A look at Lazy Daze RV - the history - and collectibility
Lazy Daze RV - a collectible cult classic Class C RV
When it comes to RVs with a loyal following and a reputation for quality, Lazy Daze RVs stand in a class of their own. Built with craftsmanship, durability, and practicality at their core, these Class C motorhomes are a favorite among full-time travelers and road trip adventurers alike. While Lazy Daze may not be a household name like some mass-market brands, those in the know swear by their performance and reliability.
A Brief History of Lazy Daze RVs
Founded in 1956 and based in Montclair, California, Lazy Daze was a family-owned business with a unique philosophy: build a small number of Class C motorhomes each year—and build them well. They focused on factory-direct sales and customer-first manufacturing, producing RVs designed for long-term use rather than mass production.
For decades, Lazy Daze maintained a reputation for no-nonsense quality, focusing on aluminum-skinned Class C coaches known for their clean lines, practical floor plans, and excellent visibility. Unlike many RV brands, Lazy Daze resisted flashy marketing, relying instead on word-of-mouth and repeat customers to grow their community.
In the 1950s two high school shop teachers, Paul Newton and Harold Hamm built a slide-in truck camper. It was so well done that they soon had others asking them to build one for them. Business got so good they quit teaching and moved over into the RV business. After Hamm died, Newton kept the enterprise going, getting help from his brother, Ed. The little firm became a family group.
A later model Lazy Daze RV
Why RV Enthusiasts Love Lazy Daze
Aircraft-Grade Aluminum Construction
Lazy Daze coaches use smooth, aircraft-grade aluminum siding instead of fiberglass. This not only gives them a distinctive look but also adds to their longevity and resistance to delamination, a common issue in many RVs.
Smart Floorplans
Lazy Daze models are known for their well-thought-out interior layouts. With options like rear lounge, mid-bath, and twin bed configurations, owners often praise the use of space, visibility through panoramic windows and a high-quality feel.
One of the appealing things about Lazy Daze models is that they didn’t have slide rooms. Lots of RVers are “slide skeptics” including me and this was just part of the appeal.
Built to Last
Lazy Daze RVs are built for high mileage. Many units from the '80s and '90s are still on the road today. Their Ford E-Series chassis is easy to maintain, and the company always prioritized serviceability and durability over flash.
Loyal Community
Lazy Daze owners often form tight-knit online groups, attend rallies, and trade knowledge. There’s even an unofficial motto: “Buy your second RV first.” The Lazy Daze community forum and Facebook groups are gold mines of technical advice and camaraderie.
Factory-Direct Sales Model
Lazy Daze was one of the few RV manufacturers that sold exclusively direct from the factory, allowing for custom orders and personalized options without dealer markups. While this limited their availability, it helped keep prices reasonable and quality consistent.
The former Lazy Daze operation in Montclair, CA - Google Images
What Happened to Lazy Daze?
As of early 2022, Lazy Daze ceased production following the passing of owner Steve Newton and pandemic-related challenges. There were also issues with getting pieces to build their iconic RVs and significant challenges with showing them to prospects.
Rather than sell, the owners of the company chose to simply shut the doors although there are certainly vocal critics who had hoped they would sell it and someone could continue it. But the pattern of other companies who have sold doesn’t always point to the new owners having the same passion for quality.
Further Lazy Daze was way out in Montclair, California which is a far stretch from where most RVs are made.
While no new RVs are currently being built, used Lazy Daze models remain highly sought after. RVers continue to buy, refurbish, and travel in these iconic Class C rigs—proof of the brand’s enduring legacy.
Finding a Used Lazy Daze RV
If you're looking to purchase a used Lazy Daze motorhome, sites like RVTrader, Facebook Marketplace and dedicated Lazy Daze forums are the best places to start. Pay attention to model year, layout, mileage, and maintenance history. Thanks to their solid construction, many used units are in excellent condition.
A gathering of Lazy Daze RVs
Final Thoughts
At one point California was the hub of the RV industry, believe it or not. Companies like Lazy Days, Alpha Leisure, Aristocrat and so many others were operated there. It was a place where manufacturing was a cornerstone of the economy and plenty of people with incredible capability in the manufacturing space were on-hand following WWII.
There was capacity and talent that had been building the machines that helped win that war along with beautiful weather year ‘round and a community of builders.
But Lazy Daze was one of the last holdouts. There are still companies in the Golden State like Lance and Four Wheel Pop-Up Campers but most of their peers are just gone.
The personal attention to detail and quality materials that were hallmarks of the Lazy Daze brand went silent but, fortunately, the RVs themselves are still well made with a strong following. If you’re looking for a used Class C RV it’s tough to beat a Lazy Daze.
One of their contemporaries, Lance Camper, was swallowed up by the REV Group years ago but recently has become a locally-owned independent company again with an RV industry veteran at the helm. It’s a shame Lazy Daze couldn’t stick it out but who could have seen this coming? A company that counts Lance and Lazy Daze in their portfolio would certainly have a lot to brag about!
A very early example of a Lazy Daze RV
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