BEST BUILT & Under 30 Feet!! 2023 Fox Mountain 265RDS Fifth Wheel by Northwood RV

[@northwoodmanufacturing2408]

Fantastic video, Josh! Greatly appreciate all the pros and cons. Couple little corrections; We use lauan paneling and not azdel, and the Black tank is 35 Gallons. Thanks again!

[@JoshtheRVNerd]

Whoops! Sorry about that. I saw azdel in the LP door and draw a misguided conclusion. I'm going to pin this to the top so others can see it!

[@JoshtheRVNerd]

THANK YOU for this correction btw - please feel free to chime in any time :)

[@staceymiller4765]

Looks like a winner to me!

[@JoshtheRVNerd]

TY !

[@macmanmpls]

Charlie forgot to say...Go Go Gadget Legs..😂😂😂 I thought Josh was a cutie. Look at Charlie, WOW.

[@JoshtheRVNerd]

Hahha

[@Zane-p6b]

Very nice i love it

[@JoshtheRVNerd]

Thanks a lot 😊

[@janehargis9301]

Love the floor plan, love the quality build. Love the floor vinyl pattern in the living area. Unfortunately, the decor kills it. My parents would’ve loved it but they left us years ago. I’m 70 and as far as a great decor look no further than Brinkley, imho. I’d consider this unit a top contender if it had an updated look that included lighter, simpler woods & cabinetry.

[@tomstone8976]

getting closer to reviewing an Outdoors RV brand!

[@JoshtheRVNerd]

😊

[@marginbuu212]

Oh hey, they updated the interior decor. It doesn't look too bad. Would still like to have the option to choose a color other than brown and go carpetless though.

[@JoshtheRVNerd]

Carpetless could be cool

[@MrNickb-s500]

Thanks a bunch Charlie for helping our friend in need indeed Josh the RV Nerd 😊😊👍👍👍👍👍👍👍👍👍👍 and Thank Bobby as well!😊😊👍👍👍👍👍👍👍👍👍👍 Very nice 5th wheel 😊😊👍👍👍👍👍👍👍👍👍👍

[@JoshtheRVNerd]

Any time!

[@katbot2190]

No vents around the toilet, it's a winner.

[@JoshtheRVNerd]

👍🏻

[@jannettewebb8326]

One thing about brown it doesn’t show dirt.

[@Anonymous..VQ3.5Lg35]

Parents just bought this trailer yesterday, with the generator and solar panel, adding hitch to the rear bumper

[@JoshtheRVNerd]

Adding aftermarket? Just remember mfgs don’t cover work they didn’t do

[@Anonymous..VQ3.5Lg35]

@@JoshtheRVNerd i guess its the light duty hitch that is standard.

[@Myfriendvinny]

Nice. I don't understand why is the dry hitch weight so heavy.

[@JoshtheRVNerd]

Chonky build

[@davidlinkletter4865]

I really like the floor plan & the floor ain't bad either.

[@JoshtheRVNerd]

Ty!

[@dmalley1597]

We owned a 2012 Fox Mountain and it was by for the highest quality RV we've ever owned... If they're still building them the same you can't go wrong with a Fox Mountain! I just wish they built one with dual slide-outs at the rear.

[@JoshtheRVNerd]

I was going to check their lineup but I can't seem to access their website for the past week or two

[@carutah]

Hey Josh, The 60-70 age demographic is the same group that launched the Time Warp! We know all about bringing our knees in tight!

[@JoshtheRVNerd]

Hahaha

[@BigMoOnTheMove]

Would like to see a walk thru of the Arctic Fox 29-5T if you run across one

[@JoshtheRVNerd]

I think I have the K but not the T coming..

[@captsam54]

25 Gallon black tank and fridge on the slideout, is a No Go for me... Like the idea of a smaller 5th wheel. but.. Keep up the Great Reviews Josh..

[@markrobedeau2223]

Have an artic fox camper. Great build quality build and customer service. The where available even during covid. Was greatly appreciated.

[@JoshtheRVNerd]

Thanks for sharing! I love hearing stories like these!

