Best 8 Person Tents for Group Camping (Top 7 Picks)

Published September 29th, 2022 by Allen Campbell

best 8 person tents for group camping

You want to go camping with your friends or family, but don’t know which tent is the best for your group. Not only is finding a tent for a large group difficult, but it’s also often expensive. If you’re not careful when choosing a tent, you might end up with an uncomfortable and flimsy one.

You need something that’s spacious enough to comfortably accommodate everyone in your party, while still being compact and lightweight enough to facilitate easy transportation. 

That’s why I’ve compiled a list of the best 8-person tents for group camping trips, complete with everything you need to know to make the perfect choice for your needs. 

Best 8 Person Tents for Group Camping (Top 7 Picks): Summary

1. Eureka Copper Canyon LX 8

120+ Reviews
4.6/5

Specifications

  • Style – Cabin
  • Gear Loft/Caddy – Yes
  • Packed size – 29” x 11” x 11” (74cm x 28cm x 28cm)
  • Sleeping Dimensions – (13’x10′)
  • Peak Height – 84” (213cm)
  • Floor size – 156” x 120” (396cm x 305cm)
  • Weight – 34 lbs (15.4 kg)
  • Living Space – 2

Detailed Review of this Tent for the Desert

Eureka Copper Canyon LX 8-person tent is offering serious competition to other high-quality tents. Its recent upgrades make it even more appealing, giving you the best value for your money.

With its new and upgraded design, this tent is now more user-friendly and accommodating than ever before. It features a 7-foot peak height, vertical walls, and an incredible view from every single angle, making it the perfect choice for your next camping adventure.

There is a room divider included in the design, so you can create two separate living spaces if needed. Each room has its own entrance door for convenient access. Both rooms are opposite each other, so there’s no need to worry about a lack of airflow. This allows for optimal airflow and prevents the stuffy feeling that can come with some tents.

In terms of features, Eureka is offering some serious competition. The tent comes with mesh storage pockets, an e-port for electrical cord access, and windows that can be opened for ventilation. Additionally, the floor hooks make it easy to install the Eureka non-slip flooring if you so choose.

The extended “front porch” in the tent was really appealing to me. This is an excellent option if you’re concerned about being caught in a rainstorm. It kept my belongings dry and made it simpler to enter and exit the tent.

Pros:

  • 7-foot peak height
  • User-friendly design
  • Great value for the price
  • Optimal airflow
  • 2 separate living spaces
  • Extended “front porch” on rainfly

Cons:

  • It’s a little more expensive than other alternatives.
  • The floorplan is a little bit tight as compared to others

2. Nemo Wagontop Group Camping Tent for 8 People

30+ Reviews
4.5/5

Specifications

  • Style – Cabin
  • Gear Loft/Caddy – Yes
  • Packed size – 28” x 13” x 13” (71cm x 33cm x 33cm)
  • Peak Height – 80” (203 cm)
  • Floor size – 180” x 100” (457cm x 254 cm)
  • Weight – 30 lbs. (13.6 kg)
  • Living Space – 2

Detailed Review of this Tent for the Desert

According to my thorough research, the Nemo Wagontop tent is the best group camping tent for 8 people. It has everything a person needs to have a great time outdoors. 

It surpassed all of our expectations in terms of performance, and it won everyone over with its unique features. You’ll be more than just satisfied with this camping tent, I guarantee it.

With its 15 feet long length, the Nemo Wagontop is one of the longest tents in my review. It also has an extended vestibule which is an excellent addition if you need extra space to pack everything up. The 8’4″ width is also higher than most of the other models on the market, making it a great choice for tall people.

An impressive ceiling height is one of the best features of this camping tent. The ceiling is inspired by the name of the tent, which is a covered wagon. It’s six-plus feet tall, so you won’t have to worry about hitting your head on the top of the tent.

