canvas tents for camping

Exploring the Best Canvas Tents for Camping: A Hands-On Review of Elkmountaintents

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Camping is a popular activity that allows people to reconnect with nature and escape the hustle and bustle of everyday life. A crucial aspect of camping is having a reliable tent, and canvas tents are a popular choice due to their durability and breathability. In this article, we will provide a hands-on review of the best canvas tents for camping, with a focus on the company Elkmountaintents.

About Elkmountaintents

Elkmountaintents is a company based in the United States that specializes in manufacturing canvas tents for camping, glamping, and hunting. Their tents are made from high-quality, waterproof cotton canvas that is treated to resist mold, mildew, and fire. They offer a wide range of tents, from small one-person tents to large family-sized tents, and their products are known for their durability, comfort, and easy setup.

Elkmountaintents has received high praise from customers for their exceptional customer service, fast shipping, and attention to detail. They also offer a lifetime warranty on all of their tents, which speaks to their confidence in the quality of their products.

Best Canvas Tents for Camping

  1. Elkmont Canvas Tent

The Elkmont canvas tents for camping is a spacious family-sized tent that can comfortably accommodate up to six people. It is made from high-quality, waterproof cotton canvas that is treated to resist mold, mildew, and fire. The tent has two doors, two windows, and a mesh roof for ventilation, and it comes with a waterproof rainfly for added protection during rainy weather.

One of the standout features of the Elkmont Canvas Tent is its easy setup. The tent can be assembled in just 15 minutes, and it comes with all of the necessary hardware and instructions. It also comes with a durable carrying bag for easy transport and storage.

  1. Elk Mountain Canvas Cabin Tent

The Elk Mountain Canvas Cabin Tent is another spacious family-sized tent that can comfortably accommodate up to six people. It is made from high-quality, waterproof cotton canvas that is treated to resist mold, mildew, and fire. The tent has four windows and a mesh roof for ventilation, and it comes with a waterproof rainfly for added protection during rainy weather.

The Elk Mountain Canvas Cabin Tent is designed to withstand extreme weather conditions, with a heavy-duty steel frame and strong metal stakes. The tent also features a front porch area, which is perfect for relaxing and enjoying the outdoors.

  1. Elkmont Double Swag Tent

The Elkmont Double Swag Tent is a unique and versatile tent that can be used for camping, hunting, and glamping. It is made from high-quality, waterproof cotton canvas that is treated to resist mold, mildew, and fire. The tent has a spacious interior that can comfortably accommodate two people, and it comes with a built-in foam mattress for added comfort.

One of the standout features of the Elkmont Double Swag Tent is its compact size and easy setup. The tent can be assembled in just a few minutes, and it comes with a durable carrying bag for easy transport and storage. It is also lightweight, making it ideal for backpacking and hiking trips.

canvas tents for camping

FAQs

  1. Are canvas tents waterproof?

Canvas tents are not inherently waterproof, but they can be treated to become waterproof. Most canvas tents are treated with a waterproof coating or wax, which helps to repel water and prevent leaks.

  1. How do you clean a canvas tent?

To clean a canvas tent, you should first remove any loose dirt or debris with a soft brush or cloth. Then, mix a solution of warm water and mild soap and use a sponge or cloth to gently clean the tent. Rinse the tent thoroughly with clean water and allow it to air dry.

  1. Are canvas tents better than nylon tents?

Canvas tents and nylon tents have their own unique advantages and disadvantages. Canvas tents are typically more durable and breathable than nylon tents, making them a popular choice for camping in hot or humid climates. They are also more resistant to mold and mildew and tend to have a longer lifespan than nylon tents.

On the other hand, nylon tents are generally lighter and more compact than canvas tents, making them ideal for backpacking and hiking trips. They are also typically less expensive than canvas tents, and they dry much faster after getting wet.

Ultimately, the choice between a canvas tent and a nylon tent will depend on your specific camping needs and preferences.

