7 Best Waterproof Tents That Stands Heavy Rains

Last Updated on December, 2024

Going camping is a great way to enjoy nature and relax. But bad weather can ruin your trip if you’re not prepared. That’s why having a good waterproof tent is so important. 

Whether you’re a serious backpacker or going on a trip with your family, picking the right tent can make a big difference. 

Our list of the 7 top Waterproof Tents will help you find the perfect one to keep you dry and comfortable, no matter the weather. (Are you excited to know more?) 

Continue reading… 

Top 7 Waterproof Tents 

ProductOverview
The North Face Wawona 6A spacious family tent that comfortably fits six people. It features a large vestibule for gear storage, easy setup, and durable materials.
The tent is designed for three-season use, making it versatile for various weather conditions.
Big Agnes Copper Spur HV UL2An ultralight, freestanding two-person tent ideal for backpacking. It offers ample interior space, quick setup, and solid weather protection.
However, it’s relatively expensive and requires careful handling due to its lightweight materials​.
Coleman SkydomeAn affordable, user-friendly tent that sleeps up to six people. It features near-vertical walls for more headroom, a weather-resistant design, and quick setup in under five minutes. 
It’s ideal for car camping and short trips​.
Nemo Aurora HighriseA spacious, three-season tent for camping and backpacking. It provides generous headroom, durable construction, and an easy setup process.
The tent also includes vestibules for gear storage and excellent ventilation features.
REI Co-op Trail Hut 2A budget-friendly, two-person tent that is easy to set up and suitable for three-season use. It offers good ventilation, weather protection, and a simple design. 
The tent is slightly heavier compared to other backpacking options​ 
Marmot Limestone 4-Person TentA sturdy, spacious tent ideal for families or groups. It features a large vestibule, easy setup, and excellent weather resistance.
The tent is designed for comfort, with plenty of headroom and interior space.
Mountain Hardwear TrangoA four-season, expedition tent designed for extreme conditions. It provides exceptional durability, weather resistance, and stability in harsh environments.
The tent is heavier due to its strong construction, making it best suited for mountaineering​.

1. The North Face Wawona 6

North Face Wawona 6 tent product image
  • Weight: 20.9 lbs (9.5 kg)
  • Packed size: 32” x 10” (81cm x 25cm)
  • Peak Height: 76” (193cm)
  • No. of compartments: 1
  • Shape: Dome
  • Best for: Three-season car camping
  • Occupancy: 6 people (4P also available)
  • Price: $500 

The North Face Wawona 6 Tent is a spacious and sturdy option for family camping. It’s designed for use in three seasons and can comfortably accommodate up to six people. 

The tent features a large vestibule area for storing gear or additional seating, enhancing its home-like feel. The setup is made easy with color-coded poles and simple clips. It offers good ventilation with a mesh front door and high ceilings, allowing standing room inside.

The tent’s materials include durable polyester fabrics with waterproof coatings, ensuring protection from rain. Users appreciate its overall quality and design, though some noted issues with the wind causing rain to enter through the windows.

Despite this, it’s highly recommended for its spaciousness, ease of setup, and durability. Best for family outings or extended camping trips, the Wawona 6 combines comfort, reliability, and practicality for outdoor adventures. 

Pros

  • Durable DAC MX poleset improves stability
  • Large vestibule doubles as seating area
  • Simplified setup with color-coded poles
  • Superior ventilation from double-wall construction
  • Tall interior allows standing comfortably
  • Internal and ceiling pockets for organization
  • External guylines add security in bad weather

Cons

  • Heavier weight for long-distance hiking

2. Big Agnes Copper Spur HV UL2

Big Agnes Copper Spur HV UL2 product image
  • Weight: 3.1 lbs (1.4 kg)
  • Packed size: 19.5” x 6” (50cm x 15cm)
  • Peak Height: 40” (102cm)
  • No. of compartments: 1
  • Shape: Dome
  • Best for: Three-season backpacking
  • Occupancy: 2 (1 and 3 person tents also available)
  • Price: $529.95

The Big Agnes Copper Spur HV UL2 is a popular backpacking tent known for its lightweight design and spacious interior. 

