Tarp Setup Basics

These illustrations show common hammock and ground tarp pitches. The best setup depends on your tarp design, available supports, weather, terrain, and personal preferences.

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Wooded campsite with stable open ground between healthy trees and clear overhead space.

  • Choose stable ground with good drainage. Avoid low spots where rainwater collects and check for overhead hazards.
  • For hammock setups, select healthy trees and use tree-friendly attachment straps.

Tree-supported hammock tarp beside a ground tarp supported by two trekking poles extending above the ridge, with ridge-end guylines staked outward.

  • For a hammock pitch, secure the tarp ridgeline between suitable trees and center the coverage over your hammock.
  • For a ground pitch, support the ridge ends with trekking poles or suitable anchors; stake the ridge-end guylines securely.

Close-up of a guyline attached to a designated tarp tie-out, adjusted with a tensioner and secured to a ground stake.

  • Connect guylines to the tarp’s designated perimeter tie-outs and secure them to appropriately positioned stakes or anchors.
  • Adjust each line until the panels are reasonably taut. Avoid unnecessary tension on the fabric or attachment points.

Ground tarp pitched higher and open in mild weather beside a lower pitch with edges closer to the ground in wind or rain.

  • Pitch higher and more openly for airflow and easier access in mild conditions.
  • For wind or rain, lower the edges and use available doors or additional tie-outs as your tarp permits.

Completed ground tarp pitch with both trekking poles extending above the ridge, ridge-end guylines and perimeter stakes.

  • Check coverage, secure stakes, clear drainage, and keep the fabric reasonably taut.
  • Recheck tension as conditions change. Different tarp designs and fabrics may need different adjustments.

Additional Guidance

Not every tarp supports the same pitches or attachment configurations. Follow the instructions and available tie-outs for your particular tarp.