So, you’ve decided to go on your first hammock camping adventure! Way to go. I would suspect that you are on this page because you) are smart enough to be prepared for the weather to change. Or b) you wish you were smart enough to think of it before your first hammock camping trip.
Either way, you are looking for a way to make something great even better. The quality of your hammock rainfly will determine how comfortable you will be. With many different tarps on the market, choosing the best tarp for hammock camping can seem pretty intimidating.
Don’t worry, though, we’ve got you “covered”.
Below, we’ve listed the best tarps for hammock camping in 2023 with their pros and cons so you can make the best decision for your needs. Plus, stay to the end to find out some ways to choose the right hammock rainfly for you!
Our Top 3 Recommendations:
1 Best Ultralight Tarp for Hammock Camping – Eno ProFly Rain Tarp
This lightweight hammock tarp is waterproof and can withstand wear and tear thanks to its polyurethane-treated 210D construction.
Its mere 22 ounces is best for those who want to save packing space and money without settling for a bad-quality tarp.
All backpacking tarps come with some sacrifices. But the ProFly balances out weight savings without eliminating too many necessities.
Having 6 tie-down points and the hexagonal design ensure full coverage for all conditions wherever you hang your hammock.
Size: 10’ 6” x 6’ 4”
Weight: 22 oz
Shape: Hexagonal (symmetrical)
Material: 210D ripstop nylon with polyurethane coating
Tie-down Points: 6
Pros:
- Lightweight and easy to pack
- Waterproof
- Six points to connect for security
Cons:
- It may not be big enough for some people
- No stakes included
- Not very aesthetic looking
2 Overall Best Hammock Rainfly – Hennessy Hammock Hex Rainfly
This is a PU-coated polyester tarp is waterproof, durable, and flexible.
The Hexagonal tarp can be angled out to provide more coverage, or you can put it near the ground to function as more of a tent. Plus, with six tie-outs, it’s very secure.
The Hex is an excellent choice if you are expecting bad weather while backpacking.
Size: 11’ 10” x 10’
Weight: 27 oz
Shape: Hexagonal (symmetrical)
Material: 70 D Polyester
Tie-down Points: 6
Pros:
- PU-coated for waterproofing and durability
- Flexible and can be angled out for more coverage
- Stakes between two hammocks for added workspace
Cons:
- Heavier than some other tarps
- May not provide enough coverage for some people
- Needs to be tied directly to trees
3 Another Good Rainfly – Kelty Noah’s Tarp
The Kelty Noah’s Tarp is waterproof and protects you, come rain or shine. It comes in 3 different sizes with up to 17 guy points.
So it doesn’t need to just be shelter for you — in fact, groups of campers of up to 16 people can use it.
The 9’ tarp a perfect camping rainfly for minimalist campers. While the 16’ is a nice gathering spot for the group should the weather turn sour?
It is a great option for any size camping group or solo backpacking trip.
Size: 9’ x 9’, 12’ x 12’, 16’ x 16’
Weight: 30 oz (9’), 39 oz (12’), 63 oz (16’)
Shape: Diamond
Material: 68D Polyester
Tie-down Points: 17
Pros:
- Is great for larger groups of campers
- Water-resistant and durable with its 68-D polyester construction
- Comes with a handy storage pocket for additional storage
Cons:
- It may be too big for some people
- Some people may find it hard to set up
- Can take up a lot of space on your camping pack
4 Best Hammock Tarp With Doors – Eno HouseFly Rain Tarp
Eno has become the household name for lightweight hammocks. It would make sense that they have the best hammock accessories too.
The Eno HouseFly Rain Tarp describes itself as a “water fortress” that offers all-sided protection.
It features overlapping doors with easy buckles, allowing you to adjust the tarp based on the weather conditions.
This tarp is tough yet lightweight, and its ripstop fabric will prevent anything from ripping a hole in it.
Size: 10’ 8” x 8’ 10”
Weight: 27 oz
Shape: winter/4 season
Material: 15D Sil-Nylon Ripstop w/PU
Tie-down Points: 14
Pros:
- All-sided protection with overlapping doors
- Adjustable based on weather conditions
- Lightweight and durable thanks to its ripstop nylon construction
Cons:
- Buckles may not be as durable as other tarps on the market
- The color and stitching of the product from the image may not be accurate
5 Wise Owl Outfitters Hammock Tarp
The Wise Owl Outfitters Hammock Tarp is ready for your next outdoor adventure. It features a PU rating of 3000 mm water pressure, making it one of the most waterproof tarps out there.
It is also made from heavy-duty 210T ripstop polyester, ensuring that it will last you for many camping trips to come.
This camping hammock tarp comes in a 26 oz hexagonal shape. Or a lighter diamond-shaped version weighing only 18.9 oz.
It comes with 10” guy lines and 6 tie-down points. Which is sufficient in mild weather, but may be lacking in heavy winds.
Size: 11’ x 9’
Weight: 26 oz or (18.9 oz Lite);
Shape: Hexagonal (symmetrical)
Material: 210T ripstop polyester with a 2500 PU waterproof rating.
