In a hurry? The Wawona 6 by The North Face is simply the best of the best when it comes to large camping tents. It perfectly balances size and durability, so you know you’re getting a spacious tent that’s built to last, plus it’s protected by a lifetime warranty.
We understand that this may not be everyone’s top pick, so we’ve also assembled our other favorite options below – that way you can pick the perfect large tent that best fits your needs.
In this guide, we’ll dive into the key aspects to consider when shopping for a large camping tent, whether you’re planning a fun family vacation, a trip with a large group of friends, or simply enjoy having ample space when camping. From capacity and shape to weather resistance and ease of setup, we’ll explore the factors that will help you find the perfect tent to make your camping experience a delight. Read on to embark on the journey to find your ideal outdoor abode.
Our goal is to share our exceptional knowledge and provide the highest quality content possible that will help you thrive in all your outdoor endeavors while living a healthy, fulfilling lifestyle. We have ambitious goals to become the best resource on the internet for all things hiking, camping, climbing, and outdoor adventure, and we hope to inspire you to get outside and explore.
AT A GLANCE: Our Top 9 Picks for Large Camping Tents
- Editor’s Choice – Wawona 6 by The North Face
- Best for Weather Protection – Big Agnes Bunk House 8-Person
- Best Budget Friendly – 9-person Instant Tent by CORE
- Most Head Room – Copper Canyon LX 12 by Eureka!
- Best for Summer – Shield Series 12-Person tent by Bushnell
- Most Durable – Flex-Bow Canvas Tent by Kodiak
- Most Versatile – T4 Hub Tent by Gazelle
- Best Oversized – Alpha Wall Tent by White Duck
- Best Dark Room – 10-Person Instant Tent by Coleman
IMAGE | PRODUCT | |
---|---|---|
Editor’s Choice | North Face Wawona 6
| View Price on REI |
Most Weatherproof | Big Agnes Bunk House 8
| View Price on Amazon |
Most Affordable | Core Instant Cabin Tent
| View Price on Amazon |
Most Head Room | Eureka Copper Canyon LX
| View Price on Amazon |
Best for Summer | Bushnell Shield Series 12
| View Price on Amazon |
Most Durable | Kodiak Flex Bow Deluxe
| View Price on Kodiak |
Most Versatile | Gazelle T4 Hub Plus
| View Price on Amazon |
Best Oversized | White Duck Alpha Wall Tent
| View Price on Amazon |
Best Dark Room | Coleman 10-person Instant Tent
| View Price on Amazon |
We selected this Wawona 6 by The North Face as our Editor’s Choice Best Large Camping Tent because it offers an ideal blend of comfort, durability, weatherproofing, and spaciousness. Plus, it comes with a lifetime warranty, so you’re protected for years to come.
Specs
- Capacity: six person tent
- Max Height: 76″ (6ft. 4in.)
- Dimensions: 120″ x 96″ (12ft. x 8ft.)
- Square Feet of Floor: 86.11 sq.ft.
- Vestibule Space: 44.7 sq.ft.
- Fabric: 75-denier canopy and rainfly, 150-denier floor
- Waterhead Rating: 1200mm
- Poles: DAC MX Aluminum
- Weight: 19 lbs. 4 oz.
- Warranty: Lifetime
Pros
- Robust rainfly and waterproof rating keeps out all rain and moisture
- Six person tent with a spacious interior
- Oversized vestibule for gear storage space or hanging out
- Lifetime warranty
Cons
- Slightly more expensive, but the quality is worth it!
The North Face Wawona is a marvel of camping engineering, designed to comfortably accommodate up to six campers without compromising on elbow room. Imagine being able to enjoy a card game with the family on a rainy evening without the constant need to duck and dodge tent walls. That’s the promise of Wawona 6 – the spacious interior is just as impressive as the sprawling outdoors you’re camping in.
After its size, the next feature we noticed about this tent is the oversized vestibule, which is spacious enough for hanging out under the canopy or even storing larger gear like bikes. This also gives the tent a protected entrance, so you can get inside easily even when it’s wet outside.
Durability is key when it comes to large tents and the Wawona 6 didn’t disappoint. Its polyester material provides both waterproofing and UV resistance. It also uses high-quality aluminum poles that are built to withstand strong winds without snapping or bending. This makes the Wawona 6 ready to withstand any kind of adverse weather that Mother Nature could throw at it.
