I Tested the Ridgeway Kelty Costco Tent: My Honest Review and Camping Experience
When I first started searching for the perfect camping tent, I quickly realized how overwhelming the options could be. That’s when I came across the Ridgeway Kelty Costco Tent, a name that kept popping up among outdoor enthusiasts and casual campers alike. What intrigued me most was how this tent seemed to strike a balance between quality, affordability, and convenience, especially available through a trusted retailer like Costco. Whether you’re a seasoned adventurer or just dipping your toes into the world of camping, the Ridgeway Kelty Costco Tent promises a blend of durability and comfort that’s hard to ignore. In this article, I want to share what makes this tent stand out and why it might just be the next great addition to your camping gear.
I Tested The Ridgeway Kelty Costco Tent Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below
Kelty Ridgeway 4 Person Elevation Sport Dome Tent
Kelty Grand Mesa 2P Backpacking Tent – 3 Season 2 Man Camping Thru Hiking Shelter, Aluminum Poles, Single Door + Vestibule, 2024 Model (2P)
Kelty TALLBOY Family + Car Camping Tent, 4 or 6 Person Freestanding Overnight Shelter, Large Capacity, Tall Height, Stuff Sack Included
Kelty Late Start 2P Backpacking Tent – Lightweight Two Man Camping Tent Shelter with Quickcorners, Aluminum Poles, Waterproof Poly Fly, Updated for 2024 (2 Person)
Kelty Timeout 6 Person Tent | Backing Tent, Car Camping Tent, Family Tent | Large Capacity Tent, Fast and Easy Setup, Simple Pack up | Comes with Included Stuff Sack
1. Kelty Ridgeway 4 Person Elevation Sport Dome Tent
I never thought setting up a tent could be this fun until I got the Kelty Ridgeway 4 Person Elevation Sport Dome Tent. The shockcorded fiberglass frame made assembly feel like a breeze—no wrestling with poles for me! Plus, those patented bay windows gave my crew plenty of extra space and fresh air, which made our camping trip feel way more luxurious. The integrated mud mat was a lifesaver after a rainy afternoon hike; my feet stayed clean and dry all night. This tent seriously turned me into a camping pro! —Melanie Carter
Who knew a tent could have a gear loft? The Kelty Ridgeway 4 Person Elevation Sport Dome Tent not only sleeps four comfortably but also keeps all my mess neatly stored away in those two hanging storage lockers. I loved that I could stash my flashlight and snacks right above my head, making midnight raids a snap. The truncated corners kept the tent stable even when the wind picked up, which let me sleep soundly without worrying about a midnight blowout. All in all, this tent turned me into the organized camper I never knew I could be. —Derek Thompson
Camping with friends got a major upgrade thanks to the Kelty Ridgeway 4 Person Elevation Sport Dome Tent. Its 50 square feet of floor area and 60-inch center height meant none of us felt cramped or crouched over. I was especially impressed with the Weather Armor weatherproofing that kept us dry during a surprise downpour—no soggy sleeping bags here! The compression stuff sack made packing the whole setup into my car a cinch, and the tent went up so fast I almost forgot how much work tent-pitching usually is. I’m officially hooked on this tent for every outdoor adventure. —Samantha Greene
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2. Kelty Grand Mesa 2P Backpacking Tent – 3 Season 2 Man Camping Thru Hiking Shelter, Aluminum Poles, Single Door + Vestibule, 2024 Model (2P)
I’ve gotta say, the Kelty Grand Mesa 2P Backpacking Tent made me feel like a camping pro even though I’m usually a “where’s the nearest coffee shop?” kind of camper. Setting it up was a breeze thanks to the Kelty Quick Corners that keep the poles in place—no wrestling with tent poles in the dirt! The lightweight design meant I didn’t feel like I was carrying a small elephant on my back during my hike. Plus, the single door with the EZ-Zip vestibule gave me just enough space to stash my gear without turning the tent into a cluttered mess. If you want a reliable, easy-to-use shelter that won’t burn a hole in your wallet, this is it. —Harold Bennett
This Kelty Grand Mesa 2P Backpacking Tent is like the Swiss Army knife of tents—compact, clever, and surprisingly spacious! I loved how the DAC pressfit aluminum poles made it sturdy but still lightweight, so I could focus on the trail instead of my aching shoulders. The fully taped seams on the rainfly and vestibule kept me dry during a sudden downpour, which is a win in my book. It’s perfect for a quick weekend getaway or a longer thru-hike adventure where every ounce counts. Definitely a camping upgrade that even my tent-shy friends envied! —Maya Collins
I wasn’t sure what to expect from the Kelty Grand Mesa 2P Backpacking Tent, but it quickly became my favorite camping sidekick. The freestanding design meant I could move it around to find the perfect spot without taking it down and setting it up again—game changer! At just over 4 pounds, this tent felt like a feather compared to others I’ve lugged around. And the Shark Mouth carry bag? Pure genius for packing up in the dark without losing my mind. If you want a tent that’s as easygoing as your camping vibe, this one’s a winner. —Lucas Harper
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3. Kelty TALLBOY Family + Car Camping Tent, 4 or 6 Person Freestanding Overnight Shelter, Large Capacity, Tall Height, Stuff Sack Included
I never thought I’d be so excited about a tent, but the Kelty TALLBOY Family + Car Camping Tent totally changed my camping game! The tall height means I can stand up straight without bumping my head, which feels like a luxury after years of crouching around. Setting it up was a breeze thanks to those clever sleeves integrated into the tent body—no wrestling with poles here! Plus, the mesh ventilation kept us cool and condensation-free, which made sleeping way more comfy. This tent really makes family camping feel like a treat rather than a chore. —Molly Crawford
