Canvas wall tents have always captured my imagination. There’s something nostalgic about stepping into one—it’s like reconnecting with the roots of true outdoor adventure.
If you’re like me and want to level up your camping or overlanding game, a canvas wall tent like those offered by Roamin Home, a USA-based company that specializes in these kinds of tents, might just be the perfect upgrade. These tents aren’t just practical; they carry a sense of history while offering superior comfort and durability compared to modern synthetic tents.
That said, what I love most about canvas wall tents is their rugged construction and ability to stand up to the elements. Whether you’re facing rain, snow, or strong winds, the heavy-duty cotton or polyester canvas is designed to withstand it all. The fabric breathes better than synthetic materials, meaning less condensation inside the tent, which is a big plus when you’re spending multiple nights out in the wild. If you’ve ever struggled with a tent that felt more like a damp cave, you’ll appreciate this upgrade!
Canvas wall tents like the Roamin Home Nomad shown above offer space for four people plus room to spare.
Canvas wall tents are perfect for serious outdoor enthusiasts like hunters, overlanders, and campers who need more than just a place to sleep—they want a home base. These tents are spacious, allowing you to stand up, move around, and even set up a stove to stay warm during cold nights.
As a result, I’ve found that canvas tents give you a more comfortable and functional space, especially for longer trips where a little extra room makes all the difference. Simply put, canvas tents have a functionality factor that stands apart from many other tents out there.
If you’re thinking about glamping, canvas wall tents have you covered there, too. With their sturdy frames and roomy interiors, they make an ideal base for adding a touch of luxury to your outdoor experience. Whether you’re heading out for a hunting trip, setting up a long-term camp, or just looking for a high-quality shelter, canvas wall tents are a great option to explore.
In this guide, I’ll walk you through everything you need to know to get started with one of these timeless shelters. So, with that, let’s jump in and explore canvas wall tents!
Table of Contents
- Benefits of Roamin Home Canvas Wall Tents
- Structure and Setup of Canvas Wall Tents
- Common Uses of Roamin Home Canvas Wall Tents
- Why Choose Canvas Over Synthetic Tents?
- Tips for Maintaining a Canvas Wall Tent
- Invest in a Quality Roamin Home Canvas Wall Tent for Years of Service
Benefits of Roamin Home Canvas Wall Tents
Canvas wall tents like The Drifter from Roamin Home Tents shown above offer an all-weather solution for overlanding, hunting, and other outdoor pursuits.
Growing up in Upstate New York, I had a few family friends who owned canvas wall tents, and I’ll never forget the first time I helped set one up. I was blown away by how well these tents could handle the elements, especially during our brutal winters.
One winter, after a storm knocked a tree onto their garage, my friend’s family used their canvas tent, which was normally used for hunting trips, as a temporary workshop for the entire season. That tent stood strong through heavy snowfalls, including a storm that dropped 28 inches of snow. It provided a sturdy, comfortable workspace through the harshest conditions until they rebuilt their garage in the spring.
But its ability to stand up to the elements is just one component of why canvas wall tents are such a good investment. If you’re looking to upgrade from a traditional nylon tent, here are some key benefits that make canvas wall tents a game-changer…
Durability That Lasts for Years
The Drifter tent shown above is made from durable 10 oz. marine-treated Sunforger canvas and has reinforced corners and grommets for added longevity.
That canvas tent my neighbors had wasn’t just impressive in the short term—it proved its durability over the long haul. After it made it through that brutal winter, the tent continued to be their go-to shelter for at least four more years.
I remember hearing about the various hunting trips they took, setting it up time and time again. What really stood out was how well it held up. Other than a small oil stain from a mishap during one of their trips, there wasn’t a single issue with it. The canvas was still intact, the seams solid, and the structure as reliable as ever.
I eventually left for the military and lost touch with that friend, but I often wonder how much longer that tent lasted. Given how it shrugged off everything from heavy snow to rough handling, I wouldn’t be surprised if it’s still in use today! It was a real testament to the longevity of canvas wall tents—and how, with proper care, they can provide years of reliable service, standing up to the elements in ways that synthetic tents just can’t match.
That’s what makes canvas wall tents like those pictured above and below from Roamin Home such a smart investment for anyone who spends a lot of time outdoors. They’re not just built for one season; they’re built to last for years through countless adventures and all kinds of weather.
Breathability & Comfort
The Nomad canvas wall tent from Roamin Home features one front screened and zippered window and two back screened and zippered windows to help with ventilation.
One of the standout features of canvas tents, and something I immediately noticed spending time in my neighbor’s tent all those years ago, is how much more breathable they are compared to synthetic tents.
