Group camping can be incredibly fun and exciting, but it’s tough to find a group tent that perfectly bridges the gap between functionality and useability.
But trust us, Six person tents are the way to go for car camping and front country adventures – mostly due to their weight, size, and functionality.
Of all the items you’ll bring on your trip, the tent is arguably the most important. It’s your shelter in poor weather and your group’s communal hangout spot. However, we understand that picking the right one can be stressful and you have plenty of planning to do and items to remember as it is. So let us take the stress out of your tent selection!
Below, we have laid out the fundamentals of shopping for the best 6 person tent, along with our top choices!
Need something a little bigger? These articles might help:
Best 6 Person Tents
Right, let’s take a look at some of the top options.
The North Face Wawona 6
- Material: Nylon, No-see-em mesh
- Size: Floor Area: 86.11 Ft² (8 M²) Maximum Height: 80″ (203.2 Cm)
- Weight: 19.0z lbs (trail weight)
- Price: $$$$
The North Face Wawona 6 might be one of the best options out there due to its versatility! Its functionality is great for car camping, basecamp hiking, road trips, and beach outings – basically, any outdoor activities that need a night or more spent outside. Like most top rated tents that you will find, this tent also comes with some of the best features that pleasantly surprise campers.
What I love most is that this is a single-walled tent. It’s easy to use and set up. It’s single-wall engineering also makes it super light – so double points! This tent was rated as waterproof, not water-resistant. You can sleep with ease not having to worry about water leaking in. A rainfly or tarp can always be added if you want that extra protection if you are indeed headed into extreme weather.
The tent has been designed with two massive doors, making for easy exit and entries. The large doors and high ceiling provide great breathability, especially for the days when the weather is hot and muggy. The high ceilings allow you to easily stand inside the tent without having to bend.
Unlike many other 6 person tents, this one is very spacious. Its single-walled technology makes it very roomy – ideal for friends or families and can easily fit two queen-sized airbeds.
Large windows provide expansive views and maximize exceptional airflow. Exterior and interior flaps for weather protection are an added bonus. A large outdoor vestibule gives great coverage for your gear that you want to keep outside of the sleeping area and gear that you want to dry out. Another smaller vestibule on the other side is also an option for shoes and small items.
Color-coded poles and tab design makes it pretty easy to pitch. However, due to the vestibule, you might want to give it a go in your backyard first- just in case you do have rain in your forecast.
PROS
- Included footprint
- Large windows and 2 entrances doors
- Single-walled tent
- Carry bag included
- Waterproof
CONS
- Not great for high winds
- Can track in dirt easily due to vestibule
- High price point
Coleman (Darkroom) Sundome
- Material: Nylon and Polyester
- Size: 10 x 10 ft. with 5 ft. 8 in. center height
- Weight: 16.8 lbs
- Price: $$
Another great option is the spacious Coleman 6-Person Dark Room Sundome Tent.
This tent is guaranteed to keep you dry if it rains thanks to the WeatherTec system, which uses a tub floor with patented welded seams to help keep water out. You’ll get even more weather protection from a door awning and an included rainfly. Compact dome shape and strong frame have been tested to withstand 35+ mph winds – a great add on feature.
The two large windows increase air circulation to help you stay cool and avoid condensation. Setup is a snap with continuous pole sleeves and pin-and-ring system. You can comfortably stretch out with room to fit 2 queen-size airbeds or 6 single mats. Ideally, this tent is best to sleep 4 adults or a family of 6 with small children, due to its dome shape.
The Dark Room technology blocks 90% of sunlight. Therefore, you can put the kids to bed early, night owls can sleep in past sunrise, and midday naps are easy. This also reduces heat in the tent, letting you enjoy a comfortable night’s sleep if it’s warm outside.
Organization is easy with mesh storage pockets sewn into the walls, and an E-Port feature if you have access to a hookup. You have the option of purchasing this tent with or without the screen room.
