The North Face Wawona 6
The North Face Wawona 6 camping tent showcasing its spacious vestibule and overall design
$550 at REI (before member cash back!)
85 OVERALL SCORE
- Space and Comfort 9.0
- Weather Resistance 8.0
- Ease of Use 7.0
- Family Friendliness 9.0
- Quality 9.0
Inside Height: 6′ 4″ | Floor Dimensions: 10′ x 8′ 6″ (85 sq ft)
REASONS TO BUY
- Huge front vestibule for gear storage and living space
- Excellent performance in wind and rain, ensuring weather protection
- Great value for its size, features, and overall quality
REASONS TO AVOID
- Updated detached rainfly can be less intuitive to set up
- Back window pockets may obstruct views from inside the tent
- Only one door might be less convenient for larger groups
If you’re a camper with a passion for outdoor hobbies, the The North Face Wawona 6 stands out as an exceptional choice for your family. This tent, a long-time favorite and consistently praised in our tests, serves as the ideal basecamp for those who bring along extra equipment for mountain biking, rock climbing, fishing, hunting, or any adventure requiring substantial gear. Its standout feature is the massive vestibule, comparable in size to a two-bike garage, offering ample protected storage. Combined with the main tent’s spacious 85 square feet, the Wawona 6 creates a remarkable living area, all at a very reasonable price, making it one of the top Recommended Family Tents.
However, the generous space does introduce a few setup complexities. Pitching the rainfly and vestibule, especially in moderate wind, can be less straightforward than desired. The North Face’s pin-and-circle locking mechanism requires a bit of effort to secure, and given the tent’s size and height, using guylines is essential to prevent it from becoming unstable in windy conditions. Despite these minor setup challenges, once erected, the Wawona 6 is impressively large, comfortable, and proved its resilience against strong winds and rainy conditions during testing in Joshua Tree. With its exceptional usable space and attractive price point, the Wawona has consistently earned awards, and for good reason. Another worthy contender known for its excellent weather resistance is the Snow Peak Alpha Breeze.
Read more: The North Face Wawona 6 review
Aerial view showcasing the expansive vestibule of The North Face Wawona 6 family tent
Best Value Family Tent
Coleman Skydome XL 8
75 OVERALL SCORE
- Space and Comfort 9.0
- Weather Resistance 6.0
- Ease of Use 6.0
- Family Friendliness 9.0
- Quality 6.0
Inside Height: 6′ 1″ | Floor Dimensions: 16′ 2″ x 7′ 1″ (114.5 sq ft)
REASONS TO BUY
- Exceptionally spacious interior, perfect for large families or groups
- Weather-resistant construction provides reliable protection from elements
- Excellent price point, offering great value for a large family tent
- Easy-to-clean floor, ideal for camping with kids and pets
- Massive mesh rooftop for stargazing and ventilation
- Includes an electrical port for convenience
- Features string lighting for a cozy ambiance
REASONS TO AVOID
- Large and heavy, making it less portable than smaller tents
- Setup can be time-consuming, especially for solo campers
- Heavily reliant on ground stakes for stability, may not be ideal for all terrains
- Rainfly is considered to be of only moderate quality
The Coleman Skydome XL 8 truly lives up to its “XL” designation, boasting nearly 115 square feet of comfortable living space, making it a top contender among recommended family tents for budget-conscious campers. It’s likely the largest tent we’ve ever evaluated, surpassing even the spacious 101.5-square foot Coleman Sundome 6 in Coleman’s lineup. We appreciate the incredibly spacious design, which we believe is perfect for families or larger groups seeking a reliable shelter that won’t strain their budget. The Skydome 8 can comfortably accommodate eight campers, especially if using smaller sleeping pads or foam mattresses. For smaller groups, our tests showed it can easily fit three queen-sized air mattresses. Beyond its size, we love the tent’s durable tarp flooring, which is easy to clean and withstands the wear and tear from kids and pets. This tent also features an impressive mesh roof, effective vents, storage pockets, an electrical port, and enjoyable ceiling-mounted string lights.
However, the Coleman Skydome XL 8 does have some drawbacks. Its sheer size makes it bulky and somewhat challenging to set up. Its large footprint also makes it less stable, requiring extensive use of ground stakes and guylines to maintain sturdiness, especially in windy conditions. We also found the rainfly to be on the thinner side, and the overall construction isn’t as robust as some other tents in our selection. Nonetheless, considering its price, it’s hard to argue with the incredible value offered by this 115-square-foot behemoth. If you don’t need quite as much space, the Kelty Wireless 6 (87 square feet) is a more affordable 6-person option, and the Gazelle T4 Hub (61 square feet) is an easy-to-pitch model for four people.
