The History of Jayco RV

Published on Sep 28, 2025 Blog Image


The History of Jayco RV: Innovation, Family, and the Spirit of Adventure

When you think of RVs that combine family values, innovation, and affordability, Jayco is a brand that stands out. For more than five decades, Jayco has been a leader in the RV industry, helping millions of families embrace the RV lifestyle. Let’s explore the history of Jayco RV and how it became one of the most trusted names in camping.

The Beginning of Jayco

Jayco RV was founded in 1968 by Lloyd and Bertha Bontrager in Middlebury, Indiana. Lloyd, an inventor and visionary, developed a unique fold-down lift system for tent campers that revolutionized the pop-up camper market.

With a barn as their first workshop and just 15 employees, Jayco began building campers that blended practicality, quality, and innovation.

Growth Through the 1970s and 1980s

By the 1970s, Jayco had already made its mark with popular pop-up camping trailers. As the RV lifestyle grew in popularity, Jayco expanded into travel trailers, fifth wheels, and motorhomes.

The company quickly earned a reputation for family-friendly RVs at affordable prices, helping it become one of the fastest-growing brands in the U.S.

Family-Owned Tradition

Even after becoming a large RV manufacturer, Jayco stayed true to its roots as a family-owned company. The Bontrager family instilled values of quality craftsmanship, customer care, and innovative design into everything they built.

This family-oriented approach resonated with RVers and helped Jayco develop a loyal customer base that has lasted for generations.

Innovation and Recognition

Jayco has consistently been an innovator in the RV industry, introducing features and designs that enhance safety, comfort, and performance, such as:

  • Jayco Magnum Truss Roof System – Known for being one of the strongest RV roof designs.

  • Climate Shield™ technology – Improved insulation for four-season camping.

  • JaySMART™ lighting system – Advanced safety lighting on travel trailers and motorhomes.

These innovations, combined with a commitment to durability, helped Jayco stand out as more than just another RV brand.

Jayco Joins Thor Industries

In 2016, Jayco was acquired by Thor Industries, the world’s largest RV manufacturer. Under Thor, Jayco gained even more resources and stability, while still operating under the Jayco name and culture that made it successful.

The acquisition also brought other popular RV lines into the Jayco family, including Starcraft RV, Highland Ridge RV, and Entegra Coach.

Jayco Today

Today, Jayco continues to be one of the most recognized names in the RV industry, offering a wide variety of models for every type of traveler:

  • Travel Trailers – Including lightweight options like the Jay Flight SLX and Jay Feather.

  • Fifth Wheels – Spacious and luxurious models like the Eagle and North Point.

  • Toy Haulers – For adventurous RVers who travel with gear.

  • Motorhomes – Gas and diesel options, plus the popular Class C Greyhawk and Redhawk.

With millions of RVs built since 1968, Jayco remains committed to innovation, quality, and family fun.


The history of Jayco RV is a story of family values, customer loyalty, and a drive to make RVing accessible for everyone. From its first pop-up camper in a barn to becoming part of Thor Industries, Jayco has stayed true to its mission: helping families “Experience the Freedom of the Open Road.”

Whether you’re a weekend camper or a full-time RVer, Jayco continues to be a brand trusted by generations of outdoor enthusiasts.