  1. How long do canvas tents last?

Canvas tents can last for many years if they are well-maintained and cared for properly. With regular cleaning and re-treating, a high-quality canvas tent can last for 10 years or more.

  1. Can canvas tents be used in winter?

Canvas tents can be used in winter, but they may not be as warm as other types of tents. To stay warm in a canvas tent during the winter months, it is recommended to use a high-quality sleeping bag and sleeping pad, as well as a portable heater if possible.

Conclusion

Elkmountaintents offers a range of high-quality canvas tents that are ideal for camping, glamping, and hunting. Their tents are made from durable, waterproof cotton canvas and come in a variety of sizes and styles to suit different camping needs. Whether you are a seasoned camper or a beginner, Elkmountaintents has a tent that will meet your needs and exceed your expectations.

canvas hunting tents for sale

Hunting with a Canvas Wall Tent: Tips and FAQs with Elkmountaintents

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Hunting with a canvas wall tent is a great way to enjoy the great outdoors and get closer to nature. Canvas wall tents are known for their durability and versatility, making them a popular choice for hunters who need a reliable shelter that can withstand the elements. In this article, we’ll take a look at how to hunt with a canvas wall tent, as well as some frequently asked questions about this type of camping.

Preparing for the Hunt

Before setting out on a hunting trip with a canvas wall tent, there are a few things that you should do to prepare. First and foremost, make sure that you have all the necessary hunting gear and equipment, including rifles, ammunition, knives, and camouflage clothing. It’s also important to research the area where you’ll be hunting to learn about local wildlife, hunting regulations, and any potential hazards.

Next, you’ll want to choose the right canvas wall tent for your needs. Elkmountaintents is a company that specializes in canvas wall tents for hunting and camping, and they offer a variety of sizes and styles to suit different preferences. The 12×14 Wall Tent is a popular choice for hunters, as it provides ample space for sleeping, cooking, and storing gear.

Setting Up the Tent

Once you’ve arrived at your hunting destination, it’s time to set up your canvas hunting tents for sale. This process can take anywhere from 30 minutes to an hour, depending on your experience and the size of the tent. Here are the steps to follow:

  1. Choose a flat, level area to set up your tent.
  2. Lay out the tent fabric and stake it to the ground using the provided stakes.
  3. Insert the tent poles into the grommets on the tent fabric and raise the tent.
  4. Secure the tent poles with guy ropes and stakes.
  5. Attach the tent fly over the top of the tent and secure it with guy ropes and stakes.

It’s important to properly stake and secure your canvas wall tent to ensure that it can withstand wind, rain, and other weather conditions. Elkmountaintents provides detailed instructions and videos to help customers with the setup process.

Using the Tent for Hunting

Once your canvas wall tent is set up, it’s time to start using it for hunting. Here are some tips to keep in mind:

  1. Use the tent as a base camp for your hunting trips. This will allow you to store gear, cook meals, and rest between hunting excursions.
  2. Keep your tent clean and organized to avoid attracting wildlife. Make sure to properly store food and garbage away from the tent.
  3. Use a camping stove or fire pit to cook meals. Never use an open flame inside the tent, as this can be a fire hazard.
  4. Use a portable toilet or dig a cathole at least 200 feet away from the tent to avoid contaminating the area with human waste.
  5. Always follow local hunting regulations and practice safe hunting techniques.
canvas hunting tents for sale

FAQs

Q: Are canvas wall tents waterproof?

A: Canvas wall tents are water-resistant, but not completely waterproof. They are made of cotton canvas, which can absorb water and become heavy in rain. However, most canvas wall tents come with a rain fly that provides additional protection from the elements.

Q: How do you heat a canvas wall tent?

A: Canvas wall tents can be heated using a wood stove or propane heater. It’s important to properly ventilate the tent to avoid carbon monoxide poisoning, and to follow all safety guidelines for using a heating source inside the tent.

Q: How long do canvas wall tents last?

