Sleeping under the stars in your hammock can be a dream. But what happens when night falls, the temperature drops, and the wind picks up? Or when those dark grey clouds start to rumble in the distance?
Having a little bit of extra protection while hammock camping can change your outdoor adventure from miserable to enjoyable. Purchasing a tarp or rain fly for your hammock is a necessary investment for all campers and backpackers. But with all the tarps and rain flys on the market, which do you choose?
Outdoorsr is here to help. We’ve selected the best of the best and reviewed them for you to make your life easier. After all, who wants to spend time finding a great hammock tarp when you could be out using it? We guarantee that no matter what your needs, you will find the best hammock tarp for your next adventure.
Our top three editor’s picks are the Pro Venture Waterproof Hammock Rain Fly, Kammok Kuhli Ultralight Weather Shelter, and Chill Gorilla Hex Hammock Rain Fly, but all of the rain flys on our list have their specialties. No matter your needs, there’s a hammock tarp on our list for you.
Check out our other hammock related articles:
Our Best Hammock Tarps & Rain Flys
We’ve compiled a list of the 10 Best Hammock Tarps and Rain Flys below. Read our reviews, find the tarp that best suits you, and follow the link to purchase. We’ve taken out the guesswork
ENO ProFly Hammock Rain Tarp
- Shape: Rectangle
- Dimensions: 126”L x 76”W
- Material: Ripstop Nylon with
- Polyurethane(PU) Coating
- Weight: 1.4lb
- Price: $$
Review: Best Tarp for Shorter Hammocks
When it comes to hammock camping, the ENO ProFly Hammock Rain Tarp is one of the best tarps you can get. It is made with sturdy 70D ripstop nylon and coated in polyurethane, allowing it to withstand both the wind and rain. Also aiding in the effort to stay dry are the seams of the ProFly, which are waterproof and double-stitched for strength and durability. The ENO ProFly is easy to set up with its unique no-knot design and can be erected in mere minutes.
ENO is a partner of Leave No Trace, an organization that encourages people to enjoy the wilderness responsibly while leaving as little negative impact on nature as possible. Following this mentality, the straps of the ENO Profly were designed to be tree-friendly, causing little to no damage during use.
The main downfall of the ProFly is its size. With a shorter ridgeline of 10.5 feet, this tarp is only going to work with hammocks that are up to 10.5 feet in length.
Trying to use this tarp with a longer hammock would require you to add your own drip line if the water breaks do not line up, or risk ending up with a wet hammock in the event of inclement weather. Hammock shorter than 10.5 feet? Then we say you can’t go wrong with this durable and eco-friendly ENO tarp!
PROS
- Easy Set-Up
- Knot Free
- Line Tensioners
- Double-Stitched Seams
- Tree Friendly
CONS
- Small
REI Co-op Camp Tarp 12
- Shape: Diamond
- Dimensions: 144”L x 144”W
- Material: Polyester
- Weight: 2.1lb
- Price: $$
You booked a ticket for that amazing camping vacation months in advance. You took time off work. You have everything set. Three days out from your trip and the forecast shows storms two of the days you are there.
Have no fear, with the REI Co-op Camp Tarp 12 you will stay dry while still being able to enjoy those long-awaited camping activities.
The REI Co-op Camp Tarp 12 is waterproof and made of durable 75D polyester that won’t sag or stretch when it gets wet.
It is the largest tarp on our list at 12ft by 12ft, giving you plenty of room to not only cover your hammock and yourself, but a camp stove and friend or two as well! The Co-op Camp Tarp also has reflective guy lines you won’t trip over during the night. Double reinforced grommets make sure your lines stay connected and your trap doesn’t rip.
This REI Tarp is the heaviest tarp on our list, coming in at just over 2 pounds. If you purchase the recommended – but not included in the weight or the price – adjustable tarp poles, you are looking at rain protection that isn’t designed to carry around on a backpacking trip.
However, if you are driving and not hiking to your destination, we believe the weather protection and space offered by the Co-op Camp cannot be beat, making the REI Co-op Camp Tarp 12 our pick for the best hammock rain fly.
