KZ RVs are made by Thor Industries, the largest recreational vehicle manufacturer in the United States, which acquired the brand in 2014.
KZ is known for lightweight travel trailers, fifth wheels, and toy haulers built with a family friendly focus.
Daryl Zook founded KZ RV in 1972 in Shipshewana, Indiana, building it into an established name before selling to Thor.
This guide covers who owns KZ RV, where the units are manufactured, the brand’s founding story, and how KZ compares to sister brand Dutchmen.
So let’s get started.
Table of Contents
Who Owns the KZ RV Brand?
KZ RV is owned by Thor Industries, with the brand’s product lineup shown on the Thor Industries KZ RV official page.
Thor acquired KZ RV in 2014, adding it to a growing family of towable brands.
Founder Daryl Zook stated at the time of the sale that joining Thor would let KZ continue operating with its established core values and dealer relationships.
KZ operates alongside Dutchmen, Heartland, and Cruiser RV as one of Thor’s towable divisions.
Where Are KZ RVs Manufactured?
KZ RVs are manufactured at Thor Industries facilities in and around Shipshewana and Elkhart County, Indiana.
This location keeps KZ within the broader Indiana RV manufacturing hub that supplies most of the US market.
Being part of Thor gives KZ access to shared component sourcing and production infrastructure.
KZ maintains its own dedicated production lines within Thor’s larger manufacturing network.
What Is the History Behind KZ RV?
Daryl Zook founded KZ RV in 1972, originally aiming to build truck campers.
The company expanded over the decades into travel trailers, fifth wheels, and toy haulers.
Thor Industries acquired KZ in 2014, drawn largely to its established travel trailer and toy hauler lineup and distribution network.
Today KZ continues to operate under Thor while maintaining its original Shipshewana, Indiana roots.
How Does KZ RV Compare to Dutchmen?
KZ and Dutchmen are both Thor Industries towable brands, sharing corporate resources and manufacturing infrastructure.
KZ has a longer independent history dating back to 1972, prior to joining Thor.
Dutchmen leans more heavily into lightweight, entry level construction for first time buyers.
Both brands compete in similar price segments within Thor’s broader towable portfolio.
Are KZ RVs a Good Value?
KZ RVs are generally well regarded for their lightweight construction and family friendly floor plans.
Owner reviews frequently highlight the brand’s Durango and Sportsmen lines for value and livability.
Because KZ is backed by Thor Industries, warranty and parts support benefit from the larger company’s dealer network.
For buyers seeking a long established travel trailer and fifth wheel brand, KZ remains a solid choice.
Where Can You Buy a KZ RV?
KZ RVs are sold through a network of dealers across the United States.
Thor’s broad dealer network supports strong nationwide availability for KZ models.
Buyers can often find KZ alongside other Thor brands at the same dealerships.
Shoppers comparing Thor Industries towable brands may also want to read Who Makes Dutchmen RVs and Who Makes Heartland RVs.
Frequently Asked Questions About KZ RV
Who owns KZ RV?
KZ RV is owned by Thor Industries, which acquired the brand in 2014.
Who founded KZ RV?
Daryl Zook founded KZ RV in 1972 in Shipshewana, Indiana.
Is KZ related to Dutchmen?
Yes, both KZ and Dutchmen are owned by Thor Industries.
Are KZ RVs good quality?
Yes, KZ RVs are generally well regarded for lightweight, family friendly construction.
I am Jack Neel, a mechanical engineer, researcher, and writer. I created this website to share my knowledge about different brands and products with you. I research the manufacturers behind the brands and provide you with the information you need to make smart buying decisions.