We even gave extra points to canopies that also protected against bugs. Heavier cathedral-style canopy tents can often be challenging because of their weight; however, most are fairly simple to deploy. The Eurmax and E-Z Up are counted among these heavier tents, but setting them up was surprisingly straightforward. The whole thing is remarkably easy to set up, even for one person; the family at the next campsite was amazed at my tent prowess when I set it up solo. Takedown is similarly simple, though Clam provides an instructional video if you need help.
It’s also straightforward to set up, and it is made with sturdy, light materials. It is essential to consider the available space in your outdoor area when installing the screen house. Proper planning and measurement will help ensure a snug and secure fit, maximizing the functionality and usability of your new outdoor living space. The Ozark Trail Screen House 14X12 can be customized with optional sidewalls and doors for additional coverage and privacy.
In early March, we took our second trip to the oceanside Sycamore Canyon Campground (PDF) near Oxnard, California. A later check of the weather at nearby Point Mugu Naval Air Station confirmed top recorded wind gusts of 40 miles per hour. Our favorite of the eight canopy tents we tested, the REI Co-op Screen House Shelter ticks all those boxes. However, it isn’t meant as a place to sleep; for that you should choose a regular car-camping tent. Our favorite canopy tent is a simply designed, comfortable shelter that offers protection from bugs, sun, and rain.
However, overall, we think the Tagalong is still suitable for the adventurous type who likes to be on the go and doesn’t want to lug a heavy canopy. Our notes on this shelter are mostly positive — there isn’t much we don’t like about the Escape. In addition to costing you a few extra clams, this product doesn’t pack up very small. When stowed in its carrying case, it could easily be confused with a winter travel bag carrying snow skis. Its packed size is more than six feet, making it difficult to fit into an average-sized car.
The tent is spacious, making it perfect for larger families or groups of friends. It lets you enjoy the beautiful outdoors without being eaten alive by mosquitoes or bugs. Plus, it’s great for keeping camp chairs and dog beds organized. They allow us to convert the screen room into a bedroom on one trip and a bug-free front porch on another, making this tent incredibly versatile.
‘Insert the leg poles into the hubs to raise the screenhouse frame’ got the first laugh. Any attempt to lift a corner and insert a leg pole resulted in pipes flying everywhere. I thought of resorting to duct tape, but since I had none handy, with great finesse I managed to lift each corner one pipe segment at a time. Some middle sections fell out but I had a standing frame of sorts, swaying and wobbling.
The mesh panels made the whole experience feel like an open-air movie theater, providing a 360-degree view of the surreal surroundings. The shade provided, complete with a cool breeze, was a welcome relief from the humid days and a refreshing contrast to the sweltering heat. The 190T polyester fabric provided great shade from the sun, and the included ozark trail screen house zippered storage carry bag was a thoughtful addition for easy transportation and storage. The included stakes are very short, thin, and somewhat ineffective; we recommend purchasing larger thicker stakes for your Caravan V-Series. The canopy material is adequate but less rugged, and rainwater tends to drip through during a substantial downpour.