PROS
- Dark Room technology blocks 90% of sunlight
- WeatherTec system keeps water out
- Easy setup in less than 10 minutes
- E-Port and inside mesh storage pockets
- Illumiline reflective guylines for greater visibility at night
CONS
- No footprint included
- Basic dome shape
Coleman Sundome
- Material: Polyester
- Size: 10 x 10 x 6
- Weight: 13lbs
- Price: $$
The Coleman 6-Person Sundome Tent is the same tent listed above, however without the darkroom technology.
In terms of base features, this tent almost exactly mirrors the Coleman Darkroom above. We still have the waterproof Weathertec system for excellent protection from the elements, along with a door awning and rain canopy.
The two large windows still provide superb air circulation. This is doubly important for this tent as, without the darkroom technology, it will let more light and heat in. Due to this increased sun and heat penetration, this tent is best suited for spring and summer, but not extreme heat conditions in the peak of summer.
We still have great organization with mesh storage pockets sewn directly into the walls, along with an E-Port feature if you’re lucky enough to have access to a hookup. In my opinion, the Coleman Sundome is the best 6 person tent under 200 dollars on the market!
PROS
- WeatherTec system keeps water out
- Easy setup in less than 10 minutes
- E-Port and inside mesh storage pockets
- Floor vent for better ventilation
- Illumiline reflective guylines for greater visibility at night
CONS
- No footprint included
- Basic dome shape
Coleman Montana 6
- Material: Fly: Polyester taffeta 75D Mesh: Polyester 68D inner tent Floor: Polyethylene 1000D-140g/sqm floor: 11mm fiberglass poles
- Size: 12 (l) x 7 (w) x 5’8 (h)
- Weight: 17 lbs
- Price: $$
The Coleman Montana is roomy and simple to set up with just one person, making it especially well-suited for the camper wanting a little extra room. However, it stays true to its published sizing by fitting a maximum of 6 people. This tent is ideal for the campers looking for an open concept along with a spacious and airy design.
The Coleman Montana contains 1 large D-shaped door with vented windows. There is an awning located over the door, too.
The hooded fly over the windows allows for great ventilation when it’s raining and the extended fly provides a place to sit in the shade or take cover from the rain. Mesh vents on the roof help stop condensation building up as much as possible and also facilitate even greater airflow through the tent for good cross ventilation.
The floor material is a rugged polyethylene and has a bathtub-shape for the best protection against the rain. Coleman has made it nice and simple by welding the floor and corner seams to ensure no rain will leak inside the tent. Its aerodynamic build can withstand high winds as well.
The walls and rain fly on the Coleman Montana 6 are a polyester material with extra coating, making the body extra strong and more durable.
This is a great front country tent for families and groups of friends, looking to all slumber in one large open concept space. Overall, this is the best 6 person tent for the money.
PROS
- The directions are printed right onto the tent (cloth flap)
- Can withstand up to 50-60 mph of wind. Just stake it down!
- A lot of interior space. Truly a 6 person tent!
- The poles are color-coded, making the setup process a breeze
- Provides enough ventilation to stop condensation
CONS
- Not the greatest for maximum downpour (bring an extra tarp)
- The zipper can be difficult to pull up and down, around the halfway point
Kelty Disovery Dome 6
- Material: 68-denier polyester, fiberglass poles
- Size: 119 (l) x 106 (w) x 68 (h) inches
- Weight: 14lbs
- Price: $$
If you are looking for an affordable dome tent with multi-functional capabilities, you have found it! The Kelty Discovery Dome 6 is a three-season, 6-person tent. Although this is a 6 person tent, I have found that it’s best suited for 4-5 people with perhaps a pet or two, due to its slightly constrictive dome shape.
Setup is extremely quick and can be effortlessly done even by one person. The two fiberglass poles slide very well through the enclosed sleeves and secure nicely in their designated grommets.
The rainfly snaps in position and secures quickly to the webbing. The rainfly has a pointed vestibule over the one D shaped entry door in the front and has great zipper protection that lies deeply under the trim. I would recommend practicing this tent set up at home before heading out, the overhanging vestibule can be a bit tricky on round one.
