Question: Should I set my tent up under a tree?
There are many factors to consider for tent placement at the campground. Basically, you want to set your tent up on level ground that is relatively higher than the surrounding area, and there are several reasons why not to place your tent under a tree.
Answer: Why you should not set your tent up under a tree.
- Many trees have surface roots near the trunk. If you set your tent up under a tree it may be hard to find a level spot, you may wind up sleeping on rough hard ground, and your tent may be prone to tears.
- Birds live in trees. There is the probability of them making a mess on your tent. Birds eat lots of berries, which can create hard to remove stains on your tent.
- Pine trees emit lots of sticky sap. This can be hard to remove from your tent. Even the cones contain this sap, and they too will leave residue on your tent.
- When it rains, it pours. Trees will continue to drip long after the rain has stopped. You don't want a Chinese water torture keeping you awake at night.
- Trees are prone to lightening strikes. A wet tent under a tree during a lightening storm is not a safe place to be.
