Photo by Ken Lund from Reno, Nevada, USA via Wikimedia Commons (https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:Downtown_Elkhart,_Indiana_(14230707403).jpg) (CC BY-SA 2.0)
2025 Forest River Forester 2861DS
by Forest River
Full Specifications
General Info
| Manufacturer | Forest River |
| Country of Origin | USA |
| Year | 2025 |
| Category | Class C |
| Subcategory | — |
Dimensions & Weight
| Length | 24 ft |
| Width | 7.5 ft |
| Height | 11 ft |
| Dry Weight | 8,900 lbs |
| GVWR | 11,700 lbs |
| Hitch Weight | — |
| Cargo Capacity | 2,800 lbs |
Engine & Chassis
| Fuel Type | Gas |
| Engine | Chevrolet 6.0L V8 |
| Chassis | Chevrolet 4500 |
| Horsepower | 319 hp |
| Fuel Capacity | 53 gal |
Living & Off-Grid
| Sleeping Capacity | 5 |
| Slide-Outs | 1 |
| Awning Length | 18.5 ft |
| A/C | 13,500 BTU |
| Furnace | 25,000 BTU |
| Fridge | 10 cu ft residential |
| Fresh Water | 65 gal |
| Gray Water | 38 gal |
| Black Water | 26 gal |
| Solar | 350 W |
| Battery | 150 Ah |
| Inverter | 1,500 W |
About the 2025 Forest River Forester 2861DS
Forest River has refined the Class C formula with the 2025 2025 Forest River Forester 2861DS, creating a motorhome that works equally well for weekend warriors and extended travelers. The signature cab-over bunk adds sleeping space without adding length.
Measuring 24.0 feet in overall length, 7.5-foot width and standing 11.0 feet tall, the 2025 Forest River Forester 2861DS weighs in at 8,900 pounds before loading, and a gross vehicle weight rating of 11,700 pounds, giving you roughly 2,800 lbs of payload room. Equipped with one slide-out, the 2025 Forest River Forester 2861DS provides noticeably more elbow room at your campsite.
Families will appreciate the generous sleeping capacity of 5, with bunk beds, convertible dinettes, and a master sleeping area all contributing to the count. The 2025 Forest River Forester 2861DS delivers enough room for the whole family to spread out after a long day of hiking, swimming, or exploring.
The tank configuration includes a 65-gallon fresh water tank, 38 gallons of gray water holding, a 26-gallon black water tank. Energy management is handled by 350-watt solar charging capability, 150 amp-hours of battery storage, a 1500-watt inverter for household AC power. A 13,500 BTU air conditioner keeps things cool in summer heat, while a 25,000 BTU furnace ensures warmth during cold nights. The kitchen features a 10 cu ft residential refrigerator for keeping provisions cold. The 18.5-foot awning creates a shaded outdoor area that becomes a favorite gathering spot at camp.
Motivation is provided by a Chevrolet 6.0L V8, riding on the Chevrolet 4500 chassis, rated at 319 horsepower. With a 53-gallon Gas tank, long-distance travel is practical without constant fuel stops.
With an MSRP of $199,000, the 2025 Forest River Forester 2861DS lands in premium territory with the build quality and features to justify the investment for serious RV enthusiasts. The 2025 Forest River Forester 2861DS suits small families and couples who occasionally bring friends along. It handles the needs of three to four travelers without feeling overcrowded or requiring compromises on comfort.
Whether you are planning weekend getaways or extended road trips, the 2025 2025 Forest River Forester 2861DS from Forest River provides a well-rounded package that deserves a spot on your shortlist. Take the time to walk through one at your nearest dealer and see how it fits your travel vision.
For families seeking adventure without sacrificing comfort, the 2025 Forest River Forester 2861DS offers a thoughtfully designed floor plan packed with premium features.
Sleeping 5 comfortably, the floor plan features a rear bedroom, convertible dinette, and overhead bunk. The galley includes a 10 cu ft residential refrigerator, three-burner range with oven, and microwave. Climate control comes via 13,500 BTU air conditioning and a 25,000 BTU furnace.
An 18.5-foot power awning extends the living space outdoors, while the 13,500 BTU AC and 25,000 BTU furnace ensure interior comfort year-round. Weighing 8,900 lbs dry, it stays within many campground size limits.