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9 Best Camping Tarps in 2022 (Outdoor Guide-Reviewed)

When you're going camping, the most important thing is your tent. But what happens when nature doesn't cooperate with your camping plans? When you have to face the relentless heat from the sun or deal with heavy snowfall, you might regret taking that trip. So, grab a tarp! A tarp can protect you from the rain, sun, snow, and wind.


When we checked out the myriad of choices, we decided that the B-Air Grizzly Tarp is the most impressive. It's a top pick for many camping enthusiasts too! We loved it for its quality, simple design, and waterproof capabilities. We've also got eight other great tarp options for you, so read on. Also check out our buying guide reviewed by an outdoor guide for more information to help you choose the right tarp for your camping needs. 

Last updated 09/26/2023
Eugene Pak
Expert
Outdoor Guide/Videographer/Writer
Eugene Pak

My name is 박 (Pak). I am a first-generation Korean American who has worked in the outdoors for 6 years as a guide. Now I'm enjoying traveling around with my bicycle and spending time outdoors with my dog Gaara.

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Table of Contents

How to Choose Camping Tarps

When buying a camping tarp, consider its weather-proofing, waterproofing, and durability. This buying guide discusses all the necessary factors that you need to know about choosing a tarp for camping. 

1

Look for a Lightweight and Waterproof Tarp

Look for a Lightweight and Waterproof Tarp

Nylon tarps are often combined with other materials, like silicone, to make them highly waterproof and durable. Ripstop nylon is an excellent choice for tarps as it is flexible and resistant to tears. These tarps are often used for parachutes and yachts, attesting to their durability under extreme weather conditions. 


Due to the waterproof coating, nylon tarps might not be lightweight enough for those seeking to pack very lightly. When wet, these tarps can stretch and sag. But, if you're using the tarp as a tent footprint, nylon tarps are the best. 


Poly tarps are quite popular with lightweight backpackers. Of these, silpoly tarps have a blend of polyester and silicone that makes them waterproof and lightweight. They don't stretch when they're wet and can withstand moderate weather conditions.


The lightest tarps are made from Cuben fiber. But, these tarps are susceptible to punctures when taut after they're fully-pitched. Tyrek tarps are less common, but they are lightweight and breathable. These are water-resistant as well but can take up more space than the other types.


If you want to know how thick a tarp is, look for the "mil" number. A mil of 6 is considered lightweight, while a mil of 10 or higher is more heavy-duty.

2

Choose Between Flat and Shaped Tarps

Flat tarps are flat like a sheet, and shaped ones are designed to be pitched in various shapes. Both have different pros and cons!

Flat Tarps Are Simpler and Easy to Set Up

Flat Tarps Are Simpler and Easy to Set Up

Flat tarps come in a square or rectangular form with flat edges, and they are larger and heavier than shaped tarps. Square tarps have room for more than one person, whereas a rectangular tarp suits solo hikers. Since they have more coverage, square tarps are good at dealing with heavy rain and wind.


Flat tarps are also versatile; they are easy to set up as a rainfly or a tent footprint. The shelter space it gives depends on how you pitch the tarp. Depending on the terrain and weather conditions at your campsite, these flexible tarps can be pitched in various shapes. Flat tarps are more popular than lightweight shaped tarps among the backpacking and outdoor crowd.


The best part is that you can pitch it very low to the ground for ultimate protection from wind and the elements. It may take a while before you learn all the ways to pitch a flat tarp, though!

Eugene Pak
Outdoor Guide/Videographer/Writer
Eugene Pak

Flat tarps are good to have regardless of where you'll be camping. They have many uses. Tarps can be used for sunshade, a warmth layer, or used to signal if lost. In a pinch, they can be used for medical use or for emergencies, collecting water, and so on. Not a bad idea to have one around.

Lightweight Shaped Tarps Are Good for Winter Camping

Lightweight Shaped Tarps Are Good for Winter Camping

Shaped tarps come with catenary curves (curved edges) and ridgelines that give them different forms. Due to their angled walls and curved edges, they are the best fit for cold weather conditions. And, when there's snowfall, the snow will slide off the angled surface without accumulating on top of the tarp.


Tarps with catenary curves or cat-cut tarps correctly spread out the tension through the ridgelines. If you fully pitch it, the tarp will give you perfect tautness. However, when fully pitched under extreme weather conditions, the tarps may shrink or expand; this can eventually cause damage. 