PROS
- Large
- Reflective Guy Lines
- No Sagging
- No Stretching When Wet
CONS
- Heavy
- No Tarp Poles
Pro Venture Waterproof Hammock Rain Fly
- Shape: Hexagon
- Dimensions: 142”L x 110”W
- Material: Ripstop Nylon with PU Coating
- Weight: 1.8lb
- Price: $
If you are looking for the Best Tarp for Hammock Camping, look no further. The Pro Venture Waterproof Hammock Rain Fly is durable and puncture-resistant. Made of 210D Ripstop Nylon, this tarp is thicker and sturdier than it’s 70D nylon competitors.
The thicker material does add some weight to the Pro Venture Rain Fly making it one of the heavier tarps on our list, but it still comes in at under 2 pounds with accessories.
The Pro Venture has reinforced stitching and grommet holes, and the seams are taped, ensuring you stay dry and your camp stays leak-free. The guy lines are equipped with line tensioners, making setup a breeze.
Taking up only 0.15 cubic feet of space in your pack, this tarp is small but provides big protection from the wind and rain.
Perhaps one of the best things about this tarp is its warranty. Pro Venture includes a 2 Year Comprehensive Warranty, and provides a 100% Money-Back Guarantee.
They know you will love their product, and we do too! For hammock camping, nothing can beat the Pro Venture Waterproof Hammock Rain Fly.
PROS
- Puncture Resistant
- Taped Seams
- Line Tensioners
- Reinforced
CONS
- Heavy
Kammok Kuhli Utralight Shelter
- Shape: Rectangle
- Dimensions: 132”L x 88”W
- Material: Ripstop Nylon with PU Coating
- Weight: 0.6lb
- Price: $$$
Trying to keep your pack weight down? No other tarp on our list will do that like the Kammok Kuhli Ultralight Weather Shelter.
Weighing just over half a pound, the Kuhli Ultralight will add elemental protection to your camping adventure without the bulk. This tarp is made of 15D ripstop nylon, making it super lightweight without sacrificing quality.
The Kammok Kuhli Ultralight offers 8 guy line attachments, ensuring your tarp stays down and the wind stays out. The guy lines have line tensioners and setup is knot-free, making pitching this tarp quick and easy.
Unfortunately, the Kuhli Ultralight only includes 4 ground stakes when you want 6, meaning you have to purchase another pack of stakes (or their recommended poles) to use all the guy attachments.
While this tarp is one of the more expensive options on our list, we think if you are looking for an ultralight shelter, the Kuhli Ultralight is for you.
Kammock offers a lifetime warranty, so you can be confident that your tarp will survive even your wildest adventures.
We rank the Kammok Kuhli Ultralight Weather Shelter as the best ultralight hammock tarp, and after one night of camping with it, we think you will agree.
PROS
- Lightweight
- Line Tensioners
- 8 Guy Attachments
- Knot Free
- Lifetime Warranty
CONS
- Pricey
- Very thin material
ENO HouseFly Rain Tarp
- Shape: Winter
- Dimensions: 128”L x 106”W
- Material: Silicone Impregnated Nylon with
- PU Coating
- Weight: 1.8lb
- Price: $$$
Review: Best Hammock Tarp for Winter
The Best tarp for winter and all-season camping is the ENO HouseFly Rain Tarp. With 4 doors, you will be sheltered from the wind, snow, and rain like never before.
On nice-weather days, you can also roll the doors back and enjoy the breeze, making the HouseFly similar to a rectangular tarp. Manufactured from 30D Silicone Impregnated Nylon, this shelter is durable and strong. Double-stitched seams ensure you and your gear stay dry inside.
The ENO HouseFly has 10 guy line attachments guaranteeing your tarp will stay in place, even when facing strong winds or rain. The setup is similar to the ENO ProFly: knot and hassle-free while also being tree-friendly.
ENO is a partner with Leave No Trace, so your tarp purchase will help support the organization in its mission to have all nature goers respect and enjoy the wilderness responsibly.