Tie-down Points: 6
Pros:
- Easy set-up aluminum tent stakes included
- Comes with a waterproof carrying bag for proper storage
- Will last a long time
Cons:
- Not big enough to fit many people
- Heavier package compared to other tarp hammocks on the market
- It might have condensation inside if not used properly
6 Aqua Quest Defender Tarp
The Aqua Quest Defender Tarp offers 100% waterproof protection. It’s one of the few square tarps in this review.
It is made from durable 70D ripstop nylon and is TPU coated. It’s compact and can easily be stuffed in your backpack, making it great if you’re more of a minimalist.
The toughness comes with quite a bit of extra weight, so not the best for backpackers looking to shave their pack load.
But with 19 tie-down attachment points, it is ready for some pretty stiff winds.
While it’s not specifically designed as a hammock tarp, its universal design does lend itself to hammock camping.
Size: 10’ x10’
Weight: 3.3 lbs
Shape: Square
Material: 70D ripstop nylon
Tie-down Points: 19
Pros:
- Covered by a lifetime warranty by AquaQuest
- Can be set up in various ways to fit your needs
- Aesthetically pleasing camouflage design
Cons:
- Not recommended for large groups
- On the pricier side compared to other tarps on the market
7 Bushcraft Outdoors Hammock Rain Fly
Despite being one of the lightest tarps on the market, the Bushcraft Outdoors Hammock Rain Fly is made from high-quality 210T ripstop polyester with fully taped seams and strong alloy grommets.
With only 4 tie-down points it offers a very easy setup while offering quick protection from the rain.
The diamond shape and lightweight material make it an excellent choice for an ultralight backpacking trip. It just may be the best rainfly on this list.
Overall it is a good rainfly that is light enough to make it worth having around.
Size: 11’ x 9’
Weight: 19.4 oz
Shape: Diamond
Material: 210T ripstop polyester
Tie-down Points: 4
Pros:
- Weighs only 18.7 oz in total, including all the guy lines and stakes
- Features a unique diamond shape design for flexible setup options
- Comes with a manual on how to set up the tarp
Cons:
- Small coverage area compared to other tarps
8 Evolution Hammock Rain Fly
An ultralight hammock tarp, the Evolution Hammock Rain Fly features 210T polyester material and TPU coating for a 100% waterproof tarp that can stand up to heavy rain.
It also comes with everything you need from ropes, poles, stakes, carabiners, and a carrying pouch. If you’re a beginner hammock camper, you’ll love how complete the accessories are.
And finding a diamond tarp with 9 tie-down points is a rarity. But you’ll appreciate having that extra security should the wind pick up.
Size:10’ x 10’
Weight: 24 oz
Shape: Diamond
Material: 210T polyester
Tie-down Points: 9
Pros:
- A comprehensive kit that has everything you need
- Lightweight and portable
- 100% waterproof protection
Cons:
- Not ideal for large group
9 Gold Armour Hammock Rainfly Tarp
The Gold Armour Hammock Rainfly Tarp is one of the most customizable tarps out there thanks to its 33 tie-down loops.
You’ll appreciat the extra anchor points when high winds strike.
Plus, this tarp comes with a 100% satisfaction guarantee and a five-year warranty, making it one of the best hammock rain tarps on the market.
Size: 10’ x 8’
Weight: 29 oz
Shape: Diamond
Material: Ripstop polyester
Tie-down Points: 33
Pros:
- Features 33 tie-down loops for adjustability
- Warranty protected product
Cons:
- Takes time to set up
- Doesn’t have the strongest tie-down loops
10 Free Soldier Multifunctional Camping Tarp
These rectangular tarps come in a large size 118″ x 126″ with a net weight of around 2.6 pounds.
Because of its size, it’s not the lightest, but it offers durability and protection with a 2500 PU and silicon-coated 210T ripstop polyester.
With 19 tie-out points, these winter tarps are ready for windy conditions.
Of course, these extra features add to the overall weight. But in extreme weather conditions, you’ll appreciate the high quality and good coverage this one has over a smaller tarp.
And with multiple tarp configurations, this may be one of the overall best camping tarps on the market.
Size: 9.5’ x 10.5’
Weight: 42 oz
Shape: Rectangle
Material: 210T ripstop polyester
Tie-down Points: 19
Pros:
- Perfect for 2 -3 person tents
- Puncture-resistant fabric
- Comes with a storage bag for easy portability
- Can be set up in multiple different ways
Cons:
- Not wide enough for large groups of campers
- Heavier weight compared to other tarps on the market
11 Best Hammock Tarp for Backpacking – Bear Butt Hammock Rain Fly
Ultra-lightweight and compact, the Bear Butt Hammock Rain Fly is made from high-quality polyester and has more durability and strength than nylon tarps. This weighs just over a pound and comes with a stuff sack for easy packing. If you need a lightweight tarp without sacrificing durability, this one’s a great choice.