Read more: Coleman Skydome XL 8 review
Interior view of the Coleman Skydome XL 8 family tent highlighting the criss-crossing string lights
Best 4-Person Family Tent
MSR Habitude 4
MSR Habitude 4 family tent pitched in a scenic outdoor setting, showcasing its design and size
82 OVERALL SCORE
- Space and Comfort 8.0
- Weather Resistance 9.0
- Ease of Use 8.0
- Family Friendliness 7.0
- Quality 9.0
Inside Height: 6′ 1″ | Floor Dimensions: 7′ 11″ x 7′ 11″ (62.4 sq ft)
REASONS TO BUY
- Robust and durable construction, built to withstand demanding conditions
- Tall interior height, providing ample headroom and comfort
- Well-sized vestibule for gear storage and weather protection
REASONS TO AVOID
- Only one door, which may be inconvenient for multiple occupants
- Pitching can be slightly more complex compared to simpler designs
If you’re in the market for a spacious and high-quality camping tent that doesn’t require a massive footprint, the MSR Habitude 4 is an excellent choice among recommended family tents for smaller families or groups. This stylish tent is not only lightweight (12 pounds) and compact for transport, but it’s also constructed with premium materials and boasts a tall interior (6′ 1″ center height) and generous 62.4 square feet of floor space. Furthermore, it includes thoughtful features such as a porch light, a large vestibule, and excellent ventilation.
The Habitude 4 offers numerous advantages, but it’s not without minor drawbacks. These include a single door that uses two zippers to open, a porch light that requires a separate battery, and a somewhat awkward stuff sack. Despite these minor issues, this tent outperformed all other 4-person tents we tested. Another outstanding 4-person tent to consider is the Marmot Tungsten, which offers its own set of unique features and a lightweight design that might better suit your preferences.
Read more: MSR Habitude 4 review
MSR Habitude 4 family tent in a photo slideshow highlighting its features and various test locations
Best Family Tent for Bad Weather
REI Co-op Base Camp 6
$549 at REI (before member cash back!)
82 OVERALL SCORE
- Space and Comfort 9.0
- Weather Resistance 8.0
- Ease of Use 6.5
- Family Friendliness 8.0
- Quality 9.0
Inside Height: 6′ 2″ | Floor Dimensions: 9′ 2″ x 9′ 2″ (84.3 sq ft)
REASONS TO BUY
- Solid and robust construction for reliable performance
- Excellent rainproof and windproof capabilities, ideal for challenging weather
- Packed with numerous features for enhanced camping experience
- Two large vestibules providing ample gear storage and sheltered entryways
- Abundant storage pockets for organization
- Two wide-mouth doors for easy access
- Optional Vehicle Connector for unique car-camping integration
REASONS TO AVOID
- Higher price point compared to some competitors
- Setup can be slower and more involved than simpler tents
- Requires ground stakes to achieve full stability
The manufacturer promotes the REI Co-op Base Camp 6 as one of their most weatherproof general camping tents, and our tests confirm this, making it a top choice for recommended family tents that prioritize weather protection. This three-season shelter is engineered to stand up to harsh weather conditions, incorporating design elements reminiscent of rugged four-season tents. Features like full-length pole sleeves, high-quality aluminum poles, a low-reaching rainfly, and a substantial pole-supported vestibule all contribute to a robust shelter system capable of handling demanding elements. The Base Camp 6 also offers plenty of storage with numerous pockets, two large doors, and a comprehensive array of gear loops. Furthermore, the optional REI Co-op Base Camp Vehicle Connector elevates the Base Camp 6 by allowing connection to nearly any vehicle, transforming your campsite.
While our criticisms are minor, we did note a few areas for improvement. Setup, especially when including the Vehicle Connector, was a bit cumbersome and time-consuming during our tests. Also, while it stands upright reasonably well, the Base Camp 6 isn’t truly freestanding and needs ground stakes to fully take shape. This can be problematic in environments like sandy or rocky deserts where stakes are ineffective, requiring alternative methods to secure the tent. We noted a few other minor annoyances in our full review, such as sticky zippers, but overall, it’s a superb and highly rated system. If the Base Camp’s innovative design appeals to you, also consider the Gazelle T4 Hub, which offers a completely different take on camping tent design.