The 4 feet rainfly is also a great feature. It extends an additional four feet past the main door, protecting your gear from water damage. It’s also 100% waterproof, so you don’t have to worry about anything being damaged by rain or water seeping in.

The 3 aluminum pole design is also a great addition. It makes the tent easier to pitch and more stable in high winds. Also, the Nemo Wagontop has enough space for everyone and their gear. You can even make a space for an extra garage to store cars in.

Although I liked most aspects of this tent, the price was too high for my taste. But, after using it and seeing how well it performed, I understand why it’s a bit more expensive. In my opinion, this group camping tent is worth the money, and I would recommend it to anyone who is looking for a new one.

Pros:

  • Long length and extended vestibule
  • High ceiling height
  • Waterproof material
  • 3 aluminum pole design
  • The lifetime warranty is a great addition

Cons:

  • Expensive
  • Please note that Footprint is not included

3. Coleman 8-Person Tent - Instant Family Tent

4500+ Reviews
4.4/5

Specifications

  • Style – Cabin
  • Gear Loft/Caddy – Yes
  • Packed size – 52” x 13” x 12” (132cm x 33cm x 30cm)
  • Peak Height – 79” (201cm)
  • Floor size – 168” x 120” (427cm x 305cm)
  • Weight – 43 lbs. (19.5 kg)
  • Living Space – 2

Detailed Review of this Tent for the Desert

The Coleman 8-person tent is a great option for those who want to have a private space while enjoying the outdoors. With multiple doors and rooms, this tent provides privacy from any side. 

The tall walls and ceiling also make the room feel comfortable and spacious. If you are lucky enough to find one of these tents, consider yourself lucky because they are in high demand.

I was amazed by the setting up process of this tent. It was really simple and only took a few seconds. The tent practically pops up by itself–just take it out of the carrying bag, and the pre-attached pole system will do the rest in mere minutes. No need to fumble with complicated instructions or spend hours trying to put the thing together. 

Even without taped seams, the Coleman 8-person shelter is advertised as water-resistant. And this can create some problems, as there are still plenty of zippers where the taped seams would be. 

The zippers in many areas are a drawback because they may let water inside the tent during bad weather conditions. Also, an additional tarp or laminate material over the top of the tent is required for complete waterproofing. 

These materials can be expensive and it would be better if the Coleman 8-person tent was completely waterproof without them. 

The hardware and hubs are made of plastic and they don’t seem very durable. They might be fine for short-term use but I wouldn’t trust them for long-term camping trips. I would invest my money in a better quality product if I was going to use it more frequently. 

Overall, the Coleman 8-person tent is a decent choice for those who use it occasionally and in good weather conditions. However, there are better options available if you are looking for a more durable product or one that can be used in all weather conditions.

Pros:

  • Easy to set up
  • Multiple doors and rooms
  • High ceiling and tall walls

Cons:

  • Not waterproof
  • Plastic hardware and hubs
  • Not very durable

4. Kodiak Canvas Flex-Bow Canvas Tent Deluxe

500+ Reviews
4.7/5

Specifications

  • Style – Cabin
  • Gear Loft/Caddy – Yes
  • Packed size – 50 x 14.2 x 11.1 inches
  • Peak Height – 6 ft 6 in
  • Floor Width – ‎46 Inches
  • Floor Length – ‎50 Inches
  • Weight – 79 lbs (35.83 kg)
  • No. of Doors – 2

Detailed Review of this Tent for the Desert

The Kodiak Canvas Flex-Bow tent is totally worth the investment if you’re an avid camper or hiker. The price is a bit steeper than some of the cheaper options out there, but this tent is made to last. With environmental consciousness in mind, the Kodiak Canvas Flex-Bow was created with durability in mind. If you’re searching for a durable tent, this is the one for you!

Kodiak Canvas tents are also made to withstand all sorts of weather conditions. Whether you’re dealing with high winds or severe rainstorms, this tent will keep you dry and comfortable. 