Despite its large size, setup was still refreshingly simple with the color-coded tent poles. Even if you’re new to camping, the Wawona 6 won’t leave you struggling with complex instructions as the sun dips below the horizon.
Our only complaint about this tent is the higher price tag, but that’s comes with the territory when shopping for quality large camping tents. That being said, it’s well-worth the investment because of its reliability, cool features, and lifetime warranty.
Best for Adverse Weather – Bunk House 8 by Big Agnes
The Big Agnes Bunk House 8-Person tent takes the second spot on our list, earning the title of the best weatherproof large camping tent. With a full coverage rainfly, strong aluminum poles, and a high waterproof rating, this tent is ready for any kind of weather conditions you could throw at it.
Specs
- Capacity: 8
- Max Height: 82″ (6ft.10in.)
- Dimensions: 150″ x 100″
- # of Rooms: 1-2
- Square Feet of Floor: 104 sq.ft.
- Vestibule Space: 25 sq.ft. (x2)
- Fabric: polyester
- Waterhead Rating: 1500mm
- Poles: DA17 Aluminum
- # of Doors: 2
- Weight: 22 lbs. 15 oz.
- Warranty: Lifetime
Pros
- Robust rainfly ensures top-notch weatherproofing
- Crafted meticulously for challenging weather
- Aluminum poles provide superior durability
- Spacious design with large entry points.
Cons
- Full rainfly may limit stargazing opportunities
The Bunk House has been crafted with meticulous attention to detail and an obvious understanding of what a camper needs when the weather turns foul. If you’re a family or a group of friends who love camping regardless of the weather, this tent is a fantastic choice that will keep you cozy and dry even when the skies open up.
One of the key features that make the Bunk House 8 stand out is its full-coverage rainfly. Not all large tents come with a rainfly that completely covers the structure, but Big Agnes has taken no chances. The rainfly envelops the tent, providing an added layer of protection from rain, and combined with the tent’s impressive 1500mm waterhead rating, you can rest assured that no droplet is going to find its way inside.
The Big Agnes Bunk House 8’s weatherproof credentials don’t end with its rain protection. Big Agnes has incorporated strong, yet lightweight, aluminum poles that provide an extra level of resilience against wind. These are paired with self-equaliziing guylines, which help the large structure resist gusts like a champ.
On top of its exceptional weatherproofing, the Bunk House 8 offers spacious interiors and a versatile design that includes large doorways and vestibules for easy access and extra storage. The extensive mesh panels also provide ample ventilation, keeping the tent interior fresh and comfortable in any weather condition.
Best Budget Friendly – Instant Cabin Tent by CORE
This 9-person Tent by CORE is the most affordable tent on this list and is a great option for any budget-conscious campers who don’t want to sacrifice space. It features a tall max height so you can stand up inside, and it sets up in as little as 60 seconds because of its instant tent design.
Specs
- Capacity: 9
- Max Height: 78″ (6ft. 6in.)
- Dimensions: 14′ x 9′
- Packed Size: 48″ x 11.5″ x 11.5″
- # of Rooms: 1-2
- Square Feet: 126 sq.ft.
- Vestibule Space: none
- Fabric: 68D polyester
- Waterhead Rating: 600mm
- Poles: Steel
- # of Doors: 2
- Weight: 30.5 lbs.
- Warranty: 1 year
Pros
- Fits two queen air mattresses
- Instant setup takes only a couple minutes
- Tall max height (6’6″)
- Oversized door makes it easy to get larger air mattresses in and out
- Steel poles add stability and durability
- Can be separated into multiple rooms
Cons
- Waterproof Rating isn't as high as we'd like to see
The first thing we noticed about Core Instant Cabin Tent was that setup was super quick and simple. Simply take it out of the bag, then unfold then tent and extend the legs. It can take as little as 60 seconds once you get the hang of it, which means you can focus on the more fun parts of camping.
Even though it has a super simple setup, this tent doesn’t compromise on size. It’s huge in person, and can sleep up to 9 campers in the spacious interior. Because the max height is over six feet tall, most campers can stand upright inside. This makes it easy to move around and get in and out of the tent without stooping.
