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Weekend Ready: The Best Ford AWD Vehicles for Camping, Kayaks, and Beach Days

When your weekend plans include sand, boat ramps, and tight campground trails, Ford AWD vehicles deliver the grip, confidence, and cargo flexibility you want. From compact crossovers to full-size SUVs (and even a small pickup) Ford all wheel drive systems (and Ford 4×4 where applicable) help you launch, load, and explore without drama.

Here’s our quick guide to the best Ford vehicles with AWD for your next escape, plus packing and accessory tips from the J.C. Lewis Ford Hinesville team.

AWD vs. 4×4: Which do you need?

  • AWD (All-Wheel Drive): Always “on” and automatically shuffles power to the wheels with traction. Great for rain-slick roads, sand access points, and light trails—minimal driver input needed.

  • 4×4 (Four-Wheel Drive): Adds modes and (on some Ford AWD vehicles) low-range gearing for tougher terrain. If you’ll hit deeper sand, rutted paths, or tow on unpaved ramps, 4×4 is your friend.

Most Ford Ford all wheel drive crossovers use smart AWD; Bronco/Bronco Sport and trucks offer 4×4 with terrain modes. Either way, Ford’s drive-mode logic makes it easy.

Top Picks: Ford AWD Vehicles (and 4×4) for Outdoor Weekends

Bronco Sport (Standard 4×4): Small footprint, big adventure

Don’t let the compact size fool you—the Bronco Sport is built for trailheads and beach paths.

  • Why it works: Standard 4×4, G.O.A.T. Modes™ (Sand/Slippery/Trail), generous roof capability with the right crossbars, and stain-resistant, easy-clean surfaces.

  • Best for: Two adults (plus a friend or dog), kayaks on the roof, coolers in back, and soft-sand access with the right tires.

  • Pro tip: The Badlands model’s twin-clutch rear drive unit helps keep you moving when one side gets slick.

Escape AWD & Escape Hybrid AWD: Efficient traction

The Escape pairs confident AWD with commuter-friendly MPG; the hybrid AWD option adds serious fuel savings between campsites.

  • Why it works: Available AWD, sliding second row to balance people vs. gear, wide hatch opening for coolers and bins.

  • Best for: Families who want economy all week and traction all weekend will love this Ford vehicle with AWD.

  • Pro tip: Add factory crossbars and a kayak cradle; keep heavy items low in the cargo area to preserve stability.

Explorer AWD: Three rows, real towing, road-trip comfort

Explorer hits the sweet spot for bigger families and small-to-medium campers looking for Ford AWD vehicles.

  • Why it works: Available AWD with Sand/Trail modes, confident on wet ramps, and strong towing when properly equipped.

  • Best for: Car seats + kayaks + camping totes without playing Tetris every time you load up.

  • Pro tip: If you plan to tow, ask us about the right hitch, wiring, and brake controller setup for your trailer.

Expedition 4×4: Big-family hauler and boat-day hero

If you need maximum space, stability, and towing confidence, Expedition is the weekend MVP of Ford AWD vehicles.

  • Why it works: Available 4×4, serious cargo room behind row three, and the composure you want when crossing bridges in crosswinds or easing down a slick ramp.

  • Best for: Three-row families, bigger coolers, shade canopies, and heavier trailers.

  • Pro tip: Consider a Max body style if you frequently pack bulkier gear behind the third row.

Maverick AWD: Compact pickup with kayak-friendly bed

Small outside, hugely useful inside the bed—Maverick with AWD (EcoBoost models) is a clever weekender.

  • Why it works: Available AWD, a bed ready for wet gear, and DIY-friendly Flexbed™ accessories.

  • Best for: Kayaks (bed or roof), mountain bikes, beach chairs, and a tailgate picnic after.

  • Pro tip: FX4 or Tremor packages add traction and protection for your Ford all wheel drive if your campsites are off the beaten path.

(Bonus consideration: Mustang Mach-E with e-AWD is fantastic for road trips with shore-power access at your destination. Ask us about route planning and charging for Ford vehicles with AWD.)

Packing & Accessory Tips (So the Fun Part Stays Fun)

  • Roof gear, done right: Use Ford-approved crossbars and kayak carriers; follow dynamic load limits in the owner’s manual. Heavier items go inside, low and forward of the rear axle.

  • Hitch smarts: A hitch cargo tray keeps messy items outside; for bikes, a platform-style rack beats roof lifts after a long paddle.

  • Beach savvy: Use the right drive mode (Sand/Slippery), keep momentum smooth, and avoid sudden stops in soft sections. Know local beach-driving rules.

  • Launch day: Back down ramps in 4×4/AWD with patience. A spotter, wheel chocks, and a dry-run practice never hurt on your Ford AWD vehicle.

  • Protect the cabin: All-weather liners, seat-back covers, and a cargo mat make cleanup painless.

Need help choosing racks, a tow setup, or liners? Our Parts & Service team can install it all and show you how to secure your load safely.

Quick Compare: Which Ford AWD Vehicle fits your weekend?

  • Light & nimble: Bronco Sport or Maverick AWD

  • Efficient traction: Escape AWD or Escape Hybrid AWD

  • People + tow: Explorer AWD

  • Max space + tow confidence: Expedition 4×4

Why Shop Ford Vehicles with AWD at J.C. Lewis Ford Hinesville?

  • We match the vehicle to your hobbies. Tell us what you carry, we’ll set you up with the right Ford vehicle with AWD, drive system, and accessories.

  • Install it here. Crossbars, kayak carriers, hitches, and wiring—done by Ford-trained techs.

  • Try Ford AWD vehicles before you buy. We’ll route a test drive that includes the roads you actually take to the water.

Ready to Roll?

Explore our current Ford AWD vehicles and let us outfit yours for summer (and shoulder-season) adventure. Whether you want a kayak-ready Bronco Sport, an efficient Ford all wheel drive Escape, or an Explorer that tows the family camper, J.C. Lewis Ford Hinesville has the gear, the guidance, and the inventory to get you weekend-ready.

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