Quick: What do you know about Scamp? If you know about Scamp, odds are good the extent of your knowledge is that they make fantastic, lightweight travel trailers. Maybe you know a little more. Maybe you know someone who owns a 13’ trailer, by far Scamp’s most popular model. Maybe you know how well-reviewed those little 13’ eggs are, how durable, fuel-efficient, and lightweight. Maybe—just maybe—you’re even considering purchasing your own egg, as Scamp trailers are often affectionately known by their owners.

Regardless of how much you know about Scamp, however, it’s almost certain you don’t know their full story—or just how great their trailers are. Or, for that matter, how great a fit one of their trailers might be for you!

Let’s look a little more closely at Scamp, and see if they might be the right fit for you!

Humble Origins

It all started with Duane Eveland. Back in 1971, he was working on remodeling damaged mobile homes. When a factory representative from Bolar America stopped by, he was impressed—and asked if Eveland would consider manufacturing trailers for Bolar. At the time, Bolar was a Canadian company, and hadn’t made much headway with the American market. With Eveland’s help, they hoped to change that.

Eveland agreed, on the conditions that his brother, Gerald, and sister, Gladys, were brought into the fold, and soon they had negotiated a contract with Boler America. Unfortunately, however, Bolar had stretched themselves too thin, and in late 1972, they went out of business.

This left the Evelands with a problem: They had molds, and all of the equipment to manufacture trailers, but no marketing department or way to sell whatever they produced, now that Boler had gone broke. And that’s where a combination of stubbornness and ingenuity—supremely Minnesotan traits—kicked in. After discussing their predicament, the Eveland siblings came to a conclusion: They would make their own company, building and marketing their own trailers. Naming the new company Scamp, a labor of love was begun.

The first years were hard, harder even likely than you might imagine. The siblings rented an old Ford garage in town, paying $25 each month in rent. As you can imagine, at that price it wasn’t exactly the best of facilities. When the weather wasn’t good, bits of ceiling would fall to the floor. Still, by the end of 1972, the siblings had built 130 trailers. Realizing they needed more space, they began using two vacant buildings on the same street, formerly a grocery store and a cafe, for additional manufacturing space. Things were beginning to look up—until an inspector looked at the old Ford garage and immediately condemned the building.

As a result, in 1975 the Evelands built their first manufacturing building on the site Scamp still uses to this day. In 1976, another building went up and all production moved to the new site. New buildings kept going up as more production was needed; Scamp built 500 trailers in 1975, 600 in 1976, and more than 700 in 1977. While they still only produced the original 13’ model, they were well on their way.

In 1978 a 16-foot model was added to the line, and in 1981, a 19-foot fifth wheel joined the line. In future years, floor plans were diversified, giving customers more options, but Scamp has stuck with the three original sizes, 13-foot, 16-foot, and 19-foot.

And that ingenuity and drive of the early years has remained essential to the Scamp brand. Not only has it remained in the Eveland family (Duane bought out Gerald and Gladys in 1983, then passed the company on to his son Kent in 1989; Kent remains the president of Scamp’s parent company, Eveland, to this day.

Similarly, when in 2006 the main factory caught fire and burnt to the ground, along with the production molds, equipment, tools, and inventory, as well as all the records in the main office, Scamp could have disbanded in despair. Instead, they saw opportunity. In rebuilding, everything got an upgrade. A new 37,000-square-foot manufacturing plant and office went up in the same location, allowing Scamp to upgrade all of their molds and equipments. Out of tragedy came improved and upgraded trailers.

Scamp Quality

Even among American-made RV and travel trailer manufacturers, it’s rare that all of the parts and supplies are also American-made. With Scamp, however, that is truly the case, and as all of the work is done at the Scamp plant in Backus, Minnesota, you know that when you buy Scamp you are supporting American workers several times over, not just in supporting the Scamp workers in Minnesota, but also the workers responsible for any parts or supplies used in the construction of your travel trailer.

