Kelty Grand Mesa 2-Person Tent

Having now taken this tent out several times, and in plenty of rain, I’m very happy with the performance. The fly has good coverage and good seam-taping and I’ve never had a wetness problem other than some small amounts of condensation on cold mornings. I’ve used this in seasonable weather, from low 50’s to high 30’s and it’s performed well. The ventilation is decent even with the fly on and without much wind. It’s not easy to stargaze, but you can get a view if you position your head at the door. One great feature is the fly vent, which pops up and stays open thanks to a little hoop of wire in it. Hopefully it will not get mangled over time. The floor is a little thin (cut yourself a tarp groundcover) and I think abrasion could definitely be a problem. Those with dogs might want to be take extra care tht Fido’s nails don’t rip right through the floor. Condensation was slight overnight and only at the foot of the tent, not bad for the humidity in WI. Also the mesh kept the bugs out, which was very important.

It’s not the hugest–things would be tight with a second person, and taller folks might feel cramped in the length dept. However, the design does allow the tent to have a small footprint and yet seem ok for two people even if not super comfy. A good compromise for me, a camper who was wavering between 1 and 2 person tents. The vestibule isn’t big, but it’s better than many tents at a similar price point. There’s a loop in the ceiling for hanging gear, and a couple of gear pockets at the front of the tent. Aluminum poles are good, although I was not expecting them to be shock-corded.

Probably bulky and a tad heavy for serious backpackers. Easy (EASY!) to setup and take down, though I agree with another review that I’m in the dark on the guywire operation. I didn’t need ‘em anyway, though the shape of the tent (basically rectangular) leads me to think that high winds could be a problem. Stakes are ok, but surely will get replaced sooner or later.

With aluminum poles, a good fly, some vestibule space, good amounts of mesh, sealed seams, some gear pockets, and an ok brand name, this is a good tent for the money. Similar models at this price point tend to skimp on at least one of these features. If you want to spend less than 130 for a freestanding tent, this is a very good option.
Rating: 4 / 5

I’ve owned this tent for just over a month, and have taken it camping twice. It sleeps two quite comfortably; the floor space is about equal to a full bed.

Two backpacks fit stacked on top of each other in the vestibule. I recommend a backpack cover in order to prevent rain running under.

Good ventilation too.

The instructions that came with it are clearly written, but the tent is so simple I don’t think many people will need to rely on them.

The only issue I have with the tent is the guy wires to hold the rain fly on. There are no instructions for these, and this is the first tent I have owned that uses them. Even with my engineer hat on, I cannot figure out the proper way to use them. Last two times I ended up just tying them to the stake.
Rating: 5 / 5

Tent worked well on a two week trip. It is easy to setup and light enough to pack. I used it for a large one person tent and shared it on two nights. Just large enough for two but the vestibule is small. Spikes are soft and bend too easily, you will have to replace them. I like the front entry. A little condensation on one warm night but otherwise ok. I wish the fly flap could tie back without unhooking the front spike, and that the vestibule was a little larger. Newer design tents have more features but this is a good basic tent for a good deal.
Rating: 3 / 5