Whether you’re a big family or a part of a big-group outing, we don’t need to explain the importance of functionality and simplicity when it comes to tent choices. Those are baseline requirements for a quality tent. But if you’re seeking a family tent that offers an abundance of space and some added fringe benefits, look no further than the new Copper Canyon LX from Eureka Tents.
On Performance and Design…
We’ve been rolling with the Copper Canyon LX 6 since July, and spoiler alert: we’ve fallen in love with it. This tent is dependable as the day is long, spacious enough to make you feel like Lawrence of Arabia, with an ease of set up that allows you time to actually enjoy your camping adventure.
When it comes to picking the right tent, there are a few considerations to keep in mind. First and foremost, you need to choose a model based on your group’s size and space needs. To accommodate your family — no matter how many little sherpas that involves — Eureka offers the Copper Canyon in several sizes (LX 4, LX 6, LX 8 & LX 12).
Thanks to its vertical styled walls and seven foot ceiling, the Copper Canyon LX 6 feels far more spacious than it’s 10×10 floor plan would otherwise suggest, ensuring that there’s plenty of room to get up and move around — or just change your clothes without awkwardly bending into a pretzel.
Like all tents in the Copper Canyon line-up, the spacious design not only feels wonderfully abundant, but it affords you the added luxury of camping with air mattresses or cots — two things many of us love to pack, but can prove to be space killers in more standard family tents.
Designed as a 3-season tent, the Copper Canyon LX is a perfect option for spring, summer and even the temperate conditions of fall. An ample array of mesh panels and a full mesh roof, not only keeps things feeling open, but also keeps air circulation at a premium. Add in the waterproof curtains and extended fly coverage over the entry way, and you can be rest assured that the Copper Canyon is ready and willing to withstand those pesky, yet passing, mountain thunderstorms.
Now let’s talk set-up. When you’re driving several hours to your camp destination, you don’t want to spend a few more hours setting up camp or fussing with a complicated tent design. That’s why convenience is always a worthy consideration when choosing a family tent — and what’s true is the Copper Canyon nails it in that category.
The steel and fiberglass frame with pole sleeves corner hubs, and quick clips earns high marks from our team for ease of set up. In fact, the Copper Canyon is easy enough for one person to set up solo — or you can put the teenager to work while you unload the car and enjoy an adult beverage.
Even without relying on instructions, we were able to set up the tent within a matter of minutes, minus any undue hassle or stress. That means less time setting up and more time enjoying your adventure.
In addition to the massive living space, the other area in which the Copper Canyon really stands apart is its ability to keep the family organized and entertained. An array of stash pockets and a gear loft ensures there’s no shortage of places to store your gear – or the little ones trinkets. A zippered E! Powerport lets you easily run an extension cord inside so you can keep everyone’s gadgets powered up on those long weekend getaways.
Notes from the Field…
As we noted, your first consideration when choosing a family tent should largely depend upon the size of your crew and whether or not you’ll need additional space for extra friends, gear or even the family dog.
When any manufacturer states their tent can sleep four, six or eight people – in most situations that number refers only to the available (and absolute) sleeping space for people. But one of the things we love about Eureka Tents is that when they say six people, they mean it. Translation? You don’t need to size up just to make sure everyone fits. And while the Copper Canyon does lack a vestibule or porch area for your extra gear we assume that while car camping most gear will be stored in a vehicle. However, if you do plan on stashing an array of gear inside the tent, be aware that it will cut down on some living space.
Bottom Line…
As a family comprised of six kids and two adults, we’ve spent our fair share of time in family styled tents. Without a doubt, the Copper Canyon LX 6 tops the list as one of our favorites. Whether you’re touring around the country in search of new trails with your college besties, or you’re checking national parks off the list with your family, the Copper Canyon LX 6 ensures ample protection and plenty of space to without breaking the bank.
*Gumption Gear Review received the items featured in this review from Eureka Tents at no cost and receives no monetary compensation for this or any related review. The images and items featured were provided solely in return for our honest views and opinions of the product.