It’s designed to comfortably accommodate two people while remaining light enough for backpacking adventures. The ‘HV’ in its name stands for ‘high volume,’ indicating its improved interior space without adding extra weight. 

This tent has two doors and two vestibules, providing each occupant easy access and ample storage space for gear.

The materials used are durable yet lightweight, utilizing ripstop nylon and a waterproof polyurethane coating to keep occupants dry during rainy weather. 

Setup is also easy with color-coded poles and intuitive clips, which simplify pitching the tent, even in challenging conditions. 

Ventilation is enhanced with mesh panels on the tent body, promoting airflow and reducing condensation inside. The tent’s freestanding design allows it to be pitched on various terrains, making it versatile for different camping locations. 

Despite its lightweight construction, the Copper Spur HV UL2 offers excellent durability and weather protection, making it a favorite among backpackers seeking a balance between comfort and weight savings. 

Pros

  • Ultralight design ideal for backpacking trips
  • TipLok Tent Buckle ensures stable setup
  • Pre-bent poles increase strength and interior space
  • Tear-resistant and puncture-resistant materials
  • Compact packed size for easy transport
  • Reflective guylines improve nighttime visibility

Cons

  • Limited headroom for standing or sitting

3. Coleman Skydome

Coleman Skydome XL Tent product image
  • Weight: 13.8 lbs (6.3 kg)
  • Packed size: 25” x 9” (64cm x 23cm)
  • Peak Height: 55” (140cm)
  • No. of compartments: 1
  • Shape: Dome
  • Best for: Three-season car camping
  • Occupancy: 4 (2 & 6P models also available)
  • Price: $160

REI presents the Coleman Skydome 4-Person Tent with Full-Fly Vestibule, priced at $160. It’s designed for easy camping; featuring pre-attached poles for a rapid setup in under 5 minutes and a WeatherTec system for superior waterproofing. 

This tent offers a spacious interior with nearly vertical walls, providing ample headroom, along with an 8 x 7 ft. vestibule that enhances storage and protects entry from the elements. 

Reviews generally commend its roominess and functional design, though some users have noted concerns regarding its wind resistance and occasional issues with tent poles. Additional features include roof vents, mesh walls for ventilation, and an E-port for electrical access. 

GUESS WHAT? As I have mentioned above, the tent measures 96 x 84 inches on the main floor and weighs 13 lbs. 11.2 oz., making it suitable for car camping in fair weather conditions. 

It comfortably accommodates four people with a queen-size air mattress, making it a practical choice for family outings or group adventures.

Pros

  • Quick setup in under 5 minutes
  • Full-fly vestibule adds extra storage space
  • WeatherTec system keeps you dry in rain
  • Strong frame tested to withstand 35 mph winds
  • Wide door design for easy gear access
  • Roof vents and mesh walls improve ventilation

Cons

  • Only one door limits access options

4. Nemo Aurora Highrise

Nemo Aurora Highrise Camping Tent product image
  • Weight: 15 lbs 14 oz (8.5 kg)
  • Packed size: 25” x 8” (63.5cm x 25cm x 25cm)
  • Peak Height: 75” (190.5 cm)
  • No. of compartments: 1
  • Shape: Dome
  • Best for: Three-season car camping
  • Occupancy: 6 (4P also available)
  • Price: $399.95

The Nemo Aurora High Rise camping tent is designed to enhance the family outdoors experience with its spacious and practical features. Available in 4-person and 6-person sizes, priced from $399.95 to $499.95, it offers ample room for everyone. 

The tent’s standout feature is its tall design, providing enough headroom for easy movement inside. It boasts steep walls that maximize interior space, complemented by two doors and vestibules for convenient entry and storage. 

Constructed from durable materials, including a robust 150D polyester floor, the tent ensures longevity through many outdoor excursions. It features large windows with mesh for ventilation and views, alongside integrated rain covers. 

