We’re Mike and Dani Mortell, the founders of Nook Overland. Since 2020 we’ve been traveling around much of North America in our Scout camper–from coast to coast, all the way up to Prudhoe Bay, Alaska, and down through Mexico and Guatemala. (Check out themortells.com to learn more about our travels in a Scout.)
Before we had the Scout, we traveled in our truck with a topper and simple drawer system. And before that, we were both living our separate lives, traveling and living in different parts of the world (particularly in East Asia and West Africa), just waiting for the day when we would meet at a happy hour in Atlanta and begin our life traveling together.
Both from the tech world, we quit our jobs, sold our house, and have been traveling full-time since 2022. We didn’t want to come out of our temporary retirement for just any job, so we decided to start Nook Overland, a business that embraces the lifestyle we’re so passionate about.
Hello!
The Origins of Nook
Nook was born out of our love for overland travel. In recent years, we have spent over 850 nights in our Scout camper and it has truly become a place of refuge–it’s our cozy little nook that we can take anywhere. The purpose behind Nook Overland is to empower people like you to explore and travel more–to adventure outside and be cozy inside.
We’ve owned two different Scout models, the Olympic and the Kenai, and have loved these campers since day one. We recognized a need for a Scout dealer presence in the midwest, and so here we are.
Our goal is to help you find the travel nook that best suits your needs and to make some friends along the way.
Yellow Springs, Ohio
There’s a reason why we chose to open Nook Overland in Yellow Springs.
This charming village in southeast Ohio packs a vibrant punch despite its small size. Founded by progressive thinkers, it offers a quirky downtown brimming with shops, cafes, and music—all nestled amidst midwestern natural beauty.
Surrounded by lush forests and scenic bluffs, Yellow Springs is a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts. Hike or bike the miles of trails, explore the Glen Helen Nature Preserve, or take a dip in John Bryan State Park's swimming quarry.
Main Street is a treasure trove of independent shops, art galleries, and quirky cafes where you can sample locally roasted coffee, browse handcrafted goods, or catch a live music or comedy performance. Celebrity sightings are surprisingly common around here due to a certain edgy comedian who calls Yellow Springs ‘home.’
Whether you're seeking a weekend getaway, a cultural immersion, or simply an escape from the ordinary, Yellow Springs offers something for everyone. So, when you come see us at Nook, be sure to allow for time to explore Yellow Spring’s hidden gems, soak up its friendly atmosphere, and discover why this little village holds such a big place in the hearts of Ohioans and visitors alike.