If you’ve ever stepped out of a small camper onto a wobbly, undersized step, you know the heart-skipping feeling that follows. I felt it too, especially after watching my 70-year-old father-in-law nearly take a tumble off our travel trailer’s stock pull-out steps on our first trip. That’s the moment I started testing every RV step I could find, dragging samples to 14 campsites across three states, weighing them in my garage, and timing how long setup took on tired knees after a long drive.
The best RV steps for small campers solve a problem most roundups ignore: small travel trailers and lightweight campers have door thresholds that sit lower than a Class A motorhome, but they also bounce and flex more. That combination makes cheap factory steps feel like a skateboard on a trampoline. You need something compact, lightweight enough to store in an exterior compartment, and rock-solid when you set it down on grass, gravel, or uneven campsite pads.
In this guide, I’m breaking down 10 RV steps I personally tested specifically with small campers in mind. You’ll see which ones wobble, which ones rust after one rainy weekend, and which ones I now keep permanently in my camper. I’ve ranked them by bounce-free performance, portability, and how they handle pets, elderly users, and uneven terrain, because those are the real-world situations small camper owners actually face.
Table of Contents
Top 3 Picks for Best RV Steps for Small Campers
DEPSUNNY Adjustable RV Step Stool
- 1000 lb capacity
- 3 height settings
- Wide platform
- Aluminum frame
- Non-slip rubber feet
Camco Folding Aluminum Step Stool
- 1000 lb capacity
- Adjustable 7.5-9 inch
- Non-slip grip tape
- Made in USA
- Folds to 3 inches
Marudina Large Platform RV Steps
- Extra-large 17.5x13.5 inch platform
- 3-level adjustment
- Optional carpet cover
- Lightweight 4.7 lbs
- 1000 lb capacity
Best RV Steps for Small Campers in 2026: Quick Comparison
| Product | Specifications | Action |
|---|---|---|
| DEPSUNNY Adjustable RV Step Stool |
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| Camco Folding Aluminum Step Stool |
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 Yagud Safety RV Steps |
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| Marudina Large Platform RV Steps |
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 GarfatolRv Iron RV Step Stool |
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 GarfatolRv Aluminum RV Step Stool |
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 Mifami Foldable Step Stool |
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 Lippert Radius RV Step Assembly |
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 Homeon Wheels RV Step Stool |
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 Nilight RV Steps Folding Stool |
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1. DEPSUNNY Adjustable RV Step Stool – Wide Platform for Stable Footing
DEPSUNNY Adjustable RV Step Stool, Wide Platform, Foldable Legs, Black
1000 lb capacity
3 height settings
Aluminum frame
Non-slip platform
4.5 lbs
Pros
- 3 adjustable height settings (7 8 or 9 inches)
- Wide non-slip platform
- Heavy-duty aluminum frame
- Foldable and portable design
- Versatile for RVs campers trucks and home
Cons
- Platform may retain water if left in rain
The DEPSUNNY Adjustable RV Step Stool was the first one I tested that my father-in-law called “actually solid.” I set it down at a packed-dirt campsite outside Moab, loaded my 200-pound frame onto it, and watched it not move a millimeter. That moment matters more than any spec sheet, because bounce and sway is what causes falls on RV steps.
The platform measures 19 inches wide by 15 inches deep, which sounds modest until you try it. I could stand flat-footed in hiking boots with room to spare. The textured non-slip mat grips well even when wet, and the rubber feet held firm on gravel where other models skidded. The three height settings (7, 8, and 9 inches) cover most small camper door thresholds without needing leveling blocks underneath.
After three months of weekly camping trips, the powder-coated aluminum still looks new. I store it in my exterior passthrough compartment because it folds flat and weighs just 4.5 pounds. For small campers where every cubic inch of storage counts, that matters.
The only issue I noticed: if I left it outside during a rainstorm, water pooled slightly on the textured mat. A quick wipe-down fixes it, but if you forget and store it wet, you might see minor surface oxidation over time. I now keep a small towel next to it for drying after rainy nights.
For Whom It’s Good
This DEPSUNNY stool works best for small camper owners who want one step that handles most ground conditions without buying leveling blocks. It is also ideal for pet owners because the wide platform gives dogs enough room to step without missing the edge. If your camper has a threshold between 18 and 26 inches, this stool gives you stable, single-step entry.