Read more: REI Co-op Base Camp 6 review
Demonstration of the spaciousness of the REI Co-op Base Camp 6 family tent with its Vehicle Connector accessory
Best Form and Function in a Family Tent
NEMO Aurora Highrise 6
NEMO Aurora Highrise 6 family tent in a forest setting, showcasing its stylish design and ample size
80 OVERALL SCORE
- Space and Comfort 9.0
- Weather Resistance 7.0
- Ease of Use 7.0
- Family Friendliness 8.0
- Quality 8.0
Inside Height: 6′ 5″ | Floor Dimensions: 8′ 4″ x 10′ (83.3 sq ft)
REASONS TO BUY
- Very large interior space, comfortable for families and gear
- Enormous front door for easy entry and enhanced ventilation
- Stylish and modern design, appealing to design-conscious campers
REASONS TO AVOID
- Setup is best done with two people, potentially challenging for solo campers
- Window design is not ideal, potentially affecting views or privacy
- Limited number of storage pockets compared to some competitors
The Nemo Aurora Highrise 6 presents a complete package, blending generous space and useful features with an aesthetically pleasing design, making it a strong contender in recommended family tents. This tent comfortably fits a queen-size and two single mattresses with room to spare, and its impressive 6′ 5″ peak height allows for standing and moving around easily. It also features dual vestibules, an extra-large front door, good privacy options, and an attractive floor design, making it difficult to find a tent that better balances form and function.
On the downside, the Highrise can be a bit complex to set up initially, although it becomes easier with practice. Two people are definitely recommended for setup. We also weren’t completely satisfied with the window design, and more storage pockets would be beneficial. Perhaps Nemo will address these points in future versions, but even as is, this is a great tent that’s unlikely to disappoint. If you prefer a more traditional design for a 6-person tent, consider the Eureka Copper Canyon LX 6.
Read more: Nemo Aurora Highrise 6 review
Top-down view of the spacious NEMO Aurora Highrise 6 family tent, showing its layout and design
Most Versatile Family Tent Option
Mountain Hardwear Mineral King 3
$375 at REI (before member cash back!)
77 OVERALL SCORE
- Space and Comfort 7.0
- Weather Resistance 8.0
- Ease of Use 9.0
- Family Friendliness 7.0
- Quality 8.0
Inside Height: 4′ 0″ | Floor Dimensions: 7′ 6″ x 5′ 8″ (42.5 sq ft)
REASONS TO BUY
- Very lightweight, enhancing portability and ease of transport
- Quick to pitch, ideal for fast setup and convenience
- Amazing views with or without the rainfly, maximizing outdoor experience
- Extremely versatile, suitable for various camping scenarios
REASONS TO AVOID
- Small interior space, may feel cramped for larger families
- Low ceiling height, limiting headroom and movement
- Guyline stakes are not included, requiring separate purchase
The Mountain Hardwear Mineral King 3 is an excellent choice for campsites or occasional short backpacking trips, and serves well as a reliable backup tent, ready for spontaneous adventures, making it a versatile option among recommended family tents for smaller families. In our tests, we pitched it in an impressive 4 minutes 30 seconds, and further improved our setup time with familiarity. It features a full mesh body for panoramic views, and the rainfly can be configured in multiple ways, allowing for both unobstructed scenery and quick weather protection.
The included footprint adds extra value to this well-constructed tent. It uses 40D polyester mesh, a 68D ripstop polyester tub floor, and DAC Pressfit aluminum poles. While the interior space is compact, dual vestibules help keep gear separate from the sleeping area. Despite being lightweight, the trade-off is limited headroom. Overall, this tent is small yet powerful, a valuable addition to any camper’s gear collection, depending on their needs. Another lightweight option to consider is the Marmot Tungsten 4, which is slightly heavier but offers comparable quality.
Read more: Mountain Hardwear Mineral King 3 review
A tour of the Mountain Hardwear Mineral King 3 family tent, from its compact packed size to its open views with and without the rainfly
Our Favorite Pop-up Family Tent
Gazelle T4 Hub
Gazelle T4 Hub family tent in an outdoor setting, emphasizing its instant setup and spacious design
74 OVERALL SCORE
- Space and Comfort 7.5
- Weather Resistance 7.0
- Ease of Use 8.0
- Family Friendliness 7.5
- Quality 7.0
Inside Height: 6′ 5″ | Floor Dimensions: 7′ 10″ x 7′ 10″ (61 sq ft)
REASONS TO BUY
- High-speed, instant setup, making camping incredibly convenient
- Spacious interior with large windows, enhancing comfort and views
- Great internal storage pockets for organization
- Removable floor for easy cleaning and versatility
- Ample headroom, comfortable for standing and moving around
REASONS TO AVOID
- Heavy weight, reducing portability compared to lighter tents
- Large packed size, requiring more storage space for transport
- Lacks a vestibule for external gear storage
- Rainfly assembly can be slightly complicated
- Repacking into the bag can be challenging
“No assembly required” perfectly describes the Gazelle T4 Hub, making it a top pick for recommended family tents focused on ease of use. This tent is so simple to set up that most campers could intuitively have it fully operational in under two minutes, even without reading instructions. The T4 Hub is our favorite instant shelter because it’s stable, weatherproof, and packed with convenient features. Its self-contained design eliminates the hassle of separate, interconnected poles—no more assembling, crisscrossing, bending, or clipping. To set up, simply place the T4 on the ground, pull out each of the four sidewall handles until they lock into place, and then push up on the rooftop to secure it. We appreciate this tent’s removable floor, two large doors, eight expansive windows, and seven large storage pouches.
