Best Canvas Tents for Camping in 2023: Top 10 Reviewed

When you think of tents, it’s easy for your mind to wander to cramped spaces, leaky walls, and sleepless nights. However, by investing in a canvas tent, you’ll find yourself sleeping in luxury without a worry in the world. Canvas tents have come a long way in the past few years and now come with incredible features, spacious rooms, and enough durability to last for years. Whether you’re looking for a great backyard tent, an incredible glamping experience, or a lovely place for you and your family to stay, a canvas tent is your answer. Check out below our Top 10 Canvas Tents for Camping in 2021 and start camping in style.

 

10 Best Canvas Tent Reviews

1. WHITEDUCK Regatta Canvas Bell Tent

[amazon box =”B07MZPS6JS” title=”WHITEDUCK Regatta Canvas Bell Tent”]

Packed full of features and heavy-duty enough for long-term camping, glamping, or setting up in your backyard, the WHITEDUCK Regatta Canvas Bell Tent tops this chart for several reasons.

I’ve always liked the look of yurt or bell-style tents, and the WHITEDUCK is no exception. While yurts can be hard to set up, I found the Regatta was simple enough to set up with one person, yet sturdy enough I was never afraid of it blowing over or getting damaged in severe weather.

The manufacturer claims the tent is waterproof, UV resistant, and fire retardant. While I did not test the last one, I can say without a doubt the WHITEDUCK Regatta held up to heavy rain without a drop getting inside. Plus, the layered windows and doors were great for keeping the inside cool in high heat while also ensuring no nasty mosquitoes or bugs found their way inside.

The price tag sits slightly higher than competitors, however as the tent comes with a tool kit that includes everything from extra pegs and pins to a rubber mallet, I’ve never had to pay extra for parts or replacements.

Pros:

• Two large pockets with dividers on the sides of the tent make for easy gear storage
• The tall middle pole makes for a spacious and easy to stand in the tent
• High-quality sewing and joinery ensure the tent is fully waterproof
• A stylish design makes it ideal for backyards or long-term camping, without worrying about it being an eyesore
• A built-in stove jack makes it easy to safely cook inside or keep warm during the chillier months

Cons:

• There are not many hooks or hanging points around the tent, which made it hard to light the tent evenly
• With one tall pole in the middle of the tent, you cannot stand comfortably near the edge of the tent

 

2. Kodiak Canvas Flex-Bow Canvas Tent Deluxe, size 10X14

[amazon box =”B08CHQ5MM7″ title=”Kodiak Canvas Tent Deluxe”]

With front and back doors and two windows, the Kodiak Canvas Flex-Bow Canvas Tent Deluxe, size 10X14, is spacious, modern, and great for long-term summer camping.

What struck me most about this tent was how comfortable it was. The flex-bow frame with a 6’6” ceiling provided plenty of standing room, and the windows with no-see-um mesh allowed a nice flow of air. Plus, an awning over the front door kept the entrance shaded and provided that extra bit of shelter on rainy days. I also appreciated the gear loft, which kept clothes tucked up nicely off the floor. The gear loft pockets did sag slightly, which could be an issue for taller adults.

As I already knew that Kodiak had a good reputation for long-lasting canvas tents, I wasn’t surprised at the high-quality Hydra-Shield canvas used for the walls and ceiling that completely kept any moisture out, even in heavy rain. I’d be happy to use this tent in spring, summer, and fall. However, I would be nervous about setting it up during high winds or when I knew a storm was on its way.

Overall, the quality and price point were spot on, and if you’re looking for a tent you can count on for a few nights to a couple of weeks in a row, the Kodiak Canvas Flex-Bow Canvas Tent Deluxe is a great choice.

Pros:

• Set up and take down is easy and can be done with one person
• Good ventilation makes it an ideal summer tent
• Tall ceilings and a flex-bow frame provided a spacious inside, and you didn’t lose space in the corner or around the perimeter.
• Customizable pockets within the gear loft make for easy storage

Cons:

• As the fabric holds a bit of moisture, you’ll want to make sure the tent is completely dry before storing away.