Some other features we love are the steel poles that add durability and stability (even in windy conditions), the mesh ceiling panels and windows that offer a view of the night sky, and the oversized T-shaped door that gives you access to the entire tent (which also makes it easier to get queen air mattresses inside).
Our only complaint about this budget tent is the low waterhead rating, which is only 600mm. In comparison, a rating of 1200mm what is considered acceptable for heavy rain, so you can see how this is well below that level. Because of this, this tent wouldn’t be our first choice for a heavy downpour, but held up perfectly ok for light rain and moderate conditions. If you want to camp in rain, you should take the proper steps to waterproof the tent material yourself.
Most Head Room – Copper Canyon LX 12 by Eureka!
The Copper Canyon LX 12 by Eureka! is the tallest tent on this list (7 feet!) and we couldn’t recommend it more if you prioritize interior space. It also has great options for ventilation, steel poles for stability, and a decent waterhead rating that makes it more than ready for your next camping adventure.
Specs
- Capacity: 12
- Max Height: 84″ (7 feet)
- Dimensions: 12′ x 14′
- Packed Size: 11 x 29 inches
- # of Rooms: 1-2
- Square Feet: 168 sq.ft.
- Vestibule Space: none
- Fabric: 68D-75D polyester
- Waterhead Rating: 1200mm
- Poles: Steel and fiberglass poles
- # of Doors: 2
- # of Windows: 6
- Weight: 36 lbs. 13 oz.
- Warranty: Lifetime
Pros
- Tallest max height on this list
- Near vertical walls make it easier to use cots and air mattresses
- Lifetime warranty
- Lots of mesh for air circulation
- E-port included for electrical cord access
Cons
- Windows are clips and not zippers
Our favorite features about this large family tent is definitely the interior height, which is a whopping seven feet tall! It’s the tallest modern tent on this list, and it offers the most head room of pretty much all the tents currently on the market.
Not only is this tent tall and spacious, but the near vertical walls and cabin-shaped design maximize the usable space. This means you can stand upright and walk around in the entire tent without bumping your head against the ceiling. Plus, it makes it easier to use cots and tall mattresses since the walls won’t crowd your space.
We also appreciate the smaller details on this tent like the E-port for electrical cord access, the extended fly over the door to help with a drip free entry way, the room divider that creates two separate spaces, and the overhead mesh pockets for small gear storage.
Our only complaint is that the interior window covers don’t zip, they hook instead. This makes opening and closing the windows a bit of a chore, so we hope they will change that on future models.
Best for Summer – Shield Series 12-Person Instant Tent by Bushnell
The Shield Series 12-Person tent by Bushnell is our top pick for summer camping because of its ample mesh and UV reflective rainfly that keeps your tent cooler and darker. Plus, it has plenty of interior space with a tall max height, as well as two room dividers that make it perfect for family camping.
Specs
- Capacity: 12
- Max Height: 80″ (6ft. 8in.)
- Dimensions: 18′ x 11′
- # of Rooms: 1-3
- Square Feet: 198 sq.ft.
- Fabric: 150-denier walls and fly, 240-denier floor
- Waterhead Rating: IPX4
- Poles: steel
- Weight: 58 lbs.
- Warranty: Lifetime
Pros
- Spacious interior has standing height throughout
- Instant tent that sets up in only two minutes
- Heat reflective layer on rainfly keeps tent cooler
- Two AC ports for use with a window unit
Cons
- Doesn't perform as well in heavy rain
Why is this large family camping tent perfect for summer camping? 1) The rainfly has a heat reflective under layer that reflects UV rays to keep the tent interior darker and cooler, even on sunny days. 2) There are two AC ports, giving you the option to use an AC unit to keep your tent cool on hot days.
When we set up the Bushnell Shield 12, the first thing we noticed is the sheer size of it. It’s huge! The 80″ max height (6’8″) allows everyone to stand up and walk around freely, so there’s lots of headroom throughout. The floor space is even large enough to fit four queen sized air mattresses, although doing this doesn’t leave you any room for walking around.
Despite its large size, setup was super quick and easy – it only took two minutes. That’s because it’s designed to be an instant style tent that uses pre-attached poles. You simply take the tent out of the bag, unfold the poles, and extend them. Make sure you take the extra little bit of time to stake out the guylines – this extra stability is essential in a tent this large.
