Wilderness Survival: How to Survive in the Woods with Shelters

One of the basic rules in wilderness survival is know how to build versatile shelters. Tarp shelters are one of the most versatile types of shelter because they can be constructed in a variety of shapes. Tepee shaped tarp shelters give you plenty of room inside your shelter while providing a solid structure for harsh weather conditions. The basic supplies of a tarp shelter should always be carried in your backpack when you're day hiking. Tarp shelters can be used for a quick emergency shelter to weather a storm or for wilderness survival while you await a rescue party.

Things You'll Need

  • Rope
  • Tent stakes
  • 10-by-10 foot tarp
  • Knife
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Instructions

    • 1

      Find a low hanging tree branch about 6 feet from the ground. It should be fairly sturdy.

    • 2

      Toss your rope over the tree branch.

    • 3

      Fold your tarp in half from top to bottom. Make another fold from left to right. The top left corner of your folded tarp is the center.

    • 4

      Locate a fist-sized rock. Push the rock up through the bottom of the tarp to the center fold in the top left-hand corner. Grab one end of your rope and loop it around the base of the rock. Tie a simple knot to secure your rock anchor.

    • 5

      Pull the other end of the rope until the tarp is hanging 4 feet off the ground. Secure the loose end of your rope around the tree trunk and tie it off with a simple knot.

    • 6

      Secure the base of your tarp shelter to the ground with tent stakes. Pull the base of the tarp tight and drive a stake through the tarp using a rock as your hammer. Hammer a tent stake in the base every couple of feet, shaping the bottom of the tarp into a circle.

    • 7

      Use your knife to cut a 3 foot vertical slit for your door.

    • 8

      Dig a 6-inch deep trench around your tepee with a stick for rainwater runoff in stormy weather conditions.