Camco Olympian Wave 3 Catalytic Heater

The Camco Olympian Wave 3 is a reliable, no-frills catalytic heater that's ideal for small RVs, campers, and cabins needing supplemental heat without draining battery power.

4.4

HitchHaven score4.4 out of 5 · our editorial rating

3,000 BTU catalytic heating output
Operates on low-pressure propane (RV supply or portable tanks)
Piezo igniter for easy one-touch lighting
Low oxygen depletion sensor (ODS) shutoff
Wall or floor mountable with included hardware
No electricity required for operation

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Overview Specs Pros & cons Full review Related

The verdict

The Camco Olympian Wave 3 is a reliable, no-frills catalytic heater that's ideal for small RVs, campers, and cabins needing supplemental heat without draining battery power. Its simplicity and safety features make it a solid cold-weather companion, though users should be mindful of surface heat and ventilation needs.

Spec plate

Heat Output: 3,000 BTU/hr
Fuel Type: Low-pressure propane
Weight: 9.6 lbs
Dimensions: 16.7 x 13.5 x 4.5 in
Ignition: Piezo spark igniter

Pros & cons

What we like

Heats small to mid-size spaces quickly
Does not require 12V or 120V power
Quiet operation with no fan noise
Safety shutoff gives peace of mind
Simple portable or fixed mounting options
Low ongoing propane consumption

What to watch

Surface gets very hot during use, risk of burns if touched
Requires properly ventilated space
Mounting bracket hardware feels a bit flimsy
No thermostat for precise temperature control
Takes up noticeable wall or floor space when mounted

Full review

The Camco Olympian Wave 3 Catalytic Heater is a compact, portable heating solution engineered specifically for RVs, campers, and other recreational vehicles where consistent warmth is essential during cooler weather excursions. This low-profile unit mounts directly to an interior wall, saving valuable floor space while delivering radiant heat that warms objects and people directly rather than just the surrounding air. Rated at 3,000 BTUs, it's designed for smaller spaces like truck campers, teardrop trailers, pop-up campers, and compact RVs, making it an ideal supplemental or primary heat source for those who camp in cold climates or enjoy shoulder-season adventures when temperatures drop unexpectedly.

What sets this catalytic heater apart is its safe, flameless operation that doesn't rely on electricity, making it perfect for off-grid camping, boondocking, or situations where generator use is limited or unavailable. The catalytic process converts propane into heat through a chemical reaction rather than an open flame, resulting in near-silent operation with no noisy fan motor to disturb peaceful nights in nature. Built with a piezo igniter for easy one-touch startup, the unit also features an oxygen depletion sensor (ODS) that automatically shuts off the heater if oxygen levels in the enclosed space drop too low, providing an essential safety mechanism for enclosed RV interiors.

Constructed with durability in mind, the Wave 3 features a sturdy stainless steel burner screen and a rugged housing that withstands the rigors of travel and repeated use season after season. The heater connects to an RV's built-in propane system or can be used with portable propane cylinders via an appropriate hose connection, offering flexibility depending on your camping setup. Its simple, no-frills design means there are no complicated electronics or fragile components to fail, appealing to RV owners who value reliable, straightforward equipment. Lightweight and easy to install, this heater has become a trusted choice among full-time RVers, weekend campers, and overlanding enthusiasts who need dependable warmth without sacrificing the simplicity and self-sufficiency that off-grid travel demands.

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