The phrase “everything that’s old is new again” is certainly appropriate when talking about campers and overland vehicles. In recent years, Mercedes-Benz and other brands have become unofficial champions of getting consumers to spend way too much on vehicles they’ll only use a few times a year. Still, it’s better than buying a full-size RV and realizing too late that you’re not cut out for the camping lifestyle. A more affordable (and infinitely cooler) way to dip a toe into this experience is to buy this 1977 Chevrolet K5 Blazer Chalet, listed here on craigslist for $12,500.

Thanks to Barn Finds reader jonny for the tip. The Chalet was a limited production offering, with about 1,800 examples sold. At the time, consumers were increasingly digging the idea of using a van as a mini home on wheels, outfitting them with carpeting, couches, coolers, and so much more. Like the Sprinter craze of the modern era, Americans were loving the idea of jumping in their van and heading out for places unknown with no fear of being uncomfortable along the way. The Blazer Chalet tapped into this trend, offering truck shoppers a usable K5 with the added bonus of a nicely integrated camper shell to enable their wanderlust daydreams.

The camper shell was well designed and nicely equipped, featuring a pop-top, operable windows, and a full-size door. There’s a dining area (well, there was) with a sink, fridge, and a 110-volt power outlet. The dinette section converted to a bed, and before this Chalet was stripped down, the upholstery pattern was the epitome of period correct. The seller notes he doesn’t know why the shell was stripped, especially since it appears to be in good condition. He adds that the canvas is in good shape and the pop-top feature works well. It’s a shame it was stripped, but the bones look very good.

The passenger compartment is in good shape as well, with the seat upholstery surprisingly sound for a truck that looks a bit tired on the outside. The dash doesn’t show much in the way of visible damage, either, and all of this is better than expected based on the somewhat tired exterior. We typically see the Chalet with a tan/gold/harvest exterior, but this truck looks to have been painted maroon at some point, including the shell. In my opinion, that’s a bit of a shame – and since the seller claims the bones are solid, perhaps some budget can be allocated to return it to the original paint scheme. The seller notes the 350 V8 runs and drives, but a tow is still recommended given how long the Chalet has been off the road.