Update for 2020
Wenzel remains an up and coming brand that provides good tent options at very affordable price range.
One additional tent to add to the review in 2020 is the Wenzel Great Basin Tent.
Wenzel Great Basin Tent
The Wenzel Great Basin Tent is a large tent and boasts sleeping room for 10 people. It comes with a canopy built in and with a little waterproofing will go a long way to keep a large crowd comfortable even if a bit rainy.
The tent only has one door and no separations between the internal areas. Although ideal for, say, a large family with lots of young kids – it might not be ideal for all groups.
All in all if a large, budget conscious group is looking for a tent the Wenzel Great Basin Tent might just be the solution.
Pros
- Plenty of room
- It’s actually really easy to setup and requires only 2 people even though it’s a 9-person tent (pitches in about 20 minutes)
- Very tall interior space making this tent a great option for tall families.
- As with all Wenzel tents the customer service is very helpful and will help solve any problems that come up with the tent.
- Inexpensive! A good option for a 10-person group that is on a tight budget.
Cons
- The door zippers have reports of being cheap and low quality (don’t zip properly, get stuck, etc)
- There is no room divider
- Only one door
Conclusion
This tent is the perfect solution for the right group of people. I envision this working well with large families, twenty-somethings at a music festival, or budget conscious groups that simply need space. For these groups I would highly recommend a tent like the Wenzel Great Basin tent.
I wouldn’t consider this tent to be a long term investment and would consider planning a shorter span of life.
If there is room in the budget I would invite you to check out the large tent Core has to offer that sleeps a large number of people.
Original Article
As an avid camper I’m always on the lookout for new brands and products to take on my adventures.
Wenzel is definitely not the most common, however, I see that they’ve earned a lot of respect from the outdoor community, and I want to know why.
I set out on a journey to discover the real quality of their tents, which is the best and how they REALLY perform in the wild.
So without further ado, here’s 7 of the best Wenzel tents for you to choose from.
How Wenzel Stack Up Against Other Brands
Like I said, Wenzel is farm from popular when it comes to brands like Coleman and Eureka, etc.
However, I’d like to explain what makes Wenzel stand out from the crowd.
Wenzel tents are much more affordable than other brands while staying in the “good” quality range.
I find that Wenzel are straight to the point and WHEN they have good reviews, the tent is likely good too.
With other brands, their tents appear to have good reviews but then you dig deeper and find that they are actually bad.
Well with Wenzel, if it appears to be good from the get-go it usually is, and you’ll find out why as you continue reading these reviews.
Enjoy.
1. Wenzel Large Family 3 Season Outdoor Camping Dome Tent w/Divider – High-value family tent without breaking the bank
The Wenzel Large Family 3 Season Dome Tent is available in 2 sizes: 9-person and 16-person, but I will be reviewing the 9-person today.
Setup is super easy thanks to the shockcorded fiberglass poles and pin and ring system.
It includes a rain fly for keeping rain out and a door awning for dry entry and exit.
It can be used as one large room for an open sleeping area or 2 separate rooms simply by using the curtain room divider.
The 2 doors are absolutely massive and offers ultimate convenience especially when camping with others.
There is also 2 mesh windows for outside views, cross-flow ventilation and a full mesh ceiling to stargaze on clearer nights with the children.
Bonuses include: 2 interior storage pockets for small items, a large gear loft for big items and storage duffel bag for easy travel.
Pros
- Has lots of room especially for air mattresses and gear storage
- It’s actually really easy to setup and requires only 2 people even though it’s a 9-person tent (pitches in about 20 minutes)
- Has tremendous waterproof abilities as it can can withstand heavy rain storms
- Absolutely amazing customer service. Wenzel stand by their tents and ensure you’re always happy with your purchase
- Very high-value for money. It is really affordable for a 9-person tent
Cons
- The only tall area to stand up in is the center of the room
- The door zippers have reports of being cheap and low quality (don’t zip properly, get stuck, etc)
- The room divider is a cheap, see-through piece of nylon
Conclusion
Say what you want about the Wenzel Large Family 3 Season Tent, but the simple fact is that this tent is much, MUCH cheaper than other family-sized tents.