 

3. Dream House Luxury Outdoor Waterproof Four Season

[amazon box =”B07M8BNDJ3″ title=”Dream House Luxury Waterproof Canvas Tent”]

Taking only 15 minutes to set up, the Dream House Luxury Outdoor Waterproof Four Season is perfect for family trips, backyard gatherings, and all-season camping adventures.

What impressed me most about the Dream House canvas tent was the expected and unexpected features. Similar to competitors, the tent is built from high-quality cotton canvas, has a removable PVC floor, and is fully waterproof and windproof. However, the smaller details took this tent a step above the rest. Extra ties made it easy to add strong wind supports, the netted peak vents let air in without the bugs, and a perfectly placed ring made it easy to light up the entire inside with a hanging lantern.

Also unique to the Dream House canvas tent is the stove jack built into the side of the tent but covered by the overhang of the ceiling. This kept rainwater out while heating the tent evenly. A small stove heats the tent efficiently, and the thick canvas keeps the heat in. I even had to open the top vents as the tent heated up surprisingly fast.

It is worth noting that you can expect a small amount of water to get in the first time you use this tent in the rain. As I knew this was common in the world of canvas tents, as they need to shrink after the first rain, it didn’t bother me. However, it would be easy to be taken aback if you weren’t aware.

Pros:

• Easy to set up with one person and takes under 15 minutes
• Fully waterproof and windproof, and easy to keep warm in cold weather
• The PVC floor can be raised up to 3 inches to prevent groundwater from seeping in

Cons:

• Zippers need to be covered perfectly with the supplied cloth to prevent subtle leaks

 

4. DANCHEL OUTDOOR Cotton Canvas Bell Tent

[amazon box =”B07H8KJ62D” title=”Danchel Outdoor Canvas Bell Tent”]

You’ll be hard-pressed to find a tent with as much personality and value compared to the DANCHEL OUTDOOR Cotton Canvas Bell Tent.

I was nervous opening the tent for the first time, knowing I paid a significantly lower price compared to competitors. Yet the tent exceeded my expectations, and I’d happily recommend it to the occasional glamper or backyard camping enthusiast. The bell shape gives the tent a fairytale-like atmosphere, and I found it was perfect for a romantic evening forgetting the outside world exists.

The manufacturers rate the DANCHEL OUTDOOR for four seasons, and I’d again happily agree. The multiple stove jacks made it easy to warm the tent, and the raised sides and durable canvas material kept the heat in. I did need to add an extra layer of protection under the wood stove to prevent stray embers from burning the floor, but as this is typical in other canvas tents, it didn’t impact my opinion.

Another feature I didn’t even know I needed was the removable sides and floor. At first, I thought this was potential to cause leakage and moisture build-up. However, after setting up the tent for an mid-summer family gathering, it was a perfect place to relax in the shade without feeling cut off from other guests.

Pros:

• Great value for money
• The sides and floor can be removed, creating an entirely different setup for garden or children parties
• With two stove jacks, you’ll be toasty warm in the winter
• Raised sides keep in heat and prevent moisture build-up around the tent
• One large entry door makes moving gear in and out easily and creates a very inviting atmosphere

Cons:

• In heavy hot rain, the tent can get muggy
• If you’re using a wood stove, you’ll need to add an extra layer of protection to the tent floor

 

5. TETON Sports Mesa Canvas Tent

[amazon box =”B08BKPN8NJ” title=”Teton Sports Mesa Canvas Tent”]

Easy to set up, take down and bring gear inside, the TETON Sports Mesa Canvas Tent is perfect for family vacations and backyard glamping.