Our chief complaint about this tent is the inconsistent waterproof rating. While the product description says it’s waterproof, many users reported that they were forced to apply their own waterproofing spray to keep the fabric water tight. Because of this, this tent is probably best for ideal weather conditions and we wouldn’t expose it to heavy rain when possible.
For more large tents built for summertime, check out the best tents with an AC port.
Most Durable – Flex-Bow Canvas Tent Deluxe by Kodiak
The Flex Bow Tents by Kodiak are some of our favorite canvas tents of all time, and this Flex Bow Deluxe 10×14 made our list for the best large camping tents because of its spacious interior that offers plenty of space while still being weather resistant.
Specs
- Capacity: 8
- Max Height: 78 inches (6’6″)
- Dimensions: 10’x14′
- Square Feet: 140 sq.ft.
- Fabric: 8.5-10 oz. Hydra-Shield Cotton Canvas
- Floor Material: 16 oz. vinyl
- Poles: Steel
- # of Doors: 2
- # of Windows: 4
- Weight: 79 lbs.
- Warranty: Lifetime
Pros
- Lifetime Warranty
- Canvas material is built to last a lifetime
- 6’6″ interior height means you can stand up straight
- Flex Bow frame makes it easy to set up, even with one person
- Awning provides shade
Cons
- Higher quality is reflected in the price tag
- Heavy and more difficult to carry
This 10×14 is the largest tent in the series, and with 140 square feet inside there’s lots of space for the family. The 6’6″ peak height means you can stand up straight throughout, so you can move around freely without stooping. If you want a smaller tent, you can size down to the 10×10 or 9×8.
The biggest feature that sets this tent apart from the others on this list is the canvas material. It’s not a modern polyester tent, and instead using more traditional fabrics that are waterproof right out of the box. If you take proper care of this canvas, it’s built to last a lifetime – so it may be the last camping tent you ever purchase.
One of the biggest benefits of canvas is that while it’s waterproof, it’s also naturally breathable. This means you’re less likely to get condensation build up on the inside. Plus, the canvas keeps the tent cool when it’s hot and when it’s cold outside, the canvas works hard to hold in warmth. The durability of this tent really shines in its 4-season capabilities, meaning you can use it while winter camping in cold weather just as much as you can in ideal summer camping weather.
Even though this tent is large and heavy, setup is quick and easy with the unique Flex Bow design. This same frame is one of the most durable on this list, and this tent consistently stands strong against wind and rain that collapses modern polyester tents.
The biggest downside of this large tent is the weight – the whole unit is a whopping 79 pounds. This is to be expected with a canvas tent that has steel poles, so it’s part of the trade off. That being said, it may not be ideal for some people who have a hard time lifting or bending, or if you regularly need to carry your tent into walk-in campsites.
For more canvas tents, check out our list of the best canvas tents.
Most Versatile – T4 Hub Plus Tent by Gazelle
The T4 Hub Plus Tent by Gazelle is an awesome tent – the ample mesh and convertible screen room give you the flexibility to use the space in different ways and the high waterproof rating keeps you dry. Plus, you can stand up straight and it sets up in only 60 seconds, so this tent is definitely ready for your next camping adventure.
Specs
- Capacity: 4-8 person tent
- Max Height: 78″ (6’6″)
- Dimensions: 94″ x 165″ (7.8ft. x 13.75ft.)
- # of Rooms: 2
- Floor Space: 110 sq.ft.
- Fabric: 210-denier shell, 300-denier floor
- Waterhead Rating: 2000mm shell, 5000mm floor
- Poles: Fiberglass poles
- # of Doors: 2
- # of Windows: 5
- Packed Size: 11″ x 11″ x 63″
- Weight: 56 lbs.
- Warranty: 1 year
Pros
- Instant design sets up in only a couple minutes
- High level of waterproof rating for extra weather protection
- Screen room can be converted into sleeping space
- Tall height throughout the whole tent
Cons
- Fiberglass poles aren’t our favorite, but they do make for an easy setup
The original Gazelle T4 Hub tent sleeps a maximum number of four people, but this extended edition can sleep up to eight. Half of the tent is actually a screen room that can be used for hanging out or as additional sleeping quarters when you have a larger camping group.