Wenzel specialize in affordability and that is how they come up with greats tent without breaking the bank.
It is absolutely huge inside, has ample space for mattresses and gear and still enough room to sit and chat with friends.
It is one of the best tents in its price range and I have reviews to back that claim up.
The only real issue is the bad zippers but other than that, be careful with it, look after it and it will look after you, it’s as simple as that.
The Wenzel Large Family Tent is a solid tent with a solid price!
My Final Rating
2. Wenzel Pine Ridge 5 – Lite Reflect System and room divider make this tent
The Wenzel Pine Ridge is another tent with a curtain room divider and has the dome shape for battling strong winds.
This one is classed as a 4-5 person tent and is more recommended for small families.
The “Multi Diameter Fiberglass Poles” provide more head space and a much more livable area than traditional tents.
The 2 large doors ensure quick and easy access when sharing the tent with multiple people and the awning keeps you dry in the rain.
The door has a flap for when you want privacy from the outside world.
Ventilation consists of mesh doors, 3 mesh windows and a full mesh ceiling, which is also good for watching the stars with your family as you drift off to sleep.
The Lite Reflect System located in the center of the roof provides an even glow of light throughout, and all it you need is a flashlight to illuminate the room.
Bonuses include: Electrical port, gear loft and storage pockets.
Pros
- The awnings allow the door and window to stay open during light rain
- The Lite Reflect System is a nice touch and not found on pricier tents
- Withstands some strong winds. It is known to withstand 40 MPH+ winds
- Has great waterproofing
- Has stargazing abilities and panoramic views. Just remove the rain fly when you know it’s going to be a clear night
Cons
- The zippers are cheap and low quality and sometimes get stuck on the fabric. Avoid this by using them slowly
The Verdict
You get what you pay for and that couldn’t be anymore true when it comes to the Wenzel Pine Ridge 4-5 Person Tent.
It obviously performs exactly as advertised and I have no issues with it other than the low quality zippers and cheap materials.
However, it definitely performs better than other tents in the same price range and the only problems you will face is the low durability.
It will not last many years of frequent use but you SHOULD get your moneys worth if you’re a seasonal camper.
This tent is amazing for the price and I highly recommend it.
My Final Rating
3. Wenzel Ridgeline Tent – Loved by the camping community and only has minor cons
Similar to the Pine Ridge comes the Wenzel Ridgeline Tent.
It is one of Wenzel’s best-selling tents and there’s a good reason why; it’s low cost but packed with features.
It is easy to setup and highly durable thanks to the multi diameter poles and Weather Armor polyester rain fly! (doesn’t stretch or sag when wet)
These typical poles create a bigger living area to sleep and sit in because the walls are vertical and not slanted like traditional tents.
The rain fly covers all windows so they can be opened in light rain or closed when privacy is needed.
Open the door and rear window simultaneously for cross-breeze so it doesn’t feel like a sauna on hot summer days (because it really is a great summer tent).
Stargazing is available thanks to the mesh roof and the mesh wall only comes halfway down so you still gain privacy in public campsites!
Bonuses include: Interior storage pockets, electrical access port, gear loft and Lite Reflect System.
Pros
- Easy to set up even if you’re new to the outdoors. You probably won’t even need to read the instructions!
- It is high quality for the price which is hard to say about other cheap tents
- The Lite Reflect System is genius and puts more expensive tents to shame
- Surprisingly waterproof and doesn’t need additional waterproofing
- The carry bag is the PERFECT size for the tent to fit in. There is no struggling and it fits like a glove
Cons
- The advertised dimensions state 7 x 7 feet but people claim it’s really 6 x 6 feet
- Reports of the zipper getting stuck. Be extremely careful to avoid damage
Final Words
The Wenzel Ridgeline Tent is loved by the camping community and there’s many good reasons why.
The advertised rating does not have anything to do with the end-performance of the tent and the zipper can be managed if precaution is taken.
And I mean EXTREME caution because once the zipper goes, the tent is rendered useless.
But in saying that, it is packed with features even pricier tents don’t have, it’s high quality and easy to use.
