5 Must-Have Camping Tarps

Ever wished for a magical shield against sudden downpours while camping? Our camping tarps are your answer! These aren't your grandma's flimsy plastic sheets; we're talking durable, waterproof shelters, perfect for creating instant shade, a dry cooking area, or even a cozy lean-to. From lightweight backpacking tarps to heavy-duty canopy tarps and their essential guy lines and stakes, we've got you covered for any adventure. Beat the elements and embrace the fun—with our camping tarps.

Providing a curated list of top-performing items helps consumers navigate a crowded market. The selection process considers factors crucial for optimal performance and user satisfaction, ensuring recommendations are reliable and based on objective qualities. This simplifies the decision-making process and leads users to high-quality choices.

1. GEERTOP 17x10ft Waterproof Camping Tarp & Hammock Shelter

Versatile, lightweight, and huge—perfect for any adventure!

GEERTOP 17x10ft Waterproof Camping Tarp & Hammock Shelter
    Highly rated
  • Durability
  • Functionality
  • Size
  • Waterproof
  • Lightweight
  • Versatility
  • Shade
    Some controversy about
  • Poles

The GEERTOP 17 x 10 ft camping tarp provides a versatile and durable shelter for various outdoor adventures. This large, lightweight (3.3 lbs) tarp, made from 210T polyester with a PU3000 mm waterproof coating and UV50+ protection, offers ample coverage for tents, hammocks, or even cars. Reinforced stitching and eight included aluminum stakes and reflective guy lines ensure easy setup and stability, even in windy conditions. Perfect for camping, hiking, or backpacking, its flame-retardant design adds an extra layer of safety. Note: poles are not included. Enjoy the freedom and protection this expansive GEERTOP tarp offers, whether you're picnicking in the park or braving a mountain trek.

This versatile tarp offers incredible value and functionality for various outdoor adventures. Its lightweight and compact design, easily packing into its storage bag (although some users found repacking tricky initially), makes it perfect for backpacking, motorcycle camping, or even as a convenient addition to car camping setups. The abundance of included ropes and stakes provide ample tie-down points for secure anchoring, creating a customizable shelter configuration to suit any need, whether it's a rainfly for a tent, a shaded hangout area, or a standalone shelter. Users praised its durability, successfully withstanding heavy rain, strong winds, and even providing ample coverage for a four-person tent. The reflective underside adds extra sun protection. While some grommets might require careful handling, the tarp's exceptional size, lightweight nature, and multiple setup options far outweigh minor drawbacks. For those seeking a robust, adaptable, and cost-effective shelter solution, this tarp is a standout choice. Consider supplementing with stronger poles for optimal performance in high winds.

  • Brand: GEERTOP
  • Color: Green
  • Dimensions: 11.8"L x 8.6"W x 8.6"H
  • Manufacturer: WILDSROF
  • Material: Polyester
  • Weight: 3.3 pounds
  • Rate: 4.2 / 165
Outstanding features:
  • Waterproof and UV resistant 210T polyester material
  • Large 17x10ft size for versatile shelter options
  • Includes stakes and guylines for easy setup
Context of use:
  • Camping
  • Backpacking
  • Picnic/Beach Shelter

2. Waterproof Tent Footprint & Ground Sheet with Storage Bag

Lightweight, waterproof, versatile protection for tents and more.

Waterproof Tent Footprint & Ground Sheet with Storage Bag
    Highly rated
  • Material quality
  • Fit
  • Weight
  • Functionality
  • Water resistance
  • Value for money
  • Protection level
  • Ease of transport

Protect your tent and enhance your outdoor adventures with the Clostnature Tent Footprint, a heavy-duty, ultralight groundsheet available in six sizes (from 1P to 6P) to fit various tents, including Clostnature tents. Made from durable 190T polyester with a PU 3000 waterproof coating and reinforced with metal grommets, this versatile tarp safeguards your tent floor from wear and tear. Its lightweight (starting at just 6.3 oz) and compact design, easily packing into an included storage bag, makes it ideal for backpacking, hiking, or camping. Beyond tent protection, it functions as a sunshade, beach mat, hammock rain fly, or general shelter. Enjoy peace of mind knowing your investment is protected by Clostnature's one-year warranty.