With only one door, be aware that some campers may have to crawl over others in order to get to the exit. The mesh vent at the top of the door does not come with a full screen but rather only the small section at the top which can be opened for airflow, great for warm weather conditions. Floors have taped seams for added insulation and durability.
The center ceiling has a nice utility loop that works very well for hanging a headlamp or lantern. The sides also have pockets that are very nice to keep small gear items in.
I recommend using this tent in the front country during warm conditions vs. wet weather. This recommendation is due to the fact that the canopy style rainfly sometimes allows condensation and water droplets to sneak into the tent and leave your gear a little wet.
Additionally, adding a footprint or large tarp to the bottom will help if you are in moist conditions.
PROS
- 3-pole frame that is spacious for taller people
- No-see-um mesh canopy blocks bugs and allows ample ventilation
- Pre-attached guy lines make it easy to stabilize
- Interior gear loft loop
- Canopy style rainfly, great for breathability in warm weather
CONS
- Footprint not included
- Not suited for extreme weather
Marmot Limestone 6 Person
- Material: Polyester
- Size: 76″ x 100″ x 120″; Floor size: 83.8 square feet
- Weight: 18 lbs
- Price: $$$$
The Marmot Limestone 6 Person is a great step up from your basic, front country, entry-level six-person tent, but still lacks some “bells and whistles”. With that said, its price and spaciousness make up for the lack of “luxury”.
It’s roomy, easy to set up, and has large, double-zippered doors to make taking things in and out of the tent a breeze. Tent storage is adequate, including 4 (on the smaller side) pockets below and 4 mesh pockets above with a center lantern hook.
The cross ventilation is great, with mesh windows from the top and about 30% covered in polyester from the bottom that are cross-angled. One door is completely mesh, while the other is entirely polyester. The tent has a large vestibule on the entry mesh sided door and a small vestibule on the polyester door side.
If you’re looking to find a tent that will deliver in variable conditions this would be a reliable option for your group. It’s a stable and good intermediate level option. This is a quality tent that will outshine less expensive more basic models every time so it’s certainly not going to let you down.
PROS
- Two D Shaped Doors/Two Vestibules for Gear Storage.
- Free-Standing Design
- Weatherproof Seam Taped Full Coverage Fly with Vents
- Color-Coded "Easy Pitch" Clips and Poles
- High ceiling and spacious interior
CONS
- Could use more internal storage
- High price point
Caddis Rapid 6 Tent
- Material: Polyester Tafetta
- Size: Floor area- 10 square feet, 6’8 (h)
- Weight: 19.6 lbs
- Price: $$$
The Caddis Rapid 6 Tent is one of the best instant-up tents on the market. It’s great for families and large groups with its efficient “pop up” assembly and high ceilings and suited for the most novice of campers. It goes up in under two minutes and comes down in about the same.
The fly provides good coverage, which is beneficial when the clouds roll in, and the rain starts to fall. The roof is made almost completely of mesh, which allows for great ventilation on warm and muggy nights.
It also provides a full view of the stars as you doze off to sleep without the tarp. I would say that a comfortable capacity for this tent is closer to four, due to its squared-off shape.
With no front awning, there is the potential for more extreme precipitation to get through the front. However, there is, at least, a small sun visor out front that should keep some direct rain out, especially when it’s windy.
The small touches, and obvious bump in quality over its direct competitors within this price point, truly set it apart. This tent offers well-placed storage pockets, a lantern hook and a sizable gear loft.
If you’re looking for a four-season tent, or want more of a robust camping tent, this isn’t the tent for you. If you just want to enjoy the great outdoors, car camp and be outside with friends and family and not break the bank in the interim, this is your tent.
Not only does it come in at less than half the price of some other tents we’ve reviewed, but it also sets up and breaks down in way less than half the time.
PROS
- Easy setup
- Good Price point
- Includes a durable rain canopy
- Good inside storage
- High ceiling and mesh roof
CONS
- Not ideal for heavy precipitation or wind
- Large and bulky packed size
Kelty Outback Tent
- Material: Polyester, Tafetta, No-See-Em-Mesh
- Size: 118 x 76 x 106 inches
- Weight: 13 lbs
- Price: $
For car camping, festivals, and adventures with friends, comfort is key. The Kelty Outback 6 easy setup cross pole design and huge D-door comes in handy for just such an occasion with easy access both in and out.