With the extra door protection and guy lines, it’s no surprise that the HouseFly is tied for the second heaviest hammock tarp on our list. However, this shelter still comes in at under 2 pounds, making it easy to tote, especially when needing extra shielding from winter weather.
This might not be the ideal hammock tarp for all hikers and campers, but if you are facing an extreme forecast or snow, you want the ENO HouseFly Rain Tarp on your side.
PROS
- Doors
- 10 Guy Attachments
- Double-Stitched Seams
- Knot Free
- Tree Friendly
CONS
- Pricey
- Heavier
Bear Butt Double Hammock Tent
- Shape: Diamond
- Dimensions: 154” middle x 112” sides
- Material: Polyester
- Weight: 0.9lb
- Price: $
Review: Great Lightweight Rain Fly for backpacking
The Bear Butt Double Hammock Tent Rain Fly is the perfect addition to any hiker’s backpack. This hammock tarp weighs less than a pound and its 2 ground stakes make for a quick and easy pitching experience. The Bear Butt Double Hammock tarp is durable, manufactured from waterproof polyester and sporting reinforced guy attachment points.
At almost 13 feet in length, this Bear Butt tarp has an extra-long ridgeline, keeping even the lengthiest hammocks dry.
Our only concern with this rainfly, however, is its distinct diamond shape. While easy to pitch, The Bear Butt diamond shape may not provide the best protection in windy conditions.
If sunny days and light showers are your only opponents, the Bear Butt Double Hammock Tent Rain Fly will surely withstand the test, and its price cannot be beat.
However, diamond tarps are typically no match for extreme weather, so take caution if heading into a storm.
PROS
- Lightweight
- Reinforced
- Fewer Straps & Steaks
- Extra-Long Ridgeline
CONS
- Struggles in wind
Serac Waterproof Rain Fly
- Shape: Rectangle
- Dimensions: 144”L x 77”W
- Material: Ripstop Nylon
- Weight: 1.6lb
- Price: $
Review: Best Tarp for Longer Hammocks
If you own an 11 to 12-foot hammock, the Serac Waterproof Rain Fly is for you. This tarp sports a 12-foot long ridgeline, tied for second-longest on our list!
The Serac Rain Fly is made of waterproofed ripstop nylon, and – as an added bonus – comes in neon colors, making it easy to spot among a myriad of trees.
The downside of this rain fly is its medium-range weight. At just over 1.5 pounds, this tarp might not be the best to tote around in a backpack for days on end when there are so many lighter-weight options. Setting up camp in only one location? Then keep reading!
The Serac tarp has a knot-free design and it’s guy lines sport adjustable tensioners. Pitching your rain fly will be simple and fast. The best part about the Serac Rain Fly? It comes with a 30-day money-back guarantee.
If you don’t love it, return it! With a risk-free purchase like that, how can you not try it out? Perfect for longer hammocks and a happiness guarantee, the Serac Waterproof Rain Fly is a must-try.
PROS
- 30 Day Trial
- Long Ridgeline
- Knot Free
- Bright Colors
- Line Tensioners
CONS
- Backpacking Weight
Chill Gorilla HEX Rain Fly
- Shape: Hexagon
- Dimensions: 142”L x 108”W
- Material: Ripstop Nylon with PU Coating
- Weight: 1.4lb
- Price: $
Review: Best Hammock Tarp for Backpacking
Searching for the absolute best all-around hammock tarp for backpacking? Look no further than the Chill Gorilla Hex Hammock Rain Fly. This rainfly offers the protection you need at a lower cost and weight than its competitors.
The Chill Gorilla offers a long ridgeline of almost 12 feet and yet weights under 1.5 pounds. It is made of waterproof ripstop nylon that is puncture and tear-resistant.
The guy-lines of this hex hammock tarp are equipped with tensioners to ensure set-up is as hassle-free as possible.
Chill Gorilla even includes a separate carrying bag specifically for the lines and aluminum stakes so you don’t have to worry about shoving them in with the rain fly and risking possible tears.
