2 Easy Fully Enclosed Tarp Shelter Setups
Introduction: Why Every Camper Should Master a Tarp Shelter
Whether you're just getting into wild camping or you're looking to expand your skills beyond tents, a tarp shelter is one of the most versatile pieces of kit you can carry.
In this guide, filmed out on the North Downs Way with my son Max, we explore two fully enclosed tarp setups. Both are easy to build, require minimal kit, and are ideal for staying out of the elements while enjoying the extra headroom and airflow that tarps can offer.
What You’ll Need
A DD 3.5 x 3.5 tarp or similar
Paracord or jungle toggles
Tent pegs
Trekking pole or sturdy stick
Optional: groundsheet, beanie, jungle rope
Tarp Shelter #1 – The Ground Palace
Step 1: Layout and Pegging
Lay your tarp out face down. Begin by pegging the back corner near your main tree. Then peg the opposite corner and the halfway point along the back edge.
Step 2: Shape the Structure
Bring the middle edge forward and tie it off using paracord or a jungle toggle. This starts to form the triangular sides of your enclosed space.
Step 3: Side Pegging and Guy Line
Peg the side walls, leaving a slight gap from the ground to avoid water pooling. Use a guy line and a bowline knot to pull one section downward — this creates much more internal space.
Step 4: Inside Tour
The finished result is surprisingly roomy. The shallow end becomes your foot zone, and the front offers enough height to prop open the door for a morning view of the woods.
Tarp Shelter #2 – The Tent Alternative
Step 1: Triangle Formation
With your tarp face down, peg the back two corners. Mark the front center and fold each front corner into that point to form a triangle.
Step 2: Prop It Up
Insert a trekking pole or tree branch to lift the center. If you don’t have a protective cap for the tarp, a beanie or glove will do the trick.
Step 3: Final Pegs and Tension
Tidy up the edges with a few more pegs and tension adjustments. Use the front flap as your door — just toss it over the top and peg it down underneath to prevent rain from getting in.
Bonus Tips
Always clear the ground before pitching.
A groundsheet or bivvy bag adds comfort.
Practice these setups at home first — you'll be quicker in the wild.
Key Takeaways
A DD tarp is affordable and ultra-versatile.
Both setups provide full protection from wind and rain.
Tarp shelters can be just as spacious — if not more — than small tents.
Guy lines, jungle toggles, and a bit of practice go a long way.
Final Thoughts: What’s Your Go-To Tarp Setup?
Tarp camping gives you options — from open lean-tos to fully enclosed mini shelters. These two are perfect starting points for solo wild campers or beginner bushcrafters.
Do you use a different tarp configuration? Got tips to make these even better?
Leave a comment below — I'd love to hear what works best for you when the weather turns and the woods call. Happy camping!
Mastering a simple tarp shelter setup can completely transform your wild camping experience. In this quick and practical guide, I demonstrate two easy tarp shelter configurations, including a fully enclosed tarp shelter, using the DD Tarp 3.5 x 3.5. Whether you're just starting out with wild camping or looking for reliable camping tips, these setups will help you stay protected from the elements without breaking the bank.
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