How Easy Is It to Set Up a DOD Outdoors 1-Pull Tent as a Solo Camper?
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Kinoko Mushroom Tent (also has a tan rain fly option). Also comes in small and medium, I recommend medium for a roomier experience. Small would be great for kids!
As a women’s-focused outdoor and adventure brand, we hear a lot about the barriers to getting outside. There’s way more support and incredible gear out there now, but we also know that can be super overwhelming. If you’re anything like me, that kind of overload can lead to a total shutdown—and that familiar feeling of “I’m just not good enough.”
When I did my first solo camping trip at 32 in Joshua Tree National Park, I was so nervous. I realized after I got there that I’d forgotten my tent stakes… and there just happened to be 25mph sustained winds. Not ideal. I didn’t know what else to do, so I drove into Joshua Tree town hoping to find a shop that could help. Most were closed, but this little local store took pity on me—the guy running it actually bent a few pieces of rebar into makeshift stakes, free of charge. Total lifesaver.
I had a few basic pieces of gear but borrowed a lot too—most of which I had no idea how to use. I learned everything through trial and error. I made a bunch of mistakes. And while that’s definitely one way to get into camping, if you’ve never camped solo before, I highly recommend checking out DOD Outdoors and their gear.
When I’m camping solo, one of the biggest things I look for is simplicity. If it takes an engineering degree, three extra hands, and a YouTube tutorial to set up, I’m out. I’ll save that kind of gear for backcountry trips and climbing missions. So when I was able to try a few DOD Outdoors' 1-Pull Tents, I was seriously impressed.
Let me walk you through how easy this thing is to set up—no drama, no assistance needed.
The Setup: One Pull, One Person, That’s It
True to its name, the tent really does go up with just one pull. Here's the rundown:
Lay it out – Pull the tent out of its bag and spread it flat on the ground.
Grab the handle – There’s a central hub system with a pull rope to unfold the roof.
One strong pull – Like popping open an umbrella, you just give it a steady, firm pull and—boom—it’s up.
Ground sheet – Lift and place the tent onto the ground sheet. Some models are staked down together, while others like the Kinoko Mushroom Tent use snaps.
Stake the guy lines (if needed) – If it’s calm or you’re not using the rain fly, you’re basically done. But if it’s windy? Stake those guy lines for added stability.
From packed-up to pitched? Five minutes, max. No weird poles. No wrestling with the fabric. Just... done.
Why It’s a Game-Changer for Solo Campers
No need for backup – You can set this up solo without breaking a sweat.
Looks amazing – I’m obsessed with the design. My personal faves are the Moto 1-Pull Tent and the Kinoko Mushroom Tent. I mean… who doesn’t want to sleep inside a cozy little mushroom?
Top-notch quality – It’s not just cute, it’s tough. I’ve tested other one-pull tents and this one is by far the best-built. These are made to last through years of adventures.
Who’s This Tent For?
If you like to roll up to camp, set up in minutes, and relax with a drink and a view, this is your tent. It’s perfect for solo travelers, weekend warriors, or anyone who appreciates simple, stress-free gear that just works.
Final Thoughts
The DOD Outdoors 1Pull Tents feel like they were made specifically with solo campers in mind. If you’re looking for something efficient, high-quality, and frustration-free, this might just become your new go-to shelter.
Author: Melissa Wright is Co-Owner of Women Who Explore. She manages the marketing and branding as well as hosting trips throughout the year. Her passion is empowering women in the outdoor spaces because she believe that empowered women outdoors are empowered women in life.