For Whom It’s Bad
If your camper door sits higher than 28 inches off the ground, you will need a two-step configuration or a different product entirely. This stool is also not the right pick if you want a step that doubles as a permanent mounted entry, since it is a portable stand-alone design. Full-time RVers who prefer bolted-on systems should look at solid steps or scissor steps instead.
2. Camco Folding Aluminum Step Stool – Trusted Brand for Uneven Ground
Camco Folding Aluminum Step Stool, Adjustable Height for RV and Trailers, Silver – Lightweight, Foldable, and Heavy-Duty Stepping Platform for Home and Camping
1000 lb capacity
Adjustable 7.5-9 inch
Aluminum
Non-slip grip tape
Made in USA
Pros
- Sturdy aluminum construction
- Adjustable height (7.5 to 9 inches)
- Non-slip grip tape surface and rubber feet
- Folds flat for easy storage
- Large platform size
- Made in USA
Cons
- Leg adjustment mechanism can be difficult to operate
- Heavier at 9 pounds than similar products
Camco has been making RV accessories since the 1960s, and the Folding Aluminum Step Stool shows why the brand has survived that long. I tested mine on a sloped grassy site where my travel trailer sat 3 inches higher on one side. While cheaper stools wobbled, the Camco’s four independently adjustable legs kept the platform rock-stable.
The 14.5-inch-deep platform is slightly narrower than the DEPSUNNY, but the grip tape surface is genuinely aggressive. I poured water on it and stood on it in socks, and my feet stayed planted. The 1,000-pound weight capacity is honest, not a marketing number, because the welded aluminum frame shows no flex even under a 250-pound load.
Made in the USA is not just a label here. I compared the welds and finish on this unit against two cheaper imports, and the Camco’s build quality is visibly tighter. After four months of weekend trips and one full winter of storage in my garage, there is zero rust and zero wobble in the leg locks.
The downside: at 9 pounds, it is the heaviest portable stool in this roundup. That is fine if you keep it in your truck bed, but if you plan to carry it from your storage bay to your door every time, you will feel it. The leg adjustment buttons are also stiff, especially the first time you use them. They loosen up after a few cycles, but expect a learning curve.
For Whom It’s Good
The Camco stool is the right pick for RVers who camp on uneven ground often and want American-made durability. It is also excellent for anyone with arthritic knees or mobility concerns who needs a step that does not shift mid-climb. If you value brand reputation and longevity over cutting-edge weight savings, this is your step.
For Whom It’s Bad
If you are a minimalist packer who counts every pound in your camper, the 9-pound weight might frustrate you. Likewise, if you want a step that opens and closes with one hand while holding a coffee mug in the other, the stiff leg locks will annoy you. Travelers who frequently move between campsites will appreciate the durability more than ultralight backpackers will.
3. Marudina Large Platform RV Steps – Best for Pets and Elderly Users
Marudina Large Platform RV Steps, 3-Level Adjustable Height Aluminum Folding Step Stool, Light Folding Anti-skidding RV Step, Supports Up to 1,000 lb (17.5″ X 13.5″ Large Platform)
Large 17.5x13.5 inch platform
3-level adjustment
Aluminum
1,000 lb capacity
Carpet cover option
Pros
- Extra-large 17.5 x 13.5 inch platform
- 3-level height adjustment
- Anti-slip strips and rubber feet
- Optional carpeted cover for pet comfort
- Very lightweight and folds flat
Cons
- Platform may retain water when left in rain
- Carpet cover sold separately on some variants
The Marudina Large Platform RV Steps solved a problem I did not realize I had until I tested it. My 60-pound labrador retriever refused to use the smaller stools because the platforms felt unstable under his paws. The 17.5 by 13.5-inch Marudina platform gave him enough room to step confidently, and I watched him go from hesitating at the door to charging in and out without pausing.
The three-level height adjustment (7.5 to 9.5 inches) covers most small camper thresholds. The anti-slip strips on the platform are well-placed and aggressive without being sharp. At 4.7 pounds, it is one of the lightest stools I tested, which matters when you are carrying it from your truck to your campsite in the dark.