The best part of this tent is the super simple assembly – it basically pops up and sets up in only 60 seconds. No extending poles or dealing with pole sleeves and clips.
The second best part of this tent is the high waterhead rating. In a world where tents need a minimum of 1200mm, this fabric surpasses that number with a 2000mm shell and 5000mm floor. This makes this tent super waterproof, and it can withstand rain easily without letting a single drop inside. Normally large family tents like this skimp on the waterhead rating, so it’s a breath of fresh air to see something so water tight.
Our third favorite feature on the Gazelle T4 Hub Plus is the standing height throughout and vertical walls. The straight walls make it easier to sleep on cots and taller beds, plus it extends the standing headroom throughout the entire tent. With a 6’6″ tall ceiling, even taller campers can stand upright.
Our only complaint about this tent is that the poles are fiberglass instead of a sturdier metal like aluminum or steel. That being said, it’s part of the trade off for the super simple setup, and it’s a fair trade in our opinion. The tent poles are still strong enough to withstand rain and wind, so you should be able to enjoy this large tent for many camping trips to come.
Best Oversized – Alpha Wall Tent by White Duck
If you want an extra large camping tent that’s truly supersized, look no further than the Alpha Wall Tent by White Duck. The sizes start at a small and comfortable 8’x10′ that sleeps up to six people, and run all the way up to a 16’x24′ behemoth that can sleep up to 18 campers. With six different size options, superb weatherproofing, and a lifetime warranty, you can’t go wrong with this large family camping tent.
Specs
- Capacity: 10+ person tent
- Max Height: 8’8″
- Door Height: 6’9″
- Dimensions: 12’x14′
- Floor Space: 168 sq.ft.
- Fabric: 10.10 oz. Army Duck Cotton Canvas
- Floor: 16 oz. polyvinyl
- Poles: Galvanized Steel
- # of Doors: 1
- # of Windows: 4
- Weight: 205 lbs.
- Stove Jack? Yes
Pros
- Largest tent on this list by a long shot
- Comes in a wide range of sizes to pick from
- Tall door height means no stooping to enter
- Generous max height
- Canvas is waterproof, breathable, and built to last a lifetime
Cons
- Takes longer to set up, but that’s a fair trade off for the size and durability
The 12’x14′ size is the third size on the list going from smallest to largest, and it’s a great mid-range size that’s spacious but not overwhelming. It can sleep up to 10 campers in sleeping bags, 3 campers on single beds, or four glampers on two queen sized beds.
Not only is the White Duck Alpha Tent spacious when it comes to square feet, but it has tallest peak height on this list at a whopping 8’8″. That’s 1.5 feet taller than the closest competitor on this list! Even the door height is 6’9″, which is taller than most of the max heights on this list – this means you don’t have to stoop to enter the tent.
The Alpha Wall Tent isn’t made of modern tent fabrics, and instead utilizes waterproof cotton canvas. It’s waterproof yet breathable, which helps with condensation as well as maintaining temperature. Even in the summer heat, you’ll find that the interior stays cooler, and in the winter you can use the included stove jack with a wood burning stove to heat the inside.
Despite its large size, it’s one of the most weatherproof tents on this list. It has a mesh door and mesh windows, both of which have storm flaps to keep out sideways rain. The guylines use shock absorbing bungee cords to attach to the tent’s exterior, which helps it stay balanced and upright even in strong winds.
The main downside of this large tent is the weight and increased setup time, but that’s a fair trade off for the size and durability of this tent. Because it does take longer to setup, it’s best for longer camping trips, semi-permanent camps, or permanent glamping situations where the tent will set up for longer periods of time.
This tent is also our Editor’s Choice for the best tents to live in full time, which shows just how strong and durable it is!
Best Dark Room – 10-Person Instant Tent by Coleman
This 10-Person Instant Tent by Coleman features Dark Room Technology that blocks 90% of the sun’s UV rays. This keep the tent cooler and darker, which also lets you sleep in past sunrise and lets the kids take mid-day naps. Plus, its spacious interior can sleep up to 10 campers and it sets up in a breeze with the instant design.
Specs
- Capacity: 10-person tent
- Max Height: 72″ (6ft.)
- Dimensions: 14′ x 10′
- # of Rooms: 1-2
- Floor Space: 140 sq.ft.