Size: 11’ x 9’
Weight: 19 oz
Shape: Diamond
Material: Polyester
Tie-down Points: 4
Pros:
- Easy to set up with the provided instructions
- Lightweight and very portable
Cons:
- Not great for ground use
- Small coverage area compared to other tarps
In Summary
Here are our top 11 hammock tarps in orders for a simple comparison table
4 Things to Consider When Buying a Tarp for Hammock Camping
The best experiences need only the best tools, and that’s no different for your hammock camping trip. That’s why when you’re shopping for a tarp, there are a few important considerations to keep in mind:
Size
When choosing a tarp size, think about how much coverage you’ll need. Thinking of where and when you’ll be using the tarp will help you figure out the size that’s right for you.
For example, if you’re planning to camp on a rainy day, you might want a tarp that’s larger in size to give you more coverage. If you’re looking for a tarp to use as a sunshade, though, then you can go for a smaller size.
Shape
Hammock tarps come in different shapes, and each has its own pros and cons. The most common styles are square, rectangular shape, and diamond. Usually, diamond tarps are much lighter, but they also provide less coverage, especially on the sides. As another example, rectangular ones are longer and have all-sides protection, but they might be a little on the heavier side.
There are also hexagonal tarps like the Eno Profly, Hennesy, and Wise Owl on this list. The hex shape combines the added length of the diamond shape with the extra side coverage of a square shape or rectangular rainfly.
Catenary Tarps are similar to hex tarps but have a slight curve to them to shave a little weight while increasing tension, similar to a suspension bridge.
Material
Durability is the name of the game when it comes to hammock camping tarps, and that all depends on the material. The most common materials used for tarps are nylon and polyester. They are both lightweight and have great waterproofing features.
Other hammock tarp materials include:
- Silnylon: Has nylon threads coated with silicon, making it more waterproof than other materials
- Canvas: A very durable tarp material but might not be for everyone. Not a lightweight material and some might find it a bit stiff.
- Silpoly: Perfect for inclement weather as it is waterproof and has a high tear resistance
- Ripstop Polyester: Most of the tarps on this list are made of ripstop polyester for added durability
- Polyurethene treated: A common waterproof coating for most camping materials
Make sure to choose a tarp with material that will work best for your camping needs.
Tie-down Points
For adjustability and stability, look for a tarp with multiple tie-down points. This will help you secure the tarp in case of strong winds or rains. You can use ropes or straps to tie down the tarp. Usually, a tarp hammock comes with a set of ropes, stakes, and guy lines, so you don’t have to worry about getting additional materials.
Tarp Vs. Rainfly – What’s the Difference?
Tarps and rainflies seem very similar, but there are a few differences. One of them is the material. Tarps are generally made of stronger materials and can be used as your only form of protection over a hammock. Rainflies were made for the rain, so they are usually great for water resistance and not much else.
Of course, the material also changes its weight. Rainflies are much lighter than tarps, so if you’re more of a minimalist and you’re going camping in an area with good weather, you might be able to get away with using a rainfly.
How to Set Up a Hammock Tarp
There are a number of ways to set up a hammock tarp. Watch this video for a brief introduction.
How to Make Hammock Camping Even Better
As you can see, having a tarp for your hammock can take your camping experience to the next level.
But there are a few more things that can make it even better.
A good sleeping pad – is almost essential any time of year, but especially when the weather begins to turn a little bit chilly.
A hammock stand – is great to have, especially when you can’t find the perfect trees to hang your camping hammock from.
A good sleeping bag – is always important when camping.
An underquilt for your hammock – trust me, you won’t know how you survived without one.
A top quilt – Not as necessary as the others, until the weather gets really cold
Quality straps – because they have so many advantages over ropes.
Wrap Up – Best Tarps for Hammock Camping
You might be asking which one is the tarp, but the truth is, there’s no definitive answer to what is the best tarp for hammock camping. It all goes down to personal preference and what type of activities you’ll be doing while hammock camping. Also, the number of people you’re with and how light of a packer you are will affect it, too.
Just keep the four factors we mentioned above in mind to help you narrow down your choices. We recommend the 11 hammocks mentioned above, so be sure to check them out if you’re looking for a great tarp to take along on all your hammock camping adventures.
What size tarp do I need for hammock camping?
Slightly bigger than your hammock. At least 10’ x 9’
Can you use a regular tarp for hammock camping?
Yes, as long as you have enough anchor points and a ridge line.
How do I choose a hammock tarp?
Find one that isn’t too heavy if you’re backpacking, is big enough to cover at least you, and has enough tie-down points to be versatile for any conditions.
How do you rig a tarp for hammock camping?
If it doesn’t have guy points in the middle, run a ridgeline rope above your hammock. Center the tarp over it and stake down the edges.
What is a ridgeline rope used for?
It creates a pitch over the hammock without adding tension to the top. The sides pull down to form an A-frame over the hammock.
Does a hammock need a ridgeline?
Not all do. Some come with tie-down points at the center that replace the need for a full-length ridgeline rope.
What kind of rope do you use for a hammock ridgeline?
Nylon or polyester. I like to use ratcheting tie-down straps.
What is D in Polyester?
D stands for denier. It is essentially the thickness of the material. The higher the denier, the tougher it is. So 210D is more durable than 70D polyester.
