How to Put Up a Camping Tarp

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Turning a tarp into a shelter is relatively basic and easy to do. You need only a few items to complete the task. Tarps are made out of thicker material and usually have grommets. Erecting one is simple and makes for sturdy shelter. Tarps come in a variety of sizes, so finding the right one to take along on your camping trip will be easy. In only a few minutes you should have protection from the wind, rain and sun.

Instructions

Difficulty: Moderate

Tips on Building an A-Frame Tarp Shelter

Things You’ll Need:

Two trees Tarp Rope or cord Rocks
Two trees
Tarp
Rope or cord
Rocks

Step 1

Locate two trees relatively close together. You need enough space between them to accommodate the tarp. They also should not be too far apart that your rope won't reach between the two and be able to tie off.

Step 2

Spread your tarp out and then fold it in half lengthwise. Hold the shortest side up to the tree so you will know where to tie the rope. This will allow the tarp to be raised but still touch the ground, creating two secure sides.

Step 3

Tie your rope to one tree at the appropriate height and then stretch it across to the second tree. Pull your rope tightly around the tree at the same height as the other and tie your rope off. Make sure the rope is tight so the tarp will not bog down in the center.

Step 4

Place the tarp across the rope. Allow an equal amount of tarp to hang off each side of the rope.

Step 5

Gather some large rocks. Pull the tarp to the ground in the center and place a rock on it to hold it in place. Repeat this step on the other center side, moving then to all ends of the tarp. Pull the tarp taut as you place the rocks upon it. Your tarp shelter is now ready to camp in.

Tips & Warnings

Using rocks instead of stakes will keep your tarp hole free. If a taller A-frame tent is desired, raise the ropes on the trees and tie ropes through the end and center section grommets on the tarp and stake the ropes into the ground. This same design can be made using a poncho instead of a tarp.

Using rocks instead of stakes will keep your tarp hole free.

If a taller A-frame tent is desired, raise the ropes on the trees and tie ropes through the end and center section grommets on the tarp and stake the ropes into the ground.

This same design can be made using a poncho instead of a tarp.

Article Written By Joyce Starr

Joyce Starr is a professional writer from Florida and owns a landscaping company and garden center. She has published articles about camping in Florida, lawn care and gardening and writes for a local gardening newsletter. She shares her love and knowledge of the outdoors and nature through her writing.

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