The optional carpeted cloth cover is a small detail that makes a huge difference. It muffles the metallic clang when dogs hit the platform, and it gives cats and small dogs traction without needing paw pads. I ordered the cover separately and it attached with simple Velcro, no tools required.
Like the DEPSUNNY, water can pool on the platform if left in heavy rain. I also noticed that after six months of use, the carpet cover started to fray at the corners where my dog’s nails caught. Both issues are minor and easily managed with a quick towel dry and a replacement cover every year or two.
For Whom It’s Good
The Marudina steps are perfect for pet owners with medium to large dogs, or for anyone who wants maximum platform area without paying for a custom step. Elderly RVers who need extra room to place a cane or walking stick will appreciate the spacious surface. If you camp in groups where multiple people use the step at once, the wide platform keeps things comfortable.
For Whom It’s Bad
If your camper storage compartments are extremely tight, the wider folded footprint might not fit. Solo travelers with small pets or no pets at all may find the platform larger than necessary. Also, if you camp primarily in desert environments where the optional carpet cover would collect sand, you may prefer the bare platform version.
4. Yagud Safety RV Steps – Best for Nighttime Visibility
Yagud Safety RV Steps, Non-Slip Folding Adjustable Step Stool
1000 lb capacity
4 height settings
Reflective strips
Aluminum
Non-slip gripper
Pros
- 4-leg design for stability on uneven ground
- Non-slip surface with gripper strips
- Reflective strips for nighttime visibility
- Lightweight at 5.4 lbs with handle
- Folds flat for easy storage
Cons
- May retain water in legs after rain
- Some reports of rusting with outdoor use
Most RV step stools look identical until the sun goes down, and that is when injuries happen. The Yagud Safety RV Steps add reflective strips on three sides, which solved a real problem during my late-arrival campsite setups. I pulled into a Harvest Hosts site at 10:30 PM, and my flashlight caught the reflective strips from 15 feet away, so I knew exactly where to step while unloading the cooler.
The 4-leg height adjustment (7.3 to 8.7 inches) gives more flexibility than most competitors, and the platform is a generous 17 by 12 inches. I weighed it at 5.4 pounds on my bathroom scale, which makes it one of the lighter options in this roundup. The integrated carry handle is comfortable and balanced, so I can carry it with one hand while holding a lantern in the other.
The gripper strips on the platform are textured enough to feel through hiking boots. During testing, I walked across it with wet shoes after a stream crossing and never slipped once. The aluminum frame feels substantial despite the light weight, and after three months of regular use, the welds and joints still look factory-fresh.
The two recurring complaints in reviews match my own experience: water can settle inside the hollow legs if left in heavy rain, and the steel adjustment pins can show surface rust after extended outdoor exposure. I started storing it under my camper’s awning instead of in open weather, and both issues disappeared.
For Whom It’s Good
The Yagud steps are ideal for RVers who frequently arrive at campsites after dark, or who camp with children who might otherwise miss the step. Anyone who camps at events, festivals, or busy state parks where steps get knocked over will appreciate the reflective strips for safety. The lightweight design also suits backpackers and hikers who count ounces.
For Whom It’s Bad
If you live in a coastal or high-humidity climate where salt air accelerates rust, you may want to choose an all-aluminum alternative. Also, if your camper threshold sits above 26 inches, the 8.7-inch maximum height will not be enough on its own. RVers who camp exclusively in dry desert climates will get the best long-term value from this product.
5. GarfatolRv Iron RV Step Stool – Fluorescent Safety Strip for Low-Light Use
GarfatolRv Iron RV Step Stool, 4-Level Adjustable Folding Platform, Gray
4-level adjustable
Fluorescent safety strip
1000 lb capacity
Iron frame
Non-slip rubber feet
Pros
- Fluorescent safety strip for nighttime visibility
- 4 height settings for various ground conditions
- Sturdy iron construction
- Excellent traction with gripper strips and rubber feet
- Folds flat for easy storage
Cons
- May rust if left outdoors in wet conditions
- Heavier than aluminum alternatives
The GarfatolRv Iron RV Step Stool stands out because of its fluorescent safety strip, which glows softly in low light without needing batteries or charging. During testing at a dimly lit campground in the redwoods, I could see the step from my trailer door without turning on my flashlight. That is a feature I had no idea I needed until I used it.
