After more than five decades of crafting lightweight fiberglass travel trailers in Backus, Minnesota, Scamp Trailers has unveiled something entirely new. The Scamp X marks the company’s first purpose-built off-road model, transforming the beloved “egg camper” into a rugged adventure machine that refuses to let pavement dictate your destination. The most striking update sits underneath. Scamp swapped its traditional axle for a Timbren independent long-travel suspension system, giving each wheel the freedom to articulate over challenging terrain without transferring shock to its twin.
This setup works alongside beefy ST235/75R15 off-road tires and an impressive 18 inches of ground clearance. The approach and departure angles measure 17 and 22 degrees, respectively, making genuine backcountry exploration accessible to drivers who previously limited themselves to established campgrounds. Outside, the Scamp X sheds its cheerful aesthetic for something more tactical. A black Fiamma awning replaces the usual chrome fittings, while a custom roof rack provides mounting points for up to 400 watts of solar panels. That power feeds directly into the camper’s electrical system, making extended boondocking trips genuinely viable.
Designer: Scamp
Up front, an optional Strongberg storage rack offers space for generators, extra gear, and all the equipment serious off-roaders accumulate over time. A lock-and-roll articulating hitch comes standard, ensuring the trailer can follow your vehicle through uneven terrain without binding. The interior received equal attention during the redesign. Scamp replaced the standard dinette layout with a U-shaped configuration that maximizes seating and social space. New cushions in updated fabrics complement a fresh countertop design, while rubber coin flooring throughout the cabin stands up to muddy boots and wet gear far better than traditional carpet or vinyl.
The air conditioning unit hides beneath the rear dinette bench, freeing up valuable wall space. A portable Bluetooth speaker mounts into the design, and an accessory panel puts electrical connections exactly where modern adventurers need them. Two floor plans accommodate different camping styles. The Trek eliminates the bathroom, prioritizing living space for those comfortable with campground facilities or portable solutions. The Altitude offers the same U-shaped dinette and updated finishes but incorporates a front bathroom for travelers who prefer full amenities.
The Scamp X arrives as the Minnesota manufacturer expands its Backus factory to meet growing demand. Current production sits around 650 units annually, with wait times stretching to 14 months. The company sells directly to customers without dealer networks, maintaining control over quality and customization. Traditional Scamp models range between $19,000 and $40,000, depending on length and options. Pricing for the X hasn’t been officially announced, though the extensive upgrades suggest a premium over standard models.
For “Scampers,” as the devoted community calls themselves, the X represents something many have requested for years: the ability to take their iconic egg-shaped trailer beyond maintained roads and into genuine wilderness. Whether it succeeds in attracting a new generation of off-road enthusiasts while satisfying longtime fans remains to be seen, but Scamp’s willingness to evolve after 54 years suggests they’re serious about this next chapter.
The post Scamp X: After 54 Years, the Iconic Egg Camper Finally Goes Off-Road first appeared on Yanko Design.