How to Set Up a Ridgeline Tarp

A tarp shelter is one of the lightest, most versatile, and most satisfying shelter options in the backcountry. The A-frame pitch is the foundation — learn it and you can adapt to any conditions.

Why Tarp?

• Weight: 5–16 oz for a quality tarp vs. 2–4 lbs for a tent
• Ventilation: Zero condensation issues
• Views: Sleep with a view of the landscape
• Versatility: Dozens of pitch configurations for different conditions
• Cost: Quality tarps start at $50 (silnylon) to $200+ (DCF/Dyneema)

Gear You Need

The Tarp

• Size: 8x10 feet for most users, 9x7 or 7x9 for ultralight
• Material: Silnylon ($50–100), silpoly ($60–110), or DCF/Dyneema ($200–400)
• Features: Ridgeline tie-outs, perimeter tie-outs, catenary cut edges

Line

• Ridgeline: 30–50 feet of 1.75mm Dyneema or Zing-It
• Guy lines: 6 lengths of 4–6 feet each (same cord)
• Tensioners: Mini Line-Locs, small prussik knots, or taut-line hitches

Stakes

• 6–8 stakes (MSR Groundhog or similar)
• Lightweight option: shepherd's hook stakes (0.3 oz each)

Ground Sheet (Optional)

• Polycryo or Tyvek ground sheet for moisture barrier and bug protection
• 1–2 oz for polycryo, 3–5 oz for Tyvek

A-Frame Setup (Step by Step)

1. Find two trees 15–25 feet apart at your desired camp location
2. Tie one end of your ridgeline to a tree at chest height using a bowline or taught-line hitch
3. Thread the ridgeline through the center tie-outs on your tarp (or drape the tarp over it)
4. Attach the other end to the second tree, pulling taut
5. Stake out the four corners at 45-degree angles from the tarp edges
6. Stake the mid-point tie-outs to pull the sides taut
7. Adjust tension: The ridgeline should be taut with no sag. Tarp edges should be drum-tight.

Storm Configurations

Wind

• Pitch one side low to the ground (angle toward the wind)
• Stake the windward side with extra anchors
• Use a lower ridgeline height

Rain

• Steeper pitch angle sheds water faster
• Ensure no sag points where water can pool
• Position the tarp so wind blows rain away from the open side

Full Protection (Door Mode)

• Pitch one end all the way to the ground as a wall
• The other end remains open or partially closed
• Creates an enclosed shelter while maintaining ventilation

Tips

• Practice at home first: Setting up a tarp efficiently takes 3–5 practice sessions
• Site selection matters more: Choose ground that is naturally sheltered from wind and slightly elevated for drainage
• Guy line visibility: Mark guy lines with reflective cord or bright tape to prevent tripping
• Pair with a bivy: A bivy sack under a tarp provides bug protection and splash protection with minimal added weight (5–10 oz)
• Carry extra cord: A few extra feet of cord solves many problems in the field

Recommended Products

Based on this guide, here are some top-rated products to consider:

• MSR Front Range Ultralight Tarp Shelter : 4-Person 4-Season ($380)
• MSR Front Range Ultralight Tarp Shelter : 4-Person 4-Season ($380)
• SPATZ Wing Tarp Shelter ($326)
• Kammok Kuhli XL Group Tarp Shelter ($250)
• Sea to Summit Escapist Tarp Shelter ($229)
• Sierra Designs High Route 2-Person Tarp Shelter ($130)
• Six Moon Designs Deschutes Ultralight Backpacking Tarp ($340)
• Six Moon Designs Owyhee Backpacking Tarp ($310)