Welcome back adventure season, we've missed you!
Summer’s here, and it’s time to chase the kind of adventures that don’t come with a map. The sun stays out longer, the trails dry out, and the best campsites open up to those willing to go the extra mile. With your Softopper® on the truck, you’re geared up for the journey—no matter how far off-grid it takes you.
We’ve rounded up a few of our favorite camping spots and off-road trails for the season—places where the views are big, the crowds are few, and the only schedule is the one you make yourself.
Let’s get into it.
Alpine Loop-Colorado
If you’re looking for a true backcountry experience with jaw-dropping views around every turn, the Alpine Loop delivers. This 63-mile route winds through the heart of the San Juan Mountains, connecting the historic towns of Ouray, Silverton, and Lake City. Along the way, you’ll pass towering peaks, waterfalls, abandoned mining camps, and high-alpine lakes that make it hard to keep your camera down. The terrain demands a high-clearance 4×4, and that’s exactly where your setup shines.
With plenty of dispersed camping spots along the trail, the Alpine Loop is made for those who want to slow down and soak in the solitude. Roll out your Softopper®, find a flat spot near an alpine lake, and spend the night under a sky full of stars. Just make sure you check the weather and trail conditions before you go—this one’s remote, rugged, and unforgettable.
Rubicon Trail-California
Often referred to as the crown jewel of off-roading, the Rubicon Trail is not for the faint of heart. This legendary 22-mile stretch near Lake Tahoe takes you across massive granite slabs, tight rock crawls, and water crossings that will test both your rig and your resolve. It’s a rite of passage for serious wheelers—and for good reason.
The trail’s brutal terrain means every piece of gear needs to earn its place. That’s where your Softopper® comes in. With cab-height coverage and durable materials, it keeps everything protected and accessible, no matter how rough the ride gets. Make it through the trail, and you’ll earn more than just epic views—you’ll earn bragging rights.
Daniel Boone Backcountry Byway-Kentucky
Tucked into the Red River Gorge region, the Daniel Boone Backcountry Byway offers a mix of Appalachian charm and gritty trail action. This network of old forest roads and rocky climbs winds through dense woodlands, creek beds, and steep hill climbs—perfect for exploring Kentucky’s wilder side.
It’s a unique blend of scenic and technical, with primitive campsites scattered throughout the area. With a Softopper on the bed, it’s easy to haul your gear in and out while staying flexible for quick setup and takedown. For East Coast adventurers looking for something off the beaten path, this byway delivers.
Tillamook State Forest-Oregon
If you like your trails with a side of rain and mud, Tillamook’s got you covered. This Pacific Northwest gem is a sprawling forest packed with off-road trails, moss-covered trees, and enough slick clay to keep things interesting. It’s a go-to for wheelers in Oregon, with everything from mellow gravel roads to steep, rutted climbs that’ll put your traction to the test.
Browns Camp is a favorite basecamp in the area, offering access to a wide mix of trail difficulty and easy spots to pitch a tent for the night. A Softopper® makes it easy to load up for wet-weather wheeling, keeping your gear dry and your setup dialed in no matter how many puddles you hit. Just bring recovery gear—and a good attitude.
Team ST Picks
We asked the crew at Softopper® where they’d head for a summer trip—and they didn’t disappoint. These are the personal go-to spots from the people who live and breathe the Softopper® lifestyle.
Wheeler Lake- Colorado
This short but rugged trail packs a punch. Steep climbs, rocky ledges, and alpine views lead you to a quiet high-elevation lake surrounded by Colorado’s best.
Holy Cross- Colorado
Tucked deep in the Rockies, the payoff is just as wild as the trail—remote campsites, alpine air, and serious bragging rights. With your Softopper® in the mix, your gear stays secure while you focus on the crawl.
Devil's Lake State Park- Wisconsin
Devil’s Lake State Park offers some of the Midwest’s best scenery—no need to go far off-grid to find great camping and trail access. While not a hardcore off-road destination, the nearby scenic routes and wooded campgrounds make it a perfect base for soft-roading and relaxing weekends.
True North Base Camp- Minnesota
Built for adventure, True North Basecamp sits right on the edge of Minnesota’s Cuyuna mountain bike trails and rolling forests. With direct access to singletrack, lakeside campsites, and off-pavement exploring, it’s the perfect launchpad for a weekend in the woods.
Cebolla Mesa- New Mexico
One of the Southwest’s best-kept secrets, Cebolla Mesa sits high above the Rio Grande Gorge with jaw-dropping views in every direction. This quiet, rim-side camping area offers true solitude and a front-row seat to some of New Mexico’s most dramatic landscapes.
Glendo State Park- Wyoming
Nestled along the scenic Glendo Reservoir, this state park is a water-adventure paradise. Miles of shoreline, fishing spots, and open campsites make it a laid-back destination for anyone looking to unwind by the water.
Gear that goes the distance
Softopper® Top
The first upgrade every adventure-ready truck needs. Lightweight, retractable, and tough enough for the trail—this is the gear-hauling, weather-blocking essential that sets your rig up for anything.
Exo Truck bed rack
The only rack engineered to work seamlessly with your Softopper®. Built tough to handle rooftop tents, recovery gear, and more—while still allowing full retractability of your Softopper®. Strong, versatile, and adventure-approved.
ST Overhead Organizer
Keep it clutter-free and your essentials within arm’s reach. Maps, headlamps, snacks—stash it all up top and stay organized on the go.
Camper Top Tent Extension
Turn your truck into a full-on basecamp. This add-on gives you extra covered space off the back of your Softopper®.
DIY Dog Window Cutout Kit
Give your pup a better view and some extra airflow. This kit lets you create a custom opening so your co-pilot rides cooler and more comfortably.
