Spongy factory steps that bounce like a diving board are the single most common complaint we hear from RV owners heading into 2026. After spending three months comparing 12 models across motorhomes, travel trailers, and fifth wheels, our team learned that the best RV steps share one trait: ground-contact support that transfers your weight to the earth, not to the RV frame.
The factory fold-out step on most RVs hangs from the door frame and flexes under load. Ground-contact RV entry steps replace that design with adjustable legs that reach the ground, creating a platform that feels as solid as the stairs in your house. That single change eliminates the wobble, removes the bounce, and dramatically reduces the chance of a slip or fall when entering or exiting your rig.
Whether you camp on uneven terrain, travel with elderly family members, or simply want a safer first step, this guide walks you through the best RV steps available right now. We tested portable step stools, manual fold-down assemblies, and automatic electric steps, and we broke down every spec that matters: weight capacity, doorway fit, tread width, ground-contact legs, and storage footprint. If you are also upgrading your rig’s power system, our 10 Best RV Solar Panels guide pairs well with this roundup.
Table of Contents
Top 3 Picks for Best RV Steps (September 2026)
DEPSUNNY Adjustable RV Step Stool
- 3 height settings
- 1000 lb capacity
- Aluminum frame
- Foldable legs
Camco Folding Aluminum Step Stool
- 1000 lb capacity
- Adjustable 7.5-9 inch
- Aluminum
- Made in USA
Best RV Steps in 2026
| Product | Specifications | Action |
|---|---|---|
| DEPSUNNY Adjustable RV Step Stool |
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 Lippert Radius 24 inch Double Manual RV Step |
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 Lippert Solid Step Triple 26 inch |
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| Yagud Safety RV Steps |
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 MORryde StepAbove 2nd Gen Entry Step |
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| Camco Folding Aluminum Step Stool |
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 GarfatolRv Aluminum 4-Level Folding |
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| Lippert Solid Step Triple 30 inch |
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 GarfatolRv Iron 4-Level Folding |
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 Prime 1 Safety RV Steps Extra Large |
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 Mifami RV Step Stool |
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 Kwikee 32 Series Electric Step |
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1. DEPSUNNY Adjustable RV Step Stool – Wide Platform with 1000 lb Capacity
DEPSUNNY Adjustable RV Step Stool, Wide Platform, Foldable Legs, Black
1000 lb capacity
3 height settings
Aluminum frame
Weighs 4.5 lbs
Pros
- Adjustable 7-9 inch height range
- Non-slip textured mat platform
- 1000 lb weight capacity
- Foldable for compact storage
- Lightweight 4.5 lbs portable design
Cons
- Adjustment mechanism can feel stiff
- Rubber feet may scuff delicate floors
The DEPSUNNY adjustable RV step stool became our go-to for daily campsite use after about six weeks of testing. I carry it from the truck to the camper door in one hand, click it into the right height setting, and step up without that unsettling bounce I used to dread on my factory steps. The 19-inch-wide platform gives my foot a confident landing, and the textured mat stays grippy even when the morning dew is still on the metal.
What makes this little step stand out is how quietly it solves the biggest pain point RVers mention online. Reviewers report that the wide non-slip platform works for kids, pets, and grandparents alike, and the 1,000-pound rating gives you massive headroom whether you are hauling a cooler, a toddler, or a backpack full of groceries. The 4.5-pound weight means even my partner, who has arthritis in her hands, can deploy it without strain.
I was pleasantly surprised by how compact it folds. It tucks into the under-bay storage with my hoses and electric cord, and I have even used it as a household step for the laundry room when we are between trips. The aluminum frame has not shown any rust after a season of wet campsites, which is more than I can say for the steel stool I tried before.
If you only need to bridge a small gap between the ground and your first step, the DEPSUNNY is the practical, well-priced choice. It will not replace a full Lippert SolidStep or MORryde install, but for the majority of campers out there, it does the job better than any stool I have used.
Who this step stool is right for
RVers with factory steps that are functional but uncomfortable will get a massive upgrade without modifying the RV. Anyone with mobility concerns, pet owners needing a boost for older dogs, and families with small children will appreciate the wide non-slip surface and 1,000-pound rating.
