In this guide we’ll take a look at the best camping canopies for rain.
We’ve compared size, portability, weatherproofing and cost
to give you our top recommendations.
What Is The Best Camping Canopy for Rain?
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More Detailed Camping Rain Canopy Reviews
Sanctuary SilTarp - Ultralight and Waterproof Ripstop Silnylon Rain Shelter Tarp
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Sanctuary SilTarp - Ultralight and Waterproof Ripstop Silnylon Rain Shelter Tarp Review
The Sanctuary SilTarp is the best camping canopy for rain on the market. This fully waterproof canopy is made from 30 denier ripstop nylon which has a silicon/PU dual coating and fully tapered seams. It’ll help you stay bone dry in any weather!
With each tarp comes 60 feet of 1.5mm reflective Dyneema guy line, 6 micro line-loc adjusters and 6 aluminium Y-stakes, everything you need to set up a cozy shelter during a rainstorm.
Best of all, this canopy is so light you won’t even notice it in your bag. It weighs just 10-20.5 ounces, and the entire kit fits into the included silnylon stuff sack.
- Material: 30D denier ripstop nylon
- Size: 10ft x 8ft for a medium size
- Weight: 15.5 ounces
- Stakes Included?: Yes
The Outdoors Way Hammock Tarp
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The Outdoors Way Hammock Tarp Review
The Outdoors Way Hammock Tarp is just the right size for snuggling under during rain storms. It has a 12 foot ridge line so you don’t have to worry about your feet or head getting cold, and the 210D Ripstop Nylon is exceptionally tough and fully waterproof.
This rain fly is made from the highest quality materials for peace of mind. It comes complete with 4 aluminium stakes, 6 extra strong paracord and a convenient stuff sack. It all fits neatly into the sack, and the entire package is very lightweight.
- Material: 210D ripstop nylon
- Size: 142” x 86.6”
- Weight: 1.8lbs
- Stakes Included?: Yes
Kelty Noah’s Tarp 2013
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Kelty Noah’s Tarp 2013 Review
The Kelty Noah’s Tarp provides instant shade or shelter when out and about. The set is exceptionally lightweight so you won’t even notice it in your bag, and it can be set up in seconds.
This tarp comes with tent stakes and a carry sack. The 4 point shape can be pitched in a multitude of configurations meaning you’ll be able to set it up wherever you are and on a range of terrains. The no-sag coated polyester taffeta allows for a very taut pitch.
With 3 sizes available, this is one of the best tarps for shade and shelter around.
- Material: Nylon
- Size: 12ft x 12ft
- Weight: 2.25lbs
- Stakes Included?: Yes
Best Choice Products Hammock Rain Fly Tent
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Best Choice Products Hammock Rain Fly Tent Review
The Best Choice Products Rain Fly Tent is a strong contender for the best tarp shelter for rain. This incredible set comes with all you’ll need – including stakes, carabiners, ropes and a survival kit. It’s the perfect emergency kit and comes in a gear carrying pouch for added convenience.
This rain tarp will keep you warm, dry and safe while you hike or camp in bad weather. From rain or snow to scorching sunlight, this tarp will keep your protected, dry and at a comfortable temperature.
Heavy duty, backpacker approved but extremely lightweight, this is perfect for hikes and longer camp trips. It comes with a 30 day money back guarantee for peace of mind.
- Material: 210T diamond ripstop nylon
- Size: 12ft x 10ft
- Weight: 1.5lbs
- Stakes Included?: Yes
Anyoo Camping Tarp Shelter
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Anyoo Camping Tarp Shelter Review
The Anyoo Camping Tarp Shelter comes in a range of awesome colors, including army green, forest green and bright blue! It’s designed to protect you against both rain and sun, made from high quality polyester fabric to keep you dry. However, with the silver coating on the reverse side, the tarp will keep you cool in seriously hot weather.
With reinforced anchor points, this tarp will stand the test of time. The straps are double stitched into the fabric, while the grommets give you steady anchor points to keep the tarp sturdy in high winds.
Finally, this tarp is compact and portable, weighing just 4.6lbs. It comes with all you need to set it up, including 8 stakes, 8 poles and 8 nylon guy lines.
- Material: Waterproof polyester
- Size: 13ft x 13ft
- Weight: 2.6lbs
- Stakes Included?: Yes
Camping Canopy Buyer’s Guide
Wet weather can swiftly turn your camping trip into a miserable experience, and if extreme weather is starting to get you down, a waterproof canopy is one of the best options.
A canopy can protect you from the wind, rain and strong sunshine. They offer virtually instant shelter, taking just a few minutes to set up, so are ideal for hikes away from the campsite.
However, they can also be used as tents if you’re more of a hardcore camper, or they are great for getting all campers huddling away in the dry without having to all crowd into one tent. They can also be used to protect equipment, your camping table, or tied to trees to provide a roof over the entire campsite.
Waterproofing
It’s essential that your canopy is fully waterproof. It needs to be able to protect you against torrential rain, and it also should be strong enough to withstand high winds and falling branches. Most are made from polyester fiber, with an extra waterproof coating.
Size
If you’re sleeping under your canopy, you’ll need something that covers the length of your entire body plus more, in case of heavy rain. Very large canopies are great for protecting larger campsites, but these are much heavier and harder to put up.
Lightweight
If you’re hiking to your campsite, a lightweight canopy is essential. Most sets including the stakes, poles and guy lines will weigh under 5lbs, but the bigger and thicker the canopy, the more it’ll weigh.
Ease of Erecting
Your canopy should be easy to erect to help you get shelter in the case of sudden, extreme weather. Canopies are generally much easier to set up than tents, but in strong winds you may struggle with very lightweight tarps. Heavier tarps fare better in extreme weather but often need more than one person to set it up.
FAQ
How to keep your camp dry
Camping in the rain can be miserable, but keeping your camp dry is the best way to stay comfortable and positive. First of all, choose a campsite with a little elevation and not too close to a body of water. Create an outdoor dry area for the campers to sit, play cards and eat in using your rain canopy. This can also be used to store bags and accessories if there’s no room in your tent.
Ensure your tent has a groundsheet to act as a protective layer between you and the ground. It should match the size of your tent. This will keep you more comfortable and warm.
Finally, ensure all your waterproof clothing is lightweight, breathable and great quality. Remove wet shoes and clothes at the entrance to your tent, to prevent the inside of your tent from getting wet.
Conclusion
Camping in the rain is made a million times more pleasant with a rain canopy, providing a lovely dry area to sit, drink beers, play cards and eat. If you’re struggling to find the right canopy, the Sanctuary SilTarp is one of the most reliable options, offering shade, protection against the wind and rain, and ample space for your things.