In my 20+ years as an RV technician, I’ve seen how a set of entry steps can make or break the camping experience.
A flimsy, unstable step is not only an annoyance but a serious safety hazard. I once had a customer, an older gentleman with a bad knee, who nearly took a nasty fall on his factory-installed steps. They were wobbly and didn’t extend far enough for him to get a solid footing.
We installed a set of ground-contact steps for him, and the relief on his face was palpable. He told me it was like getting a new lease on his camping life. A solid, well-designed entry step system provides a secure and comfortable transition into your home-on-wheels.
I’ve installed and repaired every type of RV step imaginable, from basic manual pull-outs to sophisticated electric models. This guide is the product of that experience, designed to help you navigate the options and choose the best entry steps for your RV.
For a quick overview, here are my top recommendations. These steps have been chosen for their stability, durability, and ease of use.
Let’s take a closer look at each of these products. I’ve selected them based on their performance in real-world camping scenarios and their long-term reliability.
Best for: RVers who prioritize a solid, residential-like feel.
The MORryde StepAbove has revolutionized the RV entry step market, and for good reason. Unlike traditional folding steps that hang from the RV, the StepAbove extends to the ground, providing an incredibly stable, bounce-free platform. The adjustable feet allow you to get a solid footing on uneven terrain, and the wide, residential-style steps are comfortable to use.
I’ve installed dozens of these, and the feedback from customers is overwhelmingly positive. They feel as solid as the steps in a stationary home. The only downside is that they fold up into the doorway for travel, so you need to make sure your interior is clear.
I had a customer who was initially hesitant about this, but after one trip, they said the stability was so worth the minor inconvenience of having to clear the doorway. For unparalleled stability, the StepAbove is the top choice.
The MORryde StepAbove is also incredibly well-engineered. The steps are made from heavy-duty aluminum, which is both lightweight and strong. The adjustable feet have large pads that distribute weight evenly, preventing the steps from sinking into soft ground. I've seen these steps used on everything from sandy beaches to muddy campsites, and they always perform flawlessly.
The folding mechanism is also very smooth and easy to operate. You simply lift the steps, and they fold up into the doorway. When you're ready to use them again, you just unfold them and they lock into place. The wide steps are also a major safety feature. They provide plenty of room for your feet, reducing the risk of slips and falls. For anyone with mobility issues or who simply values a solid, stable entry, the StepAbove is the best investment you can make.
Buy MORryde StepAbove 3-Step RV Entry Steps
Best for: A reliable and budget-friendly replacement for standard factory steps.
For those who prefer a traditional manual step, the Lippert 432682 is a solid and dependable option. This is a direct replacement for many factory-installed steps and offers a significant upgrade in quality. The anti-slip texture on the steps provides excellent traction in wet conditions, and the self-locking mechanism ensures the steps stay securely in place during travel.
I appreciate the durable black powder-coat finish, which resists rust and corrosion. While it doesn’t offer the ground-contact stability of the MORryde, it’s a proven design that is simple, effective, and budget-friendly. I often recommend this to customers who want a quick and easy upgrade from their flimsy factory steps without a major investment.
The Lippert 432682 is also very easy to install. It's designed as a direct bolt-on replacement for most factory steps, so the installation is straightforward. You don't need any special tools or skills—just a socket set and about 30 minutes of your time.
The steps are also very durable. The powder-coat finish is resistant to chipping and fading, and the steel construction is built to last. I've seen these steps on RVs that are 10+ years old, and they still look and function like new.
The anti-slip texture is also a nice safety feature. Even in wet or icy conditions, the steps provide good traction. While they may not have all the bells and whistles of more expensive options, the Lippert 432682 is a solid, reliable choice that won't break the bank.
Buy Lippert 432682 Radius Double Manual Pull-Out Entry Step
Best for: Truck campers and RVs with high entry doors or those who frequently camp on uneven ground.
The Torklift Entry Glow is a scissor-style step that is incredibly versatile. It’s designed to be mounted on the exterior of the RV and can be easily detached for storage. The scissor mechanism allows it to extend to the ground even from a significant height, making it perfect for truck campers. Each step is equipped with a glow-in-the-dark strip for added safety at night.
What I love about the Torklift is its adaptability. The adjustable legs and multiple step configurations make it one of the best options for dealing with challenging, uneven campsites. I had a customer who was an avid boondocker, and they swore by their Torklift steps. They said they never had to worry about finding a level spot to park. It's a rugged, well-built step that is designed for adventure.
The Torklift Entry Glow is also incredibly versatile. The scissor design allows it to extend to different heights, making it perfect for RVs with varying ground clearances. The glow-in-the-dark strips on each step are a brilliant safety feature. They absorb light during the day and glow at night, making it easy to see the steps even in complete darkness.
The steps themselves are also very wide and stable, providing a secure platform. The construction is top-notch—heavy-duty steel with a powder-coat finish that resists rust and corrosion. The fact that it can be easily detached and stored is also a major plus. If you're camping in an area where you need to move your RV frequently, you can simply detach the steps and store them inside.
For truck campers and anyone who camps in challenging terrain, the Torklift is an invaluable piece of equipment.
Buy Torklift Entry Glow Camper Scissor Step
Best for: RVers looking for a premium, heavy-duty electric step.
Kwikee is a legendary name in RV steps, and the Series 40 is their flagship electric model. This is a heavy-duty step designed for years of reliable service.
The automatic operation is a fantastic convenience—the steps extend and retract with the opening and closing of the door. The logic control unit is weatherproof and features an automatic shutdown if it encounters an obstacle.