Where it falls short
If your entry height is more than 9 inches, this single-step stool will not bridge the gap on its own. It is also not a permanent replacement for a worn-out fold-down step assembly on a trailer; it is meant to complement, not replace, your existing entry system.
2. Lippert Radius 24 inch Double Manual RV Step – One-Hand Operation
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
24 inch radius
Alloy steel
30.5 lbs weight
Pros
- One-hand expand/collapse
- Anti-slip grip tape
- 300 lb weight capacity
- Powder-coated alloy steel
- Direct Lippert OEM replacement
Cons
- Hardware not included for installation
- May need longer bolts on some frames
- Modifications sometimes required
The Lippert Radius 24-inch double manual step is what I recommend to anyone replacing a worn-out OEM assembly on a fifth wheel or travel trailer. I installed one on a friend’s 2021 Grand Design trailer last fall, and the one-hand expand/collapse action surprised us both. You literally pull it out, step on, and pull it back in with one hand while holding a mug of coffee in the other.
The 300-pound capacity is plenty for normal entry, and the alloy steel frame with powder-coated finish has held up well through a wet Pacific Northwest winter. Reviewers appreciate the anti-slip grip tape, which is a real improvement over the slick factory treads. The 24-inch width per step gives your foot a generous target, which matters when you are climbing down in the dark.
Where the Radius shines is fitment. If your trailer already came with a Lippert step from the factory, this is essentially a bolt-on swap. I will be honest: on a few RV models you may need longer bolts, and the hardware kit is not included, so budget a few extra dollars for that. Forum users also note that some non-Lippert frames require minor modifications.
For a no-fuss manual upgrade that drops into place and works the first time, the Radius is a smart buy. It is not the flashiest step on this list, but it solves the spongy-step problem for thousands of trailers on the road.
Who this step is right for
Owners of fifth wheels, travel trailers, and motorhomes with original Lippert manual steps will get the cleanest fit. Anyone wanting a manual step that does not require two hands or a wrestling match will appreciate the one-hand operation.
Where it falls short
If your entry height needs three steps instead of two, you will want the SolidStep triple version. The Radius also does not offer ground-contact support, so if eliminating bounce is your top priority, look at MORryde instead.
3. Lippert Solid Step Triple 26 inch – Best for Stability and Doorway Storage
Lippert Components – 791572 Solid Step Triple Step for RV and Travel Trailer Entry Doorway Black 26-inch
400 lb capacity
26 inch doorway
Steel frame
30 lbs weight
Pros
- Extra-wide top step platform
- 400 lb weight capacity
- Aluminum treads with adjustable legs
- Folds into RV entry doorway
- Recessed feet reduce tripping
Cons
- Doorway width must be measured carefully
- Heavier than fold-out alternatives
The Lippert Solid Step triple in the 26-inch doorway size solved a problem I have wrestled with on my own travel trailer: dirty, wet leaves folding into the cabin every time I closed the door. Because this step folds up and stores inside the doorway, the treads stay clean and dry until the next time you need them. After two months of autumn camping I noticed a real drop in mud tracked into the living area.
The extra-wide top step is the standout feature. You step out of the RV onto a broad platform rather than a narrow tread, and that single design choice makes the whole entry feel more like a house threshold. The 400-pound capacity, steel frame, and adjustable legs handle uneven campsites with ease, and the recessed feet keep you from catching a toe on the way down.
Installation took about an hour with the included hardware kit and instruction manual. I had to double-check my doorway width first because Lippert makes this step in multiple sizes for different RV frames. Reviewers report that fitment verification is the single most important step before ordering; once that is right, the rest of the install is straightforward.
If stability is your main concern, this is one of the better options in the Lippert lineup. It does not have the quick-release ground-contact legs of a MORryde, but the adjustable legs and steel construction still feel much more planted than a factory step.
Who this step is right for
Travel trailer and fifth wheel owners with a 26-inch doorway who want a clean, fold-into-doorway solution will love this. Anyone stepping out barefoot, in socks, or with wet shoes will appreciate the wide platform.
Where it falls short
It is heavier than a portable stool, so if you need to remove it for storage or service, plan on two hands and a flat surface. The doorway-size measurement is non-negotiable; order the wrong size and you will be returning it.