It’s impossible not to notice the oversized front and backdoors, which allow both a wonderful breeze to make its way through the tent and makes moving sleeping cots and mattresses in and out extremely easy. I was also thoroughly impressed with how simple the setup is. While typically I want a couple of helping hands nearby, it was easy for me to push down the top bar, put the pins in, and attach the upright polls all on my own. If you’re traveling as a family, one parent can put the tent up while the other entertains the kids.

The floor itself is also great for families. Made from Super-Duty 19 oz interwoven polymer, it took plenty of foot traffic without showing wear and tear and is completely waterproof. Also, as the corners and seams are reinforced, I didn’t notice any moisture build-up or slow leakage, even after a full day of rain.

The only thing about this tent that could be an issue is the fact that it does not have a built-in stove jack. As I only used it in summer, this was not an issue as it still has easy access for power cords, but if you’re a winter camper, you’d likely need to install your own stove jack.

Pros

• Large windows and top vents keep the temperature inside comfortable
• The six storage organizers provide plenty of room to keep personal items off the ground
• The setup is quick and easy for one person
• Reinforced stitching and corners keep moisture out

Cons

• No stove jack: you’d need to install your own, which possibly removes your warranty

 

6. WHITEDUCK Alpha Canvas Wall Tent

[amazon box =”B08HQSB1J6″ title=”WHITEDUCK Alpha Wall Tent”]

For the ultimate glamping experience or long-term camping trip, the WHITEDUCK Alpha Canvas Wall Tent can easily become your home away from home.

With dimensions of 12ft by 14ft and a peak ceiling height of 8.5ft, there’s enough space to fit at least five people sleeping comfortably and ten people standing or sitting. Of course, setting up a tent this size is no task for one person. However, with a few helping hands, the frame came together quickly, and the canvas slid over the frame and roped into place easily. Plus, with a waterproof carry bag that lays flat and then wraps around the folded canvas, I didn’t need to worry about stuffing the expensive tent into a too-small bag.

For those looking for a spontaneous trip or only have use for the tent a few nights a year, the WHITECUKE Alpha may not be the tent for you. At first glance, I was shocked by the price tag, but after leaving this tent up for a good few weeks and seeing how durable and robust it is, you certainly get what you pay for. I’d be happy to leave the tent up for months at a time, or even as a semi-permanent structure.

Pros:

• Incredibly durable and can be used daily with minimal wear and tear
• High ceiling all the way around, rather than just in the middle
• A built-in stove jack makes it easy to warm the tent safely
• The wide door is perfect for all-weather gatherings
• The aluminium frame, rafter angle kit, and floating PVC floor are all included with the tent

Cons: 

• Requires two or three people to set up the tent, not great for spontaneous trips
• Weighs 172lbs, making it hard to store or transport compared to smaller tents

 

7.  Playdo 4-Season Waterproof Cotton Canvas Bell Tent

[amazon box =”B07BND9MW7″ title=”Playdo Waterproof Cotton Canvas Tent”]

One of the best-looking canvas bell tents I’ve laid my eyes on while being packed full of unique features is the Playdo 4-Season Waterproof Cotton Canvas Bell Tent. There’s no doubt you’ll be the envy of anyone passing by.

The yurt style design with the oversized A-frame door not only looks great, but it also makes moving gear in and out easy. I especially liked how the tent doors could be rolled to each side, creating a lovely indoor/outdoor space. On top of this, the tent’s walls could be rolled up, allowing even more of a breeze and open space.

Another unique feature I didn’t know I needed is the 5-inch stove jack at the top of the canvas. Typically, stove jacks are on the side of the tent; however, by moving it to the top, the tent heated more evenly, and I don’t have to worry about moisture build-up. Around the vent, there’s high-quality fireproof material to ensure the canvas doesn’t overheat or burn. However, the amount of material did seem small compared to the area of potential harm.

I was worried that the top vent could let in water, but even after a full day of heavy rain, the inside was perfectly dry, and the outside dried very fast compared to other canvas tents I’ve used in the rain.

Overall, it was hard to find anything I didn’t like about this canvas tent – even the price was on point.

