5 Cars Cool for Camping

Ariana Cohn-Sheehan originated the concept and contributed to this report.

Camping season is here and it's time to pack up the car and kids, head to the campgrounds and start roasting some s'mores. But you better make sure you have enough room.

Not every car is spacious enough for a camping excursion, especially not if the bears come out and last-minute plans call for sleeping in the vehicle.

There are a few, however, that are just right for the job, and so we bring you five of them available within 10 miles or so of Essex and Union counties for this week's edition of 5 Cars. Some of them have even been rated on AOL Autos' list of "Best Vehicles for the Great Outdoors."

Here are five cars you can camp with (or in, if needed). Listings and photos come from the individual dealers, Cars.com and AOL Autos:

1. 2013 Jeep Wrangler Sport—New—$27,175 

From Cars.com: This five-speed automatic SUV features four-wheel ABS brakes, 16-inch wheels, a 3.6 liter V6 motor  and a trip computer. It also features a manual convertible roof, ABS traction control, rigid axle rear suspension and an auxiliary engine cooler for those sweltering days at the campsite. Ask for Stock# DL638641. Available at Autoland in Springfield. 

2. 2012 Nissan Xterra S—Used—$24,691

From Cars.com: This five-speed, four-wheel drive sport utility in the no-foolin'-around hue of Night Armor has enough room for all your gear and guests. It has 6,744 miles on it and 261 HP horsepower. It features an anti-theft alarm system, three 12V DC power outlets, a split rear bench and head restraints with whiplash protection. Ask for Stock# CC512197. Available at Nissan World of Springfield.

3. 2014 Ford Explorer Sport—New—$47,475

From Cars.com: The six-speed automatic, four-wheel drive Tuxedo Black SUV seems built for those whose lifestyles lead them to camping and outdoor activities—it boasts a roof rack, compass and a manual-folding third row seat. It features Bluetooth connectivity and an MP3 player and digital audio input. The Explorer also offers an auxiliary engine cooler, four-wheel ABS brakes and privacy glass. Ask for Stock# A00459. Available at Jersey City Ford.

4. 2014 Acura MDX Sport—New—$57,400

From Cars.com: The Acura MDX Sport is for those who wish to camp in comfort and elegance. This four-door SUV in stunning Diamond White Pearl and leather interior has all-wheel drive, a 6-speed automatic trasmission, a 3.5 liter V6 engine, a split-bench third-row seat, ABS brakes, AM/FM/satellite radio with CD player and mp3 decoder (camping without tunes is unacceptable!) and a host of other luxurious appointments. Ask for Stock# MA40133. Available at DCH Montclair Acura in Montclair.

5. 2013 Toyota RAV4 LE —New—$24,649

From Cars.com: This red six-speed automatic SUV with grey interior may look smaller than some sports vehicles, but has enough trunk room to fit all your camping supplies. It features Bluetooth wireless connectivity, an MP3 player and a mini overhead compartment. It also features a spare tire mount, rear stabilizer bar and permanent locking hubs. Ask for Stock# 501382. Available at Route 22 Toyota in Hillside.