6 Best Camping Chairs for Relaxing Outside RVs Nomads Swear By
We review 6 top camping chairs, from lightweight models to sturdy recliners. See which road-tested picks RV nomads swear by for comfort and durability.
Your campsite is set up, the awning is out, and the sun is starting to dip below the horizon. The only thing missing is a comfortable place to sit and soak it all in. The cheap, flimsy bag chair you grabbed on a whim just isn’t cutting it, and after a long day of driving or hiking, your back is letting you know it. Choosing the right camping chair is about more than just a place to park yourself; it’s about creating an outdoor living room that extends the comfort of your rig into the wild.
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Choosing the Right Chair for Your RV Campsite
The "best" camping chair doesn’t exist. The best chair for you depends entirely on your rig, your travel style, and what you value most. A couple in a 40-foot Class A with massive pass-through storage bays can afford the luxury of a heavy, plush recliner. Someone in a 17-foot travel trailer or a converted van, however, has to count every cubic inch.
Think about how you’ll use it. Are you a weekend warrior who needs something quick and easy for a couple of nights? Or are you a full-timer who uses their chair as a daily office, dining seat, and lounge spot? The demands on that piece of gear are vastly different.
Don’t fall for the trap of buying the most feature-packed chair you can find. Often, simplicity wins. A chair that takes 30 seconds to set up will get used far more often than one that requires a 5-minute assembly, no matter how comfortable the latter is. Your outdoor space should be an effortless extension of your indoor living area.
GCI Freestyle Rocker: Ultimate Patio Relaxation
Enjoy smooth rocking anywhere with the GCI Outdoor Freestyle Rocker. This portable chair features Spring-Action Rocking Technology, a beverage holder, and easy Eazy-Fold setup for relaxation on the go.
There’s something deeply relaxing about a rocking chair, and the GCI Freestyle Rocker brings that feeling to the campsite. It uses a clever spring-action rocking technology that provides a smooth, gentle motion on almost any surface, from gravel pads to grassy fields. This isn’t a gimmick; it genuinely changes the experience of sitting outside.
This chair feels less like temporary camp furniture and more like a piece of your patio. It’s perfect for those long, lazy afternoons with a book or slow mornings with a cup of coffee. The setup is dead simple—just pull it open—and it includes a convenient beverage holder.
The tradeoff for this comfort is bulk. When folded, the Freestyle Rocker is still fairly large and awkward to pack compared to a standard quad-fold chair. It’s not excessively heavy, but it’s a space commitment. This is the ideal chair for RVers who value patio-style comfort and have the storage bay to accommodate its shape.
ALPS Mountaineering King Kong for Max Durability
Relax comfortably outdoors with the King Kong chair. This durable chair features a strong steel frame supporting up to 800 lbs, convenient cup holders, and multiple storage pockets.
If you’ve ever had a cheap camping chair rip, bend, or collapse, the ALPS Mountaineering King Kong is your answer. This thing is built like a tank. With a steel frame and rugged 600D polyester fabric, it boasts an 800-pound weight capacity that speaks volumes about its construction. It’s the definition of "buy it for life" gear.
The King Kong is also incredibly comfortable, with a wide, sturdy seat that doesn’t sag or pinch. It’s packed with pockets on both armrests, giving you plenty of space for a drink, phone, book, and whatever else you want to keep handy. For full-timers or families with kids who are notoriously hard on gear, this chair is practically indestructible.
Of course, all that durability comes at a cost: size and weight. The King Kong is one of the heaviest and bulkiest chairs on this list, both when set up and when packed in its bag. It’s not something you’d want to carry far from your rig. But if you have the space and prioritize a chair that will withstand years of heavy use, the King Kong is an investment that pays off in reliability.
Helinox Chair One: Most Compact for Small Rigs
This lightweight Helinox camping chair offers exceptional portability and strength. It packs small, weighs just 2.1 lbs, and supports up to 320 lbs thanks to its durable aluminum alloy frame and UV-resistant polyester seat.
For anyone living in a van, a truck camper, or a tiny trailer, storage space is the ultimate currency. The Helinox Chair One is a masterclass in efficient design, packing down to the size of a large water bottle. It’s so small and lightweight (about 2 pounds) that you can store it almost anywhere—a cabinet, under a seat, or even in a backpack.
The secret is its collapsible, shock-corded aluminum pole frame, similar to a modern tent. Assembly is surprisingly fast once you get the hang of it. Despite its minimalist appearance, it’s remarkably strong and stable, supporting up to 320 pounds.
The experience of sitting in a Helinox is different. You sit lower to the ground, and it has a bit more flex than a traditional chair. Some people love the supportive, hammock-like feel, while others might find it less stable or harder to get out of. This is the undisputed champion for nomads who need to maximize every inch of storage and prioritize portability above all else.