[@donkafood]

I have a 2008 22-ft Nash camper that I've been living in for 3 years. I've been 10 below zero and had my water lines freeze overnight but get home from work and the water is flowing again. I also started cracking open my sink cabinets since to allow my airflow. There's only one thing that I wish Northwoods would change up and that would be the option of a larger refrigerator. Since I'm full time it would be helpful to have a larger refrigerator. Great solid built camper and highly recommend buying one of your budget allows. I'm the 3rd owner and living full-time in it. The 2nd owner used it as family camper and the original were full-time so it's had a lot of use and still doing great for a 2008.

[@JoshtheRVNerd]

Cracking the taps when it's super cold is a super good idea. Moving water is harder to freeze

[@darlene6670]

I love love love this brand of 5th wheels! They are made strong!

[@yippinyahoiionetnnedrager3398]

Great stuff 👍 thanks for sharing. Yup great unit. ✌ GOD bless America 🇺🇲

[@JoshtheRVNerd]

TY!

[@dinahduckworth8433]

can you get a king bed and washer dryer hook up for this camper

[@JoshtheRVNerd]

You cannot. They do not offer those features on this as it turns out

[@Brigand231]

I so wanted to be excited for this one, but the deal breaker was mental images of Uncle Gary flicking toenail clippings down the floor vents.

[@JoshtheRVNerd]

hahahaa

[@crazydoglady5]

This is beautiful. Love the colors....floor color is beautiful. kitchen sink in caddy corner. i love carpet but that step up into bed...hhmmm not sure on that. Add a drop down cabinet top extension at end of cabinet by bdrm door.

[@JoshtheRVNerd]

Thanks so much! 😊

[@mayhresko6827]

Yes yes yes. Please provide reviews for Outdoors RV units.

[@JoshtheRVNerd]

It’ll happen later this year

[@bobmiscavage4282]

Would be nice if they made a travel trailer like this with two entry doors and forget the Schwintek bedroom slide. Grand Design had one, but discontinued it. Outdoors rv has the 25RDS and 20BD, but no close dealers.

[@JoshtheRVNerd]

Cougar does a good one! kzbin.info/www/bejne/oaiykJx4rtNleKM

[@bobmiscavage4282]

@@JoshtheRVNerd We looked at the Cougar, but my wife didn't like that it didn't have enough storage inside. Thinking about a Outdoors 20 BD or 25 RDS. Thanks Josh for getting back to me.

[@JoshtheRVNerd]

@@bobmiscavage4282 My pleasure, Bob!

[@kitchiesmom]

I like the layout

[@JoshtheRVNerd]

Great floor plan for sure

[@stephenr2195]

Closing off the bedroom with the slide is a rv killer for me, now the 235rls is my favorite 5th wheel on the market

[@JoshtheRVNerd]

I have footage of that one coming!

[@JeffInDFW]

so much brown. wow. And the giant "Fox Mountian" logo in wood above the seating area....wow. And pleased with themselves that the interior is designed to look the same as it did 20 years ago. wow. But, when my dad buys shoes, he always buys 3 pairs of the exact same shoe so he does not have to buy shoes again for another decade (his exact explanation), so I get it. They know their buyers. But, my dad is now in his 80s and won't be buying many more shoes. Might be time to start considering what the next generation of buyers might be interested in IMO. And that is not brown.

[@speterbilt]

Can you get a w/d in the closet in front of the bed? If so that would perfect camper

[@JoshtheRVNerd]

Not plumbed for one. I am unsure on sizing. I don’t believe so

[@Saintly2]

Can you get to the washroom with the slide in for travel days?

[@JoshtheRVNerd]

Check the time stamps for "Road Mode" -- actually displayed it with the slide closed for you

[@JEG6919]

A magic coach outside of the 70s to early 80s interior look and feel.

[@Mortimer_Duke]

My impression exactly.

[@JoshtheRVNerd]

👍🏻

[@Mortimer_Duke]

Needs a 400w factory solar option - at least.

