Camping with a group can be either the best adventure ever—or a chaotic mess.
The difference?
It often comes down to your gear.
When you’re camping with a crew, a roomy, reliable tent is key. That’s where the CAMPROS CP Tent 8 Person Camping Tent comes in. It’s got space, durability, and user-friendly features—but is it worth the hype?
Let’s break it all down with real experiences and practical advice so you know exactly what you’re signing up for.
First Impressions of the CAMPROS CP Tent
I’ll admit, I was skeptical at first. I’ve been burned before by “budget-friendly” tents that don’t live up to their promises.
But the CAMPROS CP Tent surprised me right out of the box.
The material felt solid—not the cheap, thin stuff that tears after one trip. It also came neatly packed in a carry bag, which made it easy to lug from the car to the campsite.
Unpacking it, I noticed the stakes weren’t as sturdy as I’d like, but that’s an easy fix. Stronger stakes are cheap, and you can grab a set before your next trip.
Setting It Up: My Experience
Setting up a tent with kids running around or when daylight’s fading can test anyone’s patience.
Thankfully, this tent doesn’t overcomplicate things.
The instructions were clear, and even if you’re new to camping, you won’t feel like you’re solving a puzzle.
- Time to Set Up: About 12 minutes with two people.
- Can One Person Set It Up? Yes, but it takes longer. If you’re solo, plan for 20-25 minutes.
The poles are lightweight but sturdy, and the clips attach smoothly. It’s not quite as fast as an instant tent, but the extra effort gives you a more stable shelter.
For context, I’ve also set up the CORE 6-Person Cabin Tent (review here), and while that model is faster, it lacks the same spacious feel inside.
Inside the Tent: Space and Comfort
The first thing I noticed after pitching the tent was the sheer size.
At 14 x 9 feet, it easily fit my family of four plus two friends, with room for our gear.
Spacious Enough for Groups
Here’s what you can fit inside:
- Three queen-size air mattresses.
- Eight sleeping bags side-by-side.
- Or six people with gear stacked neatly in the corners.
The 6-foot ceiling is a game-changer. I could stand up fully, stretch, and move around without hunching over—something that’s rare in most tents at this price point.
Mesh Dividers for Privacy
One of my favorite features is the divider. We set it up to create two separate rooms, which was perfect for giving the kids their own space at night.
For families or mixed groups, this feature alone makes it a winner.
Weatherproofing: Real-World Test
No tent review is complete without testing it in less-than-ideal conditions.
We took the CAMPROS CP Tent on a three-night trip to a lakeside campground known for unpredictable weather.
- Day 1: Clear skies.
- Day 2: Light rain for a couple of hours.
- Day 3: Overnight drizzle with strong winds.
How It Held Up
- Water Resistance:
The tent kept us dry during light rain, thanks to its 185T polyester and 1000mm water-resistant coating.
That said, heavy downpours might test its limits. I’d recommend pairing it with a tarp or additional rainfly if you’re camping during storm season.
- Wind Resistance:
The tent stayed stable in moderate winds, but I anchored it with heavier-duty stakes for peace of mind.
If you’re planning trips in harsher weather, you might want to explore more rugged options like the CORE 9-Person Instant Cabin Tent.
Ventilation and Airflow: No More Stuffy Nights
Nobody likes waking up in a tent that feels like a sauna.
The CAMPROS CP Tent does a great job of keeping air flowing, thanks to its large mesh windows and breathable roof.
Warm-Weather Camping
On a warm night, we opened the mesh windows and left the rainfly off. The airflow was amazing.
Even with six people sleeping inside, it didn’t feel stuffy.
If you’re camping in a hot climate, check out this guide for other top tents designed for summer.
Durability: Built to Last?
Durability is a make-or-break factor for any tent, especially if you’re using it often.
Here’s how the CAMPROS CP Tent stacks up:
- Poles: Lightweight but sturdy enough for standard use.
- Fabric: The 185T polyester feels tough and handled the usual wear-and-tear (kids running in and out, accidental bumps, etc.) like a champ.
- Zippers: Smooth and didn’t snag—a small detail that makes a big difference.
After three trips, the tent still looks and feels like new. I wouldn’t call it “bulletproof,” but for its price, it’s impressive.
What Could Be Better?
No tent is perfect, and this one has its quirks:
- Rainfly Coverage
The included rainfly doesn’t extend to the ground, which leaves the lower walls exposed during heavy rain.
Solution: Use a waterproof tarp as an extra layer.
- Basic Stakes
The stakes provided are basic. They work for soft ground but struggled on rocky terrain.
Solution: Upgrade to stronger stakes.
- Bulkier Than Expected
At 17 pounds, it’s not the lightest tent for backpacking. For car camping, it’s fine, but hikers might prefer a lighter option like the best hiking tents under $100.
Who Is This Tent For?
Best Use Cases
- Families with kids.
- Groups of 6-8 people on weekend trips.
- Beginners who want an affordable, easy-to-use tent.
Not Ideal For
- Hardcore hikers who need something ultra-lightweight.
- Extreme weather camping.
Comparisons: CAMPROS CP Tent vs Other Popular Models
To give you some context, here’s how it stacks up against two other popular tents:
1. Ozark Trail 10-Person Tent
- Pros: More storage options with multiple pockets.
- Cons: Takes longer to set up.
Read more about it here.
2. CORE 9-Person Instant Cabin Tent
- Pros: Faster setup and better for harsh weather.
- Cons: Pricier and less room inside.
Full review here.
Real-Life Tips for Using This Tent
- Practice Setting It Up at Home
If you’re new to camping, practice pitching it in your backyard. It saves time (and stress) at the campsite. - Invest in Accessories
- A waterproof tarp for extra rain protection.
- Heavy-duty stakes for windy conditions.
- Portable cots for added comfort (check them out here).
- Keep It Clean
Sweep out dirt and debris after each trip to extend the life of the tent.
FAQs
1. Can the CAMPROS CP Tent handle heavy rain?
It’s water-resistant, not fully waterproof. For heavy rain, use a tarp or additional rainfly.
2. How many people can sleep comfortably?
Eight people fit snugly, but six with gear is more realistic.
3. Is it good for winter camping?
Not really. It’s designed for spring, summer, and fall.
4. Does it come with a warranty?
Yes, CAMPROS offers a one-year warranty for manufacturing defects.
My Final Takeaway
The CAMPROS CP Tent 8 Person Camping Tent is a solid choice for families and casual campers.
It’s roomy, easy to use, and budget-friendly—perfect for weekend trips or camping festivals.
While it’s not built for extreme weather or backpacking, it gets the job done for most camping scenarios.
If you’re upgrading from a smaller tent or planning your first group camping trip, this is one of the best options for the price.
Want to explore more camping gear?
Check out this review of outdoor inflatable camping tents for a different take on group camping.