The primary downsides we found in our testing are weight and packed size. The rapid setup and robust stability are achieved through thicker fabrics and a complex framework of fiberglass poles, resulting in a heavier tent (31.6 pounds) with a packed length of nearly six feet. Therefore, transportation and storage are not strong points of the T4 Hub. Additionally, it lacks a vestibule, and stuffing it back into its duffel bag can be difficult. However, if you value the unmatched convenience and simplicity of its design, these minor drawbacks may be easily overlooked. Another self-contained, pop-open option to consider is the Coleman Camp Burst Dark Room 4, although it is smaller in size.
Read more: Gazelle T4 Hub review
Gazelle T4 Hub family tent in an outdoor setting, emphasizing its instant setup and spacious design
Best Rooftop Family Tent
Thule Approach M
Weight: 128 lbs | Max Inside Height: 40″
REASONS TO BUY
- Roomy interior, comfortable for sleeping and relaxing
- Simple installation and removal process once initially assembled
- Locks to roof rack for added security
- Huge windows for panoramic views and stargazing
REASONS TO AVOID
- Rainfly can be frustrating to attach
- No built-in cover storage, requiring separate storage solution
If you’re intrigued by rooftop tents and considering making the leap, the Thule Approach M is an excellent option in the realm of recommended family tents for vehicle-based camping. This softshell tent mounts to your vehicle’s roof rack via a mounting track. After the initial installation, setup is remarkably easy (as shown in our video review). The interior is spacious, with 40 inches of headroom at the highest point, and large windows offer wonderful views, perfect for stargazing. A convenient feature is that the Approach locks to your roof rack for security.
Rooftop tents aren’t for everyone. You need to be comfortable with climbing a ladder to enter and exit. More importantly, you must ensure your vehicle can handle the added weight. If you’ve considered these factors and are ready to proceed, the Thule Approach is one of our top recommendations. Our only significant issues are the somewhat difficult rainfly (snaps can be hard to reach) and the lack of a dedicated storage space for the tent cover when removed (it needs to be stored in your vehicle). Despite these minor inconveniences, we highly recommend the Approach as one of the best rooftop tents available. While our comparisons to other rooftop tents are limited, the Smittybilt GEN2 Overlander is a great budget-friendly alternative.
Read more: Thule Approach M review
The Thule Approach M rooftop family tent, highlighting its easy setup once installed on a vehicle
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Three top-performing camping tents under the stars, showcasing a family camping scene
Three of our top-performing tents enjoying an evening under the stars.
How We Test Camping Tents
To prepare for this comprehensive review of recommended family tents, we conducted extensive online research, reviewed user testimonials, and analyzed expert opinions from bloggers and YouTubers. After identifying the most promising tents, we purchased 18 of the best camping tents on the market and began rigorous testing. We measured, weighed, and thoroughly inspected each tent before taking them into diverse environments, from forests to deserts. We tested them side-by-side in various locations around Lake Tahoe, in the harsh conditions of Joshua Tree National Park, across Utah, and in the windy region of Reno, NV. Our team carried out over 60 individual tests to help you select the ideal tent for your specific needs and budget.
Our detailed testing process for camping tents is structured around five key rating metrics:
- Space and Comfort (35% of overall score weighting)
- Weather Resistance (25% weighting)
- Ease of Use (15% weighting)
- Family Friendliness (15% weighting)
- Quality (10% weighting)
For more details on our testing methods, please see our article how we test.
Why Trust GearLab
The heart of any memorable outdoor adventure is basecamp, and having the best camping tent is crucial, alongside good camping food and good company. Our lead tester, Rob Gaedtke, personally put these tents through demanding tests to ensure you can confidently choose your next home away from home. Rob is an experienced adventurer with a deep passion for the outdoors. He has competed in races across India, completed an Ironman in Mexico, and explored the African safari in a Jeep. He is also an avid rock climber, backpacker, and camper. Over the past 20 years, Rob has set up hundreds of basecamps across various terrains. We combined this extensive experience with a rigorous and detailed testing plan to find a diverse selection of tents for your consideration.