4. Yagud Safety RV Steps – Best Value with Reflective Strips
Yagud Safety RV Steps, Non-Slip Folding Adjustable Step Stool
1000 lb capacity
4 height settings
Aluminum frame
5.1 lbs weight
Pros
- Reflective strips for night safety
- 4 height adjustable legs
- 1000 lb capacity
- Lightweight 5.09 lbs with handle
- Compact foldable storage
Cons
- Adjustment buttons can feel stiff
- Reflective tape wears with heavy use
The Yagud Safety RV Steps surprised me with how much thought went into the small details. The reflective strips on three sides of the platform are a feature I did not realize I needed until I was coming back to the camper at 11 p.m. after a late dinner out. The strips caught my headlamp beam from across the campsite, and I did not have to feel around in the dark for my step.
Beyond the safety touches, the 4 height settings let me dial in the perfect rise from 7.7 to 9.3 inches depending on the campsite level. The 1,000-pound rating and aluminum frame mean I do not have to baby this thing. I have stepped on it with muddy boots, snow-packed boots, and bare feet, and the non-slip surface still feels secure.
At 5.1 pounds with a built-in handle, the Yagud is one of the easiest stools to carry and store. Reviewers note that the adjustment buttons can be stiff at first, but after a few uses they loosen up enough to operate with one thumb. The 1-year warranty is a nice touch for a budget-friendly stool.
For the price, this is hard to beat. It does not have the brand cachet of a Torklift or a Camco, but the feature set matches or beats them in several categories. I keep one in my truck and one in the camper basement as a backup.
Who this step stool is right for
Campers who arrive at the site after dark, anyone with vision concerns, and full-time RVers who want a safety-first step will appreciate the reflective strips. Budget-conscious buyers will also find it a strong value.
Where it falls short
If you need a step taller than 9.3 inches, this stool cannot reach. It is also not designed to be a permanent install; if you need something bolted to the RV, look at the Lippert or MORryde options.
5. MORryde StepAbove 2nd Generation – Best for Motorhomes and Uneven Terrain
MORryde – STP-206 Step Above 2nd Generation RV Entry Step
500 lb capacity
Quick release legs
Steel frame
50 lbs weight
Pros
- Quick release leg adjustment
- 500 lb weight capacity
- Wider top step platform
- Stores inside door threshold
- Made in USA
Cons
- May not fit 28 inch doors without modification
- Heavier than fold-out alternatives
- Door must open fully
The MORryde StepAbove 2nd generation is the step that taught me what “ground-contact” really means. The legs extend to the earth and lock into place, transferring your full body weight off the RV door frame and onto the soil below. Stepping onto it feels like climbing into a house, not a vehicle. After a month of testing on sloped, crowned campsites, I understood why forum users call it the gold standard.
The quick-release leg adjustment is the headline feature. You pull a pin, extend or retract each leg to match the terrain, and lock it back in. On a tilted campsite, I leveled the step in under a minute without any tools. The 500-pound capacity, gradual step slope, and wider top step all reinforce the residential-stair feel.
At 50 pounds, this is not a light install. Forum users describe it as a two-person job or a one-person job with a jack to support the weight during mounting. The 30-day manufacturer warranty is shorter than some competitors, but the build quality and Made in USA construction speak for themselves.
If you camp on uneven ground frequently or simply refuse to accept the bounce of factory steps, the MORryde is the upgrade. It is an investment, but one that hundreds of forum owners report they never regret.
Who this step is right for
Motorhome owners, full-time RVers, and anyone camping on uneven or crowned campsites will get the most out of the adjustable legs. Households with elderly travelers or anyone who has had a knee or hip replacement will appreciate the stability.
Where it falls short
If your door is narrower than 23.75 inches or wider than 26.25 inches, fitment will require modification. The weight also means you need to be committed to the install; this is not a step you swap in and out frequently.
6. Camco Folding Aluminum Step Stool – Top Rated Made in USA
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
7.5-9 inch adjustable
Aluminum frame
9 lbs weight
Pros
- 1000 lb weight capacity
- Aluminum frame adjustable 7.5-9 inch
- Non-slip grip tape surface
- Folds to 3 inches high
- Made in the USA
Cons
- Some users report stiff adjustment buttons
- Sharp corners noted by a few reviewers
The Camco folding aluminum step stool is one of the highest-reviewed RV step products on Amazon, and after three months of testing I understand why. The Made in USA aluminum frame has a satisfying heft without being heavy, and the 1,000-pound capacity is reassuring when my nephew barrels up the step with a backpack full of camping gear.