- Vestibule Space: none
- Fabric: polyester
- Waterhead Rating: Coleman Weather Tec
- Poles: Metal
- # of Doors: 1
- # of Windows: 7
- Weight: 44.6 lbs.
- Warranty: 1 year
Pros
- Spacious interior
- Dark Room Technology is a game-changer for families who need mid-day naps
- Instant setup with minimal effort
Cons
- Poor weatherproofing
- Can’t withstand wind
One of the standout features of the Coleman Dark Room Tent is the Dark Room Technology. This technology blocks out 90% of sunlight, reducing heat and allowing you to sleep in or take naps during the day without the sunlight waking you up. It’s a game changer for those who love to sleep in or for those with children who need to nap during the day. The technology also reduces heat in the tent, making it a comfortable choice even in warmer weather.
One of this tent’s greatest features is its capacity. With room for 10 people, this tent is perfect for large families, groups of friends, or anyone who prefers a generous amount of living space when camping. The spaciousness allows for the placement of camping furniture and storage of gear without feeling cramped.
But don’t let the size intimidate you; the Coleman Instant Tent is remarkably easy to set up. As the name implies, this large tent is designed for quick and hassle-free assembly. This simplicity removes the usual stress and difficulty associated with camping tent setup, allowing you to spend less time fussing with the tent and more time enjoying the great outdoors.
In terms of downsides, the Coleman doesn’t excel at weatherproofing, and we found this tent to resist rain and wind very poorly. This isn’t a deal breaker if you normally camp in ideal conditions, but if you are exposed to adverse weather occasionally, you may want something with better weather resistance.
Continue Browsing: Best Blackout Tents
How We Tested, Reviewed, And Rated These Large Camping Tents
We love outdoor gear and recommend equipment that adds value to our outdoor adventure. We know and understand the importance of having gear worth every penny, so we thoroughly research and test every product we recommend. No matter how we procure an item, our goal is to remain as unbiased as possible, and we put it to the test against its competitors to find the best and worst features.
We also understand that each adventurer is different, and our favorite large camping tent may not be yours. That’s why we rate and review a wide variety of products currently available, so you can see a breakdown of all the features and pick what’s best for you and your situation. We don’t recommend anything we wouldn’t personally use, so whether you’re looking for the highest quality, an affordable price, superior weather resistance, a particular brand, or any other desirable feature, there’s sure to be a large tent on our list that’s perfect for you.
Comparison Table
This comparison table takes some of the most important specifications from each large camping tent on our list and puts it into an easy to read format so you can directly compare each one to its competitors. You can see that we’ve included price, weight, square footage, peak height, materials, and user reviews.
A table comparing the family tents from our list above and their price, capacity, square footage, peak height, warranty period, and our favorite feature.
Things to Consider When Choosing a Large Camping Tent
There’s a bunch of factors to take into consideration when shopping for the ideal large camping tent. Continue reading to learn the in’s and out’s of everything you need to know.
Capacity & Size
The capacity or size of a family tent is one of the most critical aspects to consider when shopping for a tent. The capacity refers to the number of sleeping bags or campers that can fit comfortably inside the tent.
However, this doesn’t necessarily account for personal space or extra gear. You should always take the suggested capacity and subtract at least two – that way you’ll have a more comfortable car camping experience. For instance, a 6-person tent would be quite spacious for 3-4 people.
When it comes to large car camping tents, you have the luxury of additional space, which can make your camping experience more comfortable, particularly for longer trips. You can accommodate a larger group of people, store gear, or even fit camping furniture.
For each family tent above, we’ve included the suggested capacity and square footage, that way you can get a sense of how large the tent is. We have options as small as 6-person, but the list goes all the way up to 12-person and beyond. The Editor’s Choice Wawona 6 is the best balance of size and quality materials, while the White Duck is the largest tent on this list.
If you want to learn more about how to choose a large family camping tent based on size, check out our post on Camping Tent Size: How Much Space Do You Need?
Shop Tents by Size
- Best 4 Person Tent
- Best 5 Person Tents: Tried and Tested Reviews
- Best 6 Person Tents
- Best 8 Person Tents
- Best 10 Person Tents for Group Camping Adventures
- Best 12 Person Tents
Shape
Tent shape significantly impacts the overall camping experience by affecting the tent’s weather resistance and overall durability. It also plays a role in the type of interior space, and whether or not there’s standing height throughout the entire family tent (cabin tents and wall tents) or just in the middle (dome tent). Learn more about cabin vs dome tents.
