I've been looking closely at the apex 264rks lately, and it's honestly one of the more practical rear-kitchen layouts I've seen in the ultra-lite category. If you're the type of traveler who actually enjoys cooking while you're on the road—rather than just reheating leftovers—this specific floor plan usually ends up at the top of the list. It's built by Coachmen, and they've clearly put some thought into how people actually move around inside a camper when they aren't just sleeping.
The first thing you notice when you walk into the apex 264rks is how open the middle of the trailer feels. Because the kitchen is tucked away at the very back, you don't have that cramped "hallway" feeling that a lot of mid-sized travel trailers struggle with. You get a massive amount of counter space because it wraps around the rear corner, which is a total game-changer if you're trying to prep a full meal while someone else is trying to get a drink from the fridge.
Why the Rear Kitchen Layout Works
Most people have a love-hate relationship with rear kitchens, but the apex 264rks makes a strong case for the "love" side. When the kitchen is at the back, it's out of the main traffic flow. If you're washing dishes or chopping veggies, people can still walk from the bedroom to the living area without bumping into your elbows.
The storage in this kitchen is also pretty impressive. You've got overhead cabinets that actually fit full-sized plates, and the drawers are deep enough for those random kitchen gadgets we all swear we'll use but never do. Plus, having large windows right by the sink is a nice touch. It makes doing the dishes feel like less of a chore when you can actually see the campsite or the lake outside.
One thing to keep in mind with a rear kitchen is the "bounce factor." Since the kitchen is behind the axles, things can move around a bit more during transit. But Coachmen builds these things pretty solid, and as long as you aren't off-roading like a maniac, your spices and coffee mugs should stay right where you left them.
The Living Area and Entertainment
Moving into the center of the apex 264rks, you've got a slide-out that really opens up the floor space. Usually, you'll find a large booth dinette or optional theater seating here. If you're a couple traveling together, theater seats are the way to go. There's nothing better than coming back from a long hike and just sinking into a comfortable chair to watch a movie.
The viewing angle for the TV is actually sensible in this model. In a lot of trailers, you have to crane your neck at a weird 45-degree angle to see the screen, but here, it's positioned right across from the seating. It feels more like a tiny apartment than a box on wheels.
The windows are another highlight. Coachmen didn't skimp on the glass. There's plenty of natural light coming in, which prevents that "cave" feeling you get in older campers. When you have the shades up, the interior feels much larger than its actual square footage suggests.
A Bedroom That Feels Private
The bedroom in the apex 264rks is located at the front, and it's separated by a solid door rather than just a flimsy curtain. This is a big deal if one person is a night owl and the other is an early bird. You get a queen-sized bed with walking room on both sides, which means you don't have to climb over your partner in the middle of the night to use the bathroom.
Speaking of storage, there's a wardrobe on either side of the bed and some overhead cabinets. It's enough for a week's worth of clothes, especially if you're good at rolling your t-shirts. There's also under-bed storage for the bulkier items like extra blankets or the outdoor rug.
One thing I really appreciate is the placement of the power outlets and USB ports near the nightstands. It sounds like a small thing, but being able to charge your phone or plug in a CPAP machine without running extension cords across the floor is a massive convenience that some manufacturers still overlook.
The Build Quality and That Azdel Mystery
You can't really talk about the apex 264rks without mentioning how it's built. It's part of the Ultra-Lite series, which means they use lightweight materials to keep the weight down. The big selling point here is the Azdel Onboard composite panels.
If you aren't a total RV nerd, Azdel is basically a material used in the walls instead of wood (luan). Why does that matter? Well, wood rots and delaminates if it gets wet. Azdel doesn't. It's lighter, it has a better R-value for insulation, and it won't mold or decay. It gives you a lot of peace of mind, especially if you live in a rainy climate or plan on keeping the trailer for a decade.
The vacuum-bonded walls and the seamless roof also contribute to the overall durability. It's a "tight" feeling trailer. When you walk around inside, the floors don't feel "spongy," and the cabinets don't rattle like they're about to fall off the wall.
Towing and Exterior Features
With an unloaded weight usually hovering around 5,000 to 5,500 pounds, the apex 264rks is firmly in the "half-ton towable" category. You don't need a massive dually truck to move this thing. A well-equipped F-150, Silverado, or even some larger SUVs can handle it comfortably, though you should always check your specific vehicle's payload capacity first.
On the outside, you've got a massive power awning with LED lights. It covers a good chunk of your "patio" area, making it a great spot to hang out even if there's a light drizzle. The pass-through storage at the front is huge, too. You can fit your camping chairs, fishing poles, and the grill in there without having to play Tetris.
One little detail I like is the magnetic door catches for the exterior compartments. No more fumbling with those plastic clips that always break after one season in the sun. It's those small, "quality of life" upgrades that make the Apex series stand out from the budget-tier entry models.
Is the Apex 264RKS Right for You?
So, who is this trailer actually for? I'd say it's the sweet spot for a couple who wants comfort without the massive footprint of a fifth wheel. It's also great for small families, as the dinette can usually be converted into an extra bed for a kid or two.
It's not the smallest trailer out there, but it's nimble enough to get into most state park campsites. You aren't going to be restricted to the "big rig" pull-through spots at expensive RV resorts. You can actually take the apex 264rks into the woods and not feel like you're towing a skyscraper.
Pros: * The kitchen counter space is incredible for this size. * Azdel construction means less worry about water damage. * True private bedroom with a solid door. * Large windows and a very bright, airy interior.
Cons: * Rear kitchens can be a bit more prone to "cabinet chaos" during bumpy drives. * The bathroom is a "walk-through" style in some configurations, which some people find less private than a side-aisle bath. * It's a long trailer for being an "ultra-lite," so you'll want a good weight-distribution hitch.
Final Thoughts
At the end of the day, the apex 264rks is all about balance. It balances weight with durability, and floor space with towability. It feels like a grown-up camper. It's not trying to cram ten bunk beds into a tiny space; instead, it focuses on making the living and cooking areas as comfortable as possible.
If you're tired of feeling like you're camping in a cramped hallway and you want a kitchen that actually lets you cook a real meal, you really should go stand inside one of these. It's one of those floor plans that just "clicks" once you see it in person. It's practical, it's built well, and it doesn't require a commercial driver's license to get it to the lake. For a lot of us, that's exactly what the camping life is supposed to be about.