Setting up is easy due to its intuitive design, and Nightlight Pockets allow you to secure your headlamp as a tent lantern, creating a cozy atmosphere without harsh lighting.

The tent includes an oversized duffel storage bag for ease of transportation. It meets safety standards without harmful chemicals, ensuring a safe environment for users. 

Backed by Nemo’s Lifetime Warranty, the Aurora High Rise tent promises reliability and comfort, making it an ideal choice for family camping adventures. 

Pros

  • Spacious standing height throughout the tent
  • Two doors and vestibules for easy access
  • Durable materials ensure long-lasting use
  • Large windows improve ventilation and views
  • Nightlight Pockets for diffuse lighting inside
  • Oversized duffel bag makes packing simple

Cons

  • Flame-resistance achieved without added chemicals

5. REI Co-Op Trail Hut 2

REI Co-Op Trail Hut 2 product image
  • Weight: 5.9 lbs (2.7 kg)
  • Packed size: 18” x 8” (48cm x 20cm)
  • Peak Height: 40” (102cm)
  • No. of compartments: 1
  • Shape: Dome
  • Best for: Three-season backpacking
  • Occupancy: 2 (4P also available)
  • Price: $229

The REI Co-Op Trail Hut 2 tent is designed for two people and ideal for camping during spring, summer, or fall. It weighs just under 6 pounds when packed, making it lightweight and easy to carry.

This dome-shaped tent features a freestanding structure with pole clips, ensuring a simple and quick setup, even for experienced campers. It includes two large doors and vestibules for convenient entry and extra storage space.

Constructed with durable polyester fabrics and aluminum poles, the Trail Hut 2 offers reliability and weather resistance. 

The tent has a rainfly footprint and features integrated vents for airflow and reduced condensation. Interior pockets and gear loops help keep essentials organized inside. 

Sustainability is a focus, with solution-dyed mesh reducing water and energy use during manufacturing. Whether you’re exploring new trails or enjoying a weekend getaway, the REI Co-Op Trail Hut 2 provides a comfortable and affordable camping experience, combining practical features with environmental responsibility. 

Pros

  • Footprint included, adding extra value
  • Freestanding design makes setup easy
  • Two large doors for convenient access
  • Spacious vestibules for gear storage
  • Fly doors offer clear sky views
  • Durable water-repellent floor and rainfly

Cons

  • Limited headroom with a 40-inch peak height

6. Marmot Limestone 4-Person Tent

Marmot Limestone 4-Person Tent product image
  • Weight: 11 lbs 11 oz (5 kg)
  • Packed size: 24.4” x 10.4” (62cm x 26cm)
  • Peak Height: 63” (160cm)
  • No. of compartments: 1
  • Shape: Dome
  • Best for: Three-season car camping or backpacking
  • Occupancy: 4 (3, 2, and 1P models available)
  • Price: $429

The Marmot Limestone 4-Person Tent is designed to provide comfort and durability for outdoor adventures, priced at $429.

It comfortably accommodates families or groups of four, featuring a strong construction backed by a lifetime warranty for reliability. 

Available in the Kiwi color, it includes a convenient duffel bag for easy storage and transport. Inside, there is a handy tether for hanging essentials like towels. Payment options include paying in full or spreading the cost over four interest-free payments of $107.25 each. 

Shipping is also FREE for orders over $99 for non-members and free for members on orders over $49, ensuring affordability. 

Signing up for Marmot’s emails or SMS alerts offers a 12%-15% discount on the first purchase, enhancing the value of this quality tent. 

Whether for camping or outdoor activities, the Marmot Limestone 4-Person Tent delivers comfort, durability, and easy setup, making it an ideal choice for nature enthusiasts seeking reliable shelter. 