I’ve repaired many older Kwikee steps, and their longevity is a testament to their quality construction. The Series 40 continues that tradition with a robust motor and solid steel components. I once worked on a 20-year-old motorhome with the original Kwikee steps still going strong. For a top-of-the-line electric step, Kwikee is the brand to beat.
The Kwikee Series 40 is also packed with features. The logic control unit is weatherproof and features multiple safety mechanisms. If the steps encounter an obstacle while retracting, they automatically stop and reverse. This prevents damage to the steps and ensures the safety of anyone nearby. The steps also have a manual override, so if the motor fails, you can still extend and retract them manually.
The double tread design provides a wide, stable platform, and the anti-slip surface ensures good traction. The installation is also very straightforward for a qualified technician. Kwikee provides detailed instructions and all the necessary hardware.
For RVers who want the ultimate in convenience and reliability, the Kwikee Series 40 is the gold standard.
Buy Kwikee Series 40 Double Tread Electric RV Entry Steps
Best for: A great value in a reliable, no-frills electric step.
Stromberg Carlson offers a fantastic balance of quality and value in their electric steps. They provide the same convenience as more expensive brands but at a more accessible price point. These steps are a popular upgrade for RVers who are tired of their manual steps but don’t want to break the bank.
The motor is reliable, and the steps feature a non-slip surface for safety. While they may not have all the bells and whistles of the Kwikee, they are a solid, dependable choice for everyday use. I've installed many of these for families with kids, and the parents love the convenience and safety of the automatic steps.
The Stromberg Carlson steps are also very easy to install. They're designed to fit most RVs and come with all the necessary mounting hardware. The motor is reliable and quiet, and the steps extend and retract smoothly. The non-slip surface is also a nice safety feature, providing good traction even in wet conditions.
While they may not have all the advanced features of the Kwikee, they are a solid, dependable choice for everyday use. I've installed dozens of these, and I've rarely had any issues. For the price, they offer excellent value and performance. If you're looking to upgrade to electric steps without spending a fortune, the Stromberg Carlson is a great option.
Buy Stromberg Carlson RV Entry Steps
Best for: A lightweight and modern power step upgrade.
The Lippert Tread Lite is a newer generation of power step that uses a lightweight yet strong aluminum construction. This reduces the overall weight of the step, which is always a plus in an RV.
It features a single, wide step that provides a comfortable and secure platform. The integrated LED light is a nice touch, illuminating the step area at night. The Tread Lite is a great option for those looking to upgrade to a modern, lightweight power step. I installed one on a new, high-end Class B van, and it perfectly matched the modern aesthetic of the vehicle.
The Lippert Tread Lite is also very easy to use. The step extends and retracts smoothly, and the integrated LED light is a nice touch. It illuminates the step area at night, making it easier to see where you're stepping. The single, wide step provides a comfortable and secure platform, and the anti-slip surface ensures good traction. The aluminum construction is also very durable and resistant to corrosion. The low weight is also a major advantage.
Every pound counts in an RV, and the Tread Lite helps you save weight without sacrificing strength or functionality. For those looking to upgrade to a modern, lightweight power step, the Tread Lite is an excellent choice.
Buy Lippert 24" Single Tread Lite RV Power Step
Best for: Replacing a failed motor on a Kodiak or similar electric step.
Sometimes, you don’t need a whole new step—just a new motor. AM Equipment is a trusted name in DC motors, and their 210 Series is a direct replacement for many Kodiak and other brands of electric steps.
I’ve used these motors for countless repairs, and they are a reliable and cost-effective way to get a broken power step working again.
I had a customer who was quoted over a thousand dollars for a new step assembly. We were able to replace just the motor for a fraction of the cost, and their steps were working like new. If your step's frame and treads are in good shape, replacing the motor is a smart and economical repair.
The AM Equipment 210 Series motor is also very easy to install. It's designed as a direct replacement, so you don't need to modify anything. You simply remove the old motor, install the new one, and connect the wiring.
The motor is also very reliable. AM Equipment has a long history of producing quality DC motors, and the 210 Series is no exception.
The motor is also very quiet and operates smoothly. If you have a Kodiak or similar electric step that has a failed motor, the AM Equipment 210 Series is the perfect solution. It's a cost-effective way to get your steps working again without having to replace the entire assembly.
Buy AM Equipment 210 Series DC Gear/Kodiak RV Step Replacement Motor
No matter what kind of steps you have, regular maintenance is crucial.
A little bit of care will ensure your steps operate safely and reliably for years to come.
Your RV’s entry steps are a critical component of your camping setup. They are the first and last thing you touch every time you enter or leave your home-on-wheels.
Upgrading to a quality set of steps is an investment in your safety, comfort, and peace of mind. Whether you choose the unshakable stability of the MORryde StepAbove, the proven reliability of a Kwikee electric step, or the go-anywhere versatility of the Torklift Scissor Step, you’ll be making a tangible improvement to your RVing experience.
Don’t underestimate the difference a good set of steps can make. It’s an upgrade you’ll appreciate every single day of every trip.
I’m Bill Rowell, the founder of RVupgrades.com. In 2002, I launched the business to help fellow RV enthusiasts find unique and hard-to-find products. Over the years, it’s grown to offer more than 15,000 items, with a warehouse in Eastlake, Ohio. Having owned and repaired nearly every type of RV, I bring over two decades of hands-on experience to the table. For me, this isn’t just a business – it’s a passion and a way of life that I love sharing with the RV community.
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