We Use CookiesWe use cookies to enhance the security, performance, functionality and for analytical and promotional activities. By continuing to browse this site you are agreeing to our privacy policy

10 Best Tent Underlay Tarps 2026 in the United States

How do we rank products for you?

Our technology thoroughly searches through the online shopping world, reviewing hundreds of sites. We then process and analyze this information, updating in real-time to bring you the latest top-rated products. This way, you always get the best and most current options available.

headphones-stars

Our Top Picks

#1

Winner

MSR Universal 3-Person Tent Footprint Tarp, Large - 83 x 69 Inches,Red

Rating
10.0
Chosen by1,265
Size
Weight

Most important from
113 reviews

Size
The footprint fits perfectly, especially for the MSR Hubba Hubba 3p tent.
Weight
Lightweight yet durable, making it ideal for backpackers.

The MSR Universal 3-Person Tent Footprint Tarp is designed specifically for larger tents, making it a suitable choice for camping enthusiasts who use MSR models like the Access 3, Hubba Tour 3, Zoic 3, and Remote 3, or any similarly sized tent. This tarp measures 83 x 69 inches, providing ample coverage that protects the tent floor from wear and tear and enhances water resistance. Made from durable nylon, it offers excellent waterproofing to keep the bottom of your tent dry in wet conditions.

Weighing just 7.04 ounces, this footprint is incredibly lightweight, which is a significant advantage for backpackers or campers who need to minimize their gear load. It also packs down to a compact size of approximately 10x10x1 inches, making it easy to store and carry.

The footprint is backed by a 3-year limited warranty, providing an added layer of assurance about the product's quality. Its vibrant red color could also be a bonus for visibility and style preference in the wild. Customer reviews suggest a high level of satisfaction, with an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars. This indicates that users generally appreciate its utility and performance. The best fit for this product would be users who seek a lightweight and easily packable solution for protecting their tent investment during camping or backpacking adventures.

Rating
10.0
Chosen by1,265
Size
Weight

Most important from
113 reviews

Size
The footprint fits perfectly, especially for the MSR Hubba Hubba 3p tent.
Weight
Lightweight yet durable, making it ideal for backpackers.
#2

Clostnature Tent Footprint - Waterproof Camping Tarp, Heavy Duty Tent Floor Saver, Ultralight Ground Sheet Mat for Hiking, Backpacking, Hammock, Beach - Storage Bag Included

Rating
7.6
Material
Waterproof Rating
Packability

Most important from
2325 reviews

Material
The material is nearly opaque, making it an excellent sunshade or canopy.
Waterproof Rating
The waterproofing effectively kept the bottom of the tent dry during an unexpected rainstorm.
Packability
Lightweight and easy to pack, it fits conveniently into a backpack after breaking camp.
Grommets and Tie-Downs
This ground sheet has both grommets and loops at the corners, enhancing its versatility for various uses.

The Clostnature Tent Footprint is a versatile and practical choice for camping enthusiasts. Constructed from ripstop 190T Polyester with a superior waterproof coating, it offers robust protection against wear and tear, making it an excellent investment to extend the life of your tent. Measuring 87 inches by 59 inches and weighing only 9.8 ounces, it's compact and lightweight, which is perfect for hiking and backpacking. The included drawstring storage bag makes it easy to pack and carry, roughly the size of a cellphone when folded.

Additionally, it can serve multiple purposes, such as a sunshade, picnic mat, or hammock rain fly, adding more value to your purchase. It fits well with Clostnature's 2-person tent, although it may not be as universal for other tent models. The one-year guarantee for material and workmanship defects is reassuring.

This footprint is best suited for campers looking for a lightweight, durable, and multifunctional groundsheet for various outdoor activities.

Rating
7.6
Material
Waterproof Rating
Packability

Most important from
2325 reviews

Material
The material is nearly opaque, making it an excellent sunshade or canopy.
Waterproof Rating
The waterproofing effectively kept the bottom of the tent dry during an unexpected rainstorm.
Packability
Lightweight and easy to pack, it fits conveniently into a backpack after breaking camp.
Grommets and Tie-Downs
This ground sheet has both grommets and loops at the corners, enhancing its versatility for various uses.
#3

MSR Universal 6-Person Tent Footprint Tarp, Large - 117 x 97 Inches, Red

Rating
7.3
Material
Size
Thickness

Most important from
40 reviews

Material
The material is lightweight and compact, making it easy to carry for both backpacking and car camping.
Size
The size fits perfectly with 6-person tents, covering the floor without unnecessary bulk.
Thickness
Durability can be an issue as the footprint is thin and may not prevent holes from developing in the tent floor after extended use.
Waterproof Rating
Water resistance helps keep moisture out, but it is not fully waterproof and may not hold up under heavy, prolonged rain.
Packability
The included stuff sack and bright red color improve portability and campsite visibility.
Grommets and Tie-Downs
The design lacks reinforced corners and secure attachment points, relying on corner loops that slip over tent connections, which feels somewhat weak.