A: The lifespan of a canvas wall tent depends on the quality of the materials and how well it is maintained. Elkmountaintents offers canvas wall tents that are made with high-quality materials and can last for many years with proper care. Regular maintenance, such as cleaning and waterproofing, can also extend the life of your tent.

Q: Can canvas wall tents be used in all seasons?

A: Yes, canvas wall tents can be used in all seasons. They are designed to withstand a variety of weather conditions, including rain, snow, wind, and extreme temperatures. However, it’s important to properly insulate and heat the tent in cold weather to avoid hypothermia.

Q: How do you clean a canvas wall tent?

A: To clean a canvas wall tent, use a soft-bristled brush or sponge to remove any dirt or debris from the surface. Avoid using harsh chemicals or bleach, as this can damage the canvas. Instead, use a mild soap and water solution to clean the tent. Rinse thoroughly and allow the tent to air dry completely before storing.

Q: Can canvas wall tents be used for other outdoor activities besides hunting?

A: Yes, canvas wall tents can be used for a variety of outdoor activities, including camping, hiking, and fishing. They are versatile and durable, making them a great choice for any outdoor adventure.

Conclusion

Hunting with a canvas wall tent can be a rewarding and memorable experience for any outdoor enthusiast. By following the tips and guidelines outlined in this article, hunters can set up and use a canvas wall tent for their next hunting trip with confidence. Remember to choose a high-quality tent, properly set it up, and follow all safety guidelines for using the tent during the hunting trip. With the right preparation and equipment, hunters can enjoy a comfortable and successful hunting trip in the great outdoors.

canvas wall tents for sale

Choosing Your First Canvas Wall Tent: Advice and Tips from Elk Mountain Tents

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Canvas wall tents have been a popular choice for outdoor enthusiasts for many years. They are durable, spacious, and provide a luxious camping experience. However, with so many options available on the market, buying the right canvas wall tent can be a daunting task, especially for first-time buyers. In this article, we will provide some advice for buying your first canvas wall tent.

Why Choose a Canvas Wall Tent?

There are many reasons why you might choose a canvas wall tent over other types of camping shelters. Here are just a few:

  • Durability: Canvas, whether natural or synthetic, is a strong and sturdy material that can withstand harsh weather conditions, making it an ideal choice for many people. Typically, if you take good care of your tent, you can expect it to last decades.
  • Spaciousness: Wall tents are typically much larger than other types of camping shelters, providing plenty of space for sleeping, cooking, and relaxing. The biggest difference is the high side walls. This allows you to walk around without ducking.
  • Features: These kinds of tents can truly be a home away from home with screened windows, wood stove, and room for cots and gear.

Choosing the Right Size

When it comes to buying a canvas wall tent, one of the most important decisions you will make is choosing the right size. Elk Mountain Tents offers a range of sizes, from 13’x13′ up to 13’x20′ but you can go slightly smaller if you’re looking for a bell tent. Here are some things to consider when choosing the right size:

  • How many people will be sleeping in the tent?
  • Are the people close family, kids, or scouts that you can pack in or do they need some space?
  • How much gear will you be bringing?
  • Will you be using a wood stove inside?
  • For specific examples and diagrams, check out our sleeping capacity article.
canvas wall tents for sale

Choosing the Right Features

Decide what extra features are most important to you. Here are a few popular options:

  • Stove Jack: A stove jack allows you to safely use a wood stove inside your tent, providing warmth and cooking capabilities.
  • Windows: Windows provide natural light and ventilation, making your tent more comfortable to be in during the day.
  • Screened Doors: Screened doors allow you to keep bugs out of your tent while still enjoying fresh air.
  • Awning: A porch can provide additional covered space outside your tent, perfect for relaxing or having a transitional space.
  • Ridge Ventilation: To avoid condensation, it’s recommended that you get a tent with ridge openings.
  • Angle Kit: So, this one isn’t a feature exactly, but I have to mention it here because not all tents come with it. These are all the metal pieces that allow you to put a frame together. It’s possible to assemble a tent without these but for most setups it’s a must,

All models at Elk Mountain Tents come with a stove jack, screened windows, ridge ventilation, and angle kit as these are considered the most essential for hunting. However, for an additional charge, you can get screened doors and awnings.

