How to Make a Four-Season Hammock Tent

Many people appreciate camping and spending time in nature. But exposure to the elements, pests and sleeping on hard ground spoils the enjoyment. A portable hammock tent alleviates those problems. The hammock tent provides shade in the summer, protection from rain in the spring and fall and shelter from snow in the winter. The hammock tent offers a comfortable resting place above the ground, bugs and small animals. The portable hammock tent is easily transported and is quickly set up.

Things You'll Need

  • Backpacking hammock
  • 2 carabiners
  • 2 tree hugger straps
  • Nylon cord
  • Waterproof tarp
  • Lightweight tent stakes
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Instructions

    • 1

      Choose a location for your hammock tent. Look for two sturdy trees with a distance of approximately 10 feet between them.

    • 2

      Open and spread your hammock on the ground.

    • 3

      Tie an extension rope through each end of the hammock. Where and how you tie the rope to the hammock will depend on the hammock style. Refer to the manufacturer's instructions. Some hammocks have metal rings, or carabiners, on each end that open and close.

    • 4

      Wrap a tree hugger strap around each tree, following the manufacturer's instructions. These straps ensure your hammock hangs securely, while allowing you to move around in the hammock. These straps are also environmentally friendly since they do not damage the tree as ropes can.

    • 5

      Attach the hammock's extension ropes to the tree hugger strap on each tree via a carabiner or as recommended by the tree hugger manufacturer.

    • 6

      Stretch a nylon cord between the two trees at a desired height above the hammock and tie one cord end around each of the two trees.

    • 7

      Drape the tarp over the nylon cord. Distribute the tarp evenly on both sides of the hammock. The tarp should be the approximate length of your hammock and wide enough to touch the ground on each side.

    • 8

      Secure each of the four tarp corners to the ground using lightweight tent stakes.