Homemade Canvas Camping Tents
- 1). Search near your desired campsite for a large tree with a wide trunk. If possible, avoid selecting a tree near water or exposed to the wind.
- 2). Find a rock the size of a basketball with a heavily textured surface. Collect four additional rocks at least ten pounds apiece in any shape.
- 3). Tie one end of your twine or cordage around the large tree at least six feet off the ground.
- 4). Extend 10 or 12 feet of cordage from the tree and tie another loop around the heavily textured rock. The texture will prevent the loop from slipping away. Pull the rock away from the tree until the cordage is taut. Flicking the cordage should produce a satisfactory strumming sound.
- 5). Drape your canvas sheet across the cordage lengthwise. Pull the corners outward and place the four smaller rocks atop the corners to hold them fast. The slanted nature of the canvas tent will direct any rainwater to the tent's base near the textured rock.
- 6). Line the floor of your tent with foam pads, pine needles or tree boughs. Place your sleeping bag atop the padding with the head near the tent opening.
- 7). Build a small fire between the tent opening and the tree trunk. The trunk will act as a backboard, directing extra heat into the tent.
- 8). Take down your tent by removing the rocks from the corners, untying the cordage from the large rock and tree trunk and folding up the canvas sheet.
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