When you shop around, make sure you aren’t comparing apples to oranges as many tent companies will give you a quote for their base model that includes ZERO features, so be sure to get a quote of the tent you actually want.

Choosing the Right Materials

There are no wrong answers here as all canvas tents are MUCH more sturdy compared to most camping tents, but there are a few things you must know:

Type: Your choices are cotton, polyester, and a cotton-poly blend. Some like organic / natural nature of going with cotton while some prefer polyester because it is incapable of rotting (since it’s synthetic). Advances in manufacturing technology have made breathability no longer exclusive to cotton, so polyester is just as good there depending on who makes the tent. A blend of the two includes the strengths and weakenesses of both. As a general rule, the more polyester the lighter and stronger it will be.

Weight: Weirdly enough, wall tent canvas strength is typically measured indirectly as weight. When you see someone say “10 oz canvas” it means 10 oz per square yard, and the weight of the canvas is a pretty good ballpark estimate for it’s strength. 8 oz is considered the bare minimum, 10 oz is in the industry standard, 12 oz is considered heavy duty, and 14~16 oz is extra heavy duty (and also very heavy and harder to assemble).

Strength: While weight is a good indirect measure of the material’s strength, it’s not the best measure. Be sure to ask your tent manufacturer for the rip and tear strength. Each of these will then have two figures, one for the warp direction and one for the fill direction.

For example, our ccanvas is an 11 oz canvas with a breaking strength of 449 lbs (warp direction) and 382 lbs (fill direction), making it significantly tougher than traditional canvas which has a breaking strength of 382 (warp) and 241 (fill) for 12 oz canvas and about 210 (warp) and 140 (fill) for 10 oz canvas. The tear strength is 67 lbs (warp) and 40 lbs (fill); this is roughly double that of the Sunforger canvas material used by other tent companies.

Conclusion

Buying your first canvas wall tent can be an exciting and rewarding experience, as long as you take the time to choose the right size and features for your needs. Elk Mountain Tents offers a range of high-quality canvas wall tents that are durable and spacious. Be sure to take a look!

canvas wall tent

How to Choose the Right Canvas Tent: Tips and Recommendations

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Canvas tents have been a favorite among outdoor enthusiasts for centuries. These tents are made of durable materials, and they can withstand harsh weather conditions. They provide a comfortable and spacious shelter for camping, hunting, and other outdoor activities. If you are planning to buy a canvas tent, you need to consider several factors to make an informed decision. In this article, we will provide you with tips on how to choose the right canvas tent for you.

Tip 1: Determine the Purpose of the Tent

The first step in choosing a canvas tent is to determine its purpose. Canvas tents come in different sizes and styles, and they are designed for specific purposes. For starters, if you need to pack your tent in by yourself (i.e. no four-wheeler or horse), then a canvas tent is not the right fit for you. Is this for a bunch of scouts, a group of hunting buddies and their gear, just your little family? Start by imaginging the ways in which you will use it.

Tip 2: Consider the Tent Size

The size of the tent is the next most important factor to consider. You need to ensure that the tent is spacious enough to accommodate all your gear and equipment. If you are planning to camp with your family or a group of friends, you should opt for a large tent that can comfortably accommodate everyone. Similarly, if you want a wood stove inside the tent, you’re gonna want 3 ft of clearance in every direction from the stove. For a thorough breakdown, check out this article on sleeping capacity.

Tip 3: Look for High-Quality Materials

Now that you know your size, next is the materials themselves.

Canvas tents come in three primary materials: cotton, polyester, and cotton-poly blend. Some people swear by the breathability of cotton but it really depends on how the polyester fibers are woven. In other words, a polyester tent can be just as breathable and insulating as a cotton canvas tent depending on who makes the tent and what their process is, so if you’re going polyester, be sure to ask about breathability. The main advantage of polyester is that it cannot rot since it is synthetic. Sure, mold can grow on the surface but it can’t eat the synthetic fibers.

