How to Stake Tent Corners

Many modern tents are "self-standing," meaning they do not require stakes, but still benefit greatly from them. Staking a tent provides extra protection from wind, excess water and snow buildup. Staking out a tent is one of the easier tasks for tent setups, yet still requires an eye for detail and a modicum of diligence. Pay attention to terrain, the floor (also called the footprint) of the tent and the prevailing wind direction when staking out your tent.

Things You'll Need

  • Pounding tool
  • Rag or cloth-towel
  • Shovel (optional)
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Instructions

    • 1

      Determine the prevailing wind direction at your campsite. Test the wind holding a bandana or lightweight cloth in the air and seeing the direction it billows. Position the tent door away from the prevailing wind.

    • 2

      Check the floor or footprint of the tent. Check for wrinkles or rolls in the floor. If any are present, smooth them out using your hands and by pulling slightly on the poles to shift the fabric.

    • 3

      Clear the corners of the tent area of any large rocks, pebbles, stones and fallen tree limbs. Insert one stake into the stake sleeve at each corner of the tent. Hand-push the stake down as far as possible, keeping it at a 45-degree angle away from the tent walls.

    • 4

      Walk around the tent hand-pushing the corner tent stakes down at the 45-degree angle, pointing away from the tent. Once all four are in, go around and place a rag or cloth on the top of the stake and use the pounding tool to push the stake farther into the ground. A rock works as the pounding tool. Do not pound the stakes all the way down into the ground; the secret is to leave enough sticking up so you grip it and remove it easily when packing up.