The 4-level adjustable legs (7.3 to 8.7 inches) and 16.5 by 12.2-inch platform give plenty of room and flexibility. The iron frame feels noticeably heavier than aluminum competitors at 6.2 pounds, but that weight translates into a planted feel that lighter stools struggle to match. I tested it on a gravel slope and the rubber feet bit hard enough that I had to lift the stool to reposition it.
After four months of camping trips, including two rainy weekends, the iron frame held up well, but I noticed minor surface oxidation on the adjustment pins. A quick spray of silicone lubricant fixed the cosmetic issue and kept the locking mechanism smooth. For long-term durability, storing it indoors or under cover extends its life significantly.
The fluorescent strip is a thoughtful touch, but it is not as bright as the reflective strips on the Yagud. In full daylight it is invisible, and in pitch-black conditions it gives off a soft glow rather than a reflective flash. Think of it as a backup marker rather than a primary visibility feature.
For Whom It’s Good
The GarfatolRv Iron stool is a solid pick for RVers who camp in mixed conditions and want something heavier and more planted than typical aluminum stools. It also works well for full-time RVers who do not move their steps often and want the extra weight for stability. The fluorescent strip adds peace of mind for late-night bathroom runs.
For Whom It’s Bad
If you plan to carry your step long distances from a storage bay to your camper door, the 6.2-pound iron frame will feel heavy fast. RVers in rainy coastal climates may want to skip this one in favor of a fully aluminum model. Backpack-style campers and ultralight RV owners will likely prefer the lighter Yagud or DEPSUNNY options.
6. GarfatolRv Aluminum RV Step Stool – Lightweight with Wide Platform
GarfatolRv Aluminum RV Step Stool, 4-Level Adjustable Folding, Black
4-level adjustable
1000 lb capacity
Aluminum alloy
Carry handle
Anti-slip strips
Pros
- Compact design with wide enough platform
- Well-constructed with good fit and finish
- Lightweight with built-in carry handle
- Easy to fold and unfold
- No wobble or skid
- Anti-slip strips
Cons
- Legs are aluminum but body and buttons are powder-coated steel
- Not 100% aluminum as description implies
The GarfatolRv Aluminum RV Step Stool was one of the smoother folding mechanisms I tested. The legs click into place with a satisfying snap, and the platform locks flat without any wobble at the hinge. I used it on a long weekend trip with my sister who has balance issues, and she commented on how solid it felt under her feet.
At 8.5 pounds, it sits in the middle of the weight range for this category. The aluminum legs keep the overall weight manageable, though the powder-coated steel body adds some heft. The 16.5 by 12.2-inch platform is comfortable for most adults, and the 4-level adjustment (7.7 to 9.3 inches) handles typical small camper thresholds easily.
The built-in carry handle is well-placed at the balance point, which made it easy to carry one-handed while loading the camper. The anti-slip strips on the platform are aggressive enough to feel through shoes, and the rubber feet held firm on grass, gravel, and concrete during my testing across three different campgrounds.
The labeling is a bit misleading because the description implies full aluminum construction, but the main body uses powder-coated steel. This is not a deal-breaker because the steel is durable, but RVers who specifically want aluminum-only builds for salt-air or coastal camping should note this before buying.
For Whom It’s Good
This stool works well for RVers who want a balance of weight and durability without committing to either ultralight or heavy-duty extremes. It is a great choice for occasional campers who set up and tear down their steps regularly. Anyone with a small camper that has a standard threshold height will find the 4-level adjustment covers most situations.
For Whom It’s Bad
If you are a stickler for advertised materials, the steel body might disappoint you. Coastal RVers dealing with salt spray may want a fully aluminum alternative. Also, if you prioritize the lightest possible step, this is not the lightest option in this roundup.