Now, if only it were as simple as choose cotton, poly, or blend! You also need to consider the thickness of the canvas. Canvas is a little weird in that when discussing its thickness the common practice is to instead provide the weight in oz per square yard. 8 oz is considered very thin/light, 10 oz is the industry standard, 12 oz is considered heavy-duty, and in some cases you may see as high as 14 or 16 oz. This numbers are a good starting point for understanding the material. I would say 8 oz is good for temporary events, 10 oz is good for camping, 12 oz is ideal for hunting, and anything higher than that is for personal preference (but it starts to get difficult to assemble the tent).

That said, weight alone won’t tell you how strong the tent fabric is since how the fabric is woven together also matters. Ask the tent manufacturer for the fabric’s break and tear strength. Break strength measures the force needed to completely break the canvas, while tear strength measures the force required to continue tearing it from an initial cut. Additionally, each of these should come with two figures: one for the warp direction and one for the fill direction. In other words, one company’s 10 oz may be as strong as another company’s 12 oz. Do not purchase a canvas tent from a company unwilling to share this data.

Other aspects of the tent’s construction, such as the quality of the zippers, are harder to judge without seeing it in person, so I recommend reading online reviews.

Tip 4: Consider the Tent Style

Canvas tents come in different styles. Each style has its advantages and disadvantages, and you need to choose the one that suits your needs. Circular tents, such as the bell tent are generally easier to set up. They can be incredibly spacious with only two downsides: 1) The side walls are generally lower compared to wall tents. The industry standard for bell tent side walls is 1-2 ft but Elk Mountain Tents has 3 ft side walls. 2) Depending on how you arrange your gear, round tents can create unusable space. For example, imagine a rectangular cot against a curved wall. The larger your bell tent the less this is an issue.

Canvas wall tents

Tip 5: Check the Tent Features

Canvas wall tents come with different features, such as stove jacks, windows, doors, vents, and angle kits. Look for a tent with features that suit your needs.

The frustrating thing is that most canvas tent companies boast their low prices but don’t openly broadcast that all of the extra features are additional. It’s not uncommon to see a tent go from $1000 to almost $2,000 simply becaue you wanted some windows, screen on the door, and a stove jack. So, consider what you want and then see which of the desired features come included in the base price.

Why Elk Mountain Tents?

There are lots of great canvas tent companies, here’s why you should go with Elk Mountain Tents:

  1. They only carry a few models so they can keep the prices low and include more standard features.
  2. Their polyester canvas only weighs 11 oz but has a break and tear strength comparable to 13 oz canvas.
  3. Most canvas tent companies do custom orders and take months. Elk Mountain Tents can ship yours today.

But what if you insist on cotton canvas? Shop local if you can, and if you can’t, then go with Davis Tent. Those guys are fantastic.

canvas tents with wood stove

Safety Precautions for Using a Canvas Tent Stove: Tips from Elk Mountain Tents

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Canvas tents have been a popular choice for camping and outdoor enthusiasts for many years, and for good reason. They offer a comfortable and spacious living area while also providing protection from the elements in all four seasons. As winter camping grows in popularity, many people are looking to add a stove to their canvas tent for warmth and comfort. While this is a great idea, there are some important safety precautions that need to be taken to ensure a safe and enjoyable camping experience.

Elk Mountain Tents is a company that specializes in providing high-quality canvas tents and accessories for outdoor enthusiasts. Their tents come with more standard features at a lower cost and use stronger materials than traditional cotton canvas. That all said, they understand the importance of safety when it comes to using a canvas tent stove and have helped me compile a list of five important safety tips to keep in mind when using one.

Maintain Ventilation

One of the most important safety considerations when using a canvas tent with wood stove is ensuring proper ventilation. Stoves, yes even wood-burning ones, produce carbon monoxide and other harmful gasses that need to be vented outside the tent. Failure to properly vent the stove can lead to carbon monoxide poisoning which can be fatal.