And that American-made work pays dividends. Let’s look at some of the many instances of Scamp quality ensuring you get a fantastic travel trailer experience:

• Fuel savings. Not only are Scamp fiberglass trailers lightweight and easy to tow, reducing the work your vehicle has to do when towing a Scamp trailer, but their aerodynamic lines ensure higher fuel efficiency than many other similar models from other brands. In a similar vein, the fact that you can tow a lightweight Scamp trailer with a smaller vehicle also ensures fuel savings, as opposed to needy a massive gas-guzzling diesel truck that may only get 10 or 12 miles to the gallon.
• Agility and convenience: That lightweight and aerodynamic frame additionally makes Scamp trailers easy to maneuver, even into tight camping and storage spots. And once parked, you’re set. There are no poles to set, no level systems to figure out; just park and enjoy.
• Durability and dependability: Not only is Scamp one of the most durable trailers out there (many of the original trailers built in the 1970’s are still in use, for instance), but should you need parts for any reason, the Scamp office can hook you up—even if you’re still driving one of those early models. Similarly, the hard fiberglass shells are well-insulated to protect you from the conditions and potential hazards; unlike many trailers, there are no canvas or soft pieces to worry about. In remote places, your trailer is your bear box, for instance. That’s not something many ultralight travel trailers can say.
• Adaptability: Not only does that fantastic fiberglass shell and insulation mean that Scamp trailers can be true four-season travel trailers, but the furnace options available are all high-quality heating options, no matter how cold it gets. Scamp also offers a wide range of floor plans and amenities, designed to fit your needs and desires, helping you get the amenities you need.
• Value: Not only are Scamp travel trailers well-priced for what you get, but their durability and dependability means they retain their resale value much better than most comparable travel trailers. As noted previously, many of the original models are still on the road today.

Models and Specs

Let’s start with the original, updated and revised throughout the years: the 13-foot standard travel trailer.

13-Foot Standard Travel Trailer

The original, the 13-foot standard travel trailer hasn’t changed all that much except to improve. It know comes in several different layouts and with a wide assortment of options. Retail starts at $11,500 USD, with various amenities, options, and packages changing that price accordingly.

Both compact and affordable, it can be set up with or without a shower and toilet, and depending on the layout, can sleep between one and four people. The interior is upholstered in brown, with brown or blue cushions, brown carpet and beige curtains. Fiberglass cabinets and wood panel doors complete the interior. The rear dining area can convert to a double bed, offering additional sleeping space. Add to that a well-designed kitchen, which while not fancy offers all you need, and you have a well-stocked home in a small space that somehow manages to feel cozy and comfortable, rather than small. Keep in mind, however, that as Scamp sells all trailers factory direct, you won’t find their trailers at a dealership. Instead, call them directly to discuss options; they’ll deliver your trailer to you anywhere in the continental United States.

Check out the interior features (noting that some of these features are not available with all floor plans):

• Sleeps one to four
• Dining table which converts to a bed
• Shower and toilet (depending on the floor plan chosen)
• Curtains
• Sink
• Above sink cabinet
• 1.9 cubic ft refrigerator
• Silverware drawer
• Wood panel interior cabinet doors
• A sofa that can convert to bunk beds
• Clothes closet by door
• Marine headliner wall fabric
• Four-inch cushions
• Two burner propane stove
• Extra lights and outlets available
• Crank open windows & screens

Optional equipment:

• Toilet only
• Sani potti
• Side cabinets
• Carpet or vinyl floor
• Deluxe curtains
• Deluxe carpet
• Deluxe blue/grey wall liner
• Three speed roof fan
• Cable TV hook up
• Phone jack
• Power range hood (12 volt)
• Extra interior 12 volt lights
• Extra 120 volt interior plugs
• Stove cover
• Sink in bathroom

Exterior features:

• Fiberglass construction
• Gravel shield
• Tires: 13” C load radial
• Spare tire & cover
• Safety chains
• 11 gauge steel tube frame
• Mounted rear stabilizer jacks
• Super insulation (R15)
• Screen door
• Battery pack (group 24)
• 25ft 30amp electric supply cord
• 30 amp power converter
• 12 volt lighting
• Propane tank
• Ice box standard
• Window over range
• Porch light
• City water
• Water pump
• Grey water tank
• Hot water heater