[@JoshtheRVNerd]

👍🏻

[@bradbalderson8172]

Love the shelf area on both sides of the bed.

[@JoshtheRVNerd]

I do too

[@derick-smith]

Everything Northwood makes just screams of Northern Exposure and a hunting lodge... It was right in the name all along. I'd like to see a SouthWestwood with some turquoise and chili pepper decor!

[@JoshtheRVNerd]

You’re not wrong

[@oddlyme9659]

Lol, a nice giggle to my morning!! Here, here, let's have one of each!!

[@davidaukofer]

That thing is awesome, but I live in Wisconsin. Where's my nearest Northwoods dealer?

[@JoshtheRVNerd]

I am unsure of their dealer network - only what my team handles which can be checked thru our website

[@Mortimer_Duke]

Is that shag pile carpeting in the bedroom? Holy 1976, Batman!!!

[@JoshtheRVNerd]

Hahaha

[@texillini1]

I like natural woodwork. I have it in my home. I wish more RV’s would have it. Gives the unit a more homey feel. Makes for a prettier and more luxurious looking product. Nice camper. Good video.

[@JoshtheRVNerd]

Thanks for sharing!

[@maxcorder2211]

Why no electric outlets on the wall at the counter under the TV?

[@JoshtheRVNerd]

Good question..

[@brightlight8817]

We had a 1998 RV that looked more updated then this unique trailer. PS: That table looks like it should be in the cockpit of a sailboat. Carpet? Really? PPS: The factory brochure indicates that Northwood uses Luan in their wall construction No mention of Azdel.

[@JoshtheRVNerd]

LOL that 1998 comment gets me

[@matthavens6401]

Hey Josh! What's the smallest 5th wheel you've seen that has washer/dryer hookups? Not liking the interior on this one to be honest. Love watching your videos!

[@JoshtheRVNerd]

m.kzbin.info/www/bejne/i6S2e59omLCoqqM

[@COMMANDER-ONE]

Gutën mörgan Josh!

[@JoshtheRVNerd]

Ich bin ein Michigander

[@pamelamorales7081]

no carpet please. i like the curtains on the windows.

[@JoshtheRVNerd]

TY Pamela :)

[@kellyhovis2090]

Campers built the way I like to camp. Shouldn't fall apart going up wash board roads here out west. Thanks, Josh.

[@JoshtheRVNerd]

Right on!

[@Tony_in_AZ]

Nice unit... Interior colours are nice. Bathroom is a bit small, but the 5th wheel is a short one. For the length , it is well contained & designed. Needs 50 inch TV some where. RV short king bed is always needed for us.

[@tremjar1305]

this does look a bit more.... eh.. houselike... than others. just looking around first glance first couple minutes.. hard to explain, but you know what i mean. something about it makes it look heavier more apartment like than trailer like. from first impression.

[@JoshtheRVNerd]

No I get it totally

[@deweyoxburger5470]

Dislikes: floor vents, fabric treatments, glass cabinets, wood tone and hardware (wife says it's like grandma's house). Likes: storage, quality built, side room around terlet.

[@JoshtheRVNerd]

Ty Dewey

[@chrisnelson5160]

LET'S DO THE TIME WARP AGAIN !!!!!!!

[@JoshtheRVNerd]

😊

[@tonylinkous7940]

Nice, Can you take the huge dining table out, and replace it with seating.

[@JoshtheRVNerd]

Not from the factory but yeah it could be done

[@kenj.8897]

Just need to update interior. They are quality rigs .

[@JoshtheRVNerd]

👍🏻

[@thevagabondonwheels4918]

The internal styling would be a tough sell to the wife, but it doesn't matter because there are two very significant deal breakers for me on this one. The first, as you mentioned, is the lack of bathroom/bedroom access with the slides in. I could just not make that work with my travel style. The other is the 54 gallon fresh water capacity. Too bad, as there are few options for small 5ers with rear dinettes, which is a feature I adore.

