The Ride: The Keystone Montana is a Legend of the RV Industry

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The Keystone RV company was just a plucky upstart when, in 1998, it released what would become one of the most recognizable RVs on the
road: the Montana. The goal was to create a luxury rig that could compete with larger brands. It didn’t take long. By 2001, when Keystone was acquired by Thor Industries, the Montana had become the most popular fifth-wheel in the country, a title it still holds as the 2025 model comes to market.

The Montana’s current lineup includes 12 floorplans. Clever use of space and multiple slide-outs are augmented by premium appliances, fixtures
and materials. A king-size bed in the primary bedroom comes standard, as does a residential-style kitchen. La-Z-Boy collaborated on cushy lounge furniture. Some models include an electric fireplace, ceiling fans and multiple bathrooms. The 3623EB even features a dedicated e-bike garage with a heavy-duty loading system. Kitchen cupboards feature handy pull-down shelving.

Photo Credit: Keystone

Colin Dechant, Keystone’s general manager, attributes the Montana’s long run as the best-selling fifth-wheel in the world to Keystone’s commitment to build quality, reliability, and attention to detail— all evident in the number of Montanas still on the road, and an avid and active subculture of owners, many of them repeat buyers. “We have customers who are on their third, fourth, fifth, and sometimes sixth Montana,” he says. The web forum Montana Owners Club, a hub for rally organizing and DIY tips, has more than 27,000 members.

The fifth-wheel space is competitive. Keystone’s flagship model has faced many challengers over the years. But Keystone relishes the competition, says Nick Ebenroth, product manager for the Montana. “It keeps us on our toes and forces us not to get complacent,” he says. “The quality of our competitors helps us make a better RV.”

That focus has helped keep the Montana a popular champ for more than 25 years. With a strong legacy to build on, the Keystone team shows no
signs of slowing down.

MSRP starts at $116,693 for 2025 Montana models.

Illustration by Dee Duncan

The Montana’s roof is fully walkable, a boon to DIY inspection and maintenance.
Frameless, tinted safety glass windows are extra durable and lend a sleek and modern look.
Premium G-rated tires and a MORryde suspension system promise smooth rides.
Heated and enclosed underbelly keeps holding tanks warm, even while camping in the winter
A six-point automatic hydraulic leveling system provides stability at the push of a button.
A 3,000-lb. towing hitch provides the muscle to load up on outdoor gear