Optional external equipment:

• Wheel on jack
• Electric brakes
• Splash guard (per side)
• 8 ft awning
• Dual gas tanks
• Propane gauge
• Heat strip for roof air
• Roof mount air conditioner
• Furnace (16,000 BTU)
• Group 27 battery pack
• 12 volt plug
• TV antenna
• 2″ receiver for bike racks
• Exterior ground fault outlet
• Gas & electric hot water heater
• Front porch light

SPECS for the Scamp 13-foot Standard Travel Trailer:

• Gross vehicle weight rating: 1,200 – 1,500 lbs
• Dry hitch weight: 100 lbs
• Exterior length: 13′
• Exterior width: 6′ 8″
• Exterior height: 7′ 6″
• Interior height:    6′ 3″
• Interior width: 6′ 6″
• Interior length:    10′
• Fresh water capacity: 12 gallons

16-Foot  Travel Trailer

That brings us to the 16-foot models.

The 16-foot option was introduced next, and it now offers the most options of any of the Scamp models. Those options mean the price can vary widely depending on which of the seven floor plans you choose, each of which can also be modified slightly according to your preferences.

While still compact, it offers slightly more space than the 13-foot model, as you might expect, and can be purchased with or without a shower and toilet. Depending on the layout, it can sleep between one and four people.The interior is upholstered in brown, with brown or blue cushions, brown carpet and beige curtains. Fiberglass cabinets and wood panel doors complete the interior. The rear dining area can convert to a double bed, offering additional sleeping space. Add to that a well-designed kitchen, which while not fancy offers all you need, and you have a well-stocked home in a small space that somehow manages to feel cozy and comfortable, rather than small. Again, however, remember that as Scamp sells all trailers factory direct, you won’t find their trailers at a dealership. Instead, call them directly to discuss options; they’ll deliver your trailer to you anywhere in the continental United States.

Check out the interior features (noting that some of these features are not available with all floor plans):

• Sleeps one to four
• Dining table which converts to a bed
• Shower and toilet (depending on the floor plan chosen)
• Curtains
• Sink
• Above sink cabinet
• 1.9 cubic foot refrigerator (or 4.6 cubic foot refrigerator in the deluxe models)
• Conventional and microwave ovens
• Silverware drawer
• Wood panel interior cabinet doors
• A sofa that can convert to bunk beds
• Clothes closet by door
• Marine headliner wall fabric
• Four-inch cushions
• Two burner propane stove
• Extra lights and outlets available
• Crank open windows & screens

Optional equipment:

• Toilet only
• Sani potti
• Side cabinets
• Carpet or vinyl floor
• Deluxe curtains
• Deluxe carpet
• Deluxe blue/grey wall liner
• Three speed roof fan
• Cable TV hook up
• Phone jack
• Power range hood (12 volt)
• Extra interior 12 volt lights
• Extra 120 volt interior plugs
• Stove cover
• Sink in bathroom

Exterior features:

• Fiberglass construction
• Gravel shield
• 3500 pound torsion axle
• Tires: 13” C load radial
• Spare tire & cover
• Safety chains
• 11 gauge steel tube frame
• Mounted rear stabilizer jacks
• Super insulation (R15)
• Screen door
• Battery pack (group 24)
• 25ft 30amp electric supply cord
• 30 amp power converter
• 12 volt lighting
• Propane tank
• Ice box standard
• Window over range
• Porch light
• City water
• Water pump
• Grey water tank
• Hot water heater

Optional external equipment:

• Wheel on jack
• Electric brakes
• Splash guard (per side)
• 8 ft awning
• Dual gas tanks
• Propane gauge
• Heat strip for roof air
• Roof mount air conditioner
• Furnace (16,000 BTU)
• Group 27 battery pack
• 12 volt plug
• TV antenna
• 2″ receiver for bike racks
• Exterior ground fault outlet
• Gas & electric hot water heater
• Front porch light

Specs for the Scamp 16-foot Standard Travel Trailer:

• Gross vehicle weight rating: 1,750 – 2,000 lbs
• Dry hitch weight: 185-220 lbs
• Hitch height: 21”
• Exterior length: 16′
• Exterior width: 6′ 8″
• Exterior height: 7′ 10″
• Interior height:    6′ 3″
• Interior width: 6′ 6″
• Interior length:    13′
• Fresh water capacity: 12 gallons

19-Foot  Travel Trailer

Lastly, we should look at the features of the 19-foot models.