These tarps also lack versatility, and the ways you can pitch them are limited. They cannot be pitched low like a flat tarp.


The curved edges also reduce the amount of shelter space these tarps provide. This tarp also isn't a great choice if you're camping under tight quarters. Since they're not flexible, pitching them in cramped spaces can be challenging. However, they're a hit amongst the backpackers as they are lightweight and easy to set up.

Eugene Pak
Outdoor Guide/Videographer/Writer
Eugene Pak

Lightweight-shaped tarps are really useful for hammock campers as it's hard to pitch a tarp really low to prevent rain from hitting a hammock.

3

Know the Difference Between Waterproof and Water-Resistant Tarps

Know the Difference Between Waterproof and Water-Resistant Tarps

A 100% waterproof tarp isn't easy to find. A water-resistant tarp still can offer protection against moisture, including dew and condensation. If you're camping in areas with light to moderate rain, water-resistance should be enough. 


But, if you plan to camp under extreme or unpredictable weather conditions, you need to be prepared with the best gear for protection. A waterproof tarp made of nylon, polyester, or vinyl will have a waterproof coating that makes it impervious to water. 


A lightweight waterproof tarp can weigh up to one pound, and a heavy one can weigh a few pounds. Again, the weight depends on the tarp's size. A heavy-duty waterproof tarp is less likely to flap in the wind and tear, and it can offer you reliable protection for a considerable amount of time.


Water-resistance is measured with a hydrostatic resistant rating, which can be anywhere from 2000 millimeters and up. A 2,000 millimeter rating means the material can withstand a water column of 2,000 millimeters a day before the drops start penetrating through it.


Anything between 1,000 and 5,000 millimeters is ideal for icy and wet weather conditions, especially for extended camping trips. 

4

Go for a Tarp With Great Coverage

Go for a Tarp With Great Coverage

Whether you need temporary shelter or a footprint for your tent, your tarp should give excellent coverage and shelter space. The size of the tarp depends on the number of people that need shelter. To use it as a hammock rainfly, you need to measure the hammock and consider the number of hammocks you'll use. 


If you plan to use it as a rainfly for your tent, it should give enough space to protect your tent and any other camping gear placed outside. Again, a bigger tarp can save you from the elements, but a narrow one cannot offer that protection. 


Raindrops can also fall sideways, so it's essential to have a broader tarp to offer enough shelter space. It's best to go for a tarp that is at least 60 square feet, regardless of whether you will use it as a footprint or survival shelter. This size can cover two sleepers and leave some space for their gear.

Eugene Pak
Outdoor Guide/Videographer/Writer
Eugene Pak

A tarp shelter is great for fitting multiple people with maximum coverage. A tarp shelter that is in the shape of a pyramid is fully enclosed, 360 degrees. It is usually held up with hiking poles or a collapsible pole with a front enclosure to block out the elements. Depending on the size of the shelter you can fit up to 4 or more in all types of weather.

5

Decide Between Bright or Camouflaging Tarps

Decide Between Bright or Camouflaging Tarps

If you're putting up a shelter under the sun, you don't want a dark tarp that can attract a lot of sunlight. Silver and white are sought-after colors for tarps since silver can block sunlight well, while white allows some natural light to pass through.


Wildlife photographers might need to camouflage themselves with a green or brown tarp so their presence won't startle animals. But, a camouflaged tarp can also be challenging to spot if you get lost in the wild. Some tarps have light reflectors on their guy lines, which are an advantage if your tent's color is difficult to spot. 


Bright tarps are the best as they reflect sunlight and help you quickly spot your tarp. If you're camping alone, it's best to go for a bright-colored tarp.

Eugene Pak
Outdoor Guide/Videographer/Writer
Eugene Pak

Camouflage tarps aren't really necessary unless one needs them for their blending properties. For most campers, it is recommended to choose a bright tarp.

6

Select a Tarp That's Useful and Easy to Set Up

Select a Tarp That's Useful and Easy to Set Up

No one wants to spend a ton of time setting up a tarp! If the tarp has grommets, it will be easier to tie ropes and guy lines. However, metal grommets can make the tarp heavier and damage it over time. A tarp with tie-out loops is a better option for longevity. If it has at least 9 tie-out loops, you can make most configurations!


