Camping as a family can be one of the most rewarding experiences, offering a break from the daily hustle and providing an opportunity to bond in the great outdoors. The cornerstone to any successful family camping trip is undoubtedly the tent – a home away from home. With the best family tents for camping, comfort, space, and weather resistance become the pillars of a memorable adventure.
Equipped with this knowledge, let’s zero in on the tents that stand out for their quality, space, and overall family-friendly features. After thorough research, we’ve honed in on models that promise to enhance your camping experience, making sure every moment spent in the great outdoors is as comfortable and enjoyable as possible.
Best Family Tents for Camping
1. Coleman Montana
Pros
- Setup is a breeze, typically taking around 15 minutes
- The tent offers ample space, comfortably fitting up to 3 queen-sized airbeds
- Features like the WeatherTec system and an extended door awning enhance its weather resistance
Cons
- There's noticeable airflow due to the mesh roof which may not suit colder climates
- Lacks dividers for separate sleeping areas which might be preferred by some
- The hinged door can sometimes be less durable compared to traditional zipped ones
Firstly, its space is as commodious as advertised, thanks to a generous center height. Fitting the family’s sleeping gear is no challenge, with room to spare for our belongings.
Despite some serious weather rolling in unexpectedly, the Coleman Montana proved its resilience. The included rainfly and WeatherTec system worked wonders, and we stayed dry throughout a rather blustery night. And although setting up can often be a hassle, this tent simplified the process; the color-coded poles and snag-free sleeves saved us time, even when the kids were ‘helping’.
While the lack of dividers isn’t a deal-breaker for us, some privacy aficionados might miss that feature. Also, although the hinged door adds a homey touch, we had to be gentle with it; spirited kids or clumsy adults beware.
In all, our experience with the Coleman Montana makes it easy to recommend. It’s not just a shelter; it’s a portable haven for family adventures.
2. CORE Instant Cabin Tent
Pros
- Remarkably quick setup
- Excellent weather protection
- Spacious with room dividers for privacy
Cons
- Can be bulky to transport
- May require additional anchoring in high winds
- Limited color options
Despite its size, its promise of instant setup isn’t exaggerated; within just a couple of minutes, you can transform it from a flat piece of land into our comfy abode.
The tent’s weatherproof features ensure you stay dry throughout the night, despite a passing rainstorm. The water-repellent fabrics and sealed seams worked together seamlessly.
The tent’s internal layout, thanks to the two-room dividers, caters to need for privacy. Converting the open space into three smaller rooms is a breeze, allowing for a separate sleeping area for family and kids, as well as a communal area where we could gather and play games before bedtime.
Despite the Cabin Tent’s many virtues, its bulk required some strategic maneuvering amidst our gear, although the minor inconveniences are far outweighed by the comfort and ease it provides.
3. Coleman Evanston Screened Tent
For families craving adventure without sacrificing comfort, this tent is a worthy companion, boasting spaciousness and weatherproofing.
Pros
- Spacious interior comfortably fits two queen airbeds
- Effective weatherproofing, including a rainfly
- Added screen room provides bug-free relaxation
Cons
- Screen room lacks a weatherproof floor
- Slightly bulkier when packed than some alternatives
- First-time setup might require a few extra minutes
Finding the best family tents for camping can be tricky, but we were pretty impressed with the Coleman Evanston Screened Tent. Its roomy interior made it feel like we had brought the comfort of our living room into the great outdoors.
During our most recent camping trip, the tent’s weather resistance was put to the test, and it passed with flying colors. Not a single drop got inside, thanks to its welded corners and inverted seams. The additional rainfly provided an extra layer of defense against the elements.
One of the standout features for us was the full-floor screen room. Even though it was a magnet for our card games and evening chats, it’s worth noting that this area isn’t fully protected from the rain. However, this was a small trade-off for the added space and the breathtaking view it offered while keeping the bugs out.
Transporting and storing the tent was a breeze with the included carry bag, though it was a bit heavier than we’re used to. Setting it up for the first time took a little longer than expected; however, we’ve got it down to a quick 15 minutes now. This tent is more than just a place to sleep—it transformed our camping experience into a cozy, family bonding adventure.
4. UNIHIMAL Family Tent
Pros
- Spacious enough to host a large family comfortably
- Private dual-room design with an entertainment-friendly divider
- Ventilation and view are exceptional, enhancing the camping experience
Cons
- Weight might be a concern for distance carrying
- Setup time could be improved with practice
- While spacious, might be too large for smaller campsites
The first thing that strikes me is how it reinvents camping space. The tent easily accommodates three queen air mattresses, which makes it feel less like a tent and more like a mobile cabin.
A heads-up though, while packing the tent was straightforward, its 17-pound weight could be a bit much if you’re trekking to your campsite. Also, our first-time setup took a bit longer than expected, but by the end of the trip, things wrapped up much faster.
If you’re on the hunt for the best family tents for camping, this one is a grand slam for its balance of comfort and convenience.
5. Core 9 Instant Cabin
Pros
- Speedy assembly within minutes
- Effective water resistance for rainy conditions
- Spacious interior with good ventilation options
Cons
- Bulkier when packed compared to smaller tents
- May require additional waterproofing over time
- Limited privacy with one-room design despite divider
Setting up the Core 9 Instant Cabin was a breeze, taking us just a few minutes which is great after a long drive to the campsite. Its pre-attached poles worked like a charm, and we were able to lock them into place without any hassle, making the start of our camping trip stress-free.
With the room divider, we could create some semblance of separate spaces, which was useful. However, it’s worth mentioning that it’s more of a visual barrier than a soundproof one. During the day, we appreciated the adjustable ventilation – the lower vents and mesh ceiling meant that even with all of us inside, the tent remained cool and comfortable.
