Tarp for Hammock and Camping Use

**DBsport** · 03-21-2011, 11:56

I'm looking for a tarp to serve the dual purpose of a hammock tarp and a ground camping shelter.

I've read many websites and threads about tarps, but I still don't know what to purchase. Yes, I'm a noob!

DETAILS:
Work as a hammock tarp
Work as a ground camping shelter (i.e. set-up like a tent)
Be < $100
(3) Season Use

I like the OES MacCat Micro & Standard, but do not know if they'd serve as an adequate ground shelter.

Thanks for you feedback and suggestions!

**Bubba** · 03-21-2011, 12:05

How much room do you want if using it as a ground shelter. I would think the OES 4 season tarps would provide way more than enough hammock coverage yet be generous as a ground shelter. The extra fabric on the ends can be used as doors to provide further weather protection. You can request the "doors" be a straight cut as opposed to a cat cut so it can close off better.

**DBsport** · 03-21-2011, 12:18

I really only need room for me and my gear.

The 4 Season looks good, but I think it might be a bit too big.

**gargoyle** · 03-21-2011, 12:38

I got a tarp that works well as both.
On the ground.
Breckenridge 001.jpg
Breckenridge 015.jpg

Or over a hammock.
Ogee multiple setup 024.jpg
Ogee double hammock 007.jpg

**PDA** · 03-21-2011, 13:19

Just about any 8'x10' tarp will serve both purposes. For a hammock suspend it corner to corner for a long ridge line (12.8') asym diamond. For a ground shelter, there are many set up options. COst from $300 for cuben down through variious scales for different materials. I "spent" a six pack on a construction site for a left over piece of Tyvek housewrap which was big enough for 2 tarps and a small ground cloth. IMMO Tyvek is a good starting material because it is so inexpensive, light and very near bomb proof. ot very stealthy (except in winter) though.

**bigbamaguy** · 03-21-2011, 15:19

Look at thetarps that Paul is sell over at Arrowhead Equipment. I have seen the Shangra-La and it will definitely fit the bill over a hammock.

**Dunk** · 03-27-2011, 14:39

I would think that any regular rectangular tarp would work well for both uses. I usually use my 3m x 4.5m (DD) tarp. It's great over my hammock and you can also make some great large shelters for 2+ people ground dwelling.

Here it is set up over a hammock and a bivi (not at its full length) and also from a trip over Xmas were 2 of us wanted a tent-style set up to keep out the cold.

**DBsport** · 03-27-2011, 16:07

Thanks for the suggestions!

I ended up ordering a Cat Cut 8 x 10 Silnylon Tarp from OES.

Being a Noob, what do you guys recommend for guy-lines and ridge-lines?
I guess my ideal choice would be something I can use in hammock or tent mode.
(I think my non-hammock mode use will be set-up tent style.)

Thanks again.