Pros

  • Spacious design with vertical walls for headroom
  • Two doors and vestibules for easy access
  • Durable materials ensure long-lasting use
  • Easy to set up with color-coded clips
  • Sturdy DAC aluminum poles provide stability

Cons

  • Poles can be tricky to set up solo
  • Poles can be tricky to set up solo
  • Slower drying time due to layered fabric

7. Mountain Hardwear Trango

Mountain Hardwear Trango 2 Tent product image
  • Weight: 12.7 lbs (5.8kg)
  • Packed size: 28” x 9” (71cm x 23cm)
  • Peak Height: 50” (127cm)
  • No. of compartments: 1
  • Shape: Dome
  • Best for: Four-season camping, mountaineering
  • Occupancy: 4 (3P & 2P models also available)
  • Price: $1,200

The Mountain Hardwear Trango 4 Tent is a strong 4-season shelter designed for extreme conditions. It accommodates up to 4 people and features durable materials like 40D ripstop nylon for the canopy and 70D nylon taffeta for the floor and rainfly; both are rated 10,000mm waterproof. 

Its DAC Featherlite aluminum poles ensure a high strength-to-weight ratio, which is essential for stability in harsh environments. The tent has dual doors and vestibules, providing ample storage and access options. 

Catenary-cut seams enhance strength, and welded corners with taped seams ensure waterproofing. 

Additional features include internal tension shelves for organization, a light diffuser pocket, and a UVX window for brightness and exterior visibility. 

Reflective guy line loops aid in visibility, while the freestanding design allows for pitching without the canopy. While praised for durability and weather resistance, some users noted issues like adhesive failure on the rainfly windows. 

Despite its weight and bulk, the Trango 4 remains the best choice for mountaineering and expeditions demanding uncompromising reliability in challenging climates.

Pros

  • Strong DAC Featherlite poles with high strength-to-weight ratio
  • Two vestibules provide ample gear storage and access
  • Fully waterproof with taped seams and welded corners
  • Reflective guyout loops for better visibility in low light

Cons

  • Footprint not included with the tent
  • Packed size is bulky for backpacking
  • Limited peak height compared to non-mountaineering tents

What are the Key Features of Rainproof Tents?

Camping in the rain

You should always look for the following features when looking for rainproof tents. (this way, you can avoid regrets.) 

Waterproof Materials

Rainproof tents rely on specialized materials to keep you dry during wet weather. These materials, such as coated nylon or polyester fabrics, are chosen for their ability to repel water. 

They work by having a waterproof coating applied to the fabric, which prevents water from penetrating through to the inside of the tent. This is important for staying comfortable and dry when it’s raining outside. 

The waterproof coating on these materials acts as a barrier against raindrops, ensuring that they bead up and roll off the tent’s surface rather than seeping through. This feature is important for maintaining a dry interior, protecting your gear, and providing a comfortable shelter during rainy conditions. 

Choosing a tent made from quality waterproof materials is key to enjoying your outdoor adventures regardless of the weather. It ensures that you stay protected from rain and moisture, allowing you to relax and sleep comfortably without worrying about water leaking into your tent.

Seam Taping and Sealing

Seams are one of the vulnerable points in any tent where water can potentially enter. To address this, rainproof tents are equipped with seam taping or sealing. This involves applying waterproof tape or sealant along the seams where different pieces of fabric are stitched together. 

During the manufacturing process, the seams of the tent are stitched to join the fabric panels together. These stitches create tiny holes in the fabric, which can allow water to seep through if left untreated. 

Seam taping or sealing effectively covers these needle holes, preventing water from penetrating the seams and entering the tent. 

The waterproof tape or sealant used is flexible yet durable, ensuring that it remains effective even with repeated use and exposure to weather conditions. 

This attention to detail in seam sealing is vital for enhancing the tent’s overall waterproofing capability, making it reliable and suitable for use in various outdoor environments. 

Ventilation

Ventilation is also an important consideration in rainproof tents to ensure comfort and prevent condensation buildup inside the tent. Condensation happens when warm, moist air from inside the tent meets cooler surfaces, such as the tent walls or rainfly. 

Without proper ventilation, this moisture can accumulate, leading to dampness inside the tent even if it’s not raining heavily.

To address this, rainproof tents are designed with vents and mesh panels. These openings allow for air circulation, helping to expel moisture-laden air and reduce condensation. 

