There are two main approaches to wilderness shelters: bringing one with you or building one on-site.
Brought Shelters:
- Tent: This is the most common and versatile option. Tents come in a variety of shapes and sizes, so you can choose one that fits your needs and budget. For wilderness camping, a backpacking tent is ideal – lightweight and easy to set up.
- Hammock: Hammocks are a great option for lightweight backpacking and camping in areas with plenty of trees. They can be very comfortable, and they keep you off the ground away from insects and critters. However, they are not a good choice in areas with limited trees or very cold weather.
- Tarp: A tarp is a simple, lightweight shelter that can be used in a variety of ways. You can set it up as a lean-to, a hammock rain fly, or even a ground shelter. Tarps are a great option for experienced backpackers who are comfortable improvising.
Built Shelters:
- Lean-to: This is the simplest type of wilderness shelter. It is made by leaning a long stick against a tree or rock, and then covering it with branches, leaves, or debris. Lean-tos are not very windproof or waterproof, but they can provide some protection from the elements.
- A-frame: An A-frame shelter is similar to a lean-to, but it is made with two sticks that are propped up against each other in an A-shape. This creates a more stable and weatherproof shelter.
- Debris hut: A debris hut is a more complex shelter that is made by piling branches, leaves, and other debris around a central core. Debris huts can be very effective at keeping you warm and dry, but they can also be time-consuming to build.
The best type of shelter for wilderness camping will depend on a variety of factors, such as the weather conditions, the terrain, and your experience level. If you are new to wilderness camping, it is a good idea to start with a brought shelter, such as a tent or hammock. Once you have more experience, you can try building your own shelter.
Here are some additional tips for choosing a wilderness camping shelter:
- Consider the weight of the shelter. If you are backpacking, you will want to choose a shelter that is lightweight and easy to carry.
- Consider the size of the shelter. The shelter should be large enough to comfortably accommodate you and your gear.
- Consider the ease of set-up. Some shelters are easier to set up than others. If you are new to wilderness camping, you will want to choose a shelter that is easy to set up.
- Consider the weather conditions. The shelter should be able to protect you from the elements, such as rain, wind, and snow.