It is on the cheaper side of 3-person tents and definitely one of my favorites in the price range!
My Final Rating
4. Wenzel Alpine 3 Person Tent – A true champion when it comes to performance, longevity and price
The Wenzel Alpine is shaped like a pentagon and stands out from traditional tents as a result.
It has a 3-pole system and shockcorded fiberglass poles for a quick and easy setup.
2 poles hold the tent up while the third pole creates an awning which is good for staying dry in the rain.
It is absolutely massive on the inside and measures at a whopping 8 x 8.5 feet!
The large D-shape door keeps air flow coming into the tent and includes a mud mat for drying feet or removing muddy boots before entering.
The mud mad also has a drainage strip so water doesn’t make it’s way inside!
2 mesh windows increase ventilation even further thanks to the cross-breeze it offers and can be opened or closed depending on weather and privacy needs.
A gear loft and hanging gear pocket is also included in the purchase.
Pros
- Easy to setup and take down and can actually fit back into the carry bag with ease
- Great ventilation – just leave the windows open to eliminate condensation buildup
- The mud mad with drainage strip is a nice addition not found on many other tents
- Makes a good 1 or 2-person tent with extra room for gear
Cons
- May need seam sealing to ensure no rain gets inside (although not 100% necessary)
- A little small for a 3-person tent as a lot of users have stated
- Anyone over 6 feet tall will feel cramped
My Conclusion
This is definitely ONE OF the best tents for the price range.
It withstands harsh rain storms and even battles high winds without a problem.
For around $40 bucks make it a no-brainer considering how much protection it offers and all the features it has.
I mean, there are SOME cons, and that rings true for tall people or if you’re planning on sleeping 3 people inside.
However, it’s known to perform extremely well in heavy rain and wind and that’s WITH the factory stakes and without additional waterproofing.
This means it’s ready to go straight out of the box and a must-have for anyone not wanting to pay an arm and a leg just to stay in the outdoors.
My Final Rating
5. Wenzel Portico Tent – Quick and easy access to items with exterior door pockets
The Wenzel Portico has 2 sizes – 6 and 8-person – but the 8-person version has the best feedback.
It includes a full coverage rain fly for protection against rain.
The awning is a great place to sit out of light showers or the suns UV-rays, and even has wind-breakers when you’re relaxing in the porch!
There are 3 exterior storage pockets to keep items safe and easily accessible while you’re in the porch and some inside the tent too.
A large door allows for quick and easy access, the full mesh ceiling promotes stargazing while the included gear loft holds large items in the ceiling.
There are NO windows, however, 3 walls are made entirely of mesh material for panoramic views of the surrounding areas and lots of ventilation.
Pros
- Really tall so anyone less than 6.5 feet can stand and walk around comfortably
- It’s found to be higher quality and more durable than Coleman tents with the same price
- Handles substantial rain really well
- Provides enough warmth on a cold night and enough ventilation on a hot summers day
Cons
- The awning is apart of the rain fly so without the fly there is no awning
- No vents in the rain fly so ventilation stops when the rain fly is on
Final Words
The Wenzel Portico 8-Person Tent hasn’t received much feedback from the online community just yet, but that’s not to say it isn’t good because it definitely is.
The cons aren’t that big of a deal apart from ventilation stopping when the rain fly is on, but other than that there are no complaints about condensation buildup so I think it’s safe to say that this will not be issue when it comes to performance.
The awning is attached to the rain fly but there is really no need for the awning if you’re removing the rain fly anyway.
The Portico has many useful features and will keep you sheltered from heavy rain and won’t blow over in the wind!
My Final Rating
6. Wenzel Evergreen Tent – 6-Person – Best for summer camping and stargazing
The Wenzel Evergreen Tent doesn’t look like much of a tent upon first glance, however, don’t let first impressions fool you with this one.
It has “Weather Armor” polyester material and a polyurethane coating to guard against rain
It can house a total of 6 people and even includes a room divider when privacy matters.
And if you camp with a group of friends or family, the large back-to-back D-shaped door offers 2 convenient entrances and the large gear loft in the ceiling ensure adequate storage space.