Jason Wanlass, who has spent the last 20 years exploring the outdoors, joined Rob in this testing. He is an experienced backpacker with treks in Iceland, Nepal, France, Switzerland, Slovenia, Argentina, and Chile’s Patagonia region under his belt. Closer to home, he hikes weekly in the foothills of Utah and has backpacked countless miles across nearly every Western state. Whether exploring vast U.S. mountain ranges or traveling to remote corners of the world, Jason brings extensive gear knowledge and uses his expertise in backpacking tents to evaluate the best features of the tents in this review.
Demonstration of the hub setup mechanism on the REI Grand Hut family tent
Enjoying a rest inside the spacious REI Co-op Base Camp 6 family tent
Reaching high to secure clips during the setup of a family camping tent
We tested these tents in a wide range of conditions to ensure they are top-quality and ready for your next camping adventure, helping you choose from the recommended family tents.
How to Pick the Best Camping Tent for You
While camping can take many forms, from sleeping on your car to backpacking miles into the wilderness, camping tents, particularly recommended family tents, are ideally suited for campsites accessible by car. These tents are designed to be spacious, comfortable, and accommodate the whole family. If you’re looking forward to relaxing by the campfire with a cooler full of refreshments and a comfortable camp bed awaiting, you’re in the right place.
Tent Type
While any tent might seem sufficient, choosing the right type significantly impacts your comfort. You’ll want a tent spacious enough for everyone and durable enough to withstand storms, and, if camping with family, the comings and goings of kids and pets. Camping tents are best for established campsites or campgrounds.
Four-Season: These tents are more robust than three-season tents and can handle colder temperatures, making them suitable family tents for all seasons. They feature a lower profile to better withstand wind and snow. Four-season tents might be overkill for warm-weather campers and are generally more expensive. However, if you camp in snowy conditions, a four-season tent is the best choice.
Double-Wall: This review primarily focuses on double-wall tents, which are likely what you envision when thinking of camping tents and are common recommended family tents. They have two layers of fabric: the inner tent and the rainfly. The tent walls are breathable, not waterproof, and often include mesh windows—perfect for stargazing on clear nights. The rainfly goes over the tent, providing waterproof protection. Since camping tents are typically transported short distances from a vehicle, ultralight materials aren’t essential. If you specifically need a lightweight option, consider a single-wall or backpacking tent.
Single-Wall: Primarily used for backcountry or mountaineering, single-wall tents are very lightweight and compact, prioritizing portability over comfort. Instead of a separate rainfly, the main tent body is waterproof but lacks the ventilation of double-wall tents. If you’re interested in lightweight tents, our review of backpacking tents may be helpful.
Tent Sizes
Camping tents, including recommended family tents, are commonly available in 4-person and 6-person sizes. This capacity indicates how many people can sleep shoulder-to-shoulder. While a 4-person tent can fit four, it will be a tight fit. A good rule of thumb is to subtract two from the stated capacity for comfortable spacing. Thus, a 4-person tent comfortably fits two people. For a group of four, a 6-person tent is recommended. Is a larger tent worth it? If you have car space, larger tents can enhance your camping experience, especially for family camping, offering more room to relax and organize.
Family camping with a large tent like The North Face Wawona 6, ideal for comfort and space
Camping with a whole family? A large tent like the Wawona 6 is an excellent choice.
Analysis and Test Results
We tested these recommended family tents against various challenges: kids, wind, dogs, dirt, heat, and the opinions of a husband and wife testing team. From setup and takedown to weather resistance and durability, and the quality of space for both sleeping and lounging, we thoroughly evaluated these tents to help you find your best match.
What’s the Best Value Family Tent?
Value in camping tents means getting the most features and performance for your money. We look for a strong balance of performance and price. Generally, higher-priced tents offer better performance, but there are exceptions.
The Marmot Limestone 4 stands out as a value leader in 4-person tents, performing well at a more affordable price. Another value-packed option is the Kelty Wireless 6. Quality 6-person tents at this price point are rare, making it a great value for families.
Kelty Wireless 6 family tent showcasing its design and value as a great camping option
Great design, quality materials, and a low price point. The Wireless 6 is a high value choice.
For a small yet highly versatile tent, the Mountain Hardwear Mineral King 3 offers significant value in a compact package, suitable for both backpacking and car camping, increasing its overall utility.
