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Primitive Camping & BushcraftAuthor: Chris Speir
The Primitive Camping & Bushcraft podcast, hosted by Chris Speir from Speiroutdoors, offers practical tips and insights to help outdoor enthusiasts enhance their wilderness skills. Each episode dives deep into topics from Chris's book, "Primitive Camping & Bushcraft," covering everything from essential gear and survival techniques to building a community of like-minded adventurers. Perfect for both seasoned pros and beginners, this podcast equips listeners with the knowledge they need to thrive in the great outdoors. Language: en Genres: Education, How To, Sports, Wilderness Contact email: Get it Feed URL: Get it iTunes ID: Get it |
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Shelter Done Right
Friday, 5 December, 2025
In this Fundamental Friday lesson we break down shelter from the inside out. Chris starts with clothing as your first layer of protection and how fabrics behave in heat, cold, and wet conditions. From there we move into shelter site selection using U.S. Army standards: finding level ground, spotting widow makers, judging water levels, avoiding rockslide or avalanche zones, and positioning yourself near resources without exposing yourself to predators or biting insects.Next we move into the hands-on builds.Lean ToAttach the tarp to the ridgeline using two prusik loops and toggles. Stake the back corners tight to the ground to form a sloped wall. Angle the wall into or away from the wind depending on the weather. Simple, fast, and sheds rain well when tightened correctly.A FrameLay the tarp lengthwise over the ridgeline so both sides hang evenly. Attach the center tie-out on each side with prusik loops and toggles. Stake down all four corners to create a triangular shelter with better wind and rain protection than a lean to.Diamond FlyTurn the tarp diagonally and drape one corner over the ridgeline. Fasten that corner using a prusik and toggle. Pull the opposite two wings down and stake them to the ground. This creates a tight diamond shape that works well over hammocks or on the ground, giving more coverage and airflow.AdirondackLay one corner of the tarp over the ridgeline and attach it with a prusik and toggle. Go behind the tarp and stake out the tie outs directly opposite the toggle points to form the back wall. Fold the far corner inward for a small groundsheet. Stake the front corners to create angled side walls. Flip the top panel over the front and tie it off to a tree to add headroom. This setup reflects heat from a fire straight into the shelter and is excellent for cold weather.Plow PointNo ridgeline needed. Take one corner of the tarp and tie it up to a tree about seven feet high. Stretch the opposite corner out behind you and stake it tight. Stake the remaining two corners to the ground to form a low sweeping triangle that sheds wind and water and sets up in under a minute. Great for fast shelter or sudden weather. Explore More from Primitive Camping & BushcraftAll my links, gear, community, and content in one spot:www.primitive-camping.comStay Connected📖 Book: Primitive Camping & Bushcraft☕ Coffee: Primitive Camping Roast🎙️ Podcast Episodes🎥 YouTube Channel🧭 Socials, Blog, and More Follow my Speir Outdoors Channels:Youtube - www.youtube.com/@speiroutdoorsFacebook - www.facebook.com/primitivecampingHave questions or want to connect?📩 Email: info@primitive-camping.com