If you're planning to use the tarp to protect your tent's base, keep these points in mind. Measure the floor and go for a tarp one size larger. Make sure not to choose a rectangular tarp for a square tent, too! An excessively big tarp can be a burden for the backpacker who needs an easy-to-setup tent, as well.


A tarp that gives maximum support with minimal accessories will be the best bet. Ensure that the tarp has at least four attachment points, regardless of its size. A tarp with six to eight attachment points will have more stability under windy conditions.


Also, look for connectors to attach items like insect-proof liners and lanterns. If you're camping in a place that's rich with mosquitoes, midges, or other insects, these add ons will be beneficial!

Eugene Pak
Outdoor Guide/Videographer/Writer
Eugene Pak

Some companies make tarps that have adjustable guylines on the cord of the tarp. This makes for an adjustable length for your tarp setup and gives you the ability to adjust the tension of the tarp when tying it down. Having tie out points on both sides of the tarp also comes in handy as rain can make the tarp sag, and these tie points prevent that from happening.

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9 Best Camping Tarps Ranking

Here are the best Camping Tarps, ranked according to 9 Best Camping Tarps (as of 11-04-2022). The products are ranked independently by mybest.
Popularity
Products
Image
Click to purchase
Price
Key features
1

B-Air

Grizzly Tarp

B-Air  Grizzly Tarp 1

$7.99

Low

A Popular and Durable Tarp Preferred by Campers

2

Kotap

Heavy-Duty Tarp With UV Protection

Kotap Heavy-Duty Tarp With UV Protection 1

$23.31

Mid

UV-Coated Tarp for Heavy-Duty Protection

3

Amazon Basics

Waterproof Camping Tarp

Amazon Basics Waterproof Camping Tarp 1

$19.07

Mid

Multipurpose, Laminated, and Waterproof Camping Tarp

4

Aqua Quest

Bushcraft Survival Shelter Tarp

Aqua Quest Bushcraft Survival Shelter Tarp 1

$99.99

High

Sturdy Camouflage Tarp for Camping in the Wilderness

5

Redcamp

Waterproof Camping Tarp

Redcamp Waterproof Camping Tarp 1

$18.99

Mid

Compact and Portable Camping Tarp for Medium Tents

6

Dry Top

Reversible Poly Tarp

Dry Top Reversible Poly Tarp 1

$21.37

Mid

Dual-Laminated and Reversible Tarp for More Coverage

7

Free Soldier

Waterproof Portable Tarp

Free Soldier Waterproof Portable Tarp  1

$42.99

High Mid

Versatile Shaped Tarp for Multi-Directional Protection

8

Foxelli

Rain Tarp

Foxelli  Rain Tarp 1

$29.97

Mid

Diamond-Shaped Tarp to Cover Bigger Hammocks

9

Outry

Waterproof Multi-Purpose Tarp

Outry  Waterproof Multi-Purpose Tarp 1

$15.99

Low Mid

Multipurpose Lightweight Tarp for Camping in Extreme Weather

If you don't see the product you're looking for, you can request that it be listed.
No.1

B-Air Grizzly Tarp

Grizzly Tarp 1
Source:amazon.com
Grizzly Tarp 2
Source:amazon.com
Grizzly Tarp 3
Source:amazon.com
Reference price
$7.99
Low
Reference price
$7.99
Low

A Popular and Durable Tarp Preferred by Campers

This rectangular tarp is made of tightly-woven polyethylene fibers to add durability. It's lightweight, but it can still withstand the elements. The piping at its borders is noteworthy; this keeps the ends resistant to tears when the tarp is pitched. 


This waterproof tarp also functions as a footprint for your tent. The grommets are placed every 36 inches around the edge, making it easy to tie down. When it's dirty, you can wash and dry it for the next use. 


Some campers experienced the grommets falling apart during heavy winds. Those who were happy with this versatile tarp found many uses for it. It worked great as a rainfly and footprint. Many campers felt like it protected well and lived up to its waterproof claims. 