The Flex-Bow frame is also designed to withstand heavy snowfall, so you can camp in peace no matter what the forecast says. It also ensures that you won’t have to invest in another tent every season.

That’s the reason I decided to invest in the Kodiak Canvas Flex-Bow tent, and I haven’t regretted it for a second. Last year, I bought this tent in the winter, and after using it in a variety of conditions, I can say that it’s one of the best tents out there. If you’re looking to invest in something for the long run, I would highly suggest this tent.

On my winter camping trip, I had the opportunity to use this tent in some extreme conditions. I discovered that the canvas was thick enough to keep me warm in below-freezing temperatures while also being breathable.

Also, the Flex-Bow frame is extremely sturdy. In high wind and dusty conditions, the frame is capable of withstanding a lot of pressure. I never felt like the tent was going to collapse, even in the most extreme conditions.

The only disadvantage to this tent is that it is a little heavy. If you’re planning on backpacking with this tent, it might be a bit too much to carry. However, if you’re car camping, the weight won’t be an issue.

Pros:

  • Durable
  • Can withstand extreme weather conditions
  • Sturdy frame
  • Breathable canvas
  • Perfect for long-term use
  • Great value for the price

Cons:

  • A bit heavy
  • Not ideal for backpacking

5. Wenzel Klondike 8 Person Tent for Family Camping

3600+ Reviews
4.5/5

Specifications

  • Style – Cabin
  • Gear Loft/Caddy – Yes
  • Packed size – ‎27 x 11 x 10.5 inches
  • Peak Height – 6.5 feet (78 in)
  • Screen room: 1 screen room
  • Screen room dimensions: 60 square feet
  • Weight – 27.3 lbs (12.38 kg)
  • Windows – 2

Detailed Review of this Tent for the Desert

Wenzel Klondike Tent includes a great feature that I didn’t find in any other family camping tents: an extra 36 square feet of the screen room. This is great for people to have some space to themselves inside the tent, and also provides some storage space for food and other supplies.

If you have a large family or are camping with friends, this tent is fantastic because of its size. It can comfortably fit 4 adults and 2 kids in a sleeping area, and there’s even a separate room at the front that can fit another couple if needed. This sleeping area may easily accommodate two queen-sized air mattresses.

You can store your small things in the storage pockets of the tent, and there’s even a rain fly which will give you some protection from the elements if it starts to rain. However, this isn’t the strongest rain fly I’ve seen, so if you’re expecting bad weather, you might want to invest in a better one.

Also, the rain fly can make things a bit stuffy inside the tent, so if you start to feel like an oven, just flip up that hood on top and let some air in. Overall, the Wenzel Klondike is an excellent family camping tent that will be perfect for your future trips.

Pros:

  • Extra 36 square feet of a screen room
  • Can comfortably fit 8 people
  • Reasonable price

Cons:

  • Not the strongest rainfly
  • Rainfly can make things stuffy inside the tent.

6. Columbia Mammoth Creek 8 Person Tent

420+ Reviews
4.5/5

Specifications

  • Style – Cabin
  • Gear Loft/Caddy – Yes
  • Packed size – 10” x 10” x 28” (25cm x 25cm x 71cm)
  • Peak Height – 76” (193cm)
  • Floor size – 168” x 96” (427cm x 244cm)
  • Weight – 30 lbs. (13.6 kg)
  • Living Space – 2

Detailed Review of this Tent for the Desert

Columbia has been a trusted name in outdoor gear for years, and their Mammoth Creek 8-Person Tent is a great option for anyone looking for an affordable, high-quality tent that can accommodate 8 people. This tent features all the innovations and amenities that I have come to expect from brands like Columbia, but at a fraction of the price.

Moreover, if you are expecting rainfall on your camping trip, the Mammoth Creek 8-Person Tent has got you covered. This tent uses Columbia’s Omni-Shield fabric technology which offers an extra degree of water resistance against the elements. 

