What is a Yurt Tent? Everything You Need to Know

When it comes to camping, there are plenty of options for shelter. While camping tents, RVs, trailers, and camper vans are some of the most popular choices, there are also a variety of alternatives available. One such alternative is a portable yurt tent, which not only provides comfort but can also turn camping into glamping.

If you’re interested in trying out a yurt tent for your next camping trip, then keep reading below. We’ll provide you with all the information you need to know about yurt tents and why they might be the perfect choice for your next outdoor adventure.

What Is a Yurt Tent?

A yurt tent is a portable, circular tent-like structure that is typically used for camping. Unlike traditional yurts, which are permanent structures, yurt tents are designed for quick setup and take down. They are much smaller and more compact than traditional yurts, although they still offer ample living space inside.

The basic structure of a yurt tent typically consists of lightweight metal poles for infrastructure, rather than the wooden lattice walls found in most traditional yurts. The frame is covered with a canvas or fabric cover, which is held in place by ropes or cords.

Yurt tents are designed to be easy to assemble and disassemble, making them a popular choice for camping and other outdoor activities. They are also much more affordable than traditional yurts, which can cost thousands of dollars to build.

Despite their smaller size, yurt tents still offer many of the same features as traditional yurts, including a circular shape, a tall peaked roof, and a door and windows for ventilation. Some yurt tents also feature wooden frames, door frames, rafters, and a crown, which add to their stability and durability.

Overall, yurt tents are a great option for anyone looking for a unique and comfortable camping experience. They offer all the benefits of traditional yurts, but with the added convenience and portability of a tent.

Why Go Camping in a Yurt Tent?

Camping in a yurt tent offers a unique and comfortable outdoor experience. The following are some of the top reasons why you should consider camping in a yurt tent:

 

• Spacious Yurt tents are spacious and provide more than enough room to stand upright. You can also comfortably fit in several cots and other basic camp furniture.
• Weatherproof“ Yurt tents are made from canvas material that holds up very well to rain, snow, and wind. This makes them perfect for camping in any weather condition.
• Use with a Stove“ Yurt tents are highly compatible with portable heaters and wood tent stoves, making them ideal for winter camping.
• Cozy & Comfortable“ The size, shape, and materials of a yurt tent make for a cozy and comfortable atmosphere inside the tent.
• Durable“ Portable yurt tents are quite rugged and can withstand regular camping abuse. The best models can last for years and years.

Camping in a yurt tent is a form of glamping, which is a luxury camping experience. It provides an opportunity to enjoy the outdoors with family and friends while still enjoying the comforts of home. So, if you want to experience the great outdoors in comfort, consider camping in a yurt tent on your next camping trip.

Negatives of Yurt Camping

Setting up a yurt can be time-consuming and requires more than one person. If you plan to camp for a few nights, a traditional tent may be a better option.

Additionally, yurts may not provide as much protection from the elements as traditional tents.

They can be cold in winter and hot in summer, making temperature control difficult. Yurts may not be suitable for those who require electricity or protection from smoke and fire.

Finally, the larger size and weight of yurts may make them more difficult to transport and set up.

Best Portable Yurt Tents for Camping

If you are looking for a unique camping experience, a portable yurt tent might be just what you need. These tents offer a traditional design with modern features, making them a perfect option for those who want to enjoy the great outdoors in comfort.

Here are some of the best portable yurt tents for camping in 2024.

GoYurt

GoYurt is a great option for those who want a traditional yurt design.

These yurts are made of wood construction with traditional lattice walls, a canvas exterior, and a round mushroom shape. Although these yurts are heavy, they are built to last and can withstand all weather conditions.

They are also easy to set up, taking only around an hour with one person. The initial offering was 13′ in diameter with an 8’3″ peak height and a 5’8″ wall height, making it a spacious option for family camping trips.

White Duck Canvas Bell Tent

While not explicitly a yurt tent, the White Duck Canvas Bell Tent offers a similar experience. This canvas bell tent has a similar shape to a yurt, with the primary difference being the lack of a traditional wooden lattice frame.

It is a great option for those looking for a spacious portable glamping tent with a built-in stove jack that is ideal for year-round use, including winter.

The air vents at the top of the tent and a spacious doorway also enable adequate ventilation on hot summer days.

Danchel Outdoor Canvas Yurt Tent

The Danchel Outdoor Canvas Yurt Tent is another hybrid yurt/bell tent that is perfect for camping. This canvas yurt tent has mesh windows and doors, making it a rarity in most canvas glamping tents. It is an excellent option for warm summer days.

The Danchel canvas yurt also performs exceptionally well in inclement weather. It holds up to rain and snow while shedding wind like a champion.

Another highlight of this canvas yurt tent is the two stove jacks. It is compatible with a wood tent stove, making it perfect for cold winter nights.