There are 3 mesh windows that can be opened or closed (with privacy flaps) and a FULL mesh roof for outside views and stargazing on clearer nights.
The shockcorded fiberglass poles allow the tent to stand in the wind and the “Fast Feet” gives it a quick setup time.
And if you need even more protection, the pre-attached guy lines provide great stability when the wind turns fierce.
There is an electrical port for when you’re in a public site, storage duffel bag and a 10-years manufacturers warranty.
Pros
- Ample room for sleeping and gear storage – center height is 6 feet
- Has a fast setup time with 2 people and can be done in 10 minutes (or 5 after some practice)
- Lots of ventilation for hot summer days and stargazing abilities when the rain fly is off
Cons
- A little weak and blows easily in strong winds
- Reports of having low quality materials
- The waterproofing isn’t the best and will probably leak in a heavy downpour
The Verdict
This is most certainly not the best most strongest tent in its price range nor the most waterproof.
However, hear me out just a second.
I’d like to make an emphasis on that it’s a summer tent and nothing more.
It has amazing ventilation for keeping cool during hot summer days and has some of the best stargazing opportunities I’ve seen on a tent.
There’s lots of room so everyone and their gear can fit comfortably and doesn’t cost an arm and a leg in the process.
I’m a big fan of the Wenzel Evergreen 6-Person Tent and highly recommend it as one of the best inexpensive summer tents!
My Final Rating
7. Wenzel Sprout Kids Tent – 2-Person – Super cheap and low quality but makes the perfect play tent
The Wenzel Sprout is designed for kids but has amazing reviews and exactly why it is one of Wenzels finest tents.
It is uniquely designed for young campers and houses exactly 2 kids, comes in 2 colors (red/blue/white and green/blue) and has a removable rain fly for continued air flow during hot summer days.
There is a small mesh panel in the center of the roof, although nothing massive but big enough to watch the stars as the kids drift off to sleep.
The door and rear window can be left opened for ventilation or closed for privacy, and the Weather Armor material keeps rain out.
Interior storage pockets allow the kids to have their flashlights close while providing a sense of security.
The shockcorded fiberglass poles promotes easy setup and can actually be pitched by young campers (yes, really).
Pros
- Holds a solid 4.4 star rating!
- Can actually be pitched by kids as young as 6 years old (with very little to no help)
- Everything fits back into the carry bag without a struggle
- Absolutely perfect for any child because it has enough space for 1 child + equipment and toys
- It is freestanding so it can be used as an indoor playhouse
Cons
- Cheaply made and will not last a long time with excessive use
- Best as an indoor play tent
- Not the greatest at battling high winds or rain
My Verdict
Of course it is perfect for any child, however, keep that in mind because it is NOT for adults.
Do not think you should purchase it for yourself thinking you can save a buck or 2 because you will quickly realize you are way too big for it.
I am saying that because adults have actually purchased it for themselves and there’s been no way they can fit inside.
So my verdict? It’s amazing for children and full of great feedback from the camping community.
It is not made for adults so move on if that’s what you’re after.
Other than that, this kids tent is awesome, doesn’t cost much and makes a great sleeping area/playhouse for the little ones.
My Final Rating
Final Words – Which Wenzel Tent Is The Best?
I must say I wasn’t a big fan of Wenzel tents before writing these reviews but after REALLY doing research on this brand and their tents I am actually a big fan.
They aren’t the most high quality, the most common nor the best at combating the elements, but the truth of the matter is that they are extremely affordable.
I’ve rated these tents based off of my own conclusions, and my favorite is hands down the Wenzel Large Family Camping Dome Tent.
It just has so much to offer with an affordable price tag. Everyone loves their purchase and there isn’t much bad feedback for it.
However, if you’d like to take the route of a smaller size tent but good quality, the Wenzel Pine Ridge 5 is more suited for you.
There’s only ONE bad thing I could find for it and that is the cheap zippers.
Other than that it performs better than more pricier tents and makes a great festival tent, wilderness camping tent and even public campsites.
Well thanks for reading and I hope you found what you were looking for in this article.