Chill Gorilla is a fairly new company trying to make its name in the outdoor recreation world, which may turn some brand-name buyers away.
However, they are trying to prove themselves and guarantee that all inquiries or issues sent to customer service will be responded to in a quick 24 hours or less – even on weekends! Talk about commitment!
Overall, if you are looking for the best hammock tarp for backpacking, the Chill Gorilla Hex Hammock Rain Fly is the tarp for you. It may be new, but it’s also larger, lighter, and lower cost than similar tarps on the market, and for that we think it’s not only a great value, but a great tarp as well
PROS
- Lightweight
- Long Ridgeline
- Line Tensioners
- Puncture Resistant
- Customer Service
CONS
- New company
Sanctuary SilTarp
- Shape: Available in Rectangle, Hexagon, Square, or Tapered
- Dimensions: 120”L x 96”W (Rect), 144”L x 120”W (Hex), 120”L x 120”W (Sq), 120”L x 60-84”W (Taper)
- Material: Ripstop Nylon with PU & Silicon Coating
- Weight: 0.9lb (Taper) – 1.4lb (Rect)
- Price: $$
Review: Most Versatile Tarp
No tarp offers more options than the Sanctuary SilTarp. Sanctuary offers the SilTarp in 4 different sizes and shapes so you can be certain you get a tarp that meets your needs.
All of the tarps are made of lightweight (under 1.5 pounds) ripstop nylon that are durable and will withstand any rain or wind you encounter in the wilderness.
The rectangular SilTarp has 17 (yes- 17!) guy attachments meaning it is the most versatile tarp on our entire list.
You can easily pitch it in a variety of ways, getting the protection you need, no matter the topography or weather conditions at your campsite. The hexagon SilTarp is specifically made to cover hammocks while remaining lightweight, and the tapered tarp is perfect for a solo backpacking adventure.
All of the guy lines are also reflective, so you won’t trip over them when heading to bed after putting out your campfire.
Sanctuary also offers a lifetime warranty on all of the tarps, so durability and reliability are not a concern. The one concern that we did have about this tarp was the manufacturing quality.
The most common complaints are reviewers citing a seam that was mis-stitched or a logo that was misprinted. With the lifetime warranty, we don’t deem this anything to fret over, so if you want versatility, we say go with a Sanctuary SilTarp
PROS
- Multiple Size & Shape Options
- Lightweight
- Up to 17 Guy Attachments
- Reflective Guy Lines
- Lifetime Warranty
CONS
- Quality
Yuedge Waterproof Camping Tarp
- Shape: Square
- Dimensions: 118”L x 118”W
- Material: Polyester
- Weight: 1.8lb
- Price: $
Review: Best Tarp on a Budget
Strapped for cash? If you are looking for a cheap tarp to get you out exploring, the Yuedge Waterproof Camping Tarp cannot be beaten. This is your simple low-cost polyester set-up.
There are no bells or whistles but all of your basics are covered. You will have to tie your own knots, tighten your own guy lines, and we’ve heard the ground stakes leave something to be desired. But everything you need is included at a price guaranteed not to break the bank.
Being polyester, this tarp is slightly heavier than it’s nylon counterparts, but again, it’s affordable. Polyester also means the tarp is waterproof and there won’t be any sagging or stretching during the rain.
The tarp comes with suggestions for up to 9 different setup configurations for you to try, but not all of these configurations are hammock-compatible.
Overall, if you are able to be a D-I-Yer and don’t mind an old-school setup, then the Yuedge Waterproof Camping Tarp is the best hammock tarp for campers on a budget.
PROS
- Inexpensive
- 9 Configurations
- No Sagging
- No Stretching
CONS
- Heavier
- Basic Set-up
How to Choose the Right Tarp for Hammock Camping
If you are still not sure which hammock tarp or rain fly is right for you, we’ve compiled a list of features to consider before making your purchase.
Tarp Shape
Are you going on a hiking trip? Are you camping in the snow? Do you need extra protection from the rain and wind? Tarps come in a variety of shapes and sizes, each designed for a specific purpose. It’s important to take into account your hiking or camping needs to make sure your chosen fly is the right shape for you.
