Review: L.L. Bean's King Pine Dome Tent

I've been lucky enough this summer to take the L.L. Bean King Pine Dome Tent #6 on several camping trips. I say lucky only because I'm used to sleeping in backpacking tents. The inability to bring myself to a sitting position without hitting my head has become a painstaking point of my outdoor adventures - until now. Now, with a max height nearing 7ft., multiple people can stand inside and move around freely.

I'll admit that the King Pine is a car camping tent. At 28 lbs - it isn't light, but neither should you expect a tent sleeping 6 to be. From hiking in the White Mountains to fishing in the Rangeley, ME region - this beauty has made for a great base camp and I've enjoyed it's ability to hold all of my gear (and it's a lot). The entirety of the inside is lined with mesh pockets to organize all your goods.

Just as I told myself that this L.L. Bean staple couldn't get any better - it rained, and it rained, and then you guessed it, it rained some more. The rain fly not only held up throughout the winds and precipitation, but the screen room presented an experience I'd never had before. You're able to fit multiple camp chairs, and gear (even a charcoal grill if you chose) inside. Undesirable weather conditions can no longer put a damper on your time outdoors. The screen room shuts out wind and blowing rain when you simply zip whichever side necessary.

The real joy is when the storm clouds clear and the 5-day forecast calls for sun. I've never been happier than to peel back the rain-fly and enjoy Maine's fresh air as it streams through the mesh panels of the roof and sides. I'm a firm believer that one sleeps better with fresh air - exactly why you should pick up this tent and begin planning your own adventure. Whether a simple weekend excursion to explore coastal Acadia National Park or a 5-day moose hunt, should you be lucky enough to have your ticket drawn - L.L. Bean's King Pine Dome #6 is multipurpose and worth every cent. Take it from me...

For more photos, info, and a video of the tent in action - shoot over to L.L. Bean.

Editor's note: A special thanks to the good folks at L.L. Bean. I'll surely be sleeping beneath the stars for many summers to come