Our Story
People of the Sea
We're Don and Diana Reynolds, your hosts and proprietors of Canvas Cottages Glampsites. Curiously, our journey into the glamping world began not in a canvas shelter, but under canvas sails. From 2005 to 2022, we lived aboard a 33-foot sailboat and cruised off the Gulf Coast and down through the Florida Keys.
In 2015, we turned our bow toward the Caribbean seas. We spent 7 blissful years traveling up and down the island chain, from Bimini in the Bahamas to Trinidad’s Tobago. Sometimes, we anchored off deserted islands for weeks, sometimes, we craved the company of others. Our existence transformed into a fulfilling, conscientious life - freedom in its purest form!
By harnessing the renewable resources of sun and wind we were able to fall off the grid. This granted us autonomy, security, self-determination, and a profound connection with nature.
A Change of Venue
After nearly two decades and over 10,000 miles of roaming the seas, we yearned for new adventures on solid ground. We were passionate about sharing our journeys and experiences towards this kind of independence, and excited to promote living simpler and more self-sustainably to those who sought a deeper connection with nature and themselves. But how?
Our journeys through the Caribbean islands brought us together with many European and Scandinavian sailors who introduced us to the concept of 'Glamping.' While the term is relatively new, staying in a canvas shelter outfitted with the luxuries and comforts of home has been a part of many cultures for centuries. We envisioned off-grid glampsites as the perfect venue to connect people with nature and inspire eco-conscious living.
People of the Land
In 2021, we found a place to land in the rolling foothills of the Appalachian Mountains. Here, where the soil is rich, freshwater springs from the ground, and life flourishes, we purchased 13-acres of untouched hardwoods. Nestled among Ohio’s largest Amish community, we are surrounded by meticulously maintained generational farms and charming homesteads. This picturesque setting seemed the perfect canvas for us to paint our future.
We want to provide a meaningful and sustainable adventure for you while giving you some hands-on experience with living off-grid in an environmentally friendly habitat. Each site's theme also strives to transport you to a legendary place and time for that "Historically Modern Glamping Experience." Canvas Cottages™ is a space for you to engage in contemplative actions that connect you with yourself, with others, with nature, and with the great outdoors!