Strongback Elite Chair: Superior Lumbar Support
Enjoy superior lumbar support and comfort with the STRONGBACK Elite folding chair. Its durable, heavy-duty construction ensures lasting outdoor use, while the portable design and included carry bag make it easy to take anywhere.
Let’s be honest: most camping chairs are terrible for your back. They encourage slouching, which can be brutal after a long day of driving. The Strongback Elite Chair was designed specifically to solve this problem. Its patented, frame-integrated lumbar support promotes better posture, aligning your hips and back to relieve tension.
The difference is immediate. You feel supported rather than slumped, making it possible to sit comfortably for hours. This isn’t just a gimmick; for anyone with chronic back pain or who simply values good ergonomics, this chair can be a complete game-changer for campsite comfort.
While it’s a fantastic chair, it does come with a higher price tag. It’s also a bit heavier and bulkier than a standard quad chair. But think of it this way: you’re not just buying a chair, you’re investing in your physical well-being on the road. If back pain is your nemesis, the Strongback is worth every penny.
Kelty Low Loveseat: Comfortable Seating for Two
Relax together with the Kelty Low Loveseat, a spacious 2-person camp chair featuring comfortable, durable 600D polyester and two insulated cup holders. Its low profile and sturdy steel frame make it ideal for camping, tailgating, or beach days.
Campsites are social spaces, and the Kelty Low Loveseat is built for connection. This two-person chair is perfect for couples, families with a small child, or anyone who enjoys sitting side-by-side with a friend. Instead of packing two separate chairs, you can bring one piece of furniture that creates a more intimate and shared space.
The "low" design makes it feel very relaxed and stable, and the slightly reclined, quilted seat is exceptionally comfortable. It’s like having a small couch for your campsite. It also saves a surprising amount of space in your storage bay compared to hauling two full-sized individual chairs.
The main consideration is its low profile. Getting in and out can be more of a challenge for those with knee or mobility issues. But for most, the cozy, shared experience is a huge plus. It’s a brilliant solution for pairs who want to save space without sacrificing comfort. The included roll-tote storage bag also makes it surprisingly easy to pack and carry.
Timber Ridge Zero Gravity: Full Reclining Comfort
When your goal is maximum relaxation, nothing beats a zero-gravity chair. The Timber Ridge Zero Gravity Chair allows you to recline into a fully laid-back position, elevating your feet to reduce pressure on your spine. It’s the ultimate campsite lounger for napping, stargazing, or just completely unwinding.
Relax in spacious comfort with this oversized zero gravity chair, featuring a 33-inch wide padded seat and a 500lb weight capacity. Effortlessly recline to your preferred angle with the lockable system and keep essentials close with the convenient side table and cup holder.
This chair is more like a piece of mobile patio furniture than a simple camping chair. It features a sturdy steel frame, a comfortable padded seat suspended by a bungee system, and an adjustable headrest. The smooth locking mechanism lets you secure it at any angle, from upright to fully reclined.
The obvious tradeoff is its enormous size and weight. It doesn’t fold down small; it simply collapses flat. This chair is not for the RVer who is constantly on the move or tight on space. It’s the perfect choice for destination campers, snowbirds, or anyone who plans to stay put for a while and wants to create a truly luxurious outdoor lounge.
Key Features to Consider in an RV Camping Chair
Choosing the right chair means balancing your personal needs. There’s no single right answer, only the right answer for your situation. Before you buy, think through these key factors to avoid ending up with a chair that lives permanently in your storage bay.
The decision ultimately comes down to a few core tradeoffs. Do you prioritize ultimate comfort or a small packed size? Are you willing to carry more weight for a chair that will last a decade? Thinking about these questions honestly will lead you to the perfect chair for your adventures.
Here are the four most important features to weigh:
- Size & Weight: How much space can you dedicate to chairs? Consider both the folded size for storage and the weight for carrying it from your rig to the perfect spot. A lightweight, compact chair gets used more often.
- Comfort & Ergonomics: How long will you be sitting? Look at the seat height, back support, and overall design. If you have back issues, a chair with dedicated lumbar support like the Strongback is non-negotiable.
- Durability & Capacity: Who will be using the chair? Look for steel frames and high-denier fabrics (like 600D polyester) for longevity. Check the weight capacity to ensure it meets your needs.
- Setup & Features: How much fuss are you willing to tolerate? A simple quad-fold chair sets up in seconds. Also, consider features like cup holders, side pockets, and carrying bags that make life easier.
In the end, your camping chair is one of the most-used pieces of gear in your RV toolkit. It’s your front-row seat to every sunset, your comfortable nook for morning coffee, and your gathering spot for friends. Choosing one that fits your body, your rig, and your style of travel is a small decision that pays huge dividends in daily comfort and enjoyment on the road.