If you’re in the market for one of the best family tents for camping, the Core 9 Instant Cabin is a choice we’ve found to be reliable and convenient.
6. GoHimal 8-Person Family Tent
Pros
- Impressive waterproofing handles rainy days well
- Vast interior comfortably fits 8, perfect for large families
- Quick assembly enhances overall convenience
Cons
- For some, initial setup may be slightly challenging
- Might be too large for smaller campsites
- Can be bulky when packing for longer treks
What’s commendable is the tent’s waterproof fabric. It held up impressively against an unexpected downpour, keeping us dry and cozy. Although packing it back up requires a bit of muscle due to its size, the carry bag it comes with does help to transport it back from the outdoors with relative ease. Overall, the GoHimal 8-Person Family Tent is a solid pick for families who don’t want to compromise on space or comfort on their outdoor adventures.
The tent’s ventilation system is a game-changer during those warmer nights. With the generous mesh door and windows, we enjoyed the breeze without the company of insects. Plus, the top canopy design is a brilliant touch, lighting up the interior during the day.
7. CAMPROS CP 8-Person Tent
Pros
- Quick and intuitive to erect
- High ceiling and roomy interior
- Efficient water resistance and great ventilation
Cons
- Limited views due to some window placements
- Can be bulky to transport
- Might not withstand extreme weather conditions
Inside, the tent felt like a mobile mansion, with ample headroom to spare—no need to hunch over when moving around. The divided curtain, meant for creating a separate room, was an excellent feature for adding some privacy, transforming our tent into a two-room haven.
We discovered this tent is a great choice for larger families aiming for a comfortable camping experience with its easy setup and spacious design.
8. UNP Family Camping Tent
Pros
- Quick and easy assembly
- Spacious and comfortable for large groups
- Good ventilation and stargazing opportunities
Cons
- Zippers could be more durable
- Rain flaps may interfere with zipper function
- Added stakes recommended for high wind stability
The interior felt like a palace. Fitting three queen-sized air mattresses was no overstatement, and the tent provided much-needed personal space after a day full of activities and exploration. Transitioning into the night, the mesh roof was a portal to the cosmos, a feature that became the highlight of our evenings.
However, we did notice the rain flaps tended to catch in the zippers, a slight annoyance we managed to work around. Based on our adventure, sturdier stakes might be a worthwhile investment for peace of mind in rougher weather.
Nonetheless, it’s a habitat that offers generous space, ease of assembly, and the durability you’d hope for to make your outdoor stay a memorable one.
9. PORTAL Large Family Camping Tent
Pros
- Spacious interior comfortably accommodates larger groups
- Separate rooms with a divider for privacy
- Excellent ventilation provided by the multiple windows and vents
Cons
- Requires two people for a more manageable setup
- May need additional staking in strong winds
- At 41 pounds, it's on the heavier side for a tent
The main room, large enough for three queen air mattresses, made it feel more like a portable cabin than a tent—ideal for our family gatherings. Standing up inside without crouching was a relief for the taller members of our crew, thanks to the generous center height.
The front porch transformed into our favorite chill-out spot. The adjustable height was a convenient touch, creating a just-right angle for both sun and rain protection.
It’s an ideal solution for family outings or any large group seeking comfort in the great outdoors. Just remember to bring along a buddy to help with the setup, and consider the space and weight if you have a smaller vehicle.
10. Coleman Sundome Tent
Pros
- Weather resistance keeps you dry
- Quick setup allows more leisure time
- Generous ventilation for comfortable sleep
Cons
- Might feel cramped with four adults
- Fiberglass poles less durable than aluminum
- Limited storage space for gear
Last but not least by any means, what would our review be without a recommendation for some of your rugged backcountry adventures, where carrying a cabin isn’t an option?
This one is just that, a steady companion on any hiking adventure. It repelled rain like a champ, keeping our gear dry during a sudden downpour. The setup was intuitive; within 10 minutes.
Now, while it’s advertised for four, four adults would be a tight squeeze. It’s perfect for a couple or a small family. Also, we had to be creative with our gear storage, as space was at a premium when fully occupied.
Overall, it’s a solid shelter that won’t disappoint. After multiple trips, it’s proven itself as a reliable option for our outdoor excursions, providing a snug refuge after a day of wilderness adventures.
Buying Guide
When we’re on the hunt for the best family tents for camping, it’s all about finding that perfect balance between space, comfort, and durability. Let’s break down the key features to consider when making our choice.
Size and Capacity
Consider the number of people: Always opt for a tent rated for slightly more people than your family size to ensure comfort.
| Number of People | Tent Size Recommendation |
|---|---|
| 1-2 | 3-person tent |
| 3-4 | 5-person tent |
| 5+ | 6+ person tent |
Tent Seasonality
Evaluate the climate: Choosing the right season rating will keep us comfortable.
| Season Rating | Best For |
|---|---|
| 3-season | Spring, summer, fall |
| 4-season | Year-round, including harsh winter |
Material and Durability
Pick quality materials: High-denier fabric and sturdy poles are indicators of good durability.
Comfort Features
Look for amenities: Consider tents with multiple rooms or a screened porch for added comfort.
- Ventilation: Mesh panels promote airflow.
- Peak height: Taller tents are easier to move around in.
- Storage: Pockets and gear lofts help keep the interior organized.
Setup and Portability
Usability is key:
- Ease of setup: Faster setup times mean less hassle.
- Weight: Lighter tents are easier to transport but may trade-off on durability.
By focusing on these areas, we equip ourselves with the knowledge necessary to choose a tent that’ll serve us well on our family adventures.
Are you looking for more reviews like these? Check out our reviews about other essential equipment like camping knives, and anybody’s best camping buddy, your camping coffee maker!
Happy camping!