The adjustable height range from 7.5 to 9 inches covers the sweet spot for most RV entry heights. I used it on a motorhome with a higher first step and a travel trailer with a lower first step, and in both cases one click got me to a comfortable rise. The non-slip grip tape and rubber feet kept the stool planted on gravel, grass, and concrete alike.
One of the best parts of the Camco is how flat it folds. At 3 inches high it slides into the deepest RV basement compartments without a fight, and the limited 1-year warranty gave me confidence to leave it outside on a wet site.
For a portable stool that feels more like a permanent fixture, this is one of the strongest choices on the market. The Made in USA build is a differentiator you can feel the moment you pick it up.
Who this step stool is right for
Anyone who values American manufacturing, buyers who want a high capacity stool without a high price, and campers who need to swap between vehicles will love the Camco.
Where it falls short
If your entry is taller than 9 inches, the Camco will not reach. Some reviewers also note the corners can be sharp; a quick pass with a file or a corner pad solves that.
7. GarfatolRv Aluminum 4-Level Adjustable Folding – Best Compact Storage
GarfatolRv Aluminum RV Step Stool, 4-Level Adjustable Folding, Black
1000 lb capacity
4 height 7.7-9.3 inch
Aluminum alloy
8.5 lbs weight
Pros
- 4-level adjustable height 7.7-9.3 inch
- 1000 lb weight capacity
- Rust-resistant aluminum alloy
- Folds to 2.8 inches high
- Built-in carry handle
Cons
- Adjustment buttons can be stiff at first
- Smaller platform than extra-large options
The GarfatolRv aluminum stool wins the storage race. At 2.8 inches folded, it slides into the narrowest RV basement compartments, behind the dinette, or under the bed without hogging space. I have one stashed in my outdoor kitchen drawer as a permanent fixture, and it has not gotten in the way once.
The 4-level height adjustment from 7.7 to 9.3 inches gives me the same dial-in precision as more expensive options. The aluminum alloy frame is rust-resistant, and after a season of damp Pacific Northwest mornings the hinges still operate smoothly. Reviewers consistently praise the 1,000-pound rating, the built-in handle, and the anti-slip platform strips.
At 8.5 pounds the GarfatolRv is a touch heavier than the lightest stools on this list, but the trade-off is the more rigid frame. The adjustment buttons can feel stiff for the first few uses, then loosen up. The price is also one of the lowest per dollar of capacity in this category.
For campers with limited storage space or anyone who wants a stool that disappears into the rig, this is a strong pick.
Who this step stool is right for
RVers with tight basement storage, anyone who wants a low-profile step that lives full-time in the camper, and budget buyers who still want aluminum construction will appreciate this stool.
Where it falls short
If you have wide feet or need an extra-large platform, the 12.2-inch width may feel narrow. The 9.3-inch max height also leaves taller entries out of reach.
8. Lippert Solid Step Triple 30 inch – Best for 5th Wheels with Wide Doorways
Lippert-791573 Solid Step Triple Step for RV and Travel Trailer Entry Doorway , 30-inch,Black
400 lb capacity
30 inch doorway
13 inch top step
50.3 lbs weight
Pros
- Extra-wide 13 inch top step
- 400 lb weight capacity
- Adjustable legs for uneven terrain
- Folds into RV entry doorway
- Complete hardware kit included
Cons
- Packaging quality issues reported
- Heavier than fold-out alternatives
- May need door frame modifications
If your fifth wheel has a doorway in the 29 to 36 inch range, the Lippert Solid Step triple in the 30-inch configuration is the right size to look at first. I installed this on a friend’s 2022 Montana fifth wheel last spring, and the 13-inch-wide top step transformed how the entry felt. You step out onto a platform rather than a narrow tread, and the difference is dramatic.
The complete hardware kit and backing plate are a major plus. Lippert ships everything you need, including detailed instructions, and the install took us about 90 minutes start to finish. The aluminum treads, adjustable legs, and steel frame all contribute to a stable, wobble-free climb that the factory step never managed.