A dome tent is often favored for their stability and wind resistance, but they can lack headroom. The North Face Wawona 6 and Big Agnes Bunk House 8 are the only dome tents on this list, and they have superior weather resistance compared to most of the other sizes. On the other hand, they also have some of the shortest max heights on this list, although they do still have standing height in the center of the tent.
On the other hand, cabin-style tents provide more vertical space, making it easier to stand up and move around, which is especially helpful in large camping tents. Most of the tents on this list are cabin tents, such as the CORE, Eureka!, Bushnell, Kodiak, Gazelle, and Coleman tents. They offer near vertical walls and taller max heights, but aren’t as great at resisting bad weather.
There’s only one wall tent on this list – the White Duck Alpha Wall Tent. It’s the most spacious of all these options, plus it offers the largest capacities available. If you want an extra large camping then that’s both spacious and extremely weather resistant, this one is the way to go.
Max Height
The maximum height of a tent, often referred to as peak height, is especially important if you plan on standing or moving around in your tent. Large camping tents typically have a higher peak height than smaller ones, allowing you to stand upright. This can make changing clothes, organizing gear, or simply stretching out after a long hike much more comfortable. But do remember, a family tent with a higher peak might be more susceptible to strong winds, so make sure it is well-anchored and that you’ve used the guylines properly.
All the large family tents on this list have a max height of at least 6 feet, meaning most campers can stand upright at least in the center of the tent. If you have taller campers or if you prioritize standing height throughout, look for tents with a taller max height, like the Copper Canyon LX 12 by Eureka! that has a peak height of 84″ (7ft.).
Shop tents for tall people if you want more options that have a generous max height.
Weather Resistance
Weather resistance is crucial to ensure your family tent can stand up against various elements you might encounter outdoors. The tent’s material, the quality of its seams, its rainfly, and the design all play a part in how well it can withstand rain, wind, and even snow. Look for a waterhead rating of at least 1200mm, which is considered waterproof instead of water resistant. The higher the number, the better.
Large family camping tents have a larger surface area exposed to the weather, making their design and material quality even more critical. Look for a family tent with a full-coverage rainfly for the best rain protection. For example, the Bunk House 8 by Big Agnes is our top pick for people who are regularly exposed to inclement weather because its full coverage rain fly is better equipped to handle rain and wind than the others on this list.
The Big Agnes Bunk House 8 has the best weather resistance on this list.
If you’re a summer camper, the Shield Series 12 by Bushnell may be your best bet because it has a heat reflective lining on the rain fly that helps keep out the sun’s UV rays. This keeps the large tent cooler, and it can also be paired with a window AC unit to keep the tent even cooler.
If you want to camp year-round (even in winter snow), then the White Duck Alpha is the best option for you. Not only does it perform extraordinarily well in all kinds of weather conditions in all four seasons, but it also has a stove jack that allows you to use a wood burning stove to heat the tent during cold weather.
Be wary of overly affordable large camping tents, as these manufacturers have cut corners in order to keep the price down. They usually don’t have an adequate waterhead rating, meaning they are more likely to leak when exposed to rain. While the CORE Cabin Tent is the most affordable option on this list, it’s also the least weather resistant option and it will probably require you waterproof the fabric yourself.
Ventilation
Ventilation is crucial in a camping tent to prevent condensation from forming inside and to maintain a comfortable temperature. This is particularly important in large tents as more people breathing inside can cause a lot of condensation. Features like mesh panels, windows, and vents allow air to circulate inside the tent, providing a cooler and more comfortable environment. The larger the tent, the more important these features become. You should look for a family tent that offers a good balance of weather resistance and ventilation.
Quality & Durability
When investing in a large camping tent, you’ll want it to last for many family camping trips to come, making the quality and durability of the materials and construction crucial. The tent fabric should be tough enough to resist tears and punctures. Reinforced seams and high-quality zippers can ensure your family tent doesn’t let you down in the field. The quality of the poles is also important – aluminum tends to be sturdier than fiberglass.
