National Camp Day is celebrated on November 19 every year, so we figured now’d be the perfect time to talk about this simply amazing tonneau cover tent built into a 1968 Chevy El Camino.
We spotted this rustic combo at the 2024 Goodguys Summit Racing Nationals in Columbus, Ohio and—if we’re being honest—we’re not sure if it’s a rare, period-correct aftermarket accessory or some clever custom upholstery work.
Regardless of its origin, it’s clear that a lot of thought went into the design and execution of this nifty built-in truck bed tent, so let’s take a closer look.
For starters, the tent secures to the rigid frame of a vinyl tonneau cover that’s supported by a pair of lift support struts. The underside of the tonneau is a plush surface, so perhaps it’s attached via hook-and-loop (AKA Velcro) type material. We’re pretty sure the bottom tucks into the trim rail of the El Camino’s bed.
The only problem we see with this setup is, unless there’s a channel to divert rain, it could mean that water may collect in the bed when the tent is deployed. Regardless, this setup looks like an absolutely fantastic way to do some fair-weather camping or, heck, even some light overlanding.
There are mesh windows, port and starboard, and the rear door is a massive flap itself that rolls up into the top, making it really easy to get into and out of this tent.
The whole thing seals up with stout zippers and the bed floor is lined with a pair of padded plush mats, color-keyed to the El Camino’s (perhaps Tripoli Turquoise?) body.
All told, it looks pretty comfy with easily enough room for one—and maybe two, depending on how open-minded your co-camper is. It’s worth pointing out that the mesh windows have zip-down flaps for privacy and there’s a tape deck up front.
With all the hubbub surrounding the party in the back, it’s easy to overlook the fact that this 1968 El Camino is a super-clean example of the breed. Fender emblems indicate a 327 SBC under the hood, while the column shifter’s PRNDL pattern points to a Powerglide, though the trusty TH350 was also an option in 1968.
We’re pretty sure that’s an aftermarket steering wheel too.
The receiver hitch on the back tells us this Elky still works for a living and the factory wood trim across the tailgate is just icing on the cake here.
So, do you know anything about this tonneau cover tent? Was this an obscure factory option like the delightful Nova tent a few years later? Or is the owner just really handy with fabric and upholstery needles?
If you have any insight into this awesome El Camino bed tent, drop us a line in the comments section below.
Comments