Open Range RVs are made by Highland Ridge RV, a Thor Industries brand, since Open Range no longer operates as an independent company.
Open Range is known for spacious fifth wheels and travel trailers, a reputation the brand built during its years as an independent manufacturer.
Open Range originally launched in 2007 before Jayco purchased its assets in 2014 and folded it into the newly formed Highland Ridge RV.
This guide covers who makes Open Range RVs today, where they are manufactured, the brand’s original independent history, and how it compares to Highland Ridge’s other lines.
So let’s get started.
Table of Contents
Who Makes Open Range RVs and Is It Still Independent?
Open Range is not an independent company but a product line of Highland Ridge RV, part of Thor Industries, shown on the Thor Industries Open Range brand page.
The original Open Range RV operated independently from 2007 until Jayco purchased its assets in 2014.
Rather than discontinuing the name, Jayco kept Open Range as a distinct product line within the newly created Highland Ridge RV.
This means today’s Open Range trailers carry the name forward but are designed and built under Thor’s ownership.
Where Are Open Range RVs Manufactured?
Open Range RVs are manufactured at Thor Industries facilities in Indiana, the same production network used for Highland Ridge’s other lines.
This places Open Range within the broader Indiana RV manufacturing hub that supplies most of the US market.
Being part of Thor gives Open Range access to shared component sourcing and production infrastructure.
Manufacturing standards for Open Range now follow Highland Ridge’s broader quality processes.
What Was Open Range’s Original Independent History?
Open Range RV launched in 2007 as an independent manufacturer focused on well built, innovative fifth wheels.
The brand earned a loyal following among owners who praised its design and build quality during its independent years.
Jayco purchased Open Range’s assets in March 2014, forming Highland Ridge RV as the resulting company.
Some longtime owners have noted the brand changed noticeably after joining the Thor family, a common pattern when independent builders are acquired.
How Does Open Range Compare to Highland Ridge’s Other Lines?
Open Range and Highland Ridge’s other product lines share the same manufacturing infrastructure and corporate ownership.
Open Range retains its original name recognition among fifth wheel buyers familiar with the brand’s earlier independent years.
Other Highland Ridge lines may carry different styling and floor plan philosophies developed after the Thor acquisition.
Buyers often choose Open Range specifically for its established name within the broader Highland Ridge lineup.
Are Open Range RVs a Good Value?
Open Range RVs are generally seen as spacious, comfortable options within the fifth wheel and travel trailer segment.
Owner opinions on quality since the Thor acquisition remain mixed, with experiences varying by model year.
Buyers researching a used or new Open Range unit should compare specific model years and recent reviews closely.
For those who valued the original Open Range design philosophy, current models still carry forward some of that heritage.
Where Can You Buy an Open Range RV?
Open Range RVs are sold through Highland Ridge’s network of dealers across the United States.
Thor’s broad dealer network supports availability for the Open Range product line.
Buyers can often find Open Range alongside other Highland Ridge and Thor brands at the same dealerships.
Shoppers comparing Highland Ridge product lines may also want to read Who Makes Highland Ridge RVs and Who Makes KZ RVs.
Frequently Asked Questions About Open Range RV
Is Open Range still an independent RV company?
No, Open Range is now a product line of Highland Ridge RV, part of Thor Industries.
When did Open Range stop being independent?
Jayco purchased Open Range’s assets in March 2014.
Who makes Open Range RVs now?
Open Range RVs are made by Highland Ridge RV, a Thor Industries brand.
Are current Open Range RVs the same quality as before?
Owner opinions are mixed, so it is worth researching specific model years before buying.
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.