>>1593484I'm in CO, and a few times a year I'll drive my Taco up in the hills for some fairly secluded car camping. I have a short bed as well, but if there's no rain and the condensation isn't too bad I just drop the tailgate and sleep under the stars. A level sleeping surface is awesome. I picked up a 12x12' tarp recently to set up over the bed for shade/cover. I also bring along a ground tent in case there's rain. Just make sure you have enough food/water and are good with replacing a flat.
In my opinion the rooftop tents are just another flashy accessory. I can't justify having one, so maybe I'm just jealous. But they are spendy, heavy, and kind of takeover your truck bed. Whatever you end up doing, it's a great way to get away and get further out than most others can go on 4 wheels.