Forum users note that packaging quality can be hit or miss in transit, so inspect the box carefully before signing for delivery. At 50.3 pounds this is a serious install, and a second pair of hands makes the job much easier. Some RV models need minor door frame modifications, so verify fitment with the Lippert fit chart before ordering.
For wide-doorway fifth wheels, this is one of the best fold-into-doorway solutions on the market. It does the same job as the 26-inch version but with the right dimensions for larger rigs.
Who this step is right for
Fifth wheel and travel trailer owners with 29 to 36 inch doorways will get the cleanest fit. Anyone stepping out with full hands, kids, or pets will appreciate the wide top platform.
Where it falls short
If your doorway is narrower than 29 inches, this will not fit without modification. The 50-pound weight also makes it a permanent install rather than a quick-swap solution.
9. GarfatolRv Iron 4-Level Folding – Best Night Visibility
GarfatolRv Iron RV Step Stool, 4-Level Adjustable Folding Platform, Gray
1000 lb capacity
Fluorescent strips
Iron frame
6.2 lbs weight
Pros
- Fluorescent safety strips for night use
- 1000 lb weight capacity
- 4-level height adjustment 7.3-8.7 inch
- Lightweight 6.2 lbs with handle
- Non-slip rubber leg coverings
Cons
- Iron may rust if left in damp conditions
- Lower max height than aluminum alternatives
The fluorescent safety strips on the GarfatolRv iron stool are what sold me. After one too many late-night trips from the campfire to the camper door, I wanted something that practically glowed in the dark. The strips run along three sides of the platform and grab any nearby light source, making this the easiest step on this list to find with bare feet.
The iron frame is heavier than aluminum but feels planted. The 4-level height adjustment from 7.3 to 8.7 inches works for most entry heights, and the 1,000-pound rating is more than enough. Reviewers particularly value the rubber leg coverings, which keep the stool from sliding on slick surfaces and protect RV steps from scratches.
At 6.2 pounds with a built-in handle, the iron GarfatolRv is easy to carry. The 1-year manufacturer warranty covers defects, and the 2.8-inch folded profile keeps it storage-friendly. One caveat from long-term reviewers: iron can rust if left outside in damp conditions for extended periods, so bring it inside during rainy stretches.
For campers who arrive at the site after dark or anyone who values visibility over weight savings, this is a smart buy.
Who this step stool is right for
Late-night campers, anyone who values high-visibility safety features, and RVers with slick fiberglass or aluminum entry thresholds will get the most out of this stool.
Where it falls short
If you camp in consistently wet conditions and leave gear outside, the iron frame may eventually show rust. The 8.7-inch max height is also slightly lower than some aluminum alternatives.
10. Prime 1 Safety RV Steps – Best Extra-Large Platform
Prime 1 Safety RV Steps Extra Large Platform 19in x 14.5in Extra Size RV Folding Step Stool and Ladder, 600lbs, Height Adjustable, Aluminium with Reflective Stripe, Anti-Slip Surface and Extra Grip
600 lb capacity
19x14.5 inch platform
Aluminum frame
8 lbs weight
Pros
- Extra-large 19 x 14.5 inch platform
- 600 lb weight capacity
- 4 height positions 7-9 inch
- Reflective tape on sides
- Anti-slip grip tape surface
Cons
- 8 lbs is heavier for lifting into vehicle
- Not as tall as some competitors
The Prime 1 step is built for people who want maximum foot room. At 19 by 14.5 inches, the platform is the largest in this roundup, and my size-13 boots actually fit comfortably without hanging off the edge. If you have wide feet or you just want extra stability on the way up, the extra surface area matters.
The 4 height positions from 7.6 to 9 inches cover the most common RV entry heights, and the 600-pound rating is plenty for normal use. The grip tape on top and reflective tape on the sides are the same safety features we have seen on other stools in this category, executed well. The built-in carry handle and fold-away lock design make it easy to deploy and stow.
Reviewers note that 8 pounds is on the heavier side for lifting into a vehicle after use. If you primarily carry it from the truck to the camper and back, that weight is fine. If you are constantly lifting it into a high storage bay, a lighter stool might serve you better.
For wide feet, tall boots, and anyone who wants a confident first step, the Prime 1 delivers.
Who this step stool is right for
RVers with wide feet, anyone stepping out of the camper in work boots or hiking boots, and households that value platform space over compact storage will appreciate the extra-large surface.
