Does anyone use a tipi?

[Archer 1]

I've got a 22' one I have used for over 20 years.
 I was told when I bought it, that I couldn't set it up alone, but I have been setting it up alone every since I've had it. It's a lot better with two people setting it up though.
 Once you have a way to haul the poles, there is nothing better.  

[Ron LaClair]

One thing you'll definitely need when you get a tipi is is Reginald Laubins book, The Indian Tipi.    It's the only way you'll be able to set it up properly.
 http://www.strawbaletradingpost.com/TipiAccessories.html

[smiley]

I have to agree on getting the 18' for a family of 4. I had one that gave me plenty of room even with a fire inside.I also had a 20'  that I used for a deer camp for a few years with a wood stove inside which made it very comfortable in cold weather and I could set this up my self now I have a 16'since my family is smaller but it still will sleep 4 comfortabley. If you don't have acess to poles that might be must expensive part

[GregD]

Thanks for all the input. The woodstove is a great idea. IIf I wasn't considering it I would be after seeing the pics you guys put up. As far as transporting it I assumed it would be only for drive up camping. I would have to look into a local source for the poles, what is the preferred wood? Again thanks for all the help. Ron, I will order the book today. greg

[Ron LaClair]

I would have to look into a local source for the poles, what is the preferred wood?  

Lodge pole pine.

[Greg Skinner]

I had a 14 footer that I used for several years; set it up by myself pretty easily once I figured out the system.  It makes a great base camp.  The 14' was good for 3 of us, but I would go for 16' or 18' for 4 or more people.  The poles aren't that much longer.  I used one of those "T" rack canoe carriers that fits in the receiver hitch of my pickup and a regular Yakima roof rack bar across the cab to haul the poles. We used it in some pretty extreme conditions - strong winds and cold, and it really held up well. Another great thing about tipis is that they aren't nearly as hot as a regular tent when you want to take an afternoon nap. Ron's right, though, a sheepherder's stove is best for heating.  Wish I hadn't lost mine in a fire. One of these days I'll have to get another one.

[GregD]

Greg, Did the fire happen in the tipi or where the tipi was stored? If the tipi was up what do you think started it?

[awishanew]

A liner goes all around the inside of the tipi. It is necessary for control of smoke.

[awishanew]

An ozan is a leanto tarp shaped to tie onto your poles and gives an effect of warmer and dryer over your sleaping area. I have one and never use it except to try it out. As others above have said, it is very comfortable. I have used it in snow,rain and 100 deg. weather. The air conditioning works great.

[Notso]

Ozan is a semi-circular piece that hangs horizontally above the liner. Liner is usually 3 pieces that are on the inside of the poles. Tipi sucks without the liner. Ozan is supposed to help keep heat in the living area. Does not work well.

I have had a 16' tipi for many years. Takes me 45 minutes to set up alone. Longer when I have help. My help is usually inexperienced - and explaining the how and why adds to the process. Poles are a paint to haul - but once set up - a tipi is the only way to camp.