A recovery vehicle having a side recovery system is disclosed. The side recovery system includes a boom having a first end and a second end. The boom is rotatable about the first end between a first position and second position. The side recovery system also includes a base having a portion for supporting the first end of the boom, a first receiving structure for securing the second end of the boom when the boom is in the first position, and a second receiving structure for securing the second end of the boom when the boom is in the second position. The boom further includes a locking device configured to selectively engage the first receiving structure and the second receiving structure for securing the second end of the boom.