Took the family camping and almost lost our tent to the wind

3d ago1 min read

We went to Yellowstone area last weekend and the weather was supposed to be perfect. Second night a storm rolled in out of nowhere and the wind was insane. Tent stakes were pulling out and my oldest got scared. Had to get everyone up at midnight, pack everything, and move to our car. Spent the rest of the night in an uncomfortable position in an SUV with three kids and my wife giving me the silent treatment. We drove to a hotel and I felt like a failure the whole ride. But honestly, looking back, the kids think it was an adventure now. Planning to invest in better stakes and a more heavy duty tent before our next trip. Any recommendations for camping gear that won't fail in high winds?

10 comments159 views

Comments(10)

SScott M.Regular1d ago

Oh man, that's terrifying. Yellowstone weather is no joke, it can change in like 20 minutes. Did you get the tent secured or was it actually about to go?

MMikeRegular2d ago

Did the kids freak out or were they actually pretty calm about it? I feel like wind storms would stress mine out.

JJasonRegular2d ago

We had a wind scare at Yellowstone last year too. Second night is always the wildcard. Glad you kept your tent. What did you end up doing to secure it better?

NNathanNew Dad1d ago

We had the same thing happen at a campground in Colorado last year. Now I always bring extra stakes and rope even though I think I won't need it. You live and learn.

BBrad M.New Dad3d ago

Oh man, that sounds intense. We've had a few close calls with weather and it's way scarier than you'd think when you've got the whole family depending on that tent holding up. Glad you all made it through okay.

KKevin L.New Dad3d ago

Yellowstone is amazing but yeah, weather out there can turn on a dime. At least now you've got a story to tell and you know your family can handle the unexpected. That's solid dad stuff right there.

JJason T.Regular2d ago

Weather apps lie about camping trips like 60 percent of the time. At least you caught it before the tent took off. That could've been a disaster.

KKevin M.New Dad1d ago

Yellowstone is amazing but the weather up there can turn on a dime. How did you reinforce it once you realized what was coming?

MMichaelRegular2d ago

Almost losing your tent with the family in it has to be one of the scariest camping moments. Did the kids think it was exciting or were they freaked out?

KKevin M.New Dad2d ago

This is why I always check those weather forecasts way closer than I think I need to. Mountain weather especially will catch you off guard. Glad you caught it before your tent ended up in the trees.