How to Make Primitive Shelters

In a forest survival situation, shelter is second in importance only to water. From bug bites to hypothermia, many conditions that can afflict you will be avoided with proper primitive shelter. In an ideal situation, you won't need to use the environment to create shelter, but it's vital to anyone spending time in the wilderness to know how to create shelter when manmade items are not available.

Instructions

    • 1

      Determine the best location for your shelter to be built. Avoid any areas close to flowing bodies of water as they could potentially flood. A clear and dry area that has a higher elevation is ideal for setting up your shelter. Always be aware of the potential dangers of your surroundings.

    • 2

      Locate an anchor item such as a large tree or a boulder that you can set your shelter up against. This item should be sturdy and in an area that is safe for you to stay overnight.

    • 3

      Search the area for a large sturdy branch or small tree. This will serve as your ridgepole and will be the structure that holds your shelter together.

    • 4

      Place your ridgepole diagonally against the anchor tree or boulder. At its highest point, you will want the ridgepole to be around the height of your hips. At the lowest point, the ridgepole will touch the ground. Be sure that the ridgepole is firmly in place. If possible, wedge the ridgepole in the tree or boulder to avoid movement in the night.

    • 5

      Gather sturdy tree branches at least the diameter of a nickel to serve as the skeleton of your shelter. You will need a large amount of these to form the skeleton, so you may have to search an area further than the immediate location of the shelter.

    • 6

      Place the branches on either side of the ridgepole to create a tent like structure. The more branches you have against your ridgepole, the sturdier your shelter will become.

    • 7

      Gather large amounts of dry debris for the forest floor. If dry materials are unavailable, find the driest materials you can. This debris will insulate your shelter from the outside elements, so it's very important that you gather enough to cover your entire shelter.

    • 8

      Cover the shelter with the gathered debris. The thicker the debris, the more insulated you will be in your shelter. Continue to apply the debris until you can no longer keep the debris on without it falling off. Your shelter is now ready for use. Building a fire nearby is a good idea as it will keep predators away and keep you warm.