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When it comes to camping, comfort and functionality are key, and the REI Co-op Wonderland 6 tent hits the mark on both fronts. After spending several nights under the stars in this tent, we can confidently say it's our favorite tent yet. With sweeping views of nature, exceptional craftsmanship, and a very cool sunroom you can buy separately, this tent has set a new standard for our camping adventures.
Design and Construction
The REI Co-op Wonderland 6 tent boasts a smart and sturdy design. The triangulated center pole and extended ridge pole provide excellent stability, even in windy conditions. This 6-person tent features near-vertical walls and a rectangular floor plan, maximizing the livable space inside. Setting up the tent is a breeze thanks to the strategic color coding on the tent, fly, footprint, and poles.
Crafted from high-quality materials, the tent's canopy and rainfly are made from 75-denier coated polyester, while the floor is constructed from durable 150-denier coated polyester. The aluminum poles, with diameters ranging from 12 to 16 millimeters, add to the tent's robustness. Additionally, the solution-dyed mesh supports reduced water and energy use, reflecting REI's commitment to sustainability as a Climate Neutral Certified brand.
Space and Comfort
With a sleeping capacity of six people, the Wonderland 6 offers ample space for a comfortable camping experience. The floor dimensions of 120 x 100 inches provide a generous 83.3 square feet of space, ensuring everyone has enough room to stretch out. One of the standout features is the interior divider wall with a center zip, which can create two separate rooms for privacy or be removed to form a giant gathering area perfect for socializing and dining.
The tent’s peak height of 78 inches allows even tall campers to stand up comfortably, and the near-vertical walls further enhance the feeling of spaciousness. Most people won't have to duck at all to get in the tent. Inside, the bugproof mesh paneling on the walls, windows, and doors offers excellent ventilation and unobstructed views, making it easy to enjoy the surrounding nature without worrying about insects. Multiple interior storage options help keep gear organized and within reach.
Ease of Use and Setup
One of the most impressive aspects of the Wonderland 6 is how easy it is to set up. Its freestanding design means you can pitch it almost anywhere. The color-coded components make the process intuitive, so you can spend less time setting up and more time enjoying your surroundings. The tent weighs in at 22 lbs. 15 oz. when packaged and packs down to a manageable size of 13 x 32 inches, making it easy to transport.
The main stuff sack comes with a shoulder strap and handle for convenience, and separate organizer stuff sacks for poles and stakes help keep everything in order. With 18 stakes, 8 pre-attached reflective guylines with cleat-lock tighteners, and a pole repair sleeve included, you’ll have everything you need for a secure setup.
Ventilation and Weather Resistance
Ventilation is crucial in a tent, and the Wonderland 6 excels in this area. The scalloped fly and awnings, combined with low side vents, upper end, and door vents, create an effective chimney venting system. This ensures excellent climate control and minimizes condensation inside the tent. The bugproof mesh paneling also contributes to great airflow, making the tent comfortable even on warm nights.
Weather protection is another strong suit of this tent. The seam-sealed, cut-in floor keeps moisture out, while the weather-protective awnings over the doors prevent rain from dripping inside. We found the tent to be stable and dry, even during a sudden downpour.
Additional Features
The large awnings and covered entries of the Wonderland 6 are practical and add to the overall experience. On sunny days, you can roll back the awnings to let in more light and enjoy panoramic views of your surroundings. The tent is also compatible with the optional Wonderland Mud Room, which provides extra storage space and a covered entry, further enhancing its versatility.
Performance in Different Conditions
We had the chance to test the Wonderland 6 in various weather conditions, and it performed admirably. The triangulated center pole and extended ridge pole ensured stability in windy conditions, while the effective ventilation system kept the interior comfortable in warmer weather. As a 3-season tent, it’s designed to handle a range of conditions, making it a reliable choice for different camping scenarios.
Conclusion
The REI Co-op Wonderland 6 tent combines thoughtful design, superior craftsmanship, and a range of practical features to create an exceptional camping experience. Its spacious interior, excellent ventilation, and weather resistance make it a standout choice for families and groups. The ability to create two separate rooms or one large gathering area adds to its versatility, and the optional sunroom is a fantastic addition for those who want even more space.
We highly recommend the Wonderland 6 for anyone looking for a reliable, comfortable, and easy-to-use tent. Whether you're camping with family or friends, this tent provides a home away from home in the great outdoors. Its combination of functionality and comfort has made it our go-to tent for all our camping adventures.
You can purchase this tent at any REI or HERE.
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