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No.2

KotapHeavy-Duty Tarp With UV Protection

Heavy-Duty Tarp With UV Protection 1
Source:amazon.com
Heavy-Duty Tarp With UV Protection 2
Source:amazon.com
Reference price
$23.31
Mid
Reference price
$23.31
Mid

UV-Coated Tarp for Heavy-Duty Protection

If you have a significantly bigger tent, this tarp will work well as a tent base. Or, use it as a rain fly or a hammock tarp for protection against the elements in extreme weather conditions. In addition, the silver UV coating offers excellent protection against the sun's rays. 


The water-resistant tarp is also designed to resist mold, mildew, and shrinkage. The heat sealing at the seams adds extra strength while it's pitched. For some of the campers, though, suspending and securing the tarp using the grommets was a mishap. 


Some were also disappointed by the inaccurate size description. The manufacturer has provided the finished dimensions, which are slightly smaller than the listed 12 feet.  But many users loved that the tarp was sizeable and heavy-duty. There were compliments about it withstanding harsh summers and winters, too.

No.3

Amazon BasicsWaterproof Camping Tarp

Waterproof Camping Tarp 1
Source:amazon.com
Waterproof Camping Tarp 2
Source:amazon.com
Reference price
$19.07
Mid
Reference price
$19.07
Mid

Multipurpose, Laminated, and Waterproof Camping Tarp

This flat tarp is especially useful as a tent footprint or for covering your items at a campground. It's made of ripstop fabric, famous for its tear-resistance and use in hot air balloons, parachutes, and yacht sails. Plus, there's polyethylene lamination on both sides to keep it durable and waterproof. 


The hemmed edges reinforce the fabric to keep it strong while it's secured using the grommets. This dark green tarp is great for camouflage, and it is also available in two sizes. Both sizes are suitable for protecting you from the elements or creating a moisture barrier for your tent floor. 


Some users pointed out that the tarps didn't match the measurements mentioned by the manufacturer. Overall, there were many satisfied buyers for whom the tarp worked well. According to some happy reviewers, it held up well despite being light.

No.4

Aqua QuestBushcraft Survival Shelter Tarp

Bushcraft Survival Shelter Tarp 1
Source:amazon.com
Bushcraft Survival Shelter Tarp 2
Source:amazon.com
Reference price
$99.99
High
Reference price
$99.99
High

Sturdy Camouflage Tarp for Camping in the Wilderness

Look no further when you're camping in extreme weather conditions! This tarp can protect your tent, cover your hammock, shade you from the sun and rain, and keep your tent floor dry. It's made of 70D nylon fabric, which any camping expert would pick as one of the best materials for camping shelters. 


There are no grommets but rather tie loops to secure the tarp. And, there are two loops to hang lanterns. The tarp has a water resistance of 20,000 millimeters, which is one of the highest levels of resistance available! Plus, there's a waterproof coating. 


A few users felt that it was heavy without being heavy-duty. However,  many campers praised this tarp. They thought it was well-made, durable, and versatile. Many found the use of tie loops more convenient than grommets, too.

No.5

RedcampWaterproof Camping Tarp

Waterproof Camping Tarp 1
Source:amazon.com
Waterproof Camping Tarp 2
Source:amazon.com
Reference price
$18.99
Mid
Reference price
$18.99
Mid

Compact and Portable Camping Tarp for Medium Tents

Redcamp offers tarps ideal for using as a footprint for a range of tent sizes. Also, it can provide enough rain and shine coverage for one or two people when used as a rainfly or a hammock tarp. When folded, it packs compactly into the included drawstring pouch. The manufacturer also offers a money-back guarantee for the product regardless of where you're buying it from. 


This waterproof tarp is additionally reinforced with taped seams to keep any kind of moisture out. Some buyers had issues with the tarp's size, though. According to them, the tarps measured smaller than advertised. 


Tarp sizes are measured before the edges are closed and hemmed. So, it's common to find it a few inches shorter than the advertised size. But for many campers, the tarp gave enough footprint and coverage for at least two people. Many users vouched for its quality and portability, too!

No.6

Dry TopReversible Poly Tarp

Reversible Poly Tarp 1
Source:amazon.com
Reversible Poly Tarp 2
Source:amazon.com
Reference price
$21.37
Mid
Reference price
$21.37
Mid

Dual-Laminated and Reversible Tarp for More Coverage

This big tarp is dual-laminated, which keeps it resistant to water, mold, and mildew. You can also call it fairly heavy-duty as it's made of a tightly-woven polyethylene fabric with a thickness of 7 mils. The highlight is that it's reversible, so you can use both sides and get the same benefits.