[@JoshtheRVNerd]

Fair enough! It's always hard to hear road mode being a deal breaker but that's why I take the time to close them up. I just hope folks appreciate that I'm going out of my way to almost NOT sell trailers sometimes when I know it'll be an issue But I like folks to know the good with the bad

[@athomewithjenny]

The drop off at the end of the bed is scary

[@vandersnickmcduffle7333]

As someone who prefers the traditional décor, I approve. Some campers these days (especially toyhaulers) seem like they might be cringeworthy 10 years down the line. This type of décor may be "Eh", but 10 years down the line it will still blend in with the crowd. Honestly, this unit seems refreshing in that I don't think it will be a pile of kindling 3 years after purchase. Some of the units I see these days, it is VERY evident that the "cost reduction department" has had their way with the engineering and build. If I could get it in a toyhauler with a 15+' unobstructed garage, I would totally own it.

[@JoshtheRVNerd]

Yeah these are chunky and built to last I feel

[@donaldbailey5576]

Manufacturers need to stop with the frosted glass in the door window. Clear windows with a shade are such a better option.

[@COMMANDER-ONE]

That table that Charley demonstrated is really nice. I would like to see them save their time,money & do away with the valance and faux curtains.I do like the higher quality though. Thanks Josh and Charley.

[@JoshtheRVNerd]

Several similar remarks. Ty

[@mrziggy2939]

Nice, on the whole, there's enough light the dark brown isn't overwhelming. Could stand to be a foot or two longer and then could fit w/d in br closet and slip past slideout when closed.

[@JoshtheRVNerd]

I feel similarly on the decor. TY for watching!

[@suzannesnuggs4964]

These are nice rigs but pretty expensive. Deal breakers for me is travel mode access and no pantry.

[@JoshtheRVNerd]

Fair enough!

[@vasilizaitsez7455]

Finally some Northwood product line! No shocks was a big surprise. Looking forward to seeing some ORV action. If you ever do a 24RLS, clad to respond with an Owner Review.

[@JoshtheRVNerd]

Sure thing!

[@oldengineer1519]

I like Northwoods and their other company Outdoors RV. I wish they had some dealers closer to where I am here on the East Coast. Their decor is somewhat dated or as some folks would say "Classic" but I can live with that given the company's reputation and build quality.

[@JoshtheRVNerd]

If the shipping costs weren’t so crazy I would love to have them out East

[@jaybird4095]

DW and I looked at this unit at our local camping show. Overall I liked it, it made it on my possible list. DW did not like that you cannot get upstairs in travel mode. The brown interior, was a downfall, we would like lighter colors, to brighten up the unit. There is an outlet next to the door, under the dinette. The step system, would make it hard to use this receptacle. FYI, did you see the broken framing under the dinette when you did your pass through shot?

[@JoshtheRVNerd]

I thought I mentioned the dinette damage being my own fault when I started.. meant to anyway. I was clumsy 😔

[@thazen783]

Nice 5th wheel but that pin weight seems unusually high. It honestly and safely eliminates most 3/4 ton trucks as well.

[@chevy5515]

That’s what I was thinking. My 2500 ram Cummins would be overloaded as soon as I hooked up empty.

[@tjztyger]

My sister has a 2021 Chevy 2500HD. High Country, crew, standard bed, 4x4, Duramax. GVWR 11,250#, payload 3 229#, 5th wheel tow 18,310#. Seems robust enough to tug this, especially if you pack the heavy toys in the trunk.

[@JoshtheRVNerd]

It’s their chassis and structure

[@thazen783]

My 2019 Ford F-250 diesel Platinum 4x4 crew cab has a payload of 2,100#

[@angelaherring2861]

First thing that hit me immediately...there are to many busy patterns going on between the valance, furniture and floor. Makes my eyes hurt. Now going to watch the video completely. This is just what jumped out at the opening of the video.

[@JoshtheRVNerd]

Fair enough. First impressions matter.

[@Mortimer_Duke]

Junk Shin City?

[@JoshtheRVNerd]

Lol did the auto captions do me wrong again? Junction city

[@MatthewIrvine]

Wow, that decor... eek! Otherwise looks to be a solidly built rig. No dedicated pantry, bummer, but plenty of cabinet space. Not the most teched out rig, but for those that don't want a trailer smarter than they are it's a good fit.

