Wilkins RV has added the 2026 Keystone Cougar Half-Ton 26RES fifth wheel to its inventory at its Churchville location. The model is a new floorplan in the Cougar Half-Ton series and becomes available ahead of the 2026 camping season as demand continues for half-ton towable fifth wheels.
The 26RES measures 30 feet 11 inches in length with a dry weight of 8,240 pounds, a hitch weight of 1,540 pounds and a GVWR of 10,300 pounds. These specifications support towing with properly equipped half-ton pickup trucks. The unit includes a front private bedroom with a queen bed, an L-shaped sectional sofa in the main living area, a ceiling fan, an 18-foot power awning and opposing slide-outs. Water capacities consist of 54 gallons of fresh water, 60 gallons of gray water and 30 gallons of black water. The fifth wheel sleeps up to four people.
For the 2026 model year, the series incorporates a rebranded exterior graphic package along with an upgraded axle system that features heavier-duty shackles, half-inch wet bolts, and bronze bushings. Additional changes include composite steps and standardized high-gloss fiberglass sidewalls. Goodyear tires and anti-lock braking come as standard equipment. The modifications target enhanced durability and towing performance.
Robert Moss, General Manager at the Churchville location, commented on the brand’s position. “Cougar has maintained strong sales in the fifth wheel segment for most of the last three decades. The line offers a range of floor plans and innovations across multiple price points. In addition to fifth wheels, the manufacturer provides travel trailers that include couples coaches and bunkhouse configurations as well as options for full body paint.”
Retail registration data tracked by Statistical Surveys Inc., an independent firm that collects and reports new RV retail unit registration figures across the United States and Canada, indicates Keystone Cougar held the position as the top-selling fifth wheel brand in North America for 2024 based on unit sales. The recognition continued into 2025 based on aggregated dealer-reported sales. The data derive from actual state and provincial registration records rather than voluntary surveys.
Industry observers have noted the appeal of the Cougar series for owners seeking reliable towable options. The 26RES layout provides an open living space through the L-shaped sectional sofa and opposing slide-outs, supporting both daily use and extended travel. The power awning adds a covered outdoor area at the campsite. The model now forms part of the standard inventory and is available for immediate viewing at the Churchville location.
Wilkins RV maintains a focus on providing a range of new and pre-owned recreational vehicles from leading manufacturers. The dealership carries brands including Keystone RV, Grand Design RV, Jayco RVs, Alliance RV, Forest River RV, Newmar Motor Coaches, Gulf Stream RV, and Coachmen RV. Offerings span fifth wheels, travel trailers, motorhomes, and toy haulers. Services include sales, rentals, parts, service, collision repair, and financing.
The company operates as a family-owned dealership established in 1936 when Charles Wilkins started an auto detailing business in Hornell, New York. The company moved into recreational vehicle sales in the 1950s, with Ron Wilkins leading expansion from the early 1960s. Brian Wilkins took ownership in 2004 as the third generation and expanded to six locations across New York: Churchville, Bath, Brewerton, Waterloo, Nichols, and Syracuse.
Stocking the 2026 Keystone Cougar Half-Ton 26RES allows Wilkins RV to address continued interest in updated half-ton compatible fifth wheels. The model combines revised construction elements with a practical rear-living configuration suitable for the upcoming camping season.
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For more information about Wilkins RV of Churchville, contact the company here:
Wilkins RV of Churchville
Brian Wilkins - President
855-713-3396
sales@wilkinsrv.com
111 South Main Street
Churchville, New York 14428