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.  

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

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

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

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

Lodge pole pine.

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.

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?

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

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.

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.