This tent is designed to be spacious, without compromising on comfort and durability. The tent offers a No-See-Um Mesh design for an open-air concept and is truly a 3-season shelter.
A double staked vestibule creates a wider space for your gear, so you can sprawl out and enjoy maximum relaxation. The easy-to-use attached guylines help stabilize the tent in windy conditions, and then tuck away into the built-in mini storage pockets when not in use.
The mesh walls are durable and are perfect when the weather cooperates. If the weather isn’t going to be the best, there is the option of pulling the full coverage rain fly over during inclement weather. The Mesh ceiling is great for breathability and if you want to feel a part of nature while not being nibbled on by mosquitos.
While the tent only has one door, it is a very large D door. This will make transporting gear easy in and out. The quiet zipper pulls are one of the best features on this tent and they are actually noiseless!
You will find taped seams throughout the tent as well as the fly to ensure both durability and moisture control. The storage pockets are more robust than other tents we reviewed, too. This tent sleeps 6 comfortably, it’s extremely spacious. The full coverage fly allows for a 3-season use of the tent.
Considering the quality structure, design and durability, this is a great price for the tent.
PROS
- Big D door
- Color-coded for easy setup
- Full coverage fly
- Internal storage pockets & guyline storage pockets
- Vestibule with two stake points
CONS
- Only 1 door
- Footprint not included
Big Agnes Flying Diamond 6
- Material: Polyester, Mesh
- Size: 150 (l) x 96 (w) x 84 (h) inches
- Weight: 19 lbs
- Price: $$$$
The Big Agnes Flying Diamond 6 is a spacious “feature-heavy” tent ideal for base camping or car camping. This might be my favorite tent on the list! Its rugged materials weatherproof coatings and sturdy poles provide 3+ season camping adventures.
This tent has two sections with an optional divider, separating a large main room and a smaller rear sleeping room – great for families or when you bring the pooch along. A huge front vestibule and a smaller rear vestibule provide additional storage space for wet gear and extra coverage.
Continuous interior mesh pockets help with organization by stowing gear and freeing up floor space. Interior integrated loops offer up to two gear lofts (sold separately).
Aluminum poles and stakes provide rugged durability in windy conditions.Color-coded webbing and buckles make it easy to set up the tent. Additionally, reflective guylines provide visibility at night to make your way back safe and sound. Nylon mesh windows provide ventilation and the body is constructed of durable polyester rip-stop fabric.
Waterproof coating on the polyester rainfly and floor help keep moisture from getting in while the fly vents allow air to circulate.
The mesh front and rear doors of the tents further enhance airflow and provide optional zippered storm flaps for rain and privacy. All of the tent’s seams are tape-sealed to further protect against the elements.
This is one of the best-constructed tents we have listed so far and the optional divider makes this the best tent for 6 person family adventures.
PROS
- Optional room divider
- Two vestibules
- Reflective guylines
- Great waterproofing
CONS
- Very high price
- Gear lofts sold separately
Coleman Cabin Tent
- Material: Polyester
- Size: 10 x 9 ft. with 6 ft. center height
- Weight: 24lbs
- Price: $
Rounding out our reviews we have the Coleman Cabin 6 Person Tent. For the price and the size, this tent gives you some of the most bang for your buck.
It’s well ventilated and very comfortable, which makes camping in hot temperatures and with your group easy and effortless.
Since this is a Coleman instant tent, setup is very easy. Everything comes attached, you just have to roll out the tent and prop it up with its “pop up” spider poles. Secure the corners and guylines and you are good to go.
An included rainfly provides extra protection from the elements. Plus, since it’s vented, it guarantees better airflow without extra assembly.
This tent features big windows that you can even use as a screen in “porch” on hot days. This way, you can enjoy the wilderness without getting attacked by mosquitos and baked by the sun.