When you’re out in the wild, condensation inside your tent can be a major issue. If you have ever camped with me, you know how I feel about moisture in a tent (nails on a chalkboard!). But canvas allows moisture to escape, keeping the interior of the tent dry and more comfortable, especially in cold or humid conditions.
If you’ve ever woken up in a damp nylon tent, you’ll appreciate how canvas manages moisture. It doesn’t trap condensation like synthetic fabrics, making a big difference in your overall comfort during extended trips. This breathability also helps regulate temperature, so the tent stays cooler in the heat and warmer when it’s cold outside. It’s a win-win!
Versatility for Different Outdoor Activities
The Roamin Home Nomad canvas wall tent offers the capability of being used for hunting, fishing, camping, sleeping, cooking – you name it!
Canvas wall tents offer a level of versatility that’s hard to match with most other tents, and I’ve seen this firsthand. As I noted earlier, the same tent that my friend’s family used as a temporary winter workshop went on to serve them on countless hunting trips for years afterward. Its ability to adapt to different environments was key—whether it was standing strong through 28 inches of snow during that harsh New York winter or providing a spacious and reliable basecamp for their outdoor adventures, the tent could handle it all.
What makes canvas wall tents so adaptable is their spaciousness and ability to accommodate various setups. My friend’s family was able to heat their tent with a wood stove during the coldest months, keeping it warm and functional as a workspace.
In the same way, you can customize these tents for different scenarios, adding insulation for colder weather, or setting up a deck if you plan on leaving it pitched for longer stays. Whether you’re looking for something practical for weeks of backcountry hunting or setting up a more luxurious glamping site, canvas tents can be easily tailored to meet your needs.
The Drifter canvas wall tent from Roamin Home is perfect for solo overlanding trips or excursions with your significant other or a good buddy.
What’s more, canvas wall tents can accommodate varying numbers of people. The Drifter canvas wall tent from Roamin Home, for example, is an ideal setup for two people. As you can see above, this tent offers ample space for two bunks, a wood stove for winter camping, and room left to spare to walk around and for gear storage.
But, let’s say you have a larger group to accommodate. No problem! The Nomad canvas wall tent from Roamin Home shown below offers room for four people. Again, you’ll find space to add a stove for cold-weather camping and room to spare for additional gear and walking space.
Your outdoor adventures aren’t limited to warm weather with a canvas wall tent. The Nomad tent shown above offers ample space for a wood stove to heat the tent and for cooking.
For those who spend extended periods in the wilderness, having a spacious, reliable shelter is crucial. Canvas wall tents provide room to move around, store gear, and set up a heating source, making them ideal for both rugged adventures and more comfortable, long-term stays. After witnessing how long my friend’s tent lasted through multiple tough seasons, it’s clear these tents are well worth the investment for anyone looking for a durable, versatile shelter.
Structure and Setup
The Roamin Home Drifter canvas wall tent offers tons of space, yet it can easily be set up by one person.
When it comes to canvas wall tents, there are a few framing options to consider, and each has its own advantages depending on the type of setup you’re aiming for. Internal frames are the most common, consisting of metal poles that provide the strength and stability needed to support the heavier canvas. This is what my friend’s family used for their canvas tent during that tough New York winter, and it proved reliable even under the weight of heavy snow. These frames allow for flexibility, like adding a wood stove or other custom features inside the tent.
However, external frames also exist, though they are less common. They often involve using poles or ropes outside the tent to create structure, giving the interior more space without obstructions. While these are rare, they can offer a traditional, minimalist setup, especially for those who prefer a more rustic approach.
Hybrid frame systems combine the best of both worlds. For example, Roamin Home’s canvas tents utilize a smart hybrid system where the main structural support comes from an internal frame, but poles at the doors and exterior are positioned outside the tent. This clever design keeps the inside of the tent open and clean, providing more flexibility for organizing your gear without interior poles getting in the way.
Setting up a canvas wall tent might seem daunting at first, but once you get the hang of it, it’s surprisingly intuitive. I remember the first time my friend and I set up their tent as teenagers. We were a little overwhelmed by its size, but with a methodical approach—laying out the tent, connecting the poles, and securing the stakes—it all came together pretty smoothly. These tents are designed for durability, so they can withstand high winds and rough conditions once properly set up. With a little practice, even larger tents can be assembled in under an hour.
The four-person Nomad canvas wall tent from Roamin Home is a great example of an internal frame tent. The pole system shown above is strong and durable and easy to set up as well.
The versatility of canvas wall tents is another aspect that stands out. For example, in that same winter tent, my friend’s family installed a wood stove to keep the space warm. You can also enhance your setup with a tent fly to protect the canvas from rain or sparks from the stove, or build a platform or deck under the tent to improve insulation and protect it from ground moisture during longer stays.