Mountain Hardwear Mineral King 3 family tent in a scenic outdoor setting, highlighting its compact and versatile natureThe Mineral King is the perfect tent for a quick father-daughter campout on Noble Canyon Trailhead, California.
In the lower price ranges, the Coleman 4-Person Cabin with Instant Setup is a standout value. This inexpensive, sturdy tent is a great option for quick and easy setup.
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The North Face Wawona 6 family tent with a comfortable and stylish interior setup
Value is important, and the Wawona 6 has lots of it.
Space and Comfort for Families
Space and comfort are crucial for car camping and selecting recommended family tents. When your car is nearby, extra weight for added comfort and space is a worthwhile trade-off. We evaluated footprint, vestibule space, height, headroom, doors, windows, airflow, and storage options.
The North Face Wawona 6 excels in space and comfort. Its spacious and tall interior (6′ 6″ peak height, 85 sq ft floor space) combined with a large double-door vestibule (44.7 sq ft) creates a comfortable haven. The updated design allows for use without the vestibule in warm weather. The tall, full-size door is another appreciated comfort feature.
The North Face Wawona 6 family tent featuring its large and comfortable vestibule area
The giant vestibule of The North Face Wawona 6 is by far one of the most comfortable to relax under.
The Nemo Aurora Highrise 6 also scores high in this category. With 83.3 sq ft of floor space, a 6′ 5″ peak height, and dual vestibules, it provides ample space and comfort for a family of four with air mattresses. Pocket count could be better, but storage is adequate with various hanging options.
NEMO Aurora Highrise 6 family tent showcasing its large floor plan suitable for families
The large floor plan of the NEMO Aurora Highrise 6 fits a family of 4 and then some.
The REI Co-op Base Camp 6 offers 84.3 sq ft of floor space and a 6′ 2″ peak height, comfortably sleeping six. It includes thoughtful extras like two large doors, 14 storage pockets, gear loops, two generous vestibules, and a large mesh rooftop. The Base Camp is also compatible with the REI Base Camp Vehicle Connector, adding 62.2 sq ft of covered space and connecting to your car.
Enjoying a rest inside the spacious REI Co-op Base Camp 6 family tent
The Coleman Skydome XL 8 received top marks for its massive 114.5 sq ft of floor space. This tent can sleep eight and fit three queen-size air mattresses. It has a 6′ 1″ peak height, a large mesh rooftop, six pockets, and interior string lighting.
Measuring the spacious interior of the Coleman Skydome XL 8 family tent, emphasizing its size
Other tents scoring well in space and comfort include the Big Agnes Bunk House 6 with a 6′ 9″ peak height and versatile shelter mode, and the Eureka Copper Canyon LX 6, the tallest in our lineup with a 7′ peak height and near-vertical walls.
Big Agnes Bunk House 6 family tent in shelter mode, creating a spacious covered eating area
The shelter mode feature with the Bunk House 6 makes for an awesome covered eating area.
The 4-person MSR Habitude 4 stands out with enough space, features, and comfort to top its category. It offers 62.4 sq ft of floor space, a well-sized vestibule, and seven pockets, making it a great option for smaller families.
The Coleman Camp Burst Dark Room 4 is notable for its “Dark Room” technology, which blocks out almost all light when the rainfly is attached, a unique feature for light-sensitive sleepers.
Measuring the spacious interior of the Coleman Skydome XL 8 family tent, emphasizing its size
Floor Plans for Family Tents
Reviewing floor plans is essential, especially if you plan to use air mattresses and chairs inside your recommended family tents. Floor plans help visualize the layout. Remember that tent capacity ratings are often based on a tight, shoulder-to-shoulder arrangement.
The Big Agnes Bunk House 6 and The North Face Wawona 6 have massive external storage areas, providing excellent space for gear and covered cooking or cleaning stations.
Big Agnes Bunk House 6 family tent highlighting its largest vestibule in the lineup for covered spaceThe Bunk House 6 has the biggest vestibule in our lineup, offering plenty of room for covered hangouts.
Weather Resistance for Family Camping
Weather resistance is critical, especially when camping with family. We assessed hot and cold weather performance, rainfly coverage, aerodynamics, stakes, poles, and guylines through real-world and simulated tests, ensuring we recommend only the best family tents for all weather.
The Marmot Limestone 4 performed well in hot desert conditions and windy Reno nights. Its shape and full rainfly provided excellent weather protection. Extra poles on the roof added openness without compromising wind resistance.
Marmot Limestone 4 family tent with a clothesline feature, demonstrating its weather-resistant design
The latest update to the Marmot Limestone 4 includes a clothes line feature that is pretty handy.
