The Wildernest company did not stay in business for very long. They lasted about 9 years approx and how many units they sold is unknown. Their construction design started with a regular truck canopy that just about anyone could use at any time.
Then the top of the canopy opened up and there was a nice tent inside the little raised roof. The tent was supposed to come with a 3-inch mattress, support poles, so you did sag when you laid down, and some very good airflow.
This mattress was 42 inches wide for two people. When the tent was folded down and put away, your truck look like it had a normal canopy on top of it. You could also lower a screen door to help keep the bugs out of your sleeping area.
With the large windows, you got a great view of the surrounding area. made from very tough materials, the tent was strong and very durable. Also, you could put a picnic table underneath the tent area and provide some cooling shade when it is time to eat.
The WilderNest is similar to a traditional camper shell found on the bed of many pickups, but it actually has a tent concealed in the roof that opens up.
When the lid flips open, it doubles as the floor for the sleeping platform.
(Shown with the tailgate curtain to keep the bugs out)
| Truck Type |
Truck Width / Length (Inches) |
Tent Top Model Number |
Tip Top Model Number |
| 1983-1992 Ford Ranger Longbed | 60-3/4″ / 86-1/2″ | 87 | T87 |
| 1983-1992 Ford Ranger Shortbed | 60-3/4″ / 74-1/2″ | 76 | T76 |
| 1986-1992 Ford Ranger Supercab | 60-3/4″ / 74-1/2″ | 76 | T76 |
WilderNest lists the bed as coming with a 3-inch foam mattress that is 42″ x 74-1/2″ and sleeps (2).
For more details, or to compare specifications for other vehicles, check out either the sales brochure or owner’s manual below:
Here is a WilderNest brochure and owners manual for you to view. Just click on the images.
The Wildernest is no longer in production, but you can still find them used.
For discussions on camping with your Ford Ranger, check out our Truck Camping & Camping Gear Forum.
Jim Oaks is the founder of TheRangerStation.com, the longest-running Ford Ranger resource online since 1999. With over 25 years of hands-on experience building and modifying Ford Rangers — including magazine-featured builds like Project Transformer — Jim has become one of the most trusted authorities in the Ford Ranger off-road and enthusiast space. In 2019, he was loaned a Ranger FX4 by Ford Motor Company to test and document across the TransAmerica Trail. Jim continues to inspire and guide Ranger owners around the world.