Patented welded floors and inverted seams make up the WeatherTec System that assures you remain dry and comfortable, even in heavy rain. It also features Insta Clip Pole attachments that provide stability during windy days.
This six-person tent has plenty of space so you can move around freely. A high ceiling at over six feet is a great feature as well. It is true to size and can comfortably fit 6 people, including up to 2 queen air mattresses or 6 sleeping bags with single mats – making it the best 6 person cabin tent.
It conveniently comes with a carry bag that will help you stay organized!
PROS
- Great ventilation
- Can easily fit two queen-sized airbeds
- Spacious and high ceiling
- Comes with extra storage pockets
- Quite durable
- Dual-sided doors
CONS
- Footprint not included
- Not ideal in extreme wind
How to Choose the Right 6 Person Tent
Choosing the “right” tent is going to come down to your budget, conditions you’re exposed to, and features you can’t live without.
I hope the above reviews helped narrow down the list for you, and now let’s discuss a few of the most important aspects of purchasing a new tent.
Durability & Sturdiness
Nylon or polyester are my materials of choice as they will last several, moderate weather seasons for multi-seasonal use. Additionally, always try to use a tent footprint whenever possible as this will work wonders for protecting your tent’s floor.
In terms of durability, your mesh windows and air vents – while great for hot weather – are the weak points and most likely to tear or snag first. Therefore, treat them gently and be careful not to snag them on anything during set up.
I highly recommend that you keep an eye out for sealed seams, toggles, and zippers, which will work wonders for keeping insects and rain at bay. These sealed features will also help your tent last much longer than a less protected tent. Additionally, a truly waterproof rainfly is almost always preferred over a water- or weather-resistant one.
Number of Rooms
Most 6 person tents are only going to be one open space. However, a select few include dividers as an option to separate the interior of the tent. If you have kids and want some privacy, look for those options to see if it comes with a partition or if you can add on with already installed clips inside. The Big Agnus tent we listed above is a great option!
Ease of Set-Up
If you are a novice camper, I highly recommend purchasing a tent with a “two-pole” system or deploying a tent that utilizes color-coded poles and grommets. I’m also very impressed with tents that use a ‘spider’ system that features pre-attached poles for incredibly easy setup.
Luckily, 6-person tents frequently have a 2 pole system or color-coded poles/rings – this is great for the most novice or advanced campers. Often tents with the more basic set-up construction are more sturdy, dynamic, and adjustable.
Additionally, I highly recommend making sure the tent you purchase has good instructions, not just pictures. This will help immeasurably when the time comes to actually set up your tent. Many manufacturers also post YouTube videos to demonstrate proper setup, should you need some additional guidance.
Additional Comfort Features
What’s most important to you when you head out for your adventure?
If comfort is the top priority, then looking out for a tent with lots of bells and whistles will be the ticket! Sometimes, glamping is 100% the way to go, and looking for a tent with lots of features to benefit you and your group will pay off. Since 6 person tents are still on the medium/large size you will have the option to have a lot more features than you usually have in smaller tents.
- Some of my favorite extra features include:
- High ceilings
- Darkroom technology
- Gear lofts
- Large storage pockets
- Iridescent guylines
- Room dividers
- Outside porches
- E-ports
- Price
First things first. Please look at your personal budget before jumping straight to buying a tent. Once you have your own budget figured out, stick to it as you wade through your tent options.
Rest assured, there are plenty of very decent tents for those of us on a tight budget.
However, if you plan on using your new tent all the time, then it may well be worth spending a little extra up front in order to get a high-quality product that will last season after season.
Final Thoughts
With so many brands, manufacturers and styles, remember that they all have their pros and cons, so be honest with your budget and the specific needs of your group or family.
What may be touted as the absolute best features may end up being a non-issue for your adventures, so look closely and carefully consider your personal goals and wants.
Remember, one category alone should not be the only deciding factor in your decision-making process.
The type of terrain, environments you will be exposed to and preferred style are all factors that should be looked at in your search for the best 6 person tent. Consider all these points and your needs will become obvious in no time.
Good luck and happy shopping!
