Forest River is the largest RV manufacturer in North America, a Berkshire Hathaway subsidiary encompassing over 45 brands. While primarily serving the American market, Forest River products occasionally appear in the UK as imports.

The extensive range includes:

Class A motorhomes — full-size luxury motorhomes including the FR3, Georgetown and Berkshire XLT.

Class B campervans — compact van conversions that are most suited to UK roads.

Class C motorhomes — mid-size cab-over models including the Forester, Sunseeker and Solera.

Super C motorhomes — built on commercial truck chassis for maximum space and capability.

Popular brands within the Forest River family include Coachmen, Shasta, Salem, Rockwood and Flagstaff.

Forest River was founded in 1996 by Peter Liegl in Elkhart, Indiana — the 'RV Capital of the World'. Liegl purchased assets from Cobra Industries, where he had previously worked, with a vision to manufacture reliable, affordable RVs without compromising quality.

The company grew rapidly through both organic growth and acquisitions. In 1998, Forest River acquired Firan Motorhomes for Class A production. In 1999, it acquired assets from Coachmen Industries, adding Class A and C motorhomes.

In 2005, Forest River was acquired by Berkshire Hathaway, becoming part of Warren Buffett's portfolio. Despite the acquisition, Forest River maintained operational independence.

Forest River has grown to become the largest manufacturer of recreational vehicles in North America, encompassing over 45 brands and approximately 60 total brands and subsidiaries. The company also produces cargo trailers, pontoon boats, buses and commercial vehicles.

Largest RV manufacturer in North America — Forest River's scale is unmatched, producing more recreational vehicles than any other company on the continent.

Berkshire Hathaway ownership — part of Warren Buffett's portfolio provides exceptional financial stability and long-term commitment.

45+ brand portfolio — Forest River encompasses an enormous range of RV brands covering every segment from budget to luxury.

Elkhart, Indiana manufacturing — produced in the RV Capital of the World, drawing on decades of regional manufacturing expertise.

If you want an American Class B campervan — Forest River's compact van conversions offer American features on UK-manageable platforms.

If corporate stability matters — Berkshire Hathaway ownership ensures parts and support for the foreseeable future.

If you want the full American RV experience — Forest River's Class A and Super C models deliver maximum space and amenities.

Not designed for UK roads — most Forest River models are built for American highways and exceed UK road norms.

Left-hand drive only — all production is LHD.

No UK dealer network — parts and servicing require specialist importers or US sourcing.

Different standards — US propane, 110V electrical and holding tank systems require conversion for UK use.

Import complexity and cost — SVA/IVA testing, registration and system conversion add significantly to purchase costs.

Identify the specific brand and model — Forest River encompasses 45+ brands, each with different quality levels and construction methods.

Verify UK road legality — check width, length and weight compliance.

Check gas and electrical conversion — US systems must be properly converted to UK standards by qualified professionals.

Inspect for water damage — American RV construction methods differ from European; check thoroughly for water ingress.

Forest River manufacturer warranty applies in North America only. UK buyers of imported Forest River motorhomes will have no manufacturer warranty coverage.

Specialist American RV importers may offer their own warranty packages. Independent warranty is strongly recommended.

When buying a used Forest River, look for a dealer that offers an independent warranty backed by a provider like the RAC. This means your warranty remains valid even if the dealer ceases trading. OakTree Motorhomes offer up to three years of RAC-backed warranty, covering the average ownership period.