The vents are strategically placed to encourage airflow without compromising the tent’s ability to keep rain out. Mesh panels also serve to keep insects out while allowing fresh air to enter the tent. 

Effective ventilation not only enhances comfort by regulating temperature and humidity, but also helps maintain a dry interior environment. It also complements the waterproof feature of the tent, ensuring that you stay cozy and protected from both rain and internal moisture buildup during your outdoor adventures. 

Tent Shape and Design

Double wall tent on a mountain

The shape and design of rainproof tents are engineered to optimize protection against rain and provide a stable shelter in adverse weather conditions.

These tents typically feature a dome or tunnel shape with steeply sloping sides and are protected from both rain and internal moisture buildup during your outdoor adventures. 

The steep sloping sides help rainwater to quickly run off the tent’s surface, preventing pooling and potential leakage through the fabric.

The rainfly, which is the outer layer of the tent, provides additional protection by acting as a shield against rain and wind. It creates a buffer zone between the inner tent and the elements, ensuring that water doesn’t come into contact with the tent body. 

Additionally, rainproof tents often have reinforced seams and waterproof zippers to further enhance their ability to withstand rain and moisture. These design elements work together to create a strong and weather-resistant shelter that you can rely on in challenging outdoor conditions. 

Choosing a rainproof tent with a well-thought-out shape and design ensures not only protection from the elements but also durability and comfort during your outdoor escapades. 

Essential Tips to Know When Camping in the Rain

Do you know? Camping in the rain requires preparation and the right gear to stay safe and comfortable.

Here are essential tips to follow:

  • Choose the Right Tent: Use a waterproof or rainproof tent with a full-coverage rainfly. Seal the seams to prevent leaks.
  • Location Matters: Pick a campsite with good drainage and avoid setting up in low-lying areas where water can collect. 
  • Tarps and Groundsheet: Place a tarp under your tent to prevent water seepage from the ground. Use an additional tarp over your tent for extra protection. 
  • Keep Gear Dry: Store gear in waterproof stuff sacks or plastic bags inside your backpack. Keep essentials like clothes and sleeping bags in dry bags. 
  • Clothing Choices: Wear moisture-wicking and quick-drying clothing. Pack extra layers to stay warm, and avoid cotton as it absorbs water. 
  • Campsite Organization: Set up a sheltered area outside your tent for cooking and relaxing. Keep wet and dry items separated to avoid moisture spreading. 
  • Ventilation: Ensure your tent has proper ventilation to reduce condensation buildup inside. (as discussed above)
  • Quick Drying Techniques: Hang wet clothes and gear under a shelter or use a clothesline to dry them during breaks in the rain. 
  • Stay Hygienic: Maintain cleanliness to prevent illnesses. Use a waterproof toiletry bag and dispose of waste properly. 
  • Emergency Plan: Know the weather forecast and have a plan for severe weather. Be prepared to move to safer ground if necessary. 

Read more:

Conclusion

TRUST ME. Picking the right waterproof tent can make your camping trip much better, keeping you dry and happy even in the rain. 

Whether you’re camping with your family, by yourself, or on a tough adventure, there’s a tent here for you. Don’t let rain ruin your fun – get a good waterproof tent and enjoy your time outdoors. 

We recommend The North Face Wawona 6 waterproof tent, for its great features and spacious interior.

So, are you ready to upgrade your camping gear? Check out our top choices for a great camping trip. 

FAQs

Look for a hydrostatic head rating of 1,500-3,000 mm, full-coverage rainfly, taped seams, and bathtub floor​

No, some are better for backpacking due to weight, while others are ideal for family or car camping​. 

Regularly re-seal seams, apply waterproof spray and store the tent in a dry and clean area to prevent mold.

Yes, a special tent for rainy trips is beneficial. It’s designed to withstand wet conditions, providing better protection and comfort than regular tents.

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Dillon Morrison
I have been involved in the flashlight community since 2007. My brother has a flashlight shop from where I have tested and reviewed more than 600+ different types of flashlights. You can find more about me here.

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