Will the CVT Creek Annex Fit a Lifted 2018 Tacoma with ARE Camper Shell

Updated 04/30/2026 | Published 04/27/2026

Question:

2018 Toyota Tacoma, with an ARE camper shell, truck has a 3 inch lift on it. I am wondering if this would work for me?

asked by: Justina S

truck
(click to enlarge)

truck2
(click to enlarge)

Expert Reply:

Hi Justina, nice truck!!

It's possible this can work for your setup, but the key measurement is going to be the height from the ground up to the top of your ARE camper shell, because that’s what determines if the annex will fit properly.

I checked with CVT on the Creek Annex part # RG35ZV, and they recommend a maximum height of around 6 feet, with a little flexibility up to about 6 and a half feet if you can angle the fabric outward to create some slack. With your Tacoma having a 3 inch lift and a camper shell, there’s a good chance you are above that range, which could lead to the annex not sealing well at the bottom or leaving gaps where air can get in.

If you can grab that ground to roof measurement, I can help you determine whether it’ll sit clean and give you that enclosed feel you’re after, or if we should look at a better fitting option.

How do you usually camp, are you sleeping in the shell and using the annex more as a covered space for changing or cooking?

expert reply by: Heather A

Jeffery

4/30/2026

I forgot about a couple of things, I camp in remote areas w a lot of bugs mosquito's, gnats,etc. It's not completely tight like a tradition tent.I love the extra space it adds for sleeping in the back of my Toyota. However, the bugs have more gaps to sneak in. Also, Though I'm in a base camp, I might launch a boat daily or go need to travel which means, disassemble and reassemble.Hopefully the weather is nice when you return. It takes practice to assemble efficiently.

Heather A.

4/30/2026

@Jeffery You’re bringing up some really important real-world points here. There is a possibility the annex could work for your truck, but it’s not a sealed tent, so that’s a big factor to keep in mind. It was designed as a dressing room or extra shade. If you're looking for a sealed tent I would consider The Napier Sportz Truck Bed Tent # NA67FR for your Tacoma’s bed, and then pair it with the Napier Link Ground Tent # NA96FR. I was really hoping you could use the ground tent on it's own but they connect together. If you’re looking to save a bit, the Napier Backroadz Truck Bed Tent # NA74FR is another solid option with a compatible ground tent add-on but we don't carry the add-on as of right now. I can try to get ahold of it for you though! Just let me know!

Jeffery

4/30/2026

@HeatherA Thanks Heather, I've already purchased the Annex.