🏕 Gear Review: The North Face Wawona 6

Price: $550 | Capacity: 6-person | Weight: 20 lbs. 15 oz. | Rating: 4.6/5 Big, bold, and built for comfort. The Wawona 6 isn’t just a tent—it’s a backcountry basecamp. 💡 Quick Hits: Massive vestibule = outdoor mudroom or hangout space 76" peak height = stand up and stretch out Aluminum poles + 150D floor = durable enough for real use Tons of mesh = great in summer, breezy in shoulder seasons ✅ What We Loved: Space for days: The near-vertical walls and high ceiling make it feel more like a cabin than a dome tent. Even tall campers can move around freely. Front porch vibes: That oversized vestibule swallows up packs, chairs, dirty boots, and even dogs. Rain? No problem. Well-built: Aluminum DAC poles and a burly floor mean this thing can take a beating and still keep you dry. Breathable: Ventilation is top-notch with mesh everywhere and a fly that allows for airflow—even when zipped down. ⚠️ Tradeoffs to Know: Setup’s a two-person job: With that tall structure and hybrid design, solo pitching is... not ideal. Chilly in cold weather: All that mesh works against you when temps drop. Not the fastest setup: Plan on spending some time getting everything staked out and tensioned just right. 🎯 Who It’s For: Car campers, families, and anyone who prioritizes space, comfort, and gear organization over ultralight minimalism. If you’re staying put for a few days, this is an ideal home base. 🚫 Who Should Skip It: Solo campers, minimalist weekend warriors, or anyone who hates guy lines and poles. 🆚 Wawona 6 vs. the Competition: 🛖 REI Wonderland 6 ($499) More vertical space and even roomier inside—but no vestibule unless you shell out another $99. Great if you want a “tent-palace,” not so great in wet weather. 🌧 Nemo Aurora Highrise 6 ($500) Handles storms better with a full-coverage fly and zippable windows. Less vestibule space, but more weatherproof. If you're expecting rain, this might be your move. 🧭 Final Verdict: The North Face Wawona 6 is one of the best family-sized car camping tents out there. It’s not ultralight, not storm-proof, and not cheap—but if you’re setting up camp for real comfort and livability, this thing’s a fortress. Big enough to host a rainy day hangout, tough enough to last season after season. Pro Tip: Bring a buddy for setup—and maybe a lantern for that huge vestibule. #Sports #Hiking #HikingGear