Quick Tarp Shelters for Emergencies or Camp!

Coalcracker T6ZERO Tarp in a lean-to configuration for a quick tarp shelter.

Tarps are exceptionally versatile and can set up various shelter designs. They play a crucial role in emergencies as they can be rapidly deployed to offer immediate protection, making them ideal for quick tarp shelters for emergencies or camp!

You can combine tarps with other materials, like branches or leaves, to create more durable and insulated shelters. For ultra and hyperlight backpackers, tarps have become the preferred shelter option for any weather condition.

Texas Bushcraft Survival Tarp

The Texas Bushcraft Survival Tarp is a versatile and durable shelter for outdoor enthusiasts and emergencies. Made from 70D ripstop nylon with a 210T thread count, it offers excellent puncture resistance. 

Measuring 10 X 10 feet, it comfortably accommodates two people. With a 15,000mm waterproof PU coating and heat-taped seams, it provides reliable protection against heavy rain and harsh conditions, making it an essential part of any survival kit.  

Texas Bushcraft Survival Tarp is a versatile and durable shelter for outdoor enthusiasts and a quick tarp shelter for emergencies or camp.

Designed for comfort, the tarp’s aluminized polymer surface reflects body heat towards you in colder climates while mitigating UV absorption in warmer conditions, maintaining a more stable temperature underneath. Additionally, its fireproof nature renders it an excellent shield over your camp kitchen, safeguarding against stray embers.

Featuring 14 side nylon loops and five ridgeline loops, reinforced with strong nylon webbing and corrosion-resistant brass grommets, this tarp provides flexible setup options with stakes, cords, or ropes. Additionally, central hanging loops improve the organization of your gear.

Jungle Tarp

During a jungle survival training class, I camped beside the Survival Tarp in Peru and was impressed by the amount of space it offers. We camped for well over a week, and I saw the ease of setup due to the various side and ridgeline loops. 

The Texas Bushcraft Survival Tarp was used in the Peruvian Rainforest for several days without any issues.

While I didn’t camp with it, I eventually had a chance to play with it and set it up in a plow point configuration in a different environment. I could tell the materials were robust and could weather any storm or even take a branch or two should they fall onto the Survival Tarp.

Coalcracker T6ZERO Tarp

Dan Wowak, from History Channel’s Alone Season 3, owns Coalcracker Bushcraft in Pennsylvania’s Appalachian Mountains. The facility produces knives, blacksmith and leather goods, sewn items, and apparel.

The T6ZERO is a lightweight, packable shelter made from durable Xenon Sil fabric with a waterproof rating of 4,500 mm. Easy to set up, it’s ideal for camping and hiking, fitting easily in a pack or glove compartment.

If size and bulk are an issue, the Coalcracker T6ZERO Tarp can be squished into a cargo or shirt pocket.

Originally offered in orange, the collection has expanded to include a variety of colors, enhancing its natural appeal. The rectangular tarp is conveniently pocket-sized and consists of two sets of tie-outs and two grommets for simple staking to the ground. The concept behind the T6ZERO is straightforward—if you know how to tie shoelaces, you can easily set up this quick tarp shelter.

Quick Tarp Test

I tested the T6ZERO tarp by leaving it on the ground near my camp during heavy snowfall for over three weeks, and it remained intact with no damage. Later, I used it as my primary shelter during survival classes in Alabama. I easily set it up; I untangled the cordage, tied the tarp to a tree at shoulder height, and secured it with stakes at the grommets. I adjusted one side to a flying diamond setup in the morning, which became my favorite for wind and rain.

The Coalcracker T6ZERO Tarp was used in the winter in a flying diamond setup.

When packing the tarp, I bunched one corner with the tie-out and tucked everything in neatly. This made deployment easier next time. After several days under the T6ZERO, I appreciated its quick set-up, lightweight at just 6 ounces, and durable Xenon fabric. It has been my go-to tarp for backpacking.

One of my favorite aspects of the T6ZERO is how effortlessly it sets up—it’s a breeze! Plus, its lightweight design makes it so easy to handle and transport. It truly elevates the whole experience of quick tarp shelters for emergencies or camp! 

For More Information, please contact Texas Bushcraft and Coalcracker Bushcraft

SPECS:

Texas Bushcraft Survival Tarp

  • Size: 10’ X 10’ tarp-shelter
  • Materials: 70D ripstop nylon tarp denier with 210T thread count
  • Coating: 15,000mm waterproof PU 
  • Superior puncture resistance
  • Waterproof heat tape seams, reinforced with nylon webbing
  • Reflective aluminized polymer on one side
  • 14 nylon tie-down loops 
  • 5 ridgeline loops down the center
  • Comes with a stuff sack for easy storage and portability
  • MSRP: $89.95

Coalcracker T6ZERO Tarp

  • Size: 86 Inches L x 65 Inches W
  • Packed Size: 7 Inches L x 5 Inches W
  • Orange/Green Xenon Fabric
  • Built-in Tie Out Lines
  • Built-in Storage Bag
  • Ribbon Tent Peg Loops
  • Weight: 6 Ounces
  • MSRP: $75.00

Reuben Bolieu
Adventurer, writer, photographer, and survival instructor for Randall’s Adventure & Training, Reuben has spent most of his life hiking and backpacking through the wildernesses of the world. He has traveled abroad in extreme environments and seeks out primitive survival techniques, construction, and uses of knives and edged tools. Reuben has published many articles on survival, knife and tool use, and woodcraft. He remains a lifetime student of survival.