2023 Rockwood 122S – The Perfect Fusion of Compact Convenience and Hard-Sided Comfort

For those who love the simplicity of camping but want the comfort and convenience of a well-built RV, the 2023 Rockwood 122S by Forest River stands tall—literally and figuratively. This unique A-frame hard-sided pop-up camper is a masterclass in smart design, compact travel, and easy setup. Whether you’re an adventurous couple looking for weekend getaways, a solo traveler wanting a lightweight, no-fuss setup, or even a seasoned RVer in search of a secondary rig for quicker trips, the Rockwood 122S offers a compelling balance of portability and comfort.

Let’s explore everything that makes the 2023 Rockwood 122S a standout in the world of lightweight camping trailers—from construction and features to real-world functionality and why it might just be the most versatile small camper out there.

Overview: A-Frame Simplicity with Built-In Durability

At first glance, the 122S catches your eye with its signature A-frame design. Unlike traditional canvas pop-ups, the hard-sided construction gives it enhanced insulation, weather resistance, and long-term durability. It sets up in under 60 seconds—no more fiddling with poles or canvas—and once up, it offers a surprisingly spacious and secure environment to enjoy your outdoor adventures.

What’s truly special about this model is how it manages to deliver residential-style comforts—such as a full kitchen, hard-wall bathroom option, and indoor/outdoor cooking—within a lightweight towable package that most SUVs, small trucks, and crossovers can handle with ease.

Specifications & Dimensions

Let’s start with the numbers that make the 2023 Rockwood 122S so practical and accessible:

Dry Weight: Approx. 2,120 lbs

Hitch Weight: 284 lbs

Cargo Carrying Capacity: Approx. 1,164 lbs

Length (closed): 19’2”

Length (open): Approx. 19’2”

Height (closed): 5’1”

Interior Height: 6’1”

Exterior Width: 84”

Fresh Water Capacity: 26 gallons

Sleeping Capacity: 2-3

The 122S is built for convenience and mobility. It’s compact enough to store in a garage, light enough to tow with smaller vehicles, and fast enough to set up that you can spend more time exploring and less time preparing.

Towability: Lightweight and Easy to Haul

One of the biggest selling points of the Rockwood 122S is its towability. At just over 2,000 lbs dry, it’s towable by a wide range of vehicles—meaning you don’t need a full-size pickup or heavy-duty SUV to enjoy RV life. Its aerodynamic A-frame profile and relatively low center of gravity contribute to excellent towing stability, and it comes standard with electric brakes for added safety.

Tow-Ready Features:

Torsion axle independent suspension

14” radial tires

Electric brakes

LED taillights

Seven-pin wiring harness

Manual stabilizer jacks on all four corners

Whether you’re new to towing or just want a break from hauling a full-size fifth wheel, the 122S offers peace of mind on the road and effortless parking at camp.

Construction: Built to Last in All Seasons

The 2023 Rockwood 122S features a fully laminated fiberglass exterior, solid aluminum frame, and composite construction that eliminates rot-prone wood in key areas. The walls and roof are insulated, making this camper suitable for cooler nights and unexpected weather changes.

Construction Highlights:

Hard-sided A-frame structure (no canvas)

One-piece fiberglass roof

Laminated fiberglass sidewalls

E-coated frame for rust resistance

Seamless aluminum front and rear

Composite cabinetry inside

These features make the 122S a true four-season camper in a segment where most pop-ups fall short. It’s perfect for early spring trout fishing trips, summer national park adventures, or crisp fall weekends in the mountains.

Interior Comfort: Compact, Yet Surprisingly Spacious

Step inside the 122S, and you’ll immediately be struck by how open and bright the interior feels. Thanks to its vertical walls and peaked ceiling, even taller campers can stand comfortably. The décor is modern but warm, with wood-look cabinetry, soft-touch surfaces, and LED lighting that gives the space a clean, home-like ambiance.

Interior Features:

Full-size dinette that converts into a 54” x 80” bed

Optional memory foam mattress

Indoor kitchenette with two-burner stove, sink, and refrigerator

20,000 BTU furnace for cold nights

Bluetooth stereo with interior and exterior speakers

LED ceiling lights and reading lights

Fold-down storage shelving and cabinetry

While it’s compact, everything inside is well thought out—every inch of space is used efficiently, with plenty of storage nooks, hideaway drawers, and overhead bins to stash your gear, food, and essentials.

Kitchen: Easy Indoor Cooking for Any Meal

One of the best features of the 122S is the fully functional indoor kitchen. You don’t need to step outside to make coffee, prep dinner, or grab a cold drink. The layout makes cooking easy, with all essentials within arm’s reach.

Kitchen Features:

Two-burner stovetop with glass cover

3-way refrigerator (electric, propane, battery)

Deep stainless steel sink with folding faucet

Overhead cabinets and drawers for utensils and dry goods

Optional outdoor griddle with LP quick connect

Need more space or want to cook outside? Just swing out the included outdoor griddle, connect it to the built-in LP quick-connect line, and enjoy campfire cooking without the mess.

Bathroom: Portability with Privacy

While the Rockwood 122S doesn’t have a built-in wet bath or shower, it comes prepped with a portable cassette toilet in its storage compartment, and many owners opt to use this alongside an external privacy tent or separate toilet setup. For those looking for full wet bath capabilities, the larger Rockwood A-frame models (like the 214HW) may be a better match.

That said, for weekenders or those staying at campgrounds with facilities, the 122S offers plenty of flexibility and sanitation comfort.

Climate Control & All-Weather Comfort

You’ll be surprised how comfortable the 122S remains throughout a variety of climates, thanks to its insulated walls and available heating and cooling options.

20,000 BTU furnace with wall-mounted thermostat

Thermostatically controlled fan/vent

Optional rooftop A/C

Windows with screens and blackout curtains

Insulated roof and walls for hot or cold weather use

Whether you’re camping in the desert or tucked into a high-altitude forest, the 122S can be customized to keep you cozy and relaxed.

Entertainment & Tech Features

Just because you’re off the grid doesn’t mean you have to leave your favorite media behind. The 2023 Rockwood 122S includes a Bluetooth-capable stereo system with interior and exterior speakers, so you can enjoy music, podcasts, or audiobooks whether you’re inside relaxing or sitting around the fire pit.

Tech Highlights:

AM/FM Bluetooth stereo system

USB charging ports

110V outlets with inverter power (if equipped)

Solar prep on the roof