[@JoshtheRVNerd]

Trailer smarter than they are 😆

[@avsfan80459]

That decor is waaaaay to busy. They definitely know how to make a brand new camper look 20+ years old. I do like all the storage. As far as road mode goes, realistically, who eats or sleeps without using the bathroom as well? Well built, storage and that mattress are pretty much its selling points.

[@JoshtheRVNerd]

Thanks for watching!

[@avsfan80459]

I love watching your videos! We have a 2023 GD XLS 23LDE. It will probably be our last camper but I still love seeing all the different floor plans, etc. You make it entertaining and I appreciate that! 👍

[@joyrogers124]

Thanks to you, Charlie, & Bob for showcasing this 2023 model. We camp year round and travel all over the country in our 2019 Outdoors RV 21KVS. It lives up to the Northwood reputation, and we are big fans! Altho we've looked at many other brands' under-30-foot 5th wheels, none can beat Northwood's durability & and quality, in our opinion. As much as we like the floor plan in this RKS, unfortunately, travel mode bathroom access is non-negotiable for us. (We plan to begin full-time travel this year and likely will upgrade to the Fox Mountain 235RLS.)

[@JoshtheRVNerd]

That video will be coming as well!

[@Spoolingturbski]

When you consider the fact that this little fifth wheel weighs as much as some full profile units 10 feet longer… it really speaks to the fact that Northwood only understands quality. Thanks for bringing this brand to more people and making the most comprehensive review of this brand on the internet.. Great video as always Josh!

[@JoshtheRVNerd]

Yeah the weight is a huge indicator of how hefty EVERYTHING is in these

[@donchaput8278]

Such a sharp, quality, well made camper. Love storage areas and that one behind the TV. I guess I could deal with the slide carpet but then they put in floor vents and that bed drop off. I'd pass

[@JoshtheRVNerd]

Thx Don.

[@CLEMSON_COBRA]

Josh- My main issue with the rear dinettes like that is the stand for the table always feels so flimsy and will not hold up and people slide around towards the back of it. We looked at a Grand Design Reflection in the same floor plan and the table looked like it was already about to pull out of the floor and did not instill a lot of confidence that it was secured very well to floor.

[@JoshtheRVNerd]

TY for sharing what you've seen. I've seen some I didn't mind. I've seen some that didn't inspire confidence either

[@lauragough1174]

You should always start by saying something positive. I like the graphics (though I REALLY like the Arctic Fox much better), floorplan is practical, and if the weight is any indication it should be built and insulated well. I'm in the deep south and reason that the same insulation that keeps it toasty in the winter should keep it cool in the summer, inside anyway. What I don't like: floor vents (though they are pretty common), carpet, the step-up by the bed, no pantry or towel storage (thought the closet at the foot of the bed could be used for that, even if inconvenient), no 12-volt fridge. Decor is dated, though probably 'fixable' with a staple gun, basic sewing skills and fabric of choice. Do they use furniture with a high-quality vinyl or will they be peeling in 2 years like everyone else? That would be shameful in something at this price poinat. What kind of slide mechanism is it? On-demand water heater?

[@donaldbailey5576]

Who wouldn’t like a huge AF on the front of a camper?

[@JoshtheRVNerd]

I am not sure who their furniture supplier is but when I see these used they seem to look just fine Rack and pinion slide Gas elec water heater

[@lauragough1174]

@@JoshtheRVNerd that type of slide can be partially deployed for a potty break can't it?

[@lauragough1174]

@@donaldbailey5576 I know, right? Put your own custom decal just above it expressing your mood.

[@JoshtheRVNerd]

@@lauragough1174 Pretty much anything but a schwintek So cables and rack & pinion are fine In an emergency you could do it on a schwintek but you don't want to make a steady diet out of it and want to let the system go thru its adjustment phase a few times

[@ericoswald7608]

2,330 pin weight. Wow!

[@ericoswald7608]

I see that listed in the video and I think 1930 on the specs.