Companies like Roamin Home offer many different canvas wall tent accessories that make tent camping all the more functional. For example, you can add hooks for the center metal pole for hanging cookware. You can also add a stove mat to go underneath the wood stove to protect against embers damaging the tent’s floor. From hanging pockets for your gear to a magnetic screen door to various points in between, you can customize your canvas wall tent to level up the comfort.
And of course, if you’re ever stuck figuring out the setup, today’s “YouTube University” is always just a click away. Back when I first started, if instructions weren’t clear, you just had to figure it out yourself—which usually meant spending the whole day wrestling with poles and canvas!
Common Uses of Roamin Home Canvas Wall Tents
Versatility is the name of the game with canvas wall tents like The Drifter from Roamin Home Tents.
One of the most compelling aspects of canvas wall tents is their versatility. Over the years, I’ve come across people using these tents in various settings—from hunting in Montana to luxury glamping setups here in Southern California.
Fast forward to today, I even know clients from my company, PhotographyTalk, who use these tents in African safari photography workshops for their clients. Whether it’s a rugged hunting trip or an upscale camping experience, canvas wall tents have proven to be adaptable to a wide range of outdoor lifestyles.
Camping
The Drifter two-person tent from Roamin Home packs down into two 35-pound bags for easy transport.
For overlanders and seasoned campers, canvas wall tents offer a significant upgrade from standard nylon options. As I discussed earlier, these tents provide more space, better insulation, and superior weather resistance, making them ideal for multi-day camping trips.
I’ve found that the spacious interiors allow for comfort even in colder months, as you can set up a wood stove inside for heat. It’s common to see these tents used in places like Joshua Tree, where they create a cozy, home-like environment in the middle of the desert, combining rustic camping with a touch of luxury. Heck I have even seen people renting these out on plots of land on Airbnb!
If you prefer a little more comfort while camping, canvas wall tents strike the perfect balance between the ruggedness of traditional camping and the convenience of modern glamping. And since even large tents like those pictured throughout this article from Roamin Home pack down into small, easy-to-manage packages, you can enjoy a spacious tent without it taking up your entire vehicle.
Hunting in a Roamin Home Tent
The Nomad canvas wall tent from Roamin Home is a perfect hunting tent.
Canvas wall tents have long been a favorite among hunters. You can set up one of these tents in the wilderness, use it as your base camp, and spend the day on the hunt, knowing you have a big, warm tent to return to.
The durability and weather resistance of canvas makes these tents reliable even in the harshest conditions, too. For hunters who are out in the wilderness for extended periods, the ability to set up a wood stove for warmth and drying gear is essential. I know many people who use their canvas wall tents as semi-permanent hunting cabins that provide warmth and comfort throughout the season, no matter the weather.
When you’re deep in the backcountry, focused on the hunt, the last thing you want to worry about is your shelter. Canvas wall tents offer the peace of mind you need in such rugged environments.
Glamping
The Roamin Home Nomad is a perfect glamping tent for up to four people.
While canvas wall tents are utilitarian by nature, they’re also well-suited for luxury setups…
Glamping has taken off in every corner of the world, where the spacious interiors of canvas tents are perfect for creating a stylish, comfortable retreat. With the right furnishings—like raised beds, wooden floors, and soft lighting—these tents can be transformed into luxury “cabins” in all sorts of environments. Whether for rustic camping or high-end glamping, canvas wall tents adapt to their environment, making them a go-to choice for a variety of outdoor experiences.
Why Choose Canvas Over Synthetic Tents?
If you enjoy cold-weather camping, a canvas wall tent like the Nomad from Roamin Home is an ideal option.
When you’re considering upgrading your outdoor gear, one big question is whether to choose a canvas tent or a synthetic one. Both have their place, but after seeing how well canvas wall tents perform across a variety of environments, its obvious they offer the better long-term value. Here’s why canvas might be the better choice for your next adventure…
Superior Weather Resistance of a Roamin Home Tent
One of the first things that stands out with canvas tents is how well they handle rough weather. Canvas is naturally thicker and more durable than synthetic materials, making it resistant to strong winds, heavy rain, and even snow. Synthetic tents, while lighter and easier to pack, tend to struggle in these conditions, often leaving you exposed to leaks and drafts.
Another advantage is the breathability of canvas. As I’ve already discussed, synthetic tents often trap moisture, causing condensation inside. Canvas, however, allows for better air circulation, which means you’ll stay drier and more comfortable during longer trips. For unpredictable or harsh weather, canvas wall tents are simply the more reliable option.
Eco-Friendliness
The Roamin Home Drifter shown above is made of sustainable, durable Sunforger canvas that will last for years and years with proper care and maintenance.