Diamond:
Diamond tarps are some of the most lightweight, but that weight reduction comes at a cost. Diamonds and squares offer the least amount of protection from the elements at the ends of the ridgeline. However, they usually only require two ground stakes which makes them quicker and easier to set up than most other options (and fewer stakes also mean less weight). Diamonds are great for backpacking and hiking, but not the best option for standing up to severe weather.
Rectangular:
Rectangular tarps are versatile and offer a good amount of rain and wind protection. They are usually set-up with between 4 and 6 ground stakes, and the edge of the tarp runs parallel to your hammock. Tarps that offer a 6 ground stake configuration will usually take slightly longer to set up, but are able to withstand stronger winds.
Hexagonal:
Hexagonal tarps are like rectangular tarps with angled corners. The shape usually allows similar protection from the elements as a rectangular tarp, with reduced weight and increased airflow. Hexagonal tarps have become increasingly popular with hammock-sleeping backpackers, with the one downside being that the ultralight versions can be more expensive than their rectangular counterparts.
Winter/4-Season:
Winter or 4-Season tarps are similar to rectangular tarps with folding or rolling doors on the ends. These are perfect for keeping the snow and winter winds out while trapping body heat in.
Experienced winter tarp users have developed ways of using self-shoveled snow mounds to further this goal.
Winter tarps are great because they can also be used in other seasons: simply roll back the doors and now you have a rectangular tarp! The downside to these tarps is that the door fabric, increased number of tie-downs, and extra protection all add up to increased weight. Most likely not worth lugging around those extra pounds on a summertime hiking trip!
Weight & Size
When you have a finite amount of packing space, the size and weight of your tarp is important. Looking at the tarp size, carry size, and weight of both the rain fly and stakes/guylines can help determine if your choice will be easy to tote around.
Traveling by yourself? A smaller rain fly can help cut down on weight. However, if you are planning on hanging a double hammock, it might be worth sacrificing a little weight for a bigger size trap so your partner doesn’t have to bring one at all.
But just because a rain fly is large, doesn’t mean it has to be heavy. Nowadays there are more lightweight options than ever. However, the lighter the weight the more the tarp will usually cost. If you are heading out on a longer hiking trip it might be worth splurging to cut a few pounds from your pack weight and gaining a little bit more room. If you are driving to a campsite, an extra few ounces might not be worth the extra cost.
Finding a good balance between size and weight is critical. You want a tarp that fits your needs but also fits in your pack.
Material
All of the tarps on our list were either made of polyester, ripstop nylon, or silicone impregnated nylon. While all of these are good materials for withstanding the elements, nylon is lighter weight than polyester and can be easier to travel with. Unfortunately that also means nylon rain flies come at an increased price.
Higher priced and lighter weight than those on our list, extreme ultralight tarps can be made out of Cuben Fiber or Dyneema, but those will cost several hundreds of dollars. We think it’s important to find a sturdy and durable material that also fits your budget. As long as you ensure you are purchasing a tarp manufactured out of durable, quality materials (like any on our list), we don’t think you can go wrong.
Price
As alluded to in the Weight & Size and Material sections, the price of your hammock tarp or rainfly can vary drastically. You can usually purchase a standard polyester tarp for fairly cheap, but the price goes up quickly from there. Start looking into an Ultralight rain fly with all the bells and whistles – easy setup, no knots required, eco-friendly, compact carry size – and all of a sudden you can be spending hundreds of dollars. It is important to know your needs and know your budget and pick the tarp that best suits both of these.
Final Thoughts
Hammock camping is a comfortable and lightweight solution to getting a good night’s sleep in the wilderness. A hammock tarp can really aid in this quest for comfort, and we think it’s an accessory all hammock sleepers should have. These tarps are durable and can last for decades, making them not only a smart investment but one you can use time and time again.
So what are you waiting for? Use our reviews, consider our advice, and choose the best hammock tarp for you. Then simply follow the link to purchase.
The wilderness awaits!