Plus, the tall tub floors and fully taped seams will prevent any water from seeping into the tent, keeping you and your belongings dry all night long.

You don’t have to worry about sacrificing comfort for price or quality with the Columbia Mammoth Creek 8-Person Tent. This tent comes equipped with large mesh windows that allow for plenty of airflow and panoramic views of your surroundings. You can leave the window open on rainy days and still stay dry, thanks to the mesh’s water-repellent properties.

The center height of the tent is 6 feet, so you won’t have to worry about feeling cramped inside. It has a little slant towards the doors or walls, so you need to stoop a little when you enter or exit the tent. Also, the cabin-style design will make you feel more at ease in nature.

The 14-foot length of the Mammoth Creek 8-Person Tent is just enough to fit two queen-size beds comfortably. It features a room divider so you can create two separate living areas or one large area for socializing. The divider also provides a bit of privacy if you need it.

Pros:

  • Large mesh windows for excellent airflow
  • Taped seams and tall tub floors for waterproofing
  • Cabin-style design is spacious and comfortable
  • The room divider allows for privacy or two separate living areas
  • Omni-Shield fabric technology offers water resistance

Cons:

  • Poles are made of fiberglass
  • Narrower than some other 8-person tents

7. Bushnell Sport Series 8-Person Tent

100+ Reviews
4.5/5

Specifications

  • Style – Cabin
  • Gear Loft/Caddy – Yes
  • Packed size – 36” x 13” x 13” (91cm x 33cm x 33cm)
  • Peak Height – 76” (193cm)
  • Floor size – 168” x 96” (426cm x 244cm)
  • Weight – 28 lbs (12.7kg)
  • Living Space – 2

Detailed Review of this Tent for the Desert

Bushnell Sport Series 8-Person Tent is comparatively less expensive and still offers great value. Around \$50 less than the Coleman 8-person tent and \$80 less than the Columbia Mammoth Creek 8-person tent, the Bushnell Sport Series 8-Person Tent is a good choice for anyone looking for an affordable and practical tent.

It looks very similar to the Columbia 8-person tent in terms of design and function. However, it has a few differences such as the lacking of pop-out windows but makes up for it in other ways. 

Also, you will not find Instant Cabin features like Coleman Tent but again it is a fraction of the price. Out of all the 8-person tents costing under $250, this is one of the best ones you’ll find.

On the other hand, there are many other characteristics that are comparable to Coleman and Columbia. For example The 14-foot-long floor plan and 2-room space with divider. Also, the height is equally the same at 76″. The 2nd door might be lacking but if you consider the price tag, it is very forgivable.

So, in terms of function and space, this Bushnell Sport 8-person tent is very similar to its more expensive counterparts.

Pros:

  • Comparably less expensive
  • Great value
  • Similar design and function to more expensive tents
  • 14-foot-long floor plan
  • 2 room space

Cons:

  • Only one door
  • Combination of fiberglass and steel poles

8 Person Tent Buyer’s Guide FAQs

Purchasing an 8-person tent is a major investment. Not only are you spending a lot of money, but you’re also making a long-term commitment to a particular type of camping. 

8 person tent is the only tent that offers cabin-style designs rather than just having a dome shape like most of the other tents in the market. Additionally, manufacturers have started to add more features such as making it possible to have two queen-sized mattresses.

After my proper research and going through different test and trial sessions, I have compiled a list of the top 8-person tents that are available in the market. The list has been categorized according to their usage so that it becomes easier for you to select the right one as per your requirement. 

However, if you still can’t make a choice, I’ve also put up a buyer’s guide. This will help you understand the different features that you should look for while purchasing an 8-person tent.

Floor Size/Space

The floor size is going to be one of the primary concerns you have while looking at an 8-person tent. After all, this will determine just how much space you have inside the tent for sleeping and other activities. 

