Park Models & Destination Trailers: The Ultimate Summer Cottage

For many families, the dream of owning a lakefront cottage is financially out of reach. The solution? A Destination Trailer or Park Model. These massive RVs (typically 35 to 45 feet long) are designed to be parked for the season, offering residential luxury at a fraction of the cost of real estate.

At RV Canada, we specialize in helping families set up their "Home Away From Home." Whether you are looking for a unit with a loft for the grandkids or a couples' retreat with a sliding glass door, this guide will help you navigate the heavyweights of the RV world.

The Terminology: Destination Trailer vs. Park Model

While often used interchangeably, these are two different classes of RV.

Destination Trailer (The "8.5-Wide"):
- Width: Standard 8.5 feet (expands with slide-outs).
- Towing: Can be towed by a heavy-duty pickup (1-Ton Dually), though we recommend professional delivery.
- Systems: Built like a traditional RV with holding tanks (Grey/Black), 12V batteries, and propane systems. You can use them in a standard campground with partial hookups.
- Examples: Forest River Wildwood Grand Lodge, Jayco Bungalow, Keystone Residence.
Park Model (The "12-Wide" or "10-Wide"):
- Width: 10 to 14 feet wide (even without slides).
- Towing: Must be towed by a commercial semi-truck. They require special permits to move.
- Systems: Designed for full-service parks. They often lack holding tanks (must be plumbed to sewer) and run strictly on 110V/50-amp power (no 12V battery system). They feel exactly like a small mobile home.
- Note: Check your campground's zoning! Some parks only allow Destination Trailers, not 12-Wide Park Models.

Residential Features: Not Your Average Camper

When you step inside a Destination Trailer, the "Camping" vibe disappears.

Sliding Glass Doors: The signature feature. A massive patio door lets in light and opens onto your deck.
Residential Appliances: Expect full-size stainless steel refrigerators, 4-burner gas ranges, and often dishwashers.
Lofts: Many models feature a "Second Story" loft above the master bedroom or rear den. This is a kid's paradise and typically allows the unit to sleep 8–10 people comfortably.
No 12-Volt Limitations: Since these are plugged in all season, they rely less on battery power. You get residential ceiling fans, standard light fixtures, and unlimited hot water (on-demand heaters).

Top Models by Brand

1. Forest River (Wildwood Grand Lodge / Salem Villa) The undisputed kings of the "Loft" layout.

The Vibe: Modern Farmhouse. They use light woods and massive windows to make the unit feel huge.
Top Pick: Grand Lodge 42VIEW. This revolutionary layout features a "Double Loft" (one on each end) and a front kitchen with massive windows. It feels more like a condo than a trailer.
Top Pick: Salem Villa 42DL. A classic loft model with a downstairs master suite and a massive upstairs playroom/bedroom for the kids.

2. Jayco (Jay Flight Bungalow) Built with the same durability as their travel trailers but scaled up.

The Vibe: Traditional Quality. Features the "Magnum Truss" roof system, which is crucial if you leave your unit parked under heavy snow loads in the winter.
Top Pick: Bungalow 40DLFT. A loft model that features a detachable hitch (to improve the look when skirted) and a residential-style atrium front wall.

3. Keystone (Residence & Retreat) Keystone focuses on luxury finishes and open living spaces.

The Vibe: Upscale Comfort. High ceilings and 8-foot tall slide-outs create an airy environment.
Top Pick: Residence 401FLFT. A front-loft model that maximizes the view out the front of the trailer—perfect for lakefront lots.

4. Coachmen (Catalina Destination) Incredible value for families just starting their seasonal journey.

The Vibe: Functional & Spacious.
Top Pick: Catalina 39MKTS. A master bedroom layout with a massive wardrobe and washer/dryer prep, ideal for couples spending the entire summer at the park.

Logistics: Moving the Beast

Don't Use Your Pickup: While a Destination Trailer has a hitch, towing a 13-foot tall, 42-foot long box is dangerous without the right equipment. We highly recommend using our Professional Delivery Service.
Site Prep: These units are heavy (11,000–14,000 lbs). Ensure your seasonal site has a compacted gravel pad that is level.
Deck Building: Most owners build a deck flush with the sliding glass door. Check your specific model's door height before you start building!

Ready to Move In?

Shop Cottages: Filter our inventory by "Destination Trailer" or "Park Model" to see the giants of our lot.
Check the Loft: Bring the kids! Let them climb the stairs to the loft in a Wildwood Grand Lodge—it’s usually the moment the family decides to buy.
Ask About Delivery: We can coordinate getting your new summer home from our lot to your campsite, leveled and ready for the weekend.

RV Canada is not responsible for any misprints, typos, or errors found in our website pages. Any price listed excludes sales tax, registration tags, and delivery fees. Manufacturer pictures, specifications, and features may be used in place of actual units on our lot. Please contact us @613-226-8228 for availability as our inventory changes rapidly. All calculated payments are an estimate only and do not constitute a commitment that financing or a specific interest rate or term is available.