In conclusion, these portable yurt tents are a great option for those who want to enjoy the great outdoors in comfort. They offer traditional designs with modern features that are perfect for family camping trips or glamping adventures.

Whether you choose the GoYurt, the White Duck Canvas Bell Tent, or the Danchel Outdoor Canvas Yurt Tent, you are sure to have a unique and memorable camping experience.

What About a Traditional Yurt?

If you are considering full-time yurt living, there are several traditional yurt manufacturers that you can choose from. Some of the best options include the Colorado Yurt Company, Great Lakes Yurt Company, and Pacific Yurts Inc.

These companies have been in the yurt building business for many years and have a great reputation among their customers.

It is important to note that traditional yurts are designed with some portability in mind, so they are considered semi-permanent structures rather than completely permanent ones. However, they are more permanent than yurt tents and can be used as a long-term dwelling.

Traditional yurts have a rich history in Central Asia, particularly in Mongolia, where they have been the primary style of home for nomadic tribes for thousands of years.

These circular dwellings are made of a lattice of flexible poles and covered in felt or other fabric. They are sturdy and reliable structures that can withstand extreme weather conditions.

If you are interested in a traditional yurt, it is important to do your research and choose a reputable manufacturer that can provide you with a high-quality and durable structure.

Is Yurt Camping Right for You?

Yurt camping is a great option for those who prefer longer camping trips of a week or more in one spot. Although yurt tents are relatively heavy and bulky, they offer more space than a normal tent, with enough height to stand upright inside.

In addition, most yurt tents are large enough to accommodate several cots and a wood stove, making them ideal for families or groups of friends.

The weatherproofing of yurt tents, especially canvas models, makes them perfect for standing up to rain, snow, and wind. This makes yurt camping a great option for those who want to camp in any weather condition.

However, it’s important to note that yurt camping can be time-consuming to set up, especially when compared to a regular camping tent.

This makes them more suitable for longer camping trips, such as setting up a basecamp for several weeks at a time.

If you’re planning a short camping trip, a normal tent or a canvas bell tent may be a better option. Alternatively, you can rent a yurt for a short glamping trip.

In summary, yurt camping is a great option for those who want more space and weatherproofing in their camping experience, and who are planning a longer camping trip of a week or more in one spot.

Other Gear You Need for Glamping in a Yurt

While a yurt tent provides a unique and comfortable glamping experience, you’ll need to bring along some additional gear to make your stay even more enjoyable.

In addition to the basic camping equipment like a sleeping bag, camping stove, and camping chairs, you may want to consider some additional luxuries to outfit your yurt tent.

Some suggestions include string lights for ambiance, a comfortable air mattress, and real bedding for a good night’s sleep. You may also want to bring along some insulation to keep warm on chilly nights, and ropes to secure your yurt tent in windy conditions.

Don’t forget about heating options, such as a wood stove or electric heater, to keep you warm and cozy. And if you plan on hiking to your yurt campsite, a sturdy backpack will come in handy for carrying all of your gear.

Best Yurt Tent Alternatives

If you’re looking for a unique camping experience but yurt tents aren’t your thing, there are several alternatives to consider. Canvas tents and tipis are two great options that share many similarities with yurt tents. Here are some of the best alternatives to yurt tents:

• Tipi – Camping tipis are a unique alternative to yurt tents. They come in canvas and nylon models that can accommodate different party sizes.
• Canvas Tent – Canvas wall tents share many similarities with canvas yurt tents, including a spacious, durable design and excellent weatherproofing for use in rain, snow, and wind.
• Family Tent – A large traditional tent, like the REI Co-op Kingdom 8, is a lightweight alternative that still boasts lots of interior space.

For more information on canvas tipis and canvas tents, check out our guide to the best tents for glamping.

What About a Glamping Yurt Rental?

If you’re interested in trying out yurt camping, booking a glamping rental in a yurt structure may be the best option for you. With a wide range of yurt rentals available across the country, you can choose from small portable glamping yurts to modern yurt structures to traditional Mongolian yurt rentals.

The main benefit of glamping in a yurt is that you don’t have to worry about transporting, setting up, or taking down the yurt yourself. Most yurt camping rentals are fully furnished with comfortable beds, stylish décor, private kitchenettes, and bathrooms.

Our glamping resources can help you find the best glamping rentals in each state, including Utah, Colorado, and many more. So why not try out yurt camping with a glamping rental for a comfortable and unique camping experience?

What About You?

Have you ever tried camping in a yurt tent? While we recommend a traditional family camping tent for most campers, yurt camping can be a unique and exciting experience for those looking to spend extended periods of time in the great outdoors.

Have you rented a yurt for a glamping trip or set up a portable yurt tent for a camping adventure? Share your experiences with us in the comments below and let us know what you think! Happy glamping!