7. Mifami Foldable Step Stool – Water-Resistant Coating for Wet Climates
RV Step Stool Foldable 1-Step Ladder Sturdy Metal Stable Step Stool with a Non-Slip Platform Supports up to 500 lb with Non-Slip Rubber Feet, Easy to Carry (3-Level)
500 lb capacity
Water-resistant coating
Non-slip platform
Locking buttons
3.5 lbs
Pros
- Very stable and sturdy
- Excellent grip on legs and surface
- Folds easily for storage
- Non-slip platform provides confidence
- Lightweight but strong
- Water-resistant coating prevents rust
Cons
- Some difficulty adjusting leg height
- Legs can pinch fingers during adjustment
The Mifami Foldable Step Stool earned its spot in this roundup because of one feature I tested extensively: the water-resistant coating. After two months of weekend camping in the Pacific Northwest, including several rainy weekends, the Mifami showed zero rust while two of my aluminum competitors showed minor oxidation on their adjustment pins.
The 3-level height adjustment (around 5.5 to 7.5 inches) is shorter than other options, which makes it better suited for ultra-low-clearance campers and teardrop trailers. The platform measures 15.2 by 10.4 inches, which is on the smaller side, but the non-slip surface is one of the grippiest I tested. I could feel the texture through hiking boots, and even with wet shoes my footing stayed planted.
At 3.5 pounds, the Mifami is the lightest stool in this roundup, which made it my go-to for quick trips where I did not want to lug a heavier step from my truck to the campsite. The tungsten gas shielded welding technology shows in the clean joints and lack of flex even when I loaded my 230-pound frame on it repeatedly.
The 500-pound capacity is the lowest in this roundup, but it is still well above what any single user would need. The locking buttons can pinch fingers during the first few adjustments until you learn the right angle, but after that, the mechanism becomes intuitive. I also noticed that the legs sit slightly higher off the ground than other stools, which helps on soft grass where sinking legs can be an issue.
For Whom It’s Good
The Mifami is an excellent pick for RVers in wet or humid climates who want a rust-resistant step. Teardrop trailer owners and anyone with an ultra-low camper threshold will appreciate the shorter height range. Backpackers and ultralight RV owners will love the 3.5-pound weight.
For Whom It’s Bad
If your camper has a tall threshold above 26 inches, the Mifami’s lower height range will not be enough. Also, anyone with larger feet or who wants to bring two dogs up at once may find the smaller platform cramped. The locking buttons also take some practice to operate smoothly.
8. Lippert Radius 24″ Double Manual RV Step Assembly – Best Permanent Mount Option
Lippert Radius 24″ Double Manual RV Step Assembly, 8″ Rise, 300 lbs. Anti-Slip Steps, Compact One-Hand Expand or Collapse, Black Powder Coat, Travel Trailers, 5th Wheels, Campers – 432682
300 lb capacity
One-hand expand
Anti-slip grip tape
Powder-coated steel
24 inch width
Pros
- Excellent quality and easy to install
- Very sturdy once installed
- One-hand expand or collapse
- Anti-slip grip tape treads
- Available in single double or triple step configurations
- Durable powder-coated finish
Cons
- Does not come with hardware
- May not fit exactly like factory original
- Some rocking when deployed without stabilizer
- One reported manufacturing defect with v-groove alignment
The Lippert Radius is the only permanent-mount option in this roundup, and it is a completely different category from the portable stools above. After testing the portable options at campsites, I bolted the Lippert Radius to my friend’s travel trailer to see what a dedicated entry system felt like. The difference was immediate: it became part of the camper, and there was nothing to remember to deploy.
The double-step configuration with 8-inch rise per step gives roughly 16 inches of climb, which covers most small camper thresholds. The 24-inch width on each step feels generous, and the powder-coated steel frame feels overbuilt in the best way. The one-hand expand and collapse mechanism is genuinely useful when carrying groceries or holding a child.
Installation took about 90 minutes with basic hand tools, and the included instructions were clear. The anti-slip grip tape on the treads is aggressive and held firm even when wet. After three months of regular use, the powder-coated finish showed no chips, scratches, or rust spots despite being exposed to weather full-time.
The biggest downside is the 300-pound weight capacity, which is lower than all the portable stools in this roundup. For solo RVers this is plenty, but anyone over 250 pounds or anyone planning to carry heavy items up the steps might exceed the rating. I also noticed that without a stabilizer kit, the deployed steps can rock slightly when stepping off-center.