The 19-foot option was the most recent addition to the Scamp line and is designed to offer the most space and luxury of any Scamp travel trailer. As the newest option, it comes with only three package, but even those packages can be modified slightly according to your preferences.

One definite benefit of the extra space is that all options include a shower and toilet. Depending on the layout, it can sleep between one and six people.The interior is upholstered in brown, with brown or blue cushions, brown carpet and beige curtains. Fiberglass cabinets and wood panel doors complete the interior. The rear dining area can convert to a double bed, offering additional sleeping space. Add to that a well-designed kitchen, which while not fancy offers all you need, and you have a well-stocked home in a small space that somehow manages to feel cozy and comfortable, rather than small. Again, however, remember that as Scamp sells all trailers factory direct, you won’t find their trailers at a dealership. Instead, call them directly to discuss options; they’ll deliver your trailer to you anywhere in the continental United States.

Check out the interior features (noting that some of these features are not available with all floor plans):

• Sleeps one to six
• Dining table which converts to a bed
• Queen-sized bed in loft
• Shower and toilet (the size and layout of which depend on the floor plan chosen)
• Curtains
• Sink
• Above sink cabinet
• 1.9 cubic foot refrigerator (or 4.6 cubic foot refrigerator in the deluxe models, with a 6.0 cubic foot option available)
• Conventional and microwave ovens
• Silverware drawer
• Wood panel interior cabinet doors
• A sofa that can convert to bunk beds
• Clothes closet by door
• Marine headliner wall fabric
• Four-inch cushions
• Two burner propane stove
• Extra lights and outlets available
• Crank open windows & screens

Optional equipment:

• Side cabinets
• Carpet or vinyl floor
• Deluxe curtains
• Deluxe carpet
• Deluxe blue/grey wall liner
• Three speed roof fan
• Cable TV hook up
• Phone jack
• Power range hood (12 volt)
• Extra interior 12 volt lights
• Extra 120 volt interior plugs
• Stove cover
• Sink in bathroom

Exterior features:

• Fiberglass construction
• Gravel shield
• 3500 pound torsion axle
• Tires: 14” C load radial
• Spare tire & cover
• Safety chains
• 11 gauge steel tube frame
• Mounted rear stabilizer jacks
• 10” electric brakes
• Super insulation (R15)
• Screen door
• Battery pack (group 24)
• 25ft 30amp electric supply cord
• 30 amp power converter
• 12 volt lighting
• Propane tank
• Ice box standard
• Window over range
• Porch light
• City water
• Water pump
• Grey water tank
• Hot water heater

Optional external equipment:

• Wheel on jack
• Splash guard (per side)
• 12 ft awning
• 3 inch raise
• Dual gas tanks
• Extra fresh water tank
• Propane gauge
• Heat strip for roof air
• Roof mount air conditioner
• Furnace (16,000 BTU)
• Group 27 battery pack
• 12 volt plug
• TV antenna
• 2″ receiver for bike racks
• Exterior ground fault outlet
• Gas & electric hot water heater
• 12 volt water pump
• Front porch light

Specs for the Scamp 19-foot Standard Travel Trailer:

• Gross vehicle weight rating: 2,200 – 2,800 lbs
• Dry hitch weight: 400 lbs
• Exterior length: 19′
• Exterior width: 6′ 8″
• Exterior height: 8′ 10″
• Interior height:    6′ 3″
• Interior width: 6′ 6″
• Interior length:    17′10”
• Fresh water capacity: 12 gallons

Clearly, no matter what you need a Scamp travel trailer can probably work for you!