high standard of quality. From leak tests to road simulations, every aspect of the RV is thoroughly checked to guarantee it can provide a safe, comfortable, and problem-free camping and travel experience for its owners.

Final Stage: Shipped to Forest River Dealerships

After final checks, Forest River RVs are shipped off to trusted RV dealerships throughout the country. At TowTally Camping in Redding, California, we continue to be a trusted Forest River dealer, offering both Forest River Travel Trailers for Sale, and Forest River Trailers for Sale. We offer over 70 Forest River RVs for sale from some of the most popular and recognizable brands such as Rockwood Campers, Cherokee Campers, and more! Browse our full selection of Forest River RVs for Sale in California here.

Forest River Manufacturing Plant Locations

Forest River operates multiple manufacturing plants across the United States, with the majority located in Indiana. Forest River RV's headquarters in Elkhart, Indiana, serves as the central hub for its manufacturing operations. Elkhart is home to several of Forest River's production facilities, where a wide range of RVs, including travel trailers, fifth wheels, and motorhomes are built.

In addition to its Indiana facilities, Forest River has manufacturing plants in Oregon, California, and Georgia, strategically chosen to ensure Forest River RV is able to serve customers across the country.

Who Owns Forest River RV Company?

Ownership Structure of Forest River

Forest River, Inc. is owned by Berkshire Hathaway, operating as a wholly-owned subsidiary. They are able to benefit from the financial stability and resources that come with being part of one of the world's largest and most successful companies.

Leadership of Forest River

While Berkshire owns Forest River RV, the company operates under the leadership of its own management team. Peter Liegal, the founder of Forest River RV, continues to play a key role in the company's operations. His leadership has continued to guide Forest River alongside his founding principles of quality, innovation, and customer satisfaction.

Where to Buy Forest River RVs

Forest River RV Dealers

To ensure you get the best possible experience when purchasing a Forest River RV, it's important to buy from an authorized dealer like TowTally Camping. Buying from a Forest River RV dealer means you can take advantage of the Forest River manufacturer warranties and have peace of mind knowing that your purchase is backed by a reputable company. TowTally Camping, with locations in Redding and Anderson, California, is a proud Forest River RV dealer. Discover our full selection of Forest River RVs for Sale here!

Forest River RV: Product Range Overview

Forest River offers one of the most extensive ranges of RVs in the industry. No matter what type of RVer you are, Forest River has an RV for you.

Overview of Forest River RV Types:

  • Travel Trailers: Forest River travel trailers are among the most popular RVs made by Forest River. They are available in various sizes and floorplans, making them suitable for solo travelers, couples, and families alike. Learn more about the full selection of Forest River Travel Trailers here.
  • Fifth Wheels: Forest River fifth wheels are known for their spacious interiors - making them an ideal choice for long-term travel, or for those looking for luxurious options.
  • Motorhomes: Forest River produces a variety of Motorhomes, including Class A, Class B, and Class C models, each offering a different balance of luxury, comfort, and driveability.
  • Toy Haulers: For those that want extra storage space, bring all your toys like ATVs, camping gear, and more along for the ride in a Forest River toy hauler.
  • Pop-Up Campers: These lightweight campers are best for quick weekend getaways. They are easy to tow and set up, which makes them a great choice for first-time RV owners. Shop our Forest River Pop-Up Campers here.

Popular Forest River Brands: Rockwood and Cherokee

Standout Forest River Brands include the popular Rockwood Camper, and Cherokee Camper Trailer.

Rockwood Camper

The Forest River Rockwood Camper is established as a premium RV lineup. Rockwood RVs are known for their lightweight, yet quality construction, making them easily towable without compromising comforts or build quality. The Rockwood Camper brand caters to all sorts of RVers, offering everything from compact travel trailers like the Mini Lite and Geo Pro, to hybrid models like the Roo.

Rockwood RVs are designed to offer a high level of comfort, featuring modern conveniences such as Murphy beds, outdoor kitchens, and solar-ready setups. Discover more about the Rockwood travel trailer lineup here.

Cherokee Camper Trailers

The Forest River Cherokee Camper Trailers is another pillar of Forest River's travel trailer lineup. Known for its rugged design, affordability, and great set of features, Cherokee RVs are popular among families who need a reliable and feature rich travel trailer.

Cherokee RVs offer a broad range of models, from the budget-friendly Grey Wolf and Wolf Pup, to the luxurious Alpha Wolf series. The Cherokee travel trailer brand focuses on providing great value, without sacrificing quality, which makes it a popular choice for those looking for a well rounded RV experience. Discover more about the Cherokee travel trailer lineup here.

Get your Forest River RV for Sale Today at TowTally Camping

Forest River has established itself as a leader in the RV industry, thanks to its commitment to quality, innovation, and customer satisfaction. Now that you better understand the care and commitment that goes into each Forest River RV for Sale, you're better equipped to make a purchase.

At TowTally Camping, we are a proud Forest River dealer, offering a selection of 70+ Forest River RVs for Sale. Our Forest River RV dealerships in Redding and Anderson, California, specialize in Forest River travel trailers. Our experienced and friendly team is here to help you find the ideal Forest River RV for your needs and to ensure that your purchasing experience is as smooth and enjoyable as possible.

Reach out to our friendly sales team here. We pride ourselves on a low pressure approach to sales, offering up our guidance to help you find the RV of your dreams.