Simple Tarp Shelter Setups for Wild Camping UK
Why Every Wild Camper Needs a Tarp
Whether you're just starting out or deep into your wild camping journey, having a tarp in your pack is a no-brainer. For between £40 and £60, a tarp like the DD 3.5x3.5 can act as your main shelter, a rain cover, or a base for hammocks and tents.
In this post, I’ll walk you through two of my favourite tarp setups for full coverage and comfort, even in the roughest UK weather.
Setup 1: Side-Entry Tarp Shelter
Choosing the Site
Location: North Downs Way
We found a picturesque spot with soft ground, decent elevation, and space to work with. Before laying anything down, I cleared the area of sticks, leaves, and other debris to give us a good working base.
Gear Used
Tarp: DD Hammocks 3.5 x 3.5m
Cordage: Jungle rope (paracord with overhand knots at intervals)
Jungle Toggles: Hand-carved toggles for quick fastening
Peg Set
Step-by-Step Setup
Lay tarp face down.
Peg out two corners near your tie-off tree.
Run the opposite back corner out and peg it.
Peg the centre point to create shape.
Pull the side flap over and secure using a jungle toggle.
Peg out the side walls with a slight overhang to deflect rain.
Use a guy line to pull out the front flap and create an awning.
Lay tarp face down then peg out two corners near your tie-off tree, run the opposite back corner out and peg it.
Peg the centre point to create shape, pull the side flap over and secure using a jungle toggle.
Peg out the side walls with a slight overhang to deflect rain, use a guy line to pull out the front flap and create an awning.
Inside the Shelter
Loads of room! This configuration creates a wedge shape, ideal for one person and their kit. There’s enough height to sit up at the head end, while the foot end keeps heat in.
Setup 2: Pyramid-Style Fully Enclosed Shelter
When You Need More Coverage
Sometimes you want full protection from the elements. This second setup provides a roof over your head and four walls, minus the floor (just bring a small groundsheet).
How to Pitch It
Lay your tarp flat.
Peg out the back two corners.
Bring the front two corners in to meet at the centre, forming a triangle.
Use a trekking pole (or a sturdy branch) to prop up the centre.
For safety, place a beanie or tennis ball on top of the pole to protect the tarp fabric.
Peg down the door flap by folding and securing it to the side.
Lay out your tarp flat and peg out the two back corners.
Bring the front two corners in to meet at the centre, forming a triangle.
Use a trekking pole (or a sturdy branch) to prop up the centre.
The finished fully enclosed pyramid tarp shelter.
Inside View
This one's tight but solid. It’s a brilliant option for harsher weather when you want complete coverage and windbreaks on all sides. With a bit of tension tweaking, it’s also surprisingly roomy.
Gear Mentioned
DD Hammocks 3.5 x 3.5 Tarp – Highly recommended for UK conditions
Paracord & Jungle Rope – Ideal for ridgelines and tension points
Jungle Toggles – Time-saving, knot-free tarp fasteners
Trekking Pole or Branch – For elevating the centre of your tarp
Key Takeaways
You don’t need a tent to stay dry and warm.
A 3.5x3.5 tarp offers flexibility for multiple configurations.
Jungle ropes and toggles make setup faster and easier.
Always clear your site before pitching.
Practice your setup before you go – not during a storm!
Why Do You Wild Camp?
What’s your go-to tarp configuration? Have a different way of setting up in bad weather? Drop your advice or questions in the comments below. Sharing knowledge helps everyone in the wild camping community.
Thanks for reading!
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