For more than six decades, R.J. Thomas Mfg. Co. Inc. has been setting the standard for outdoor site furnishings with their iconic Pilot Rock® brand. Known for combining rugged durability with thoughtful design, this third-generation family-owned business has become a go-to supplier for outdoor hospitality professionals across North America—and beyond.
Founded in 1959 and celebrating 65 years of service in 2024, R.J. Thomas Mfg. Co. Inc. continues to deliver innovative, long-lasting, and cost-competitive park, street, and campsite products proudly made in Cherokee, Iowa.
Pilot Rock® stands out in the market by consistently focusing on the small details that make a BIG difference. They offer a range of product finishes like heat-resistant enamel paint on grills and campfire rings, to UV-protected thermo-plastic coatings on tables and benches, with every product engineered for real-world durability and performance. That means fewer replacements, lower maintenance costs, and a better experience for your guests year after year.
And their products are designed to resist wear and tear from both people and the elements. These commercial-duty furnishings are built with the needs of the facility manager in mind, from theft-prevention assembly to vandal-resistant coatings. Whether you’re upgrading a single site or outfitting an entire campground, you can expect dependable quality and top-tier craftsmanship.
High Heat Enamel Paint
Grills and campfire rings are finished with a special matte black enamel paint formulated just for Pilot Rock®. This silicone-based, non-toxic coating can withstand temperatures over 750°F and provides excellent protection against corrosion, scratches, and thermal fatigue—making it ideal for heavy use at your campground.
Thermo-Plastic Coating
Many steel tables, benches, and other furnishings are available with a thermo-plastic coating in a variety of colors. Unlike standard powder coat finishes, this coating offers superior UV protection, doesn’t support mold or mildew, and boasts a thickness of 30+ mils for enhanced impact and weather resistance. It’s also PVC- and phthalate-free, making it a more sustainable and safer option for outdoor settings.
Snow Load Rated Products
Need products that can stand up to the elements? Pilot Rock® offers snow-load rated furnishings, like their WXT Series picnic tables, engineered specifically for locations that face heavy snowfall. These products are tested and reinforced for strength without sacrificing aesthetics or usability.
Pilot Rock® furnishings can be found everywhere from national parks and private campgrounds to military installations, HOAs, churches, and schools. With a wide range of products including benches, picnic tables, grills, food lockers, trash receptacles, lantern holders, bike racks, custom signage, and more, there’s a tailored solution for every outdoor space.
Customer service remains personal at R.J. Thomas Mfg. Co. Inc., even with an extensive product catalog. The family-run company takes pride in its hands-on approach, pairing advanced technology like robotic welding and 3D CAD modeling with the flexibility to meet custom fabrication needs.
So, if you’re replacing fire rings at your campground or designing a brand-new recreation area from the ground up, R.J. Thomas Mfg. Co. Inc. delivers reliability, quality, and a legacy of craftsmanship that stands the test of time.
Ready to explore how Pilot Rock® can help enhance your outdoor spaces? Get in touch with their expert team.
For more information on your OHI member benefits with Pilot Rock®, visit ohi.org/discounts.