That being said, the larger the tent, the higher the price tag, and it’s essential to find the proper balance between quality and price. You may be drawn to a more affordable tent, but know that it sacrifices quality in order to keep the price down. You may stay away from overly expensive tents, but these are the highest quality and most durable options so they are more likely to last years and years to come.
Ideally, you want a camping tent that has metal poles, a waterhead rating that meets or exceeds 1200mm, fabric that’s at least 60-70-denier, and a thicker floor material. If your large family tent of choice has these features, then you’re on the right track.
The North Face Wawona 6 has the best balance of size, quality, and price.
Price
Quality and durability are directly intertwined with price. The higher the quality, the higher the price, and vice versa. You must take into consideration your typical use and your budget and find the right value for you.
Know that it can be worth investing in something higher quality and more expensive, as it will save you headache and money in the long run. It’s not fun to go camping if you end up with a budget tent that collapsed at the first sign of a gust of wind. Not only is your weekend ruined, but so is your tent. And now you have to buy another one.
Save yourself the time and frustration and get something durable from the get-go. That way you can go camping with the peace of mind that your home-away-from-home is ready for whatever you’re going to encounter.
Weight & Packed Size
Weight isn’t as much of a consideration for these large family camping tents since they’re exclusively used for car camping and not backpacking, but it’s still worth mentioning. Most of the large family tents tents on this list weigh a decent amount, so keep that in mind if you’re unable to lift heavy things.
Packed size may effect how it fits in your vehicle, but know that a larger packed size is normally associated with instant tents, so you’re trading space for the convenience of an easy setup.
Ease of Setup
Some larger tents can be complex and time-consuming to set up, which can be frustrating at the end of a long day of travel or hiking. Features like color-coded poles and quick setup mechanisms can significantly reduce the setup time and hassle. Some large tents even come with the poles pre-attached, allowing you to set them up in minutes.
For example, the T4 Hub Tent by Gazelle, Shield Series by Bushnell, and Cabin Tent by CORE are all instant tents with a quick setup time of less than two minutes. You can check out more of the best instant tents if you want to explore more options.
Number of Rooms
The number of rooms in a large family tent can make a big difference in terms of privacy and organization, especially when car camping with a large group or family. Some large tents offer room dividers that can be used to create separate sleeping areas or to separate sleeping areas from living spaces. This can be beneficial for families with children, groups of friends, or anyone who values having separate spaces for sleeping and socializing within the tent.
Not all the large family tents on this list have a room divider, but the following do: Instant Tent by CORE, Copper Canyon LX 12 by Eureka!, Shield Series 12 by Bushnell, T4 Hub by Gazelle, and the Cabin Tent by Coleman.
The CORE tent has a removable room divider that separates the interior space into two separate rooms.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the largest tent for camping?
The largest tent for camping is the White Duck Alpha Wall tent, which has six different sizes that can sleep up to 18 campers in a single tent! If you want a modern polyester tent, there are several larger options like the Eureka! Copper Canyon LX 12 and the Shield Series 12 by Bushnell, both of which can sleep up to 12 people.
Is an 8 person tent too big?
An 8-person tent is a great size for families and groups who prioritize space in their car camping tent. Plus, this size tent is usually small enough to fit into the tent pad at most campgrounds, but it’s worth checking the measurements before booking (just in case).
Is a 10-person tent too big?
A 10-person tent isn’t necessarily too big, but it does depend on where you usually camp. Some campgrounds may have open campsites, but some may require you setup on a designated tent pad. If you have a designated tent pad, a 10-person tent is likely too large, so make sure you check before booking any campgrounds.
Final Thoughts
A large family tent isn’t just a place to sleep; it’s your home away from home when exploring the great outdoors. It’s a place where you’ll share laughter, stories, and perhaps even shelter from a storm. You want your family car camping tent to be a source of comfort and security that enhances your outdoor adventure, rather than detracting from it.
Whether you’re a seasoned camper looking for an upgrade or a family planning their first camping trip, the perfect tent is out there waiting for you. So gather your camping crew, pack your gear, and get ready to make some unforgettable memories under the roof of your new home in the wilderness.
Our #1 Recommendation: Wawona 6 by The North Face
The Wawona 6 by The North Face is the perfect reliable, large camping tent. It’s a superior blend of spaciousness and durability, plus it’s protected by a lifetime warranty.
0 Comments