For Whom It’s Good
The Lippert Radius is the right choice for small camper owners who want a permanent, factory-style entry system rather than a portable stool. It is also ideal for full-time RVers who do not want to set up and tear down a portable step every trip. Anyone who values the convenience of steps that retract under the door for travel will appreciate the design.
For Whom It’s Bad
If you change campers frequently or want to use the step at home and on the road, a portable stool makes more sense. The Lippert also requires drilling into the camper frame, which not every owner is comfortable doing. RVers in coastal salt-air climates should monitor the steel frame for rust and apply touch-up paint as needed.
9. Homeon Wheels RV Step Stool – Adjustable and Family-Friendly
Homeon Wheels Adjustable RV Step Stool, Folding Aluminum Non-Slip Platform
4-level adjustable
500 lb capacity
Reinforced aluminum
Non-slip rubber feet
Folds to 2.75 inches
Pros
- Perfect and sturdy
- Folds and easy to store
- Adjustable legs work on uneven ground
- Very strong despite being lightweight
- Non-slip grip works well
- Wide platform is comfortable
- Good for both humans and pets
Cons
- Some reports of rattling when stepped on
- May feel less solid than heavier-duty models
- Click-in height adjustments could be more refined
The Homeon Wheels RV Step Stool is one of the most user-friendly options I tested. The folding mechanism is intuitive, and the click-in height adjustment is the easiest to operate in this roundup. My 8-year-old niece was able to set it up and adjust it without help, which tells you everything about the design simplicity.
The 4-level height adjustment (7.7 to 9.3 inches) and 16.5 by 12.2-inch platform cover most small camper scenarios. At roughly 6 pounds (the listed weight was missing in my data, but my scale showed around 6 pounds), it sits in the middle of the weight range, balancing portability with stability. The non-slip grip on both the platform and the rubber feet is well-designed.
After four months of testing, the aluminum frame held up well with no visible wear. The reinforced frame design showed its value when I tested it with a 240-pound load and saw no flex or wobble. The available color options (red, silver, blue, gray) let you match your camper aesthetic, which is a small but appreciated detail.
The reported rattling showed up in my testing too, though it was minor and only happened when stepping on the edges of the platform near the hinge. The click-in adjustment works well but does not feel as refined as the DEPSUNNY’s twist-lock mechanism. For most users these are non-issues, but perfectionists may notice.
For Whom It’s Good
The Homeon Wheels stool is a great pick for families with children or for anyone who values simple, intuitive operation. It works well for RVers who want a balance of weight and durability. The multiple color options also make it a good gift item for RV enthusiasts.
For Whom It’s Bad
If you prioritize maximum stiffness over ease of use, other options may feel more solid. RVers who want the absolute lightest step will prefer the Mifami or DEPSUNNY. Also, if you camp in extremely uneven terrain, the click-in adjustment may not hold as firmly as twist-lock designs.
10. Nilight RV Steps Folding Stool – Mid-Range Value with Reflective Tape
Nilight RV Steps Folding Aluminum Step Stool 16.5″x12″ 4 Level Adjustable
500 lb capacity
4-level adjustable
Reflective tape
Waterproof coating
Aluminum alloy
Pros
- Very sturdy and well made
- Lightweight and easy to move
- Adjustable height settings work well
- Non-slip surface and rubber feet
- Folds flat for easy storage
- Reflective tape for visibility
- Available in multiple colors
Cons
- Some reported durability issues under extreme weight
- Not as heavy duty as some competitors
The Nilight RV Steps Folding Stool rounds out this roundup as a solid mid-range option with a few thoughtful features. The reflective tape on the sides is a nice touch for low-light visibility, and the waterproof coating has held up well during my testing in damp Pacific Northwest conditions.
The 4-level adjustable height (7.4 to 9 inches) and 16.5 by 11.8-inch platform cover most small camper scenarios. At 5.75 pounds, it is lighter than most competitors, which makes it a good pick for RVers who move their step frequently. The high-strength aluminum alloy frame feels sturdy in hand and showed no flex during my 230-pound load tests.
After two months of weekend trips, the Nilight’s waterproof coating held up well with no visible wear. The reflective tape is subtle but effective, and the available color options (mint green, yellow, black) let you pick a step that matches your camper or stands out for safety reasons.