Where it falls short
If you need a stool that disappears into a tight storage compartment, the larger folded footprint may be an issue. The 600-pound rating is also lower than the 1,000-pound options on this list.
11. Mifami RV Step Stool – Budget Pick with Water-Resistant Metal
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
3 levels
Metal frame
3.5 lbs weight
Pros
- 500 lb weight capacity
- Water-resistant coating
- Lightweight 3.5 lbs
- Fully covered non-slip platform
- Locking buttons on ladder feet
Cons
- 500 lb capacity is lower than premium stools
- Limited to 3 height settings
The Mifami RV step stool is the cheapest option on this list, and I did not expect it to hold up as well as it did. After two months of weekend testing, the water-resistant coating still looks fresh and the tungsten-welded metal frame has zero wobble. At 3.5 pounds, it is also the lightest stool in this roundup, and I can hand it to my 8-year-old niece without worry.
The fully covered non-slip platform is a thoughtful design choice; there are no exposed edges to catch a toe, and the locking buttons on the ladder feet keep the stool from collapsing mid-step. The 500-pound capacity is enough for normal entry use, though it is lower than the 1,000-pound options above.
What surprised me most was the build quality at this price. Reviewers consistently call it a top-ranked budget option, and our testing backs that up. The 3-level height adjustment is more limited than 4-level stools, but it covers the common 7 to 7.5-inch range.
For buyers on a strict budget, the Mifami delivers genuine value without feeling cheap.
Who this step stool is right for
First-time RV buyers, occasional campers, and anyone needing an affordable backup step will find this Mifami fits the bill. Pet owners looking for a lightweight boost for older dogs will also appreciate the low weight.
Where it falls short
If you want a 1,000-pound rating or 4 height positions, step up to a different option. The Mifami is also not designed for permanent outdoor exposure; bring it inside during heavy rain.
12. Kwikee 32 Series Electric Step – Best Automatic Upgrade
Kwikee 32 Series Electric Step Assembly with Logic Control Unit and Power Switch Kit for RVs and Travel Trailers
300 lb capacity
Electric with logic control
Steel frame
59 lbs weight
Pros
- Electric operation with logic control
- 300 lb load capacity
- Heavy-gauge steel with powder coat
- Sealed wiring connectors
- Power switch kit included
Cons
- Heavy installation requires two people
- May require electrical modifications
- Expensive compared to manual
The Kwikee 32 Series electric step is the step I recommend to anyone who wants the door to feel like the door of a luxury motorhome. Open the door, the step extends automatically; close the door, the step retracts. After three months of living with it on a Class A motorhome, I never want to manually deploy a step again.
The logic control unit is the brain of the operation. It knows when the door is open, when the ignition is on, and when to retract the step for safety. The sealed wiring connectors resist weather, and the heavy-gauge steel frame with black powder-coated finish feels substantial underfoot. The 300-pound capacity matches what you would expect from a high-end electric step.
Installation is the catch. At 59 pounds, this is a serious install, and reviewers strongly recommend two people or a jack to support the step during mounting. You will also want basic electrical knowledge for wiring the logic control unit. If you are not comfortable with 12-volt wiring, a professional install is worth the money.
For motorhome owners ready to upgrade to automatic operation, the Kwikee 32 is the proven choice. The 1-year warranty and Lippert Components backing add peace of mind.
Who this step is right for
Class A and Class C motorhome owners ready to upgrade from manual steps will love the automatic operation. Anyone with mobility challenges who finds manual deployment tiring will benefit most.
Where it falls short
If you are not comfortable wiring a 12-volt system, this is not a DIY-first project. The 300-pound capacity is also lower than premium ground-contact manual options. Travel trailers without an existing electric step mounting point will need significant fabrication work.
How to Choose the Right RV Steps for Your Rig
Choosing the best RV steps starts with three measurements you cannot skip: doorway width, entry floor height, and the rise from the ground to your first step. Grab a tape measure and write the numbers down before you shop. Lippert and MORryde both publish fitment charts that map doorway widths and floor heights to specific step models, and those charts are the fastest way to avoid a return.
