A-frame vs. Dome- Need Opinions!

[graybeard2]

I've been thinking of getting a tent, mostly to set up on the river bank when I'm catfishing, or maybe do a night or two at a campground while fishing. All I want is a place to set up a cot or sleeping pad and keep the dampness and bugs off. I figured a dome tent was the way to go, but I talked to a friend yesterday who has a Eureka Timberline. He said he has been using it for years, easy set up, and a 4 man tent is just right for one or two people. Mostly I'd be alone, maybe one other occasionally. I'd like to hear some thoughts on this. Thanks.

[Redlantern]

For what you describe the use will be, the Timberline would be great. Easy to setup, roomy and reliable. A dome will be a sturdier tent, most times but not always as fast to set up as the Timberline and, depending on the size of the dome, not as much usable space. I've had my dome tent (mountain hardware) for winter camping for quite a few years and love it but when it comes to summer trips with my dad and daughter, I use the Timberline.

[Powerstroke]

Either one is fine. Depending on the a-frame, it may not be freestanding, meaning you need to stake it down, or it will fall over.

A dome tent will be free-standing. The tent walls will be more vertical for more headroom with a better ceiling space.

[Wish-I-Were-Fishn]

Check out the Eureka Sunrise series. Square dome with excellent ventilation & easy setup. 3 sizes available; I have the 9x9 & 11x11

[bikeoutback]

I have the Timberline 6 and it's also a great tent. Slept up to 4 guys in it just fine but typically it's the better half, myself and the dog and there is tons of room to spare so i'd assume the Timberline 4 would work well for 2 people. I love my Eureka Timberline 6, used it for many years with only one issue that may be of concern to you in your case. I did bend one of the poles into an S once due to wind. We were set up in Winona on the river on an extremely windy day. It was constant with some hefty gusts coming off the river. I think it would have been fine except two things we did wrong:

1. Tried to set it up into the wind but failed, it was slightly cocked into the wind so the wind hit the one corner full on just about.

2. Didn't use the guy out lines (I have never used guy lines on any of my tents) and on this day probably could have used them.

I take full responsibility for it but thought I'd share it since you say you'll be on the river bank. Eureka was very speedy in getting me a new pole once I called and ordered it.

[LightningBG]

I'd go with a domed tent. A lot more headroom inside. If its something your only going to use occasionally and weight isnt' a big issue, I'd be tempted to head down to Target or FF and get one of the cheap dome tents. If you're looking to go more high end, I'd check out REI Outlet.