The MSR Habitude 4 and Snow Peak Alpha Breeze also scored top points for weather resistance. The Habitude is versatile in both hot and cold weather, and its guylines and slanted vestibule make it wind-resistant. The Alpha Breeze features thick canvas, a robust A-frame design, thick poles, metal guylines, and 20 stakes, built to handle challenging weather.
Snow Peak Alpha Breeze family tent showcasing its unique shape and weather-resistant features
A perfect view of the unique shape found on the Alpha Breeze.
Other top performers in weather resistance include the Wawona 6, which is burly despite partial rainfly coverage, and the REI Co-op Base Camp 6, with a reinforced rainfly and large vestibules. The tall REI Co-op Wonderland 4 also performed surprisingly well, thanks to numerous stakes and guylines, and offers good ventilation.
REI Co-op Wonderland 4 family tent secured with guylines and stakes for wind resistance
Loads of guylines and stakes hold the massive 4-person Wonderland tent securely to the ground.
Stake It Out for Family Tent Security
Wind resistance often depends on proper staking and guylines. Unless you expect calm weather, staking guylines during setup is crucial to avoid issues if bad weather arises. Consider purchasing extra cord, sturdier stakes, and a mallet for most recommended family tents to ensure stability.
MSR Habitude 4 family tent demonstrating its robust stance and quality materials for weather resistanceThe stance of the Habitude 4 is as robust as the quality materials inside.
Ease of Use for Family Camping
Easy setup and takedown are crucial, especially when arriving at camp late or with tired family members. We evaluated setup ease, packed size, packed weight, and how easily each tent fits back into its bag for our list of recommended family tents.
The Coleman 4-Person Cabin with Instant Setup scored highest for ease of use, setting up in under 60 seconds. However, it is heavier for a 4-person tent, and repacking can be challenging. Despite this, it’s ideal for quick setup, even in the dark or after a long day.
[Interior of the Coleman Camp Burst Dark Room 4 family tent, demonstrating its blackout feature in daylight
Relaxing after pitching the Coleman Cabin in 43-seconds. Plenty of time left to look off at the other campers still unpacking their tent.
The Gazelle T4 Hub sets up even faster, sometimes under 40 seconds, making it the easiest setup tent. However, it is heavy and has a large packed size. Its ease of setup and convenient accessories make it very user-friendly overall.
Gazelle T4 Hub family tent in an outdoor setting, emphasizing its instant setup and spacious design
The Mountain Hardwear Mineral King 3 is quick to pitch, easy to takedown, and packs easily. Its simple fly deployment, intuitive center clip, and perfectly sized bag make it hassle-free. It is also light enough for short backpacking trips.
A tour of the Mountain Hardwear Mineral King 3 family tent, from its compact packed size to its open views with and without the rainfly
The Mineral King has a very fast pitch thanks to an intuitive hub and clip system.
The Marmot Tungsten 4 also pitches quickly and is lightweight at 7.9 pounds. A large carry bag and color-coded poles and clips enhance ease of use.
[Marmot Tungsten 4 family tent demonstrating its hub system for easy solo pitching
The hub system allows for the Tungsten to be pitched solo with very little frustration.
The Kelty Wireless 6 features “Quick Corners” for easy solo setup and a single color-coded pole for simplicity, enhancing usability for families.
Kelty Wireless 6 family tent with Quick Corners, emphasizing its easy setup features
The Kelty Quick Corners make pitching this tent a breeze, even when solo.
Weight remains a factor even for car camping. Lugging heavy tents across campsites can be tiring, so consider weight even when choosing recommended family tents.
Don’t Forget the Footprint for Family Tents
Using a ground cover or footprint under your recommended family tents helps protect the tent floor from moisture, mud, and abrasion, extending its life and making packing cleaner. Manufacturers often sell custom footprints, but a cheaper plastic tarp also works.
Tyvek ground cover used as a footprint for a camping tent, highlighting its durability and water resistance
Tyvek “Home Wrap” is our favorite footprint for car camping and basecamping because it’s waterproof, highly puncture resistant, and exceptionally durable. We prefer clear polycro plastic groundsheets for weight conscious applications.
Family Friendliness Features
Family friendliness considers how well a tent suits a small group, including pets, and features like storage, privacy, and ease of entry, all important aspects of recommended family tents. We assessed comfort for at least four people, storage options, pet-friendliness, and privacy features.
The North Face Wawona 6 is highly family-friendly, comfortably sleeping a family of four with ample height, storage, and a large covered vestibule, which can even accommodate a camp shower.
