10 Best Camping Tarps 2025 in the United States

The CARTMAN 8x10 feet tarp is made from durable polyethylene with an 8 mil thickness, making it sturdy and reliable for outdoor use. Its waterproof and dustproof design helps keep you dry and protected during rain or dusty conditions, which is essential for camping or emergency shelters. The tarp weighs just over 2 pounds, so it’s lightweight enough to carry but a bit heavier compared to thinner options.

With metal grommets spaced every 36 inches and reinforced corners, it’s easy to secure tightly, preventing tears and improving durability. It also offers UV protection, which helps prevent sun damage over time. The size is accurate to what’s promised, covering a decent area for shelter or ground cover. This tarp is better suited for short-term or occasional use rather than long-term heavy-duty camping because the material, while strong, may not be as tough as heavier military-grade tarps.

Packability is decent but not ultra-compact, so it requires moderate space in your backpack. This makes it a versatile and economical choice for campers or anyone needing a reliable protective cover in various outdoor situations, especially if you want waterproof and UV-resistant qualities without spending too much.

The Amazon Basics Waterproof Camping Tarp is a solid choice for campers looking for reliable outdoor protection. Made from durable polyethylene with rip-stop fabric and lamination on both sides, it offers good waterproofing to keep you dry. Its size, about 9.5 by 11.3 feet, is versatile enough to serve as a ground cover under a tent or as a shelter in various camping setups. Weighing just 2.2 pounds, it’s light enough to carry around without much hassle, though it’s not the smallest or most compact tarp out there.

The tarp includes rugged, rust-resistant grommets along the edges, making it easy to secure with ropes or stakes, and reinforced corners add strength to prevent tearing. It also offers UV protection, which helps prevent sun damage during long outdoor stays. While it doesn’t come with a dedicated carrying bag or extra tie-out points beyond the grommets, it packs down fairly well for storage.

Some users might wish for additional size options or lighter materials for backpacking, but for general camping use, especially car camping or as a budget-friendly tarp, this product performs reliably and has earned positive feedback for durability and water resistance.

The AquaQuest Defender Camping Tarp is a robust and reliable option for outdoor enthusiasts who require a durable and waterproof shelter. Constructed from heavy-duty 40D nylon fabric, it promises exceptional durability with rugged webbing tie-outs, reinforced ridgelines, and sturdy stitching. Its waterproof rating of 20,000 mm is among the best, ensuring you stay dry even in extreme weather conditions. Additionally, the tarp provides UV protection, making it suitable for various outdoor environments.

The 15 x 15 ft size offers ample coverage, accommodating up to six people, which is ideal for group expeditions. With 37 tie-out points, it provides versatile setup options, enhancing its utility in different scenarios. However, the weight of 7.2 lbs might be a drawback for those looking for lightweight gear, as it could be cumbersome for backpacking. The tarp is highly packable, including a stuff-sack for compact storage, but its bulk could still be a concern for some users.

Backed by a lifetime warranty and responsive customer service, the AquaQuest Defender Tarp offers peace of mind and confidence in its quality. This tarp is best suited for car camping, group camping, or situations where weight is less of a concern, rather than for solo backpackers focused on minimizing their load.