How to Make Rain Shelters From Tarps

You can use a tarp as a rain shelter.

Recreational backpacking has been revolutionized by lightweight hiking gear that encourages bringing along only the bare necessities. Ultralight gear, such as aluminum frame packs, titanium mess kits and even tarps are used frequently on the trail. A tarp can serve as a large shelter and is generally lighter than a tent. There are several ways to make a shelter from a tarp. The most common is to tie it from a tree to the ground.

Things You'll Need

• 8-by-12-foot tarp
• Tent stakes, nails or sticks
• 8-foot cord or rope

Instructions

1. Find a tree with large upper branches that fan out and provide cover from falling rain. This will help to protect the tarp, and limit the amount of rainfall the tarp takes on.

2. Tie an 8-foot cord or rope from the tree to the ground. Drive a nail or tent stake into the tree at a height of 5 to 6 feet, or use an available branch at about the same height to tie the rope off.

3. Pull the cord taut and stake the other end to the ground with a tent stake or stick. Make sure the stake is at least 4 or 5 inches into the ground.

4. Drape the tarp over the cord, and stake one side down using sticks, rocks, or tent stakes. Pull the other side taut and stake it down securely.

Tips & Warnings

• If lightning is present in the area, place the tarp away from trees, which may attract lightning.

References

• Sgt. Rock's Hiking HQ: Moonbow Poncho/Tarp
• Equipped: Tarp-Shelters
• Bushwalking: FAQ--Tarp Shelters

Resources

• Read this Article in Spanish
• Go Fast and Light: Tent Tarp Shelter