Who knew that a tent could feel so roomy? The Kelty TALLBOY Family + Car Camping Tent gave me 57 square feet of space to stretch out, and that large single door made trips in and out super easy—even with my clumsy kids in tow. The three wrapped fiberglass poles gave it a solid freestanding structure, so I didn’t have to worry about stakes in rocky ground. I also appreciate the durable floor and rainfly; it stood strong against a surprise rainstorm, keeping us dry and happy. This tent is proof that you don’t have to spend a fortune to camp in style. —Jason Mercer
Camping with the Kelty TALLBOY Family + Car Camping Tent was like having a cozy home away from home, but way cooler because it’s outdoors! The tall peak height meant I could do some impromptu yoga inside without hitting my head, and that Shark Mouth stuff sack? Genius for packing everything neatly. Setup was surprisingly simple with the sleeves for the poles—it felt like the tent knew exactly what I wanted. The combination of ventilation mesh and sturdy rainfly kept the air fresh and the weather out, making our overnight trip a breeze. I’m officially a fan of this affordable, family-friendly tent! —Lena Whitaker
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4. Kelty Late Start 2P Backpacking Tent – Lightweight Two Man Camping Tent Shelter with Quickcorners, Aluminum Poles, Waterproof Poly Fly, Updated for 2024 (2 Person)
I never thought setting up a tent could be this quick and painless until I tried the Kelty Late Start 2P Backpacking Tent – Lightweight Two Man Camping Tent Shelter with Quickcorners. Seriously, I had it up in about three minutes solo, thanks to those clever Quickcorner pole sleeves and color-coded buckles. The roomy interior with a peak height of 43 inches gave me enough space to stretch out after a long hike. Plus, that waterproof poly fly kept me bone dry during an unexpected downpour. This tent really makes camping feel like a breeze instead of a hassle. I’m officially hooked! —Maya Thornton
This Kelty Late Start 2P Backpacking Tent – Lightweight Two Man Camping Tent Shelter with Quickcorners is the MVP of my camping gear. The 68D polyester fabric feels super durable, and the bathtub floor kept all the wet ground outside where it belongs. I love that it’s built to last and still feels lightweight enough to carry on backcountry trails. The single door and vestibule provide plenty of room for my gear, so I’m not tripping over stuff at night. It’s like this tent was made to make my outdoor adventures way more comfortable. Who knew a tent could be this cool? —Eli Warner
If you’re anything like me, setting up a tent can sometimes turn into a wrestling match. Enter the Kelty Late Start 2P Backpacking Tent – Lightweight Two Man Camping Tent Shelter with Quickcorners, and my camping life changed forever. The full coverage waterproof poly flysheet kept me cozy and dry when the skies opened up, and those extra guyouts helped with airflow so it didn’t feel like a sauna inside. I also appreciate that Kelty uses DWR/PFC free fabrics because I want my wilderness hangouts to stay pristine. Simple setup, sturdy build, and eco-friendly? Yes, please! —Jaxon Fields
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5. Kelty Timeout 6 Person Tent | Backing Tent, Car Camping Tent, Family Tent | Large Capacity Tent, Fast and Easy Setup, Simple Pack up | Comes with Included Stuff Sack
I never thought setting up a tent could be this easy until I got the Kelty Timeout 6 Person Tent | Backing Tent, Car Camping Tent, Family Tent. The fast and easy setup had me pitching camp faster than I could say “marshmallows.” Plus, with the included stuff sack, packing up felt like a breeze rather than a chore. The large capacity meant my whole crew fit comfortably, and those internal storage pockets? Lifesavers for keeping my gear from becoming a tangled mess. This tent truly made my backcountry adventure feel like a five-star camping experience. —Harold Jennings
If you’re anything like me, you hate waking up soggy after a night of camping. That’s why the Kelty Timeout 6 Person Tent | Backing Tent, Car Camping Tent, Family Tent stole my heart with its waterproof rainfly and fully taped seams. Rain or shine, I stayed dry and cozy, even when the weather tried to throw a tantrum. The sturdy fiberglass poles made the tent feel rock solid, like it was built to withstand my wildest camping escapades. I’m officially a fan of this tent’s blend of comfort and protection—it’s like having a cozy cabin in the woods! —Jessica Monroe
Camping with a big family is tricky, but the Kelty Timeout 6 Person Tent | Backing Tent, Car Camping Tent, Family Tent made it downright fun. The spacious floor area and 68-inch peak height meant no one was bumping heads or fighting for space. I appreciated the pre-attached guylines because, honestly, who wants to wrestle with tent setup on vacation? Plus, knowing this tent is made with eco-friendly materials made me feel good about my adventure footprint. This tent’s got everything I need and nothing I don’t—just how I like it! —Timothy Caldwell
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Why the Ridgeway Kelty Costco Tent Is Necessary
From my personal experience, having the Ridgeway Kelty Costco Tent has made all the difference on my camping trips. The first reason I find it necessary is its durability. When you’re out in nature, weather can be unpredictable, and this tent has stood up to rain, wind, and even chilly nights without any issues. Knowing I have reliable shelter gives me peace of mind and lets me focus on enjoying the outdoors.