There are grommets placed every three feet that allow you to secure the tarp and pitch it fully. However, the tarp felt too thin for some users, and some campers reported the grommets ripping at places. It's crucial to secure the tarp tightly so it doesn't flap in windy conditions and tear near the grommets. 


When used as a footprint, many campers had success keeping water out of their tent floors. It also worked well as a rainfly and offered excellent coverage for bigger tents

No.7

Free SoldierWaterproof Portable Tarp

Waterproof Portable Tarp  1
Source:amazon.com
Waterproof Portable Tarp  2
Source:amazon.com
Reference price
$42.99
High Mid
Reference price
$42.99
High Mid

Versatile Shaped Tarp for Multi-Directional Protection

This ripstop polyester hammock tarp has a coating to protect it from UV rays and water. Apart from the tarp, you'll also get four guylines with tensioners, tent stakes, and a stuff sack to safely carry all these essentials. 


Our favorite feature is that you can pitch it to create shelter on all sides. Grommets are provided on the seams of the ridgelines, but tie loops or guy points are generously distributed on the edges to secure the tarp as needed. It also doubles as a footprint for your tent when needed. 


However, some users experienced leaking at the seams. One user recommended sealing the seams to prevent this! It was also reported to be too bulky and heavy for backpacking trips. But many loved the tarp for its good quality and generous size. Some praised it for the many guy points that facilitated pitching it in various configurations.

No.8

Foxelli Rain Tarp

Rain Tarp 1
Source:amazon.com
Rain Tarp 2
Source:amazon.com
Reference price
$29.97
Mid
Reference price
$29.97
Mid

Diamond-Shaped Tarp to Cover Bigger Hammocks

This tarp might look no different than the other ones that come with a survival kit, but this product has extra-long guy lines. The diamond shape has a 12-foot center ridgeline that offers generous coverage to any tent or hammock. 


The kit is light, weighing in at just over one pound. Backpackers and hikers can use this tarp for better protection from rain, shine, and snow. It also comes with an impressive 120-day money-back guarantee and a three-year manufacturer warranty. 


A few users reported receiving it with parts missing or stitches coming off. Overall, users commended the long reflective guy lines that made it easier to spot their tents at night. The setup was relatively easy for many buyers, too. Reviewers also attested to it being the best choice for backpacking trips!

No.9

Outry Waterproof Multi-Purpose Tarp

Waterproof Multi-Purpose Tarp 1
Source:amazon.com
Waterproof Multi-Purpose Tarp 2
Source:amazon.com
Reference price
$15.99
Low Mid
Reference price
$15.99
Low Mid

Multipurpose Lightweight Tarp for Camping in Extreme Weather

This versatile tarp is available in small, medium, and large sizes. And, the 210D oxford fabric makes it ripstop and waterproof!


The best part is the tent pegs with hooks that allow you to keep the tarp affixed to the ground while using it as a footprint. So, you won't have to worry about it flapping around when it's gusty outside.


There were dislikes about the tarp being thin and light. Some reviewers also reported the material ripping at the grommets. However, several reviewers said that the tarp helped them stay dry, regardless of extreme weather conditions. Many experienced great ground cover without any rainwater pooling in the tent.  

More Essentials for Your Next Camping Trip

Camping doesn't mean you need to give up your creature comforts altogether! Check out these products to make your next camping trip fun and relaxing. 

Buying Guide Reviewed by Outdoor Guide Pak Eugene

Eugene Pak
Outdoor Guide/Videographer/Writer
Eugene Pak

This expert reviewed the contents of the buying guide for accuracy and provided factual corrections when necessary. They did not participate in the product selection process, nor are they affiliated with any of our choices unless explicitly stated so.

Top 5 Camping Tarps

No. 1: B-Air Grizzly Tarp

No. 2: KotapHeavy-Duty Tarp With UV Protection

No. 3: Amazon BasicsWaterproof Camping Tarp

No. 4: Aqua QuestBushcraft Survival Shelter Tarp

No. 5: RedcampWaterproof Camping Tarp

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The descriptions of each product are referenced from content available on manufacturer, brand, and e-commerce sites.
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