Late Start 2

I LOVE my Kelly Late Start 2! It’s cheap, very durable, actually fits 2 people and gear, has a nice vestibule, decent headroom, weighs 4 pounds, is relatively compact, and FAST to set up. Definitely my best dollar for quality tent in my collection. 

I know many will be against this option or hate on it but dude... ive been using the Kelty late start 2 for the last year and a half.... absolutely love everything about this tent and have had zero issues with it at all and i dont even use a footprint! Gets the job done quick and easy and is light enough but not the lightest. I am not an ultralight guy but if you have the space for it in or on your pack, dont sleep on this option, sleep in it!

I was very pleased with my Kelty Late Start 2P. Light, compact and easy to put up and take down. If there is a down side, (it wasn't an issue for me) the air flow through the tent may be a minus in colder temperatures. Good luck on whatever you decide. Happy camping.

I've had the Kelty Late Start for a few years. Not the lightest but roomy enough and tall enough. Decent quality tent that was priced right for me.

Just used this last night for an impromptu winter camp out. Definitely Not a 4 season tent but it did well enough. I use it a bunch over the summer, it's small enough to take on a small hike and is budget friendly too.

Go for the Core tent if you're a stand up in the tent & move around type. You'll like it. We got our big one pretty muddy and it was a heavy pain to clean. Hubby can stand & likes to bring a chair in. I like a smaller dome tent. I love my Kelty Late Start. The pole pockets and clips are great. I will never purchase another tent with sleeves for the poles to slide through (looking at you Coleman). Do you have any plans to backpack with the Scout Troop? Or are you exclusively car camping? Many scout camps require you to walk in your gear from a common parking area. If that's the case, having a wagon is key if you want to keep your large tent.

For three months on the road you want something you can set up alone in the dark when you're tired. Freestanding dome tent is the move. Don't go too big or you'll hate packing it every morning. I ran a Kelty Late Start for about six weeks straight and it held up to everything short of a tornado. Quick pitch, good ventilation, and fits on most platforms.