The Clostnature tent footprint is a versatile and lightweight solution for protecting your tent floor and offering additional uses. Users consistently praise its waterproof capabilities, effectively shielding tents from moisture, sticks, rocks, and other ground hazards. Its compact design and included carry bag make packing easy, a significant advantage for backpacking and camping trips. The grommets and loops at the corners provide multiple attachment points, enabling use as a sunshade or canopy. Many reviewers found the size ideal, particularly for Coleman 6-Person Sundome and MSR Hubba Hubba NX tents, with some even adapting it for creative uses like a makeshift window blind. While some users noted minor water pooling during intense storms, the overall consensus points to a durable, well-priced product that significantly enhances the camping experience. The Clostnature footprint offers excellent value and is a great addition to any camping gear collection.

  • Brand: Clostnature
  • Color: Black
  • Country: China
  • Dimensions: 86"L x 31"W
  • Manufacturer: Clostnature
  • Material: Polyester
  • Size: 1 Person(86'' x 31'')
  • Weight: 6.2 Ounces
  • Rate: 4.6 / 1660
Outstanding features:
  • Waterproof and heavy-duty material protects your tent from wear and tear.
  • Lightweight and compact design for easy packing.
  • Multifunctional use as a groundsheet, sunshade, or hammock rain fly.
Context of use:
  • Backpacking
  • Camping
  • Beach picnics

3. Amazon Basics Waterproof Camping Tarp

Durable, waterproof, versatile tarp: perfect for camping and more!

Amazon Basics Waterproof Camping Tarp
    Highly rated
  • Value for money
  • Works well
  • Quality
  • Size
  • Waterproof
  • Use for camping
    Some controversy about
  • Durability
  • Thickness

The Amazon Basics Waterproof Camping Tarp is a versatile and durable outdoor essential, perfect for complementing your Amazon Basics 4-Person Dome Tent or providing extra shelter. Its waterproof design, crafted from rip-stop fabric with polyethylene lamination, ensures reliable protection from the elements. Measuring 8 ft x 10 ft (slightly smaller than the 9.5' x 11.3' listed in some product comparisons), this lightweight tarp (only 1.61 lbs) offers ample coverage for gear or as a groundsheet under your tent. Reinforced corners and edges guarantee lasting strength, making it ideal for camping trips, picnics, or any outdoor adventure. Pair it with your Amazon Basics sleeping bag and sleeping pad for ultimate comfort.

The Amazon Basics waterproof camping tarp is a versatile and durable solution for a variety of outdoor needs. Users consistently praise its robust construction and waterproof capabilities, making it ideal as a groundsheet under a tent, equipment cover, or rain shield. Its generous size provides ample coverage, while the lightweight yet strong material makes it easy to pack and carry. Multiple reinforced grommets and tear-resistant rip-stop fabric ensure longevity and secure fastening. Customers have successfully used it for camping, car protection, and general outdoor applications, highlighting its surprising versatility and excellent value for the price. While some users noted that it might not be the absolute heaviest-duty tarp on the market, the overwhelmingly positive feedback points to a reliable and dependable product perfect for anyone seeking a practical and affordable waterproof solution.

  • Brand: Amazon Basics
  • Color: Dark Green
  • Dimensions: 120"L x 90"W
  • Manufacturer: Amazon
  • Material: Polyethylene (PE)
  • Size: 8 ft x 10 ft
  • Style: 8 Ft X 10 Ft
  • Weight: 0.68 Kilograms
  • Rate: 4.6 / 11920
Outstanding features:
  • Waterproof design
  • Durable rip-stop fabric
  • Reinforced corners and edges
Context of use:
  • Camping shelter
  • Emergency shelter
  • Groundsheet/picnic blanket

4. Free Soldier Waterproof Camping Tarp (10x10.5ft Brown)

Durable, waterproof, versatile tarp; ideal for outdoor adventures.

