Setting up tarp shelters
Backpackers and backcountry canoeists have some of the coolest gear. Take, for instance, the compact and lightweight tarps they carry. They’re ideal for making quick shelters to protect you from the rain, sun, or wind. They are typically made of silicone-treated, rip-stop nylon, weigh less than 2.5 pounds (about 1kg), and fit in the side pocket of a day pack, while providing you with enough material to shelter two people. That, and the fact that they could make an unexpected night in the woods a lot more comfortable, is reason enough for hunters and anglers to consider carrying one.
What to pack for tarp shelters
• A tarp. The one in these photos is a 2 x 3-metre backpacking tarp that weighs just 500 grams
• 50 to 60 feet of paracord. That’s enough to make a ridgeline, guy lines, and two Prusik knots for tightening the tarp. I used 5/32 inch diametre cord
• Tent pegs, store-bought or carved, on site. Without them, you can tie to rocks, logs etc.
• A knife
• A lighter to singe the ends of cut paracord to prevent fraying
What to know about tarp knots
You can use any knot but these three are particularly suited for the job:
Bowline:
This knot holds one end of the ridge line. It’s non-slip and is easily untied.
Trucker’s hitch:
Once your bowline is tied, use this knot on the other end of your ridgeline. Also use it to tie grommets to trees and rocks.
Prusik knot:
Adjustable tensioner
The A-frame tarp
The A-frame resembles a peaked roof and requires a ridgeline, which the centre line of the tarp is draped over. Then use two Prusik knots, tent pegs, and guy lines at each corner of the tarp to make it tight. It can be set high or low between two trees and will shed rain and create shade without obstructing the view.
The windshed tarp
The windshed is essentially an A-frame on its side. The upwind side edge is pegged close to the ground to create a wind-blocking wall.
The other half is draped over the ridgeline and tied taut to trees so it forms a roof perpendicular to the ground. It’s what you want when wind is making life difficult.
The plough
A good choice for those sleeping in a bivy bag beneath their tarp. It sheds water and deflects wind. The tarp is draped over the ridge-line in diamond fashion. That ridge-line is high on the entry side and angled down to a tent peg or base of a tree. Peg the low corner, then use a Prusik knot on the high end to pull the tarp taut. Peg all the grommet holes along the edges that touch the ground.
Keep a tight ridge
To keep the tarp tight over the ridgeline, use a Prusik knot. Thread the bight end of the Prusik knot through the nearest tarp grommet at the ridgeline. Place a stick through the bight to create a toggle to lock it in place. Then adjust each Prusik knot away from the tarp until it is taut. The knot will not move once released.
Originally published in the July 2023 issue of Ontario OUT of DOORS