The remedy is NOT to just open the door and windows. While this may help with the carbon monoxide poisoning you’ll still be filling your tent with carninogenic smoke.

Instead, make sure your tent has a stove jack installed. Basically, these are fireproof patches designed to allow you to put a stove pipe through the roof. These can usually be purchased for around $30 if you want to install them yourself or they can be added to a tent for an upcharge of around $100. These are included free of charge in all models of Elk Mountain Tents, including the Yukon Bell Tent.

Watch It

Would you make a big fire outside and then leave it for hours unattended while you go hunting? Of course not! The same is true for a fire that’s quite literally inside your tent. Accidents happen. Don’t let the fact that the fire is behind some metal fool you into thinking there is no fire there.

Keep Distance

All tent materials can burn. Even fire-treated materials will burn (although it won’t spread beyond the flame). So, whether you are thinking of your personal safety or merely trying to make your tent last as long as possible, you want to make sure you have enough distance between the stove and wall. We recommend 3ft from the wall unless you are using a stove shield. A stove shield is a fireproof mat that can be placed either on the walls or the floors to block heat from damaging the tent.

Use the Right Fuel

No, I’m not talking about throwing fireworks in there. I’m talking about using dry, seasoned wood for fuel. Wet wood can create excess smoke and buildup inside the stove pipe, not to mention cause popping from pockets of moisture inside the wood. The popping can shoot sparks whenever you open the hatch.

Also, avoid using accelerants such as gasoline or lighter fluid to start the fire. These things are more dangerous than helpful. Just keep it natural and start with small enough kindling.

Keep the Area Around the Stove Clear

Just like with the tent walls, when using a canvas tent stove, it is important to keep the area around the stove clear of any flammable materials. This includes bedding, clothing, and any other items that could potentially catch fire. Create a clear zone around the stove that is at least three feet in all directions (the same distance recommended for distance from the wall). While having heat shields can help reduce the square footage requirement, this is one of the reasons that a lot of people opt for one of the larger sizes, like the 13×20, so they don’t have to worry about giving the stove the proper amount of cleared space.

canvas tents with wood stove

Use a Carbon Monoxide Detector

As mentioned earlier, carbon monoxide is a byproduct of burning wood in a stove. This gas is odorless and colorless, making it difficult to detect without proper equipment. With proper stove pipe ventilation this shouldn’t be a problem, but you can pick up a carbon monoxide detector for around $10 and they don’t take up much space.

Follow Manufacturer’s Instructions

Finally, it is important to follow the stove manufacturer’s instructions. Each stove is designed differently and may have specific safety considerations that need to be taken into account. For example, some stoves use different materials or have different sizes and may run hotter or cooler. Read the manual to know whether you need 2.5ft or 3.5ft or if it a certain kind of fuel is off limits.

FAQs

Q: What is the best type of canvas tent stove?

A: It depends on your budget mostly. Most wood stoves can heat most tent sizes just fine, so you just want to go for something sturdy that will last (as opposed to trying to find the right size, for example). Elk Mountain Tents only offers one wood stove model. It works great in all the tents.

Q: Can I use a canvas tent stove in a regular tent?

A: No, definitely not, even if you try to install a stove jack. Canvas tents are more durable and resistant to heat and sparks than regular tents. Regular tents are typically made of nylon that can melt or catch fire if they come into contact with a hot stove. This is one of the main advantages of a quality wall tent. You can have a warm little home away from home in the middle of the winter.

Q: How often should I clean my canvas tent stove?

A: If you want it to last forever, it is important to clean your canvas tent stove regularly to prevent the builup. Most manuals will say after each use but the average wood stove camper probably cleans it once or twice a year.

Conclusion

Using a canvas tent stove can be a great way to stay warm and comfortable while camping in colder weather. However, it is important to take safety precautions to prevent the risk of carbon monoxide poisoning or fire. Enjoy your next trip without burning down the house!