Free Soldier Waterproof Camping Tarp (10x10.5ft Brown)
    Highly rated
  • Build quality
  • Waterproof
  • Functionality
  • Value for money
  • Versatility
  • Size
  • Tarp quality
    Some controversy about
  • Weight

The FREE SOLDIER Waterproof Portable Tarp (Brown, 10x10.5ft) is your ultimate outdoor companion for camping, backpacking, and travel adventures. This versatile 210T ripstop polyester tarp boasts a waterproof, tear-resistant design with double-reinforced stitches and sealed seams, ensuring reliable protection from rain and sun. Equipped with four aluminum tie-downs and four nylon guy lines, setup is quick and easy, allowing for various configurations as a shelter, awning, hammock rain fly, or groundsheet. Its compact, portable design, complete with a carrying backpack, makes it ideal for hiking and travel. Enjoy enhanced UV protection and peace of mind knowing this heavy-duty tarp is built to last through even the harshest weather conditions.

The FREE SOLDIER Waterproof Portable Tarp is a versatile and durable outdoor essential, perfect for camping, hiking, and various other activities. Made from high-quality 210T ripstop polyester with a 2500 PU waterproof rating, this tarp provides excellent protection from rain and UV rays. Its robust construction, featuring tear and puncture-resistant fabric and reinforced seams, ensures long-lasting performance. Users consistently praise its ease of setup and pack-away thanks to included nylon guy lines with tensioners and a convenient stuff sack. The ample size allows for multiple configurations, from shelter to groundsheet, providing ample coverage. While some users noted the included stakes could be improved, the tarp itself is highly regarded for its waterproof capabilities and overall reliability, making it a worthwhile investment for any outdoor enthusiast. The FREE SOLDIER tarp's exceptional quality and value make it a top choice for adventurers seeking dependable weather protection.

  • Brand: FREE SOLDIER
  • Color: Brown 10×10.5ft
  • Dimensions: 9.84"L x 10.17"W
  • Manufacturer: FREE SOLDIER
  • Material: Polyester
  • Size: 10×10.5ft
  • Weight: 2.2 pounds
  • Rate: 4.7 / 3525
Outstanding features:
  • Waterproof and durable ripstop fabric
  • Easy setup with included accessories
  • Versatile for multiple outdoor uses
Context of use:
  • Backpacking
  • Camping
  • Hiking

5. 8x10' Waterproof Heavy-Duty Green Tarp: Multipurpose Emergency Shelter

Durable, weatherproof, and surprisingly affordable protection.

8x10
    Highly rated
  • Value for money
  • Tarp quality
  • Water resistance
  • Works well
  • Size
    Some controversy about
  • Durability
  • Thickness
  • Holes

Introducing the CARTMAN 8x10 ft Waterproof Green Tarp, a heavy-duty (8 mil thick) solution for diverse outdoor needs. This versatile tarp provides reliable protection against rain and dust, making it ideal for camping, construction, or covering valuable equipment (like boats or vehicles). Reinforced corners and metal grommets (every 36 inches) ensure secure fastening. Choose from a range of thicknesses (5-20 mil) to match your application, from lightweight short-term use to extreme weather conditions. Its polyethylene material guarantees durability and waterproof performance. Enjoy peace of mind knowing your items are shielded with a CARTMAN tarp, the ultimate protective cover.

The Cartman tarp is a surprisingly strong and durable option for various applications, offering excellent weather protection at a reasonable price. Users praised its ability to withstand significant rainfall and strong winds, keeping outdoor furniture, boats (like a 20' pontoon), and trailers dry. The 8 mil thickness provides impressive strength and allows for secure stretching without tearing, even in 30 mph winds. The grommets, while noted as sometimes unevenly spaced, generally held up well, even under considerable water weight. Many found the tarp easy to hang and store, appreciating its compact foldability. While some users reported minor issues such as grommet stretching or perceived lightweight construction in comparison to other products, the overall consensus points to the Cartman tarp as a reliable and effective solution for protecting belongings from the elements. Its superior strength compared to other brands makes it ideal for demanding uses, such as protection at events like Burning Man.

  • Brand: CARTMAN
  • Color: Green/Green 8mil
  • Dimensions: 120"L x 96"W
  • Manufacturer: CARTMAN
  • Material: Polyethylene (PE)
  • Size: 8'x10'
  • Weight: 3.53 ounces
  • Rate: 4.5 / 3784
Outstanding features:
  • Waterproof and Dustproof
  • Reinforced and Heat-Sealed Edges
  • Durable 8 Mil Thick Polyethylene
Context of use:
  • Camping
  • Construction
  • Emergency shelter