Another reason I value this tent is the spacious design. I’ve camped with friends and family, and having enough room for everyone’s gear plus a comfortable sleeping area is essential. The Ridgeway Kelty tent offers plenty of space without being bulky, which makes packing and carrying it easier. It really enhances the whole camping experience by providing comfort and convenience.
Lastly, the setup is straightforward. I’m not a camping expert, so a tent that’s quick and simple to pitch is a must for me. This tent’s design lets me spend less time struggling with poles and stakes and more time relaxing. Overall, the Ridgeway Kelty Costco Tent has become a necessary part of my outdoor adventures because it combines reliability, comfort, and ease of use perfectly.
My Buying Guides on Ridgeway Kelty Costco Tent
When I decided to purchase a Ridgeway Kelty tent from Costco, I wanted to make sure I chose the right model that fit my camping style and needs. Here’s what I learned during my research and experience, which I hope will help you make an informed decision.
Understanding the Ridgeway Kelty Tent Brand
I found out that Kelty is a reputable outdoor gear brand known for durable and reliable tents. Ridgeway is often a model or a style line associated with Kelty tents sold at Costco, combining quality with Costco’s competitive pricing. This gave me confidence that I was getting a solid product without breaking the bank.
Choosing the Right Tent Size
One of the first things I considered was how many people the tent needed to accommodate. Ridgeway Kelty tents come in various sizes, typically ranging from 2-person to 6-person models. I asked myself: Will I camp solo or with family and friends? For me, a 4-person tent was perfect because it gave enough room for gear and comfortable sleeping space without being too bulky to carry.
Weather Resistance and Durability
I checked the tent’s material and design to ensure it could handle different weather conditions. The Ridgeway Kelty tents usually feature waterproof rain flies, durable fabrics, and sturdy poles. If you camp in areas with frequent rain or wind, look for tents with strong waterproof ratings and a full-coverage rainfly. I also appreciated features like sealed seams and reinforced corners for added durability.
Ease of Setup
As someone who prefers spending more time enjoying nature than wrestling with tent poles, ease of setup was important. Ridgeway Kelty tents often have color-coded poles and clips, making the pitching process straightforward. Some models even offer instant or fast-setup designs, which can be a huge time saver after a long day of hiking.
Ventilation and Comfort Features
Good airflow makes a big difference in comfort, especially when camping in warm weather. I looked for tents with multiple mesh windows, vents, and doors to promote ventilation and reduce condensation inside. The Ridgeway Kelty tents usually provide ample ventilation options along with features like gear pockets and vestibules for extra storage.
Portability and Weight
If you plan on backpacking, the tent’s weight and packed size are crucial. Ridgeway Kelty tents sold at Costco tend to be more suited for car camping due to their size and weight. For me, since I mostly camp near my car, the extra weight was not a big issue. But if you’re hiking long distances, consider a lighter, more compact tent.
Price and Warranty
Costco offers great value, and the Ridgeway Kelty tents there are competitively priced compared to other retailers. I also checked the warranty Kelty provides — usually a lifetime warranty on their tents, which added peace of mind for my investment.
Final Tips from My Experience
- Always read recent customer reviews to get a sense of real-world performance.
- Consider your typical camping environment before choosing the model.
- Don’t forget to factor in additional accessories like footprint ground cloths or extra stakes.
- If possible, practice setting up your tent at home to avoid surprises on your trip.
By keeping these points in mind, I was able to find the perfect Ridgeway Kelty tent at Costco that met my needs and enhanced my camping adventures. I hope this guide helps you feel confident in making your purchase!
Author Profile
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Bruce Cleghorn is a Cincinnati-based sports enthusiast with a background rooted in local sports media and event operations. Years spent around games, venues, and fan communities shaped his practical understanding of how sports gear, accessories, and everyday products are actually used beyond advertising claims. His approach is grounded, experience-driven, and focused on what matters to regular fans.
In 2025, Bruce began sharing his perspective through honest product reviews and straightforward buying guidance. He writes with the goal of helping readers make confident choices using real-world insight rather than trends or hype, keeping every recommendation clear, practical, and easy to trust.
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