Safely Using a Wood-Burning Stove in Your Canvas Tent: Tips and Precautions from Elk Mountain Tents
Elk Mountain Tents is a renowned company that specializes in providing high-quality canvas tents for camping, hunting, and outdoor activities. One of the most popular accessories that campers opt for is a wood-burning stove to keep warm during colder months. In this article, we will discuss how to safely use a wood-burning stove in your canvas tent.
Why use a wood-burning stove in your canvas tent?
A wood-burning stove is an excellent way to keep your canvas tent with stove warm during cold weather. It also helps to dry out damp clothing and gear, and can be used for cooking. Moreover, using a wood-burning stove is an eco-friendly option since it uses natural fuel instead of gas or propane.
However, it is important to note that using a wood-burning stove in a canvas tent comes with risks. If not used properly, it can lead to carbon monoxide poisoning, fires, or even death. Therefore, it is crucial to follow the proper safety procedures while using a wood-burning stove in your canvas tent.
What kind of wood-burning stove should you use?
When choosing a wood-burning stove for your canvas tent, it is important to select one that is specifically designed for this purpose. Elk Mountain Tents offers a range of wood-burning stoves that are suitable for canvas tents. These stoves are designed to be compact, easy to install, and safe to use.
One of the most popular models is the Cylinder Stove, which is made of heavy-duty steel and has a flat top for cooking. It also comes with a damper to control the airflow and a spark arrestor to prevent sparks from escaping the stove.
Another popular model is the Grizzly Stove, which is larger and more powerful than the Cylinder Stove. It also comes with a flat top for cooking and a damper to control the airflow. Additionally, it has a baffle plate that helps to distribute heat evenly.
Both of these stoves are designed to be used with a stovepipe that extends through the tent roof to vent the smoke outside.
How to install a wood-burning stove in your canvas tent
Before installing a wood-burning stove in your canvas tent, it is important to ensure that your tent is suitable for this purpose. Elk Mountain Tents’ canvas tents are made of fire-retardant material and have a stovepipe jack built into the roof to allow for the installation of a stovepipe.
To install a wood-burning stove, follow these steps:
- Choose a suitable location: Select a location in your tent that is away from flammable materials such as bedding, curtains, and clothing. The stove should be placed on a non-flammable surface such as a metal or stone base.
- Assemble the stove: Follow the instructions that come with the stove to assemble it. Elk Mountain Tents’ wood-burning stoves are designed to be easy to assemble and come with all the necessary hardware.
- Install the stovepipe: Attach the stovepipe to the stove and extend it through the stovepipe jack in the roof of your tent. Ensure that the pipe is securely attached to the stove and the roof.
- Place a heat shield: Place a heat shield behind the stove to protect the tent wall from heat damage. Elk Mountain Tents offers a range of heat shields that are designed to fit their wood-burning stoves.
- Test the stove: Before lighting the stove, ensure that all the connections are secure and that the stove is stable. Test the stove by lighting a small amount of wood and observing the smoke and flame.

FAQs
- Is it safe to use a wood-burning stove in a canvas tent?
Using a wood-burning stove in a canvas tent can be safe if you follow the proper safety procedures. Always ensure that the stove is installed correctly, placed in a safe location, and that there is proper ventilation to prevent carbon monoxide buildup.
- How can you prevent carbon monoxide poisoning while using a wood-burning stove in a canvas tent?
Carbon monoxide poisoning can occur when there is insufficient ventilation, causing the buildup of carbon monoxide gas. To prevent carbon monoxide poisoning, ensure that your tent has adequate ventilation. Keep a window or door slightly open to allow fresh air to circulate. Additionally, always use a carbon monoxide detector to monitor the levels of carbon monoxide in your tent.
- Can you cook on a wood-burning stove?
Yes, many wood-burning stoves are designed with a flat top that can be used for cooking. You can place a pan or pot on top of the stove to cook your meals.
- What kind of wood should you use in a wood-burning stove?
It is recommended to use dry, seasoned hardwoods such as oak, maple, or hickory. Avoid using softwoods such as pine or cedar as they can produce more creosote, which can cause chimney fires.
- How often should you clean your wood-burning stove?
It is important to regularly clean your wood-burning stove to prevent the buildup of creosote, which can cause chimney fires. Clean the stovepipe and chimney at least once a year or more frequently if you use your stove frequently.
conclusion
Using a wood-burning stove in your canvas tent can be a great way to keep warm and cook your meals during colder months. However, it is important to follow the proper safety procedures to prevent accidents and injuries. Choose a suitable wood-burning stove, install it correctly, and ensure that there is proper ventilation. By taking these precautions, you can safely enjoy the warmth and comfort of a wood-burning stove in your canvas tent.