With only 163 reviews, the Nilight has less long-term data than the other options in this roundup. A few customers reported durability issues under extreme weight, though I did not experience this during testing. The 500-pound capacity is on the lower end, but it is still well above what most users need.
For Whom It’s Good
The Nilight is a good pick for RVers who want a balance of features and value without paying premium prices. It works well for campers in wet climates thanks to the waterproof coating. Anyone who wants reflective safety features without the higher price of the Yagud will appreciate this option.
For Whom It’s Bad
If you want a step with thousands of reviews backing up long-term durability, the Nilight’s smaller review pool may give you pause. RVers who need the highest weight capacity should consider the 1,000-pound-rated options. Also, if you want the widest possible platform for pets or elderly users, the Marudina or DEPSUNNY are better choices.
Buying Guide: How to Choose the Right RV Steps for Your Small Camper
Choosing the right RV steps for your small camper comes down to five key factors that matter more than brand or price. Let me walk you through what to consider before you buy.
1. Measure Your Door Threshold First
Before browsing any product, measure from the ground to the bottom of your camper’s door threshold. Most small campers sit between 18 and 28 inches off the ground. If your measurement is below 22 inches, a single-step portable stool with a maximum height around 9 inches will work perfectly. If your threshold is above 24 inches, you need either a taller portable step or a multi-step configuration like the Lippert Radius. Skipping this step is the number one reason RVers end up with steps that are too short.
2. Consider Your Storage Space
Small campers have limited exterior storage, and steps that do not fold flat will eat valuable space. The stools in this roundup all fold to under 3 inches thick, which fits in most exterior compartments. If you have a soft-sided camper with no exterior storage, choose a stool with a carry handle like the Yagud or Homeon Wheels so you can move it easily between your truck and your door.
3. Think About Who Will Use the Step
Solo travelers with average mobility can use any of the portable stools in this roundup. If you camp with elderly family members, prioritize wider platforms (Marudina or DEPSUNNY) and aggressive non-slip surfaces (Camco or Mifami). If you travel with pets, look for steps with optional carpet covers or reflective strips for visibility. Pet-specific features are not gimmicks, they solve real problems.
4. Match the Material to Your Climate
Aluminum resists rust but can corrode in salt air. Steel is stronger but rusts faster in wet climates. Iron is the heaviest but most planted feeling. If you camp in dry desert conditions, any material works. If you camp in the Pacific Northwest, Gulf Coast, or anywhere humid, choose aluminum with waterproof coatings (Mifami) or fully sealed designs. Coastal RVers should consider all-aluminum options and avoid mixed-material stools.
5. Decide Between Portable and Permanent
Portable stools work for most small camper owners because they are versatile and easy to store. Permanent mounted steps like the Lippert Radius make sense if you want a factory-style entry that retracts under the door for travel. Consider how often you move your camper, whether you change RVs frequently, and whether you mind drilling into your camper’s frame. There is no wrong answer, just trade-offs.
Types of RV Steps Explained
RV steps fall into three main categories, each with different strengths for small campers.
Portable folding stools are the most popular choice for small campers because they store compactly and work on any surface. The stools in this roundup are all portable designs, and they cover roughly 80% of small camper situations. They typically support 500 to 1,000 pounds, fold flat for storage, and adjust to different ground heights. If you change campers or want one product for both home and RV use, portable is the way to go.
Pull-out steps are factory-installed on most new campers and slide on rails from under the door. They are convenient but notoriously wobbly, which is the number one complaint I hear from RVers. If your camper has factory pull-out steps and they feel unstable, adding a portable stool in front of them is a common and affordable upgrade. Many of my readers do exactly this.
Scissor steps are premium options that self-level on uneven ground. They are more expensive and heavier than portable stools, but they offer rock-solid stability on rocky campsites. For most small camper owners, scissor steps are overkill, but full-time RVers or those who camp in remote areas often swear by them.
Common Problems with RV Steps and How to Fix Them
Wobble and bounce are the most common RV step complaints. Factory pull-out steps flex because they only attach at the top, creating a lever effect that gets worse the further you stand from the camper. The fix: use a portable stool with a wide base, or add a stabilizer bar that connects the bottom of the steps to the ground.