The MSR Universal 6-Person Tent Footprint Tarp is designed to protect your tent floor from water, dirt, and wear, making it a suitable choice for campers using 6-person tents like the MSR Habitude or any similarly sized tent. Made from durable nylon, it offers solid water resistance, helping to keep moisture out although it is not fully waterproof and may not withstand heavy, prolonged rain. Its size (117 x 97 inches) comfortably covers most 6-person tents without being excessively bulky.

Weighing just over 1.2 pounds and packing down to a compact size, this footprint is fairly lightweight and portable, ideal for backpacking or car camping. It comes with a stuff sack for easy carrying and storage, and the red color enhances visibility at the campsite. While it does not include reinforced corners or attachment points, it provides reliable protection for your tent floor.

Backed by a 3-year warranty from a reputable brand, this footprint is a dependable option to extend the life of your tent, especially suitable for casual to moderate camping trips. For very wet conditions, additional waterproof layers may be recommended.

Rating
7.3
Material
Size
Thickness

Most important from
40 reviews

Material
The material is lightweight and compact, making it easy to carry for both backpacking and car camping.
Size
The size fits perfectly with 6-person tents, covering the floor without unnecessary bulk.
Thickness
Durability can be an issue as the footprint is thin and may not prevent holes from developing in the tent floor after extended use.
Waterproof Rating
Water resistance helps keep moisture out, but it is not fully waterproof and may not hold up under heavy, prolonged rain.
Packability
The included stuff sack and bright red color improve portability and campsite visibility.
Grommets and Tie-Downs
The design lacks reinforced corners and secure attachment points, relying on corner loops that slip over tent connections, which feels somewhat weak.

Buying Guide for the Best Tent Underlay Tarps

When choosing a tent underlay tarp, it's important to consider several key specifications to ensure you get the best fit for your needs. A tent underlay tarp, also known as a groundsheet, is essential for protecting the bottom of your tent from wear and tear, moisture, and dirt. It can also provide an extra layer of insulation and comfort. By understanding the key specifications, you can make an informed decision that enhances your camping experience.
MaterialThe material of the tarp is crucial because it determines durability, weight, and water resistance. Common materials include polyethylene, polyester, and nylon. Polyethylene is durable and waterproof but can be heavy. Polyester is lighter and still offers good water resistance. Nylon is lightweight and strong but may require a waterproof coating. Choose a material based on your need for durability versus portability. For rugged terrain, a more durable material like polyethylene might be best, while for backpacking, a lighter material like nylon could be more suitable.
SizeThe size of the tarp should match or slightly exceed the footprint of your tent. This ensures full coverage and protection. Tarps come in various sizes, so measure your tent's dimensions and choose a tarp that is at least as large as your tent's base. If you plan to use the tarp for additional purposes, such as a shelter or picnic area, consider a larger size. For solo camping, a smaller tarp is sufficient, but for family or group camping, a larger tarp is advisable.
ThicknessThickness, often measured in mils (thousandths of an inch), affects the tarp's durability and weight. Thicker tarps (10-20 mils) are more durable and provide better protection against sharp objects and rough ground but are heavier. Thinner tarps (5-10 mils) are lighter and easier to pack but may not offer as much protection. If you are camping in rough terrain, a thicker tarp is recommended. For lightweight backpacking, a thinner tarp may be more appropriate.
Waterproof RatingThe waterproof rating indicates how well the tarp can resist water. This is usually measured in millimeters (mm) and refers to the height of a water column the material can withstand before leaking. A rating of 1000mm to 3000mm is generally sufficient for most camping conditions. Higher ratings (3000mm and above) offer better protection in heavy rain. If you expect wet conditions, opt for a higher waterproof rating. For dry climates, a lower rating may suffice.
WeightThe weight of the tarp is important, especially if you need to carry it over long distances. Heavier tarps offer more durability and protection but can be cumbersome to transport. Lighter tarps are easier to carry but may not be as robust. Consider how you will be using the tarp. For car camping, weight is less of an issue, so a heavier tarp might be fine. For backpacking, a lighter tarp is preferable to reduce your load.
PackabilityPackability refers to how easily the tarp can be folded and stored. Some tarps come with their own carrying bags or straps, making them easier to pack. A tarp that packs down small is ideal for backpacking and situations where space is limited. If you have ample storage space, packability may be less of a concern. Consider how much room you have in your gear and choose a tarp that fits your packing needs.
Grommets and Tie-DownsGrommets and tie-downs are features that allow you to secure the tarp to the ground or use it as a makeshift shelter. Grommets are reinforced holes along the edges of the tarp, while tie-downs are loops or straps. These features add versatility and stability. If you plan to use the tarp in various configurations, look for one with multiple grommets and tie-downs. For basic ground protection, fewer grommets may be sufficient.

FAQ

Most Popular Categories Right Now