🏕 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