The 8-person tents are roomy enough to fit two queen-sized mattresses with space left over. You’ll have enough space to move about without feeling trapped inside.

To fit the double-size queen mattresses, you will need at least 12 feet of space wall-to-wall. But, for some extra breathing room, 13 feet for each person is ideal. Having this much space inside the tent will ensure you won’t feel cramped.

I am assuming your queen mattress is 6 feet long. You will need a floor space that is, at the very least, 8 feet in length. This will provide you adequate space to walk around the mattress and enter and exit the bed without feeling restricted.

Center Height

The Center Height of the tent is measured from the ground to the highest point in the center of the tent. The higher the center height, the more room you will have inside your tent! Center height is an important factor to consider because it gives you a good indication of how much room you will have inside the tallest part of your tent.

Usually, the 8-person tents have a center height of about 6 feet or a little bit more. And they have a slant from the center, so if you want more floor area, it is better to choose a bigger tent in place of a smaller one.

Weight And Packed Size

Since 8-person tents are only used for car camping, weight and size are not a big deal. But, there are some tents like Teton Sports which are heavier and larger than other models on market. The canvas tent which weighs up to 70 pounds is not a problem if you have to carry it from your car to the campsite.

It is good to search for smaller models if your car is not that big. In that case, the Eureka Copper Canyon would be a good option since it is compact.

Shape

The shape of the tent plays an important role in how much space is available inside. If you are having a lot of gear or you are bringing more people in, then it is better to have a cabin-shaped tent. This is because their vertical walls provide much greater total inside space than other designs.

The more height you have in your tent, the more headroom you’ll enjoy while moving around inside. If you want to be able to stand up straight inside your tent, then you’ll need to make sure that the wall height is straight enough.

Seasonality/Weather Protection

Even the 8-person tent is only meant to be a 3-season tent. It indicates that it’s not ideal in extremely cold temperatures or when there’s a lot of stress. I would recommend you to camp in the summer months when there’s warmer weather, and to be aware of low temperatures at night in areas near your sleeping spot.

Rooms And Dividers

The 8-person tent is a great choice for families with children of different ages because it has two rooms with a divider in between. This way, you can have some privacy if you want it, or keep an eye on the little ones while they’re sleeping. The room sizes are also generous, so everyone will be comfortable.

The other room will provide you with a place to change clothes or take them off without worrying about being watched by others.

Durability/Materials

It is obvious that a group of people will have more impact on a tent than one person. This is because the opening and closing of windows and doors will cause wear and the continual movement of people in and out will also have an impact. The floors will suffer the brunt of this wear with dirt, mud, and water all taking their toll if they are not cleaned regularly.

That’s why it is important to consider the overall quality and durability of the materials used when choosing a camping tent. Look for things like strong and waterproof fabrics, sturdy poles, and robust zippers and hubs.

Also, check the quality of the fabric. A high-denier nylon fabric will be more durable than a lower-denier one. For example, a 70D nylon fabric will be more durable than a 60D one.

On the other hand, if the poles are made from aluminum, they will be more durable than if they are made from fiberglass. Fiberglass poles are often seen in cheaper tent models because they are not as strong and can break more easily.

Finally, make sure that the zippers and hubs are of good quality. Cheap zippers and plastic hubs can break easily, which will render your tent useless.

Ease Of Setup

The 8-person tent usually requires more time to set up than the average person is willing to spend. This is due in part to the sheer size of the tent, as well as the fact that most 8-person tents are designed for use in more extreme conditions.

Generally, the 8-person tents come with pre-attached/hinged poles and that doesn’t take as much time to set up. These pop-up models only take a couple of minutes to complete.

Tent Features

Tent features are also very important when considering what kind of tent to buy. The best tents have large vestibules, plenty of storage pockets, and ventilation windows to help keep the inside of the tent cool.

