The Mess III is based on an old military tent model and sleeps up to 16 people on sleeping pads. The Mess gets its name from its popularity as a large tent for cooking, dining, and meetings. Mess tents are also known as chow tents.

A favorite for military outposts and scouting groups this wall tent has proven its versatility. Recently this tent is becoming increasingly popular glamping and Airbnb tent rentals. The big area on the inside and the large mesh windows create a spacious and luxurious atmosphere.

Windows and Vents

The Mess III is equipped with 6 very large mesh windows which can be neatly rolled up and stored with loop fasteners for ventilation and air flow. The wide doors on each end of the tent provide easy access and can be rolled up and fastened as well. Above both doors mesh windows provide ventilation even when the tent is closed up for privacy.

Sod Flap

Traditionally canvas tents did not include floors and instead relied on a sod flap to seal the tent against wind and critters. The sod flap is a 30cm (10 inches) PVC flap sewn onto the bottom of the side wall that lies inside the tent on the ground. For a more traditional approach a small trench can be dug around the perimeter of the tent and the sod flap can be covered with the dirt and rocks from the trench. The trench then can act as a gutter system, catching rain falling on and around the tent and mitigating the effect of standing water saturating the earth underneath the tent. When turned outward the sod flap can act as a snow flap.

Spring Loaded Poles

To make assembly quick and easy of the tent all poles are spring loaded. All are made with durable nickel plated steel 25mm (1”) in diameter. The spring loaded poles form a sturdy structure that withstands the harshest conditions.

Classic Canvas

The Classic Canvas (320 gr/m² or 9.5 oz/yd²) on the Mess III is the same balance of performance and breathability as our Sibley Ultimate, Deluxe, and Standard bell tents. Our proprietary treatment enhances the natural water resistance of canvas, and is excellent protection for moderate climates and casual use. Repairable and retreatable, a properly maintained Classic Canvas tent can last for years.

100% Cotton canvas provides a natural waterproofing and breathability. Cotton fibers swell when damp, the tight weave prevents rain from penetrating and the surface tension of moisture drops on the outside combined with the steep angle of the canopy allows water to bead and run off. Moisture held in the air on the inside is still able to escape directly through the fabric, keeping internal humidity low and mitigating condensation.

Check out our FAQ for more information than you could ever need to know about cotton canvas and proper tent maintenance.

Standard Pegs

The stakes and pegs are designed for easy insertion and removal from average earth, like grass or forest floor. The tent pegs for the guy lines are curved like a shovel to securely hold tension in the ground, and have a lip at the top to prevent the guy line from slipping off. The pegs for the floor are round to slip through the loops attached to the bottom of the side wall, have a hook shaped top and hold the side wall in place. All standard stakes and pegs measure 22cm (8.6 inches).

Durable Guy Lines and Tensioners

Our Mess III tents come with 3mm guy ropes for extra stability that will need to be tied on before your first pitch. Check out our assembly instructions in the Specifications tab to get a feel for the initial set up process. Plastic tensioners prevent edges from cutting into the guy lines and prolong the life of your tent.

Stove Compatibility

All CanvasCamp tents are easily adaptable for use with a wood burning tent stove. Proper stove placement is dependent on stove size, tent size, flu exit style, desired temperature, and the environment you intend to camp in. One size fits all, pre-installed stove jacks fail to provide customers with the level of customization necessary to achieve ideal stove placement and maximum utility. To ensure proper placement and ideal efficiency, CanvasCamp offers modular stove jacks (sold separately) that can be easily installed in any cotton canvas tent in just a few minutes. Stove jacks are available in a variety of shapes and sizes so you can choose the jack that fits your tent and stove perfectly.

Read our blog or contact us to learn more about the best stove and placement for your specific application.

Canvas tents are not for use with open fire pits. Fire safety is the responsibility of the user. We encourage you to educate yourself and practice vigilant fire safety. Read our FAQ and blogs to learn more about fire safety. Do not hesitate to contact us if you have any questions or concerns at any time. Always check local fire restrictions prior to starting a fire as rules and regulations may change frequently throughout the year. CanvasCamp cannot be held liable for any damage or injury to persons or property resulting from the use or misuse of fire or flammable materials in or around our tents.