[@JoshtheRVNerd]

I might’ve jumbled something apologies

[@ericoswald7608]

Either way she’s a heavy girl for her size!

[@JoshtheRVNerd]

@@ericoswald7608 she thicc lol

[@crazyprepper5400]

How about moving away from Charley Brown

[@stevez340]

Other than the very small awning and their dated decors, this is an awesome couple’s floorplan loaded with quality STANDARD features👍I’m also just a little leery of all rooftop cargo racks and would try to never have to use it😬

[@nevetsgray]

Think about "bunk bed" solar that you can set up to charge off the top while underway then remove the top and charge off of both levels when at site?

[@JoshtheRVNerd]

I’d never strap cargo then. It’s such an old school feature

[@stevez340]

@@JoshtheRVNerd I always try to avoid possible leaks and water damage if possible👍

[@ctsnider88]

Poor Charlie 🐎. You can have any color you want as long as it's brown. I do like this unit. Gen prep is a wonderful thing. Still need MAX solar!

[@JoshtheRVNerd]

Charlie is a great guy though

[@raclay4267]

Gosh. It’s not even just “all the browns” it’s all the brown PATTERNS. With that said, if I had hunting land in Montana or something, this would be great. This isn’t aimed at me and that’s okay.

[@JoshtheRVNerd]

😂

[@karlapeck1358]

First impression? 1975!

[@JoshtheRVNerd]

hahaha

[@shannonl3443]

I'm getting 70's vibe. The decor is dated for sure, and it's too busy.

[@JoshtheRVNerd]

Seeing some similar remarks. Ty

[@mrhorspwer]

Little known fact: Prior to transitioning to RV production in 1993, Northwood got their start making parts and structure systems for Abrams tanks.

[@JoshtheRVNerd]

Hahahha

[@southfork67]

Haha. That is entirely possible but in reality Northwood was started by Ron Nash who was instrumental in creating Fleetwood trailers whose designs and floorplans still live on today industry wide. He wanted a better built version, as he had originally envisioned then so he started his own company right down the road.

[@crazyprepper5400]

So industry standards is crappy

[@kathyadams3366]

Nice floor plan horrible interior, 1990’s! I actually thought this was a old used camper when I saw the interior preview.

[@JoshtheRVNerd]

😂 quite the opposite but I get it

[@barbaradowney4207]

I respect the build, but my gosh can their interior colors be any more awful. Just like ORV's they stick to their "cabinish" theme. I know many people have asked for the option of lighter and more modern decor and they just ignore. I guess as long as they can sell them they feel like they don't need to change. I find the interior decor so depressing and how many shades of brown can there be?

[@JoshtheRVNerd]

All of them. All of the browns

[@shanebrown2963]

This layout in this rv is the one we will be mostly likely purchasing this summer. I think the decor in the grand design is way better. This northwood in this decor looks way too dated.

[@JoshtheRVNerd]

I give the look to GD for sure and the nod on structure for these

[@bonneymac38]

Too much dark brown!

[@JoshtheRVNerd]

They've lightened up a lot since this was done thankfully

[@bonneymac38]

Oh good! Wasn’t there a Grand Design 5th wheel with the same floor plan? I thought I saw one from you but can’t find it

[@Livinglifeover60]

Outdated decor. To many different colors

[@brentnelson1270]

I understand that Northwoods build quality is some of the best, BUT they desperately need to hire an interior designer. 🤢

[@JoshtheRVNerd]

😂

[@dennisblank1451]

Interior and styling looks and feels dated...

[@JoshtheRVNerd]

It is for sure but also it’s just… what this company does and seemingly will always do

[@jeffneilson510]

Look like my grandfather’s place. Old fashion ugly. Needs a serious update.

[@jodicoleman7658]

That decor is ugly imo! They need a better “same old same old”. I also think that it is not a positive selling point that it’ll be the same look as 20 years ago….

[@pc9429]

The 90’s called they want their 5th wheel back. Sorry I couldn’t resist.

[@JoshtheRVNerd]

Hahha