Vestibules are great for storing gear that you don’t want to bring into the main living area of the tent, such as muddy boots or wet clothes. Storage pockets are useful for keeping small items organized and within reaches, such as flashlights, keys, and phones. Ventilation windows help to keep the inside of the tent cooler by allowing air to flow in and out.

Finding Tents that Fit 8 People: Bottom Line

When it comes to group camping, not just any old or small tent will do—you need a spacious, comfortable, and easy-to-set-up option that will accommodate everyone in your group without being cramped or messy. That is why an 8-person tent is ideal for families or groups of friends who want to spend quality time together outside.

In order to make your tent purchase easier, I’ve put together a list of the best 8-person tents on the market, based on my personal experiences and customer feedback. Additionally, I’ve included a buyer’s guide that covers the most important things to look for when choosing a tent.

FAQs

How big is an 8-person tent?

When you’re planning a camping trip, one of the first things you need to do is figure out how many people will be coming along. Once you have a headcount, you can start looking for a tent that will accommodate everyone. 

When it comes to tents, size is usually measured in terms of capacity, which is the maximum number of people that can comfortably sleep inside. An 8-person tent, for example, would be big enough to fit 8 campers. 

Of course, actual dimensions vary from one model to the next, so it’s always a good idea to check the manufacturer’s specs before making your final decision. You can locate the ideal tent for your next camping trip if you prepare ahead of time.

How many people does it take to set up an 8-person tent?

Setting up an 8 person tent can be a two-person job, or even a one-person job if you’re feeling particularly ambitious. That said, it’s always helpful to have an extra set of hands on deck, especially when it comes to putting up an 8-person tent. 

While some smaller tents can be set up relatively easily, larger tents require a bit more effort. The good news is that once you get the hang of it, setting up an 8-person tent is actually quite straightforward. 

Just make sure you have all the necessary pieces before getting started, and then follow the instructions carefully. With a little bit of patience and practice, you’ll have that tent set up in no time.

Is it better to set up your tent on higher or lower ground?

Many people believe that it is best to set up their tents on lower ground, such as in a valley or low-lying area. However, this can actually put you at greater risk for flooding or being inundated with water if it rains heavily. 

Instead, it is best to set up your tent on higher ground, such as a hilltop or ridgeline. This will help to keep you out of the path of any potential floodwaters and also provide you with a better view of your surroundings. 

In addition, setting up your tent on higher ground will also provide you with better airflow and ventilation, which can be essential in hot weather. Next time you’re thinking of a camping trip, keep in mind that the best location for your tent site is higher ground.

How many people can sleep in an 8-person tent?

A lot of people might think that an 8-person tent can only hold 8 people, but that’s not always the case! Depending on the size of the tent, and the size of the people, you might be able to fit more than 8 people in an 8-person tent. 

For example, if you have a group of small children, or if you are all thin and small, you might be able to fit 10 or 12 people in an 8-person tent. On the other hand, if you have a group of large adults, or if you are all tall and big, you might only be able to fit 5 or 6 people in an 8-person tent. 

So it really varies! But generally speaking, an 8-person tent can hold anywhere from 6 to 10 people.

What is a tent pad at a campsite?

A tent pad is a level spot on the ground where you can pitch your tent. It’s usually made of sand, gravel, or packed dirt, and it’s often surrounded by vegetation to provide privacy. Most campgrounds have designated tent pads, which are usually large enough to accommodate a small or medium-sized tent. 

Some campgrounds also have group sites with multiple tent pads, making them ideal for scouts or other groups. If you’re planning to camp in an undeveloped area, be sure to choose a spot that is level and free of debris. 

Whether you’re car camping with a group or backpacking solo, having a tent pad can make all the difference in terms of your comfort level at camp.

Allen Campbell with Master Canopies

Allen Campbell

Allen is a full time writer at Mastercanopies.com and enjoys traveling around the United States and exploring nature. He enjoys writing about canopies as he believes they are extremely crucial in having a successful camping trip whether it be a trip to the beach, mountains, or the open plains.

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