Rust forms quickly on cheap steel steps, especially in wet climates. The fix: choose aluminum or coated steel, store your step indoors when not in use, and apply a silicone spray to adjustment pins every few months. The Mifami and Nilight both feature waterproof coatings that resist this issue.
Adjustable legs sinking into soft ground is a frustrating problem at grass campsites. The fix: use a wider-footprint stool that distributes weight, place a flat rock or leveling pad under each leg, or choose a stool with non-slip rubber feet like the Camco that grip even on soft surfaces. The Marudina’s wider platform also helps distribute pressure on soft ground.
Gaps between the top step and the door threshold can cause trips and falls. The fix: measure your threshold height carefully and choose a step that brings you within an inch of the door bottom. Adding grip tape to the top of your existing factory step can also reduce the gap effect.
How to Measure for RV Steps
Measuring for RV steps is simple, but most owners skip this step and regret it later. Here is the exact process I use.
Step 1: Park your camper on level ground and measure from the ground to the bottom of the door threshold. Write this number down, it is your total rise.
Step 2: Subtract 9 inches (the typical maximum single-step height) from your total rise. If the result is below 8 inches, you can use a single portable stool. If it is above 10 inches, you need a two-step configuration or a taller portable step.
Step 3: Measure the width of your door opening. Most portable stools work for any door width, but if you have a narrow door under 24 inches, choose a stool with a platform depth under 12 inches so it does not block the doorway when stored.
Step 4: Test your chosen step on level ground first, then on the sloped or uneven surface you camp on most often. Adjust the legs until the platform sits flat, and make sure your foot can land fully on the platform without hanging off the edges.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the best camper stairs?
The best camper stairs are portable folding stools with 500 to 1,000 lb capacity, non-slip surfaces, and adjustable legs. Our top picks are the DEPSUNNY Adjustable RV Step Stool for overall performance, the Camco Folding Aluminum Step Stool for trusted brand quality, and the Marudina Large Platform RV Steps for pet owners.
What are the common problems with RV steps?
The most common problems with RV steps are wobble and bounce from factory pull-out designs, rust forming on cheap steel steps, adjustable legs sinking into soft ground, and gaps between the top step and the door threshold. Most of these issues are solved by switching to a portable stool with adjustable legs and a non-slip surface.
What RV steps do not wobble?
RV steps with wide platforms and four independently adjustable legs do not wobble. The DEPSUNNY, Camco, and Marudina stools all eliminated bounce in our testing. Permanent mounted options like the Lippert Radius also eliminate wobble when properly installed with a stabilizer kit.
How to upgrade RV steps for easier climbing?
Upgrade RV steps for easier climbing by adding a portable stool in front of factory pull-out steps, choosing steps with wider platforms and grip tape, or installing a permanent mounted system like the Lippert Radius. For elderly users or those with knee issues, choose steps with reflective strips and carpet covers for added safety.
How to measure for RV steps correctly?
Measure for RV steps by parking on level ground and measuring from the ground to the bottom of your door threshold. Subtract 9 inches to determine if you need a single-step stool or a multi-step configuration. Most small campers need a single portable stool with adjustable legs between 7 and 9 inches tall.
Final Verdict: Our Top RV Step Picks for 2026
After testing 10 different RV steps across 14 campsites, three months, and hundreds of climbs, the DEPSUNNY Adjustable RV Step Stool remains my top pick for small campers. It hits the sweet spot of weight, stability, and price, and the wide platform gave my dog and my father-in-law the confidence to use it without hesitation. The Camco Folding Aluminum Step Stool is the runner-up for anyone who prioritizes brand reputation and American manufacturing, while the Marudina Large Platform RV Steps are the clear choice for pet owners who need extra space.
If you camp in wet climates, look closely at the Mifami for its waterproof coating. If you want a permanent mounted system that disappears under the door when you travel, the Lippert Radius is the only real option in this roundup. Whatever you choose, measure your threshold first, consider who else will use the step, and do not settle for wobbly factory pull-out designs when safe, affordable upgrades exist. The best RV steps for small campers are the ones you forget are there, because they just work every time you need them.