If sustainability is a factor in your decision, canvas wins out. Most canvas tents are made from natural cotton fibers, which are biodegradable and have a lower environmental impact compared to synthetic tents, which are typically made from petroleum-based products like nylon and polyester. Not only do synthetic tents contribute to the growing issue of plastic waste, but they also tend to break down faster over time.
Choosing a canvas tent means you’re opting for a product that aligns with a more sustainable lifestyle. With the durability of canvas, you’re also reducing the need to replace your gear frequently, which lessens the overall environmental footprint.
Long-Term Investment
While canvas tents come with a higher upfront cost, they’re built to last. In contrast, synthetic tents tend to wear out faster due to exposure to UV rays and the wear and tear of frequent setup and takedown.
In the long run, investing in a quality canvas tent saves you money because you won’t need to replace it nearly as often. With proper maintenance, such as waterproofing and regular cleaning, a canvas wall tent can last for decades. If you plan to spend significant time outdoors, it’s worth investing in a tent that will grow with you and stand up to the test of time.
Tips for Maintaining a Canvas Wall Tent
Cleaning and maintaining your canvas tent ensures its longevity and years of useful service.
One of the reasons I love canvas wall tents is their durability, but like any quality gear, they require proper care to make sure they last for years. Below are some key maintenance tips I’ve picked up along the way to help you keep your canvas wall tent in top shape.
Cleaning and Waterproofing
Keeping your canvas wall tent clean is essential for its longevity. After each trip, make sure to brush off any dirt or debris and, if necessary, hose off with water. It’s important not to use harsh detergents, as they can strip away the waterproofing treatment. For larger cleanups, a hose and soft brush should do the trick, but avoid soaking the tent.
To maintain the tent’s waterproofing, apply a waterproofing treatment every couple of years, especially if you’ve been through heavy rain or snow. Products like silicone-based sprays or canvas-specific treatments work best to keep the fabric water-resistant while allowing it to breathe. This step helps ensure that the canvas doesn’t absorb water, which could lead to mildew or rot over time. A great product for this is Nikwax Tent and Gear SolarWash.
Drying and Storage of a Roamin Home Tent
When you return from a wet outdoor excursion, give your canvas wall tent time to dry out to prevent mold.
One of the most important lessons I learned early on is to never pack away a wet tent. Canvas, unlike synthetic fabrics, can develop mold and mildew if stored damp, which not only damages the tent but also creates unpleasant odors.
After each trip, make sure to set up the tent at home or hang it in a well-ventilated area to let it dry completely. This is especially crucial if you are camping in wet or humid conditions. I know people who have ruined their tents because of black mold. Make sure you completely dry out your tent before you store it.
Speaking of which, for storage, keep your tent in a breathable bag or container away from direct sunlight and moisture. Synthetic tents store more compactly, but canvas needs room to breathe, so avoid sealing it in a plastic bag for extended periods.
Repairing and Patching
Even with the best care, accidents happen. Whether it’s a tear from a sharp branch or a worn-out seam, repairs are part of owning a canvas tent. Simple patch kits or canvas repair tape work well for small tears. For larger rips, using a needle and heavy-duty thread to sew a patch over the damaged area is a solid solution.
Also keep an eye on high-stress areas like seams and zippers, where wear tends to happen faster. Regular inspections and quick fixes will prevent these from becoming bigger issues down the road.
Invest in a Quality Roamin Home Canvas Wall Tent for Years of Service
A canvas wall tent like the Roamin Home Nomad shown here is an investment, but it’s an investment in a quality product that pays dividends.
Choosing a canvas wall tent is a smart investment if you want a shelter that can withstand harsh conditions, provide comfort, and last for years. Whether you’re an experienced camper looking to upgrade, a hunter needing a reliable basecamp, or someone who enjoys the comforts of glamping, a canvas wall tent offers versatility and durability that synthetic tents often can’t match.
The initial cost may be higher, but when you factor in the long lifespan, superior weather resistance, and eco-friendliness of canvas wall tents like the examples I’ve used here from Roamin Home, it becomes clear why canvas is worth considering. With proper maintenance—like regular cleaning, drying, and minor repairs—you’ll get years of dependable use out of your tent.
Ultimately, canvas wall tents provide more than just shelter; they offer a home away from home in the wild, with plenty of space and the ability to customize your setup for any adventure. Whether you’re camping, hunting, or glamping, a well-maintained canvas wall tent can be your trusted companion for many years of outdoor exploration!
Friendly disclaimer: Our articles may contain affiliate links that support us without costing you more, and sometimes we spice things up with sponsored content—but only for products we truly stand behind!
Learn More:
Images for this article were provided by Roamin Home Tents.