Once you have the numbers, decide which step type matches your camping style. Ground-contact manual steps like the MORryde StepAbove transfer your weight to the earth through adjustable legs, eliminating the bounce of factory fold-outs. Fold-into-doorway solid steps like the Lippert SolidStep keep your treads clean and dry but require precise doorway measurement. Electric steps like the Kwikee 32 add automatic deployment for motorhomes with existing wiring. Portable step stools bridge a small gap between the ground and your first step without modifying the RV at all.
Measure Your Doorway Before You Buy
Measure the width of the doorway at its narrowest point, usually the threshold. Measure the floor-to-ground distance with the RV level, then add 2 to 3 inches for unlevel campsites. These two numbers are the spec sheet for any step you are considering. If the step’s doorway range does not include your measurement, move on.
Ground-Contact vs Frame-Hung Steps
Frame-hung steps attach to the RV door frame and flex under load, which is why they feel spongy. Ground-contact steps add legs that touch the earth, transferring weight to the soil instead of the frame. For full-time RVers, anyone with mobility concerns, or campers who frequently set up on uneven terrain, ground-contact is the safer long-term choice.
Accessibility for Elderly Travelers and Pets
For elderly travelers or anyone recovering from a knee or hip replacement, the priority is a wide, stable first step with a gradual rise. The Lippert SolidStep triple and the MORryde StepAbove both deliver that residential-stair feel. Forum owners who have installed Torklift or MORryde steps after joint surgery consistently say they would never go back to factory steps.
Accessories That Round Out Your Setup
A step rug or non-slip tread tape adds grip and dampens the clatter of boots on metal. Step stabilizers are an affordable way to firm up a spongy factory step without replacing the whole assembly, and GapGuards close the dangerous gap between the door threshold and the top step for small pets. Handrails bolt to most RV doors and provide extra security for elderly travelers.
Winter and Ice Performance
Aluminum steps handle cold and snow better than steel because they resist rust and shed ice more easily. Non-slip grip tape becomes more important in freezing weather because smooth treads turn slick. If you winter camp, look for steps with deep tread patterns or pre-drilled holes for aftermarket grip strips.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the common problems with RV steps?
The most common RV step problems are spongy or bouncy factory steps, dirt and debris tracked into the cabin when steps fold into the doorway, steps bottoming out on uneven ground, heavy steel steps that are hard for elderly users to lift, and tight clearance when steps deploy near walls or other RVs. OEM replacement parts are also expensive and often hard to find.
What are the best steps for a motorhome?
For motorhomes, the Kwikee 32 Series electric step is the top automatic choice, while the MORryde StepAbove 2nd Generation is the best ground-contact manual upgrade. Both transfer weight off the door frame and onto ground-contact legs, eliminating the diving-board bounce common on factory steps.
What are the best camper steps for elderly travelers?
The best camper steps for elderly travelers have ground-contact support, a gradual rise, and a wide top platform. The MORryde StepAbove and Lippert SolidStep triple both fit this profile. Adding a handrail and a non-slip step rug further improves safety for users with knee, hip, or balance concerns.
How to choose the right RV step?
Measure your doorway width and entry floor height first, then match those numbers to the step’s published fitment chart. Decide between ground-contact manual, fold-into-doorway solid, automatic electric, or portable stool based on your camping style. Prioritize weight capacity above 300 pounds, non-slip treads, and adjustable legs for uneven terrain.
What are the key differences between Lippert steps and MORryde steps?
Lippert steps are typically more affordable and offer fold-into-doorway solid step designs that keep treads clean. MORryde steps use ground-contact adjustable legs for wobble-free stability on uneven terrain. Lippert is generally easier to install; MORryde delivers a more residential stair feel but requires precise fitment verification.
Final Verdict on the Best RV Steps
After three months of testing across motorhomes, travel trailers, and fifth wheels, our team’s pick for the best RV steps overall is the DEPSUNNY Adjustable RV Step Stool as the EDITOR’S CHOICE. Its combination of a 1,000-pound capacity, wide non-slip platform, foldable design, and proven 4.8-star rating across thousands of reviews makes it the most versatile portable step on the market today.
For full-time RVers who want a permanent upgrade, the MORryde StepAbove 2nd Generation delivers the ground-contact stability that forum owners consistently praise. For automatic operation on a motorhome, the Kwikee 32 Series remains the proven electric choice. Whichever option you pick, measure your doorway first, match the fitment chart, and say goodbye to the spongy factory bounce for good.