The North Face Wawona 6 family tent with a comfortable and stylish interior setup
Chilling out in style. Take note of the open floor in front which can easily extend the sleeping area.
The Coleman Skydome XL 8 is family-friendly due to its sheer size and easy-to-clean, spill-safe flooring, ideal for camping with kids and pets.
Measuring the spacious interior of the Coleman Skydome XL 8 family tent, emphasizing its size
The Skydome’s tarp flooring is durable and very easy to clean — a plus for any large family.
The Nemo Aurora Highrise 6 is another excellent family tent with a stylish design, high ceiling, large footprint, and dual vestibules, offering plenty of space and options for everyone.
NEMO Aurora Highrise 6 family tent interior view, emphasizing its cozy and spacious environment
Enjoying the views from the cozy Aurora Highrise.
The Kelty Wireless 6 comfortably fits two adults, two kids, and two dogs, with dual vestibules for storage and organization. Easy setup, a nice carry bag, and stargazing capabilities add to its family appeal.
Kelty Wireless 6 family tent interior, ready for a new day after a cozy night's sleep
Getting ready to start a new day after a cozy night in the Wireless 6.
The Marmot Tungsten 4, though smaller than 6-person tents, offers family-friendly features in a lighter, more compact package, suitable for smaller families seeking recommended family tents.
Marmot Tungsten 4 family tent with white mesh walls providing added privacy from inside
The view from above shows the added privacy of the white mesh walls found on the Marmot Tungsten 4.
Every Family is Different: The best family tent depends on individual needs and camping style. Consider ease of use, features relevant to your family and pets, and suitability for your typical camping environments when choosing from recommended family tents.
Quality of Family Tents
Quality is judged by materials, pole and stake quality, and construction details like stitching and seams. Long-term durability often correlates with price. For recommended family tents that last, consider investing in higher quality.
The MSR Habitude 4 excels in material quality, from 7000-series aluminum poles to DWR 68D polyester taffeta floor and top-notch guyline tighteners, ensuring long-lasting performance.
MSR Habitude 4 family tent highlighting its quality materials from floor to poles
Quality materials can be found throughout, from the floors to the poles, the Habitude is built to last.
The Wawona 6 has a long-standing reputation for quality and durability. It uses 150D polyester taffeta for the main tent, 68D polyester for the floor, and strong, light DAC MX poles, with seam-sealed tub floors.
The North Face Wawona 6 family tent, emphasizing its high-quality materials throughout
The North Face Wawona 6 has quality materials all around.
The REI Co-op Base Camp 6 is built to last with high-end aluminum poles, thick polyester fabrics, double-stitched sealed seams, and full-length pole sleeves, resembling more robust four-season tents in its construction quality.
Enjoying a rest inside the spacious REI Co-op Base Camp 6 family tent
Full-length sleeves give greater strength to the tent’s aluminum pole structure, allowing it to better resist wind and the weight of snow.
The Snow Peak Alpha Breeze stands out with a 300D fire-resistant Oxford polyester floor, thick poles, metal guylines, smooth zippers, and soft pole sleeves, indicating superior quality.
Snow Peak Alpha Breeze family tent in awning mode, demonstrating its robust and quality build
Even with the vestibule in awning mode, the Snow Peak Alpha Breeze stayed firmly in place even during heavy winds.
For enhanced floor durability, the Marmot Limestone 4 and Coleman Instant Setup use 150D polyester floors, suitable for cots or tables.
For budget-conscious buyers, upgrading fiberglass poles to aluminum poles in cheaper recommended family tents significantly improves durability. Mesh quality is another area where budget tents often fall short; be cautious with mesh areas and consider better poles for longevity. The Kelty Wireless 6 is an exception, offering impressive mesh quality even at a lower price.
Kelty Wireless 6 family tent exposing high-quality mesh top for ventilation and stargazing
Exposing the high quality mesh top after a warm nights sleep in the Kelty Wireless 6.
Consider the Long-Term Investment in Family Tents
For frequent camping beyond just occasional trips, investing in higher-quality recommended family tents is worthwhile for season-after-season performance. Quality gear often means a higher upfront cost but pays off in durability and reliability.
The North Face Wawona 6 family tent with a garage-like vestibule, emphasizing its storage capacity and long-term valueThe North Face Wawona 6 is a tent with a true garage, ready to store all your toys
Conclusion
Choosing the right camping tent, especially from recommended family tents, is crucial for successful outdoor adventures. Consider your camping style and prioritize features that matter most to you. Innovations in tent design are continuous, so you can likely find a tent with your desired features. Now, find your perfect tent and enjoy the great outdoors!
