Best Tarps for Camping: Sizes You Need

As relaxing as a good camping trip can be, preparations need to be made for poor weather. Rain, wind, and snow are among these challenging weather patterns to brace for. One of the best tools for weatherproofing any tent or camper is a tarp. Whether you are trying to protect your gear and belongings from precipitation, shade your tent from the hot sun, or make a protected storage area, we’re here to recommend the best camping tarps.  

This guide will help you work through your tarp size and material needs, based on your preferences and activities. Let’s go!

Different Types of Tarps 

Before we start on tarp size options, it’s important to understand what types of tarps you’ll be choosing from. Depending on campsite terrain and your specific preferences, you can narrow down your search for the best tarps by type.

Standard Camping Tarps

Most commonly used, standard tarps are versatile enough for most any general camping purpose. They can be used for shelter, weather barriers, or shade. If needed, they can serve as groundcloths, too. White Duck’s canvas tarps are exceptionally durable for general use. These are the most common types of tarp used for general camping purposes. Snag one of these gems if you need extra coverage for your campsite!

Tent Tarps

Using a Heavy-duty tent? Adding a specialized tent tarp offers extra protection. Whether made from canvas or plastic, a tarp prevents water from pooling and leaking through the tent. It also shields the fabric from UV damage, helping extend your tent’s lifespan.

Ground Tarps/Groundcloths

Ground tarps serve as protection for the bottom of your tent. Not only do they keep it dry, but also protect it from rips and tears due to rocks and twigs on the ground. They also help make sure there’s no water seeping through the tent floor during torrential rains. There’s nothing worse than wet bedding and gear. 

Rain Flies/Fly Sheets

For particularly rainy climates, you may choose a rain fly or fly sheet. These are specially-made waterproof tarps that provide extra coverage from the elements for your sleeping or cooking area. You can find rainflies made of silicon or polyurethane-coated materials to keep you safe from moisture. 

Multi-Purpose

Multi-purpose tarps are durable and designed for a wide range of uses. They are versatile and work as cooking shelters, ground covers, or moisture defense for your tent. These heavy-duty tarps can withstand years of intense use. Typically, multi-purpose tarps feature multiple grommets for easy, secure attachment.

Both canvas and poly tarps are widely recognized for their high-quality design and durability. Made from top-tier materials, they come with reinforced grommets and attachment points for efficient setup. Additionally, these tarps are mildew-resistant and feature reinforced seams that stand strong against windy and wet conditions. These features make tarps of all sizes and materials ideal for any adventure.

Understanding What Size Tarp You Need

Choosing the right tarp size depends entirely on what you plan to use it for, the number of people who will be using it, and your tent size.  

Small Tarps

6’ x 8’ tarps or 8’ x 10’ tarps are classified as “small” tarps. These sizes are great for solo camping or small backpacking groups who need a lightweight shelter. Hammock campers might want to throw in a small tarp for extra protection. Small tarps are perfect for ground protection under a small solo or two-person tent. They work great for staking out your campsite cooking area, too.  

Medium Tarps 

Medium-sized tarps typically measure 10’ x 10’ or 10’ x 20’, and strike a perfect balance between coverage and portability. Medium-sized tarps are big enough to cover small tents, shade hammocks, or serve as an overhead shelter for multiple people to sleep under. They’re great for creating a covered gear storage vestibule or covering an outdoor kitchen.  

Large Tarps

12’ x 16’ or 16’ x 20’ tarps–“large” tarps–are designed for expansive setups. They provide plenty of protection for group camping. They are ideal for sheltering multiple tents or creating a socializing spot for big groups of people. Large tarps are good to have on hand if you’re car camping, (they’re not quite so portable) and can be used as emergency shelters during inclement weather.

Extra Large Tarps

You’ll know you’re working with an “extra large” tarp if it measures 20’ x 20’ or larger. They are super convenient and helpful when you need to set up a large base camp, shield large equipment from the elements, and more. Extra large tarps can also be used during large outdoor parties or gatherings to expand comfort and convenience. 

Choosing the Right Tarps for Your Tent and Preferences 

Here are some of the most important factors and features to consider when choosing the right tarp for your outdoor excursions:

Tent Compatibility

If you choose a canvas tent from WhiteDuck, finding a compatible tarp for your tent size is easy. Cheat code: a 12’ x 16’ tarp is likely ideal for a 6-person tent. You’ll need a larger tarp if you’re camping with more than six people. For wall tents with extended vestibules, consider going extra-large.

Weather Conditions

Consider the common weather conditions in the area you plan to camp in. Before your trip, take a look at the forecast. If you are heading into a rainy climate, choose a large, waterproof tarp with full coverage. Silicone or polyurethane waterproofing treatments and reinforced seams are huge features to look for. In drier conditions, a tarp that provides shade from the sun will also make camp way more comfortable. 

Portability & Weight

Tarps come in many different weights and densities. Lighter options are key for backpacking and solo camping. Heavy-duty, dense tarps made of thick materials are better for base camps or instances wherein you are car camping. Choose one that appropriately stands up to your needs for portability and durability.  

Flexible Functionality

Multi-purpose poly tarps are designed for almost any camping situation. With durable materials reinforced by UV-resistant and waterproof coatings, these tarps are built to last. Available in various sizes, they’re perfect for cooking setups, storage solutions, and even emergencies.

To Sum it Up… 

A reliable tarp is a game-changer for your camping adventures. They offer protection from inclement weather, preserve your tent’s longevity, and increase storage space. White Duck Outdoors offers a variety of high-quality tarps in many different sizes. From small tarps for solo adventurers to the largest sizes fit for group trips, White Duck’s canvas and poly tarps are specifically designed to meet any camping needs.  

It’s important to understand what the different tarp sizes are, and which one is most appropriate for you based on your camping style, tent size, and weather demands. By using this guide to help you consider all these factors in addition to tarp size, you can be sure that your next camping trip is a comfortable success.