Pros:

• Incredibly waterproof and even holds up to strong winds
• The A-frame door not only looks good but is very functional
• It’s easy to pack down the tent into the waterproof carry bag, which also holds all of the accessories needed
• Great value for money

Cons:

• Zipper can be a bit sticky

 

8. Kodiak Canvas Truck Bed Tent

[amazon box =”B0034VYQQ6″ title=”Kodiak Canvas Truck Bed Tent”]

For a completely different approach to the canvas tent, the Kodiak Canvas Truck Bed Tent gets you well off the ground and can go wherever your truck can.

First off, it’s important to note that the Kodiak Canvas Truck Bed Tent works best with a Nissan Titan, Toyota Tundra, Dodge Ram, GMC Sierra, or Chevy Silverado. If you don’t own one of these, you’ll want to measure the dimensions to ensure you won’t be left disappointed.

Next, you’ll want to give it a go setting up at home before hitting the road. The first time around, I found the instructions to be slightly confusing, and I needed a helping hand to get the canvas over the frame. However, from the second time on, the set-up was a breeze and took me less than 20 minutes on my own.

The biggest benefit for me was that I didn’t need a big, open space to pitch the tent. I parked my truck on hard rocky ground, and instead of trying to force stakes into the ground, I happily set up the tent using clamp-on rails that mount right to my truck bed. The structure of the tent itself is of great quality, and the covered entry and tailgate down design made getting in and out of the tent easy.

Pros:

• The large door and five windows allow for great ventilation, and the cab access windows are perfect for keeping extra gear or snacks just an arm’s reach away
• The tailgate down design and 5 feet ceiling allows for plenty of space inside the tent
• 100% cotton duck canvas is durable and long-lasting; you won’t have to worry about wear and tear

Cons:

• As there’s no floor to the tent, you’ll need to provide your own or have a good mattress to sleep on

 

9. UNISTRENGH 4 Season Large Waterproof Cotton Canvas Bell Tent

[amazon box =”B07CL1H1CB” title=”Unistrength Large Canvas Cotton Bell Tent”]

If you’re looking for a versatile and high-quality tent that you’ll enjoy for years to come, the UNISTRENGH 4 Season Large Waterproof Cotton Canvas Bell Tent is your answer.

The yurt style design with a middle pole allows for plenty of room inside the tent, and as there are options to purchase one of four sizes between 10 ft and 20 ft in diameter, you’ll be able to pick out the perfect size for your needs. I personally loved the design and size of the 16.4 ft tent, which allowed plenty of space for a couple of camp beds, a table, a stove, and still enough area to walk around comfortably. On the other hand, the 10 ft tent would be ideal for two people looking for a more intimate space.

Another feature that you won’t find in all canvas tents is a wide door with a screen cover. Usually, you have a door open or closed type of situation, but the screen covering allowed for great views and airflow without worrying about bugs getting inside. Along with this, the UNISTRENGTH also features a full zip around the bottom that can be rolled up, allowing for 360-degree views.

As I mainly used this tent during cooler months, I especially appreciated the high-quality stove jack with a red fiberglass fire-resistance cloth around. The tent warmed up fast and held its warmth well.

Pros:

• The heavy-duty PVC floor kept rain and groundwater out
• A rain cap placed on the middle pole keeps out unwanted moisture
• The screen covering for the door allowed great views while keeping unwanted bugs outside
• Holds in heat very well

Cons: 

• The storage bag wasn’t very big, and I struggled to get the canvas tent back in it

 

10. WHITEDUCK PROTA Deluxe Canvas Cabin Tent

[amazon box =”B08W9Z1T1Y” title=”WHITEDUCK Prota Canvas Cabin Tent”]

Ideal for all weather conditions, the WHITEDUCK PROTA Deluxe Canvas Cabin Tent is comfortable, budget-friendly, and high-quality.

