Simple Shelter - Hammock and tarp

When camping in warm climates there are two main elements that can really effect your camping experience: the Sun and rain.  To avoid having a camping trip effected or even ruined by the elements there is ONE simple solution--a shelter. 

A good shelter is strong and resilient.  For this Simple Shelter you'll need only a few supplies and the set up time is 5 to 10 minutes.

Supply list-

2 trees 
50 ft sturdy rope
50 ft twine or light string/rope
1 tarp
1 hammock

 Directions:

Step 1 - Find two trees approximately 15 feet apart and stretch the sturdy rope between them. Secure each end of the rope to each opposing tree about 8 feet up from the ground.

Step 2 - Directly beneath the rope you hung, secure the hammock (in a similar fashion to Step 1) to each tree using the sturdy rope about 4 feet from the ground (adjust height of the hammock depending on height and weight of occupant). NOTE that some store-bought hammocks will come fashioned with sufficient nylon rope to hang the hammock. 

Step 3 - Drape the tarp over the taut rope from Step 1 where there are two even lengths on each side of the rope.

Step 4 - Tie off a piece of twine to each of the eyeletts at the base of the tarp (length is dependent on distance of anchor to eyelet), and secure the other end of each peice of twine to an available anchor.  A good anchor is a small plant on the ground near the base of the tarp.  If there isn't any ground foliage,  a good substitute is a tent stake or a stone/loose timber weighing several pounds.

IMPORTANT NOTES: The sides of the tarp should come up from the ground at roughly a 45 degree angle.  The Simple Shelter will resemble the capital letter A when it is completed.  You'll also want to keep in mind which direction your shelter will be facing when choosing the location of your trees.  For the best protection from the sun you'll want the walls of your shelter to face East and West.  Protection from rain can be a little more tricky because rain often falls in multiple directions.

Add this simple shelter to your camping repertoire, and you'll always have a roof over your head.  Think about the elements, and make your own adaptations to this plan depending on what your immediate situation calls for.  Remember to always be resourceful!