From the moment I took the WHITEDUCK PROTA out of the bag, I knew I had an excellent canvas tent on hand. The 100% duck canvas feels thick and durable, the double-stitched seams are top-notch, and the reinforced corners reassured me I wouldn’t have to worry about wear and tear.

Setting the canvas up for the first time did take me some time, and I had to call in a friend to help with the last couple of stakes. The instructions could be clearer; however, after getting the hang of it, I’ve managed to set it up on my own in under 20 minutes.

Another feature I was highly impressed with is the reflective roof. As this feature was new to me, I wasn’t convinced I’d even notice the difference. However, the way it kept the heat out and blocked light was incredible. In the morning, I wasn’t woken up by the bright sun illuminating the tent. Plus, with four large windows and two doors, more than enough light can shine in during the day and allow plenty of airflow.

Pros:

• More affordable and same high-quality as similar competitor tents
• Has a window on every side which makes for great views and plenty of ventilation
• Reflective roof keeps the tent cool during the day and keeps light out in the morning
• 6’6” ceiling and wall height allows a lot of room to stand and move around
• Whether it’s crazy hot or cold outside, the tent stays at a pleasant temperature

Cons:

• No built-in stove jack meant I’d need to install one myself if I wanted to keep the tent warm in winter
• Setting up the first time was difficult; however, it did get much easier after the first go

 

Buying Guide for the Best Canvas Tents

Purchasing a canvas tent can be nerve-wracking. Firstly, they don’t come with a cheap price tag, and secondly, with a wide range of styles, sizes, and prices, it can feel overwhelming to decide which is the best fit for you. As many have the same basic features and look similar, it’s important to take a closer look at the finer details and what you’re hoping to use the tent for. The most significant differences between canvas tents come down to size, features, durability, and price. I’ve explained more below.

Size: Canvas tents come in a range of sizes, from 5 feet in diameter to 20 feet in diameter. While for some, bigger is always better, for others, a smaller intimate tent is preferred. When choosing what size tent you want, factors including how many individuals will be using the tent, what you’d all like to keep inside your tent, and how much space you have to set up your tent should be considered.

If you are keeping your tent up for long periods of time and using it for glamping purposes, a bigger tent with room for a nice bed, table, and other accessories will be preferred. On the other hand, if you’re using your tent more for the occasional camping trip, you might not have space or want to set up a large tent. On top of this, it’s worth keeping in mind that the larger the tent, the heavier it will be. If you are setting up the tent on your own, you might think twice about getting the largest tent on the market.

Features: Canvas tents come with a range of features. I’ve outlined some necessary and some optional ones below.

• Stove Jack – This is a fiberglass-lined fireproof hole for stovepipes. Some canvas tents come with them installed, and others you need to install yourself – which can void the warranty. If you’re camping in colder weather, you’ll want to ensure your canvas tent has a stove jack.
• Doors – Some canvas tents have multiple doors, and some have one main door. Having two doors will allow for more airflow and makes moving gear in and out much easier.
• Windows – As you’ll likely be using your tent in some incredible landscapes, you’ll want to make sure you can see outside. Most canvas tents come with no-see-um mesh, which keeps the bugs from getting in while still allowing you to see out. Some tents may only have a window as part of the door, whereas others will have windows on all sides, allowing for 360-degree views.
• Floor – A big difference you’ll find in high-quality tents versus their cheaper counterparts is the quality of the floor. If the tent sees a lot of foot action, PVC material will hold up much longer than a canvas floor. You’ll also want to check if the floors are raised slightly around the edge, as this helps keep any unwanted groundwater from seeping in.
• Other features – Sometimes, the simplest additions make the most significant impact on your enjoyment of your tent. Look for things like power cable holes, included hooks to hang lanterns from, and storage compartments placed in suitable locations to keep gear off the floor.

Durability: If you’re investing in an expensive canvas tent, you’re going to want to use it for years to come. Some things to note are how thick the canvas is, how sturdy the poles and stakes that come with your tent are, and if the stitching and corners are reinforced. You’ll also want to ensure the guy lines are a minimum of 1.4 inches thick and that the guy line sliders are not plastic. Spending extra money now on a tent with quality materials will certainly save you money in the long run.

What type of weather you’ll be using your tent in: Of course, you can’t predict the weather. However, knowing if you’re more likely to use your tent in hot, cold, rainy, or windy weather can steer your decision. If you’re camping in an area that sees strong winds, a bell tent is ideal as the minimal direct surface areas allow the wind to pass over. If you’re camping in hot weather, make sure the tent has plenty of ventilation. If you’re camping in cold weather, make sure there’s a good quality stove jack and that your tent can hold the weight of snow.

Price: Canvas tents can have a large price range, from a couple of hundred dollars to a couple of thousand dollars. If you’re using your canvas tent for backyard sleepovers or children’s parties, you likely don’t need a top-of-the-line tent packed with unique features. However, if your tent will become your home away from home, investing in a high-quality, spacious tent will bring you years of enjoyment.

 

FAQ’s 

What is a canvas tent?

Canvas tents are made from cotton and provide a sense of ‘home away from home.’ They are typically larger than your standard tent and are designed to be used for multiple nights in a row in the same location. They also tend to have more vertical walls and higher ceilings, providing plenty of space to move around inside.

What types of canvas tents are out there?

Canvas tents can come in a range of sizes and designs. Styles include dome tents, tunnel tents, cabin-style tents, bell-shaped tents, and tepee tents. Sizes range from 10 feet, which is suitable for two people, to 20 feet, which is good for families or a group of friends. You’ll also find canvas tents explicitly designed to fit inside a bed of a truck.

Why are canvas tents so expensive?

The cost of the material and construction of canvas tents are much higher than nylon tents. They’re also incredibly long-lasting and can be used for 20 to 30 years. The thick material provides protection in all four seasons, and fine-tuned features allow you to make your canvas tent a home away from home.

How to take care of canvas tents?

Canvas tents are durable and take well to everyday use; however, a few steps will ensure your tent lasts for years. These include making sure your tent is thoroughly dried if you’ll be packing it away for more than two days, re-waterproofing your tent every year or every other year depending on use, always setting up your tent correctly, and making sure the inside and outside of the tent are clean when packing away.

Are canvas tents waterproof?

Yes, even without waterproofing, canvas tents are waterproof. The thick cotton material absorbs water and swells, making it impossible for water to get through. If you’re using your canvas tent in a region that receives a considerable amount of rain, you’ll want to buy a canvas tent that has extra waterproofing features or spray it with a silicone or fluoropolymer-based waterproofing spray.

Are canvas tents good for winter camping?

While canvas tents can sag under heavy snow, they’re great for standard winter conditions. Simply place your stove under the stove jack, and your tent will warm up nicely and keep the heat in. As not all canvas tents come with stove jacks, this is something to keep in mind when choosing your canvas tent.

How long do canvas tents last?

Canvas tents can last between 20 and 30 years if cared for properly. This depends on how often you use the tent, how well you clean it after use, and how long the tent is left up. Harsh conditions like constant rain or prolonged sun exposure can also reduce the life of your canvas tent.

Do canvas tents need a rainfly?

A rainfly is not needed in most instances as the canvas itself is waterproof. However, if you’ll be leaving your tent set up for long periods, a rainfly will protect it from repeated pressures of UV rays and rain.

 

Conclusion

Enjoying the outdoors while still having a warm, dry, and comfortable place to come back to has never been easier. By investing in the best canvas tent, you’ll have years of enjoyment to look forward to and while there’s no one size fits all, by deciding when and how you’ll be using your canvas tent the most, you’ll be able to choose the best size, design, and price tag to suit you. The outdoors are calling, so hopefully, this guide helps to point you in the right direction, and you’ll have many memorable trips ahead!