A portable tarp shower stall is one of the most practical and essential DIY solutions for maintaining hygiene while camping in remote or rugged environments. Designed to offer privacy and functionality, this lightweight and affordable structure can be assembled quickly at any campsite, ensuring comfort without compromising your backcountry experience.

Below is a comprehensive guide to building a DIY tarp shower enclosure that is durable, collapsible, and easy to transport.

Essential Materials for Building a Tarp Shower Stall

To build a functional and reliable shower stall, gather the following materials:

• Heavy-duty tarp (6'x8' or larger; waterproof and opaque)

• Paracord or nylon rope (at least 50 feet)

• Four lightweight poles or PVC pipes (6–7 feet tall)

• Tent stakes or ground anchors

• Clips, carabiners, or zip ties

• Portable camping shower bag or gravity-fed water system

• Optional: Floor mat, hook for hanging towels, bungee cords

Step-by-Step Instructions to Assemble a Portable Tarp Shower

1. Choose a Flat, Private Location

Select a site that offers level ground, good drainage, and natural privacy if possible. Avoid slopes or areas with loose sand that might compromise your structure's stability. Ensure you're at least 200 feet from any water sources, following Leave No Trace guidelines.

2. Create the Structural Frame

Use PVC pipes, aluminum tent poles, or even cut branches as your vertical supports.

• Option 1: Freestanding Frame

  • Form a square or rectangular base using four vertical poles.

  • Connect with horizontal top rails (use PVC T-connectors).

  • This method requires attaching all tarp sides and works well in open areas without trees.

• Option 2: Rope Suspension Setup

  • Tie ropes between trees or poles to create a square or triangle.

  • Drape the tarp over the line and stake it to the ground on all sides for privacy.

  • This is the lightest setup, requiring fewer components.

Secure all poles by staking them into the ground or weighing them down with rocks or sandbags for windy conditions.

3. Attach the Tarp Walls

Drape or wrap your tarp around the frame. Use bungee cords, zip ties, or rope to attach it tightly to the top and sides.

Privacy Tips:

• Use an opaque or dark-colored tarp to prevent silhouettes.

• Ensure the bottom edge of the tarp reaches or touches the ground for full coverage.

• If needed, overlap two tarps for wider enclosures.

For maximum utility, install the tarp so that one corner or flap functions as a door. You can use Velcro strips or binder clips to open and close this access point.

4. Set Up the Showering System

Choose a portable water system that works for your needs:

• Solar shower bag: Fill with water and hang from a strong tree limb or hook.

• Gravity-fed bucket: Suspend a bucket with a shower spout or spigot.

• Battery-powered shower pump: Place the intake hose in a heated water container and enjoy consistent water flow.

Hang the water source directly above or slightly behind the shower stall, depending on the tarp configuration.

Tip: Always check the tarp’s structural support before hanging heavy water bags.

5. Enhance Comfort and Cleanliness

• Shower Floor: Place a rubber mat, pallet, or layer of gravel on the ground to prevent mud buildup.

• Drainage: Slightly angle one tarp side or dig a small trench to guide runoff water away from your camp.

• Towel Hooks: Attach binder clips or small hooks on the tarp interior for towels and clothes.

• Lighting: For night showers, use a battery-powered lantern clipped to the top frame.

Portable Shower Stall Configurations

A-Frame Tarp Shower

• Requires only two anchor points

• Easy to set up between trees

• Best for solo campers and lightweight trips

Cubicle Style Stall

• Full privacy on all four sides

• Suitable for family camping or long stays

• More secure in windy or exposed areas

Corner Post Configuration

• Three poles forming a U-shape

• Use a tarp wrapped around the open sides

• Offers easier entrance/exit

Recommended Tarp Types for Shower Stalls

Tarp Material	Features	Best Use
Polyethylene (PE)	Waterproof, light, affordable	General camping use
Vinyl-Coated	UV-resistant, heavy-duty	Long-term base camps
Canvas (Treated)	Breathable, durable	Natural setting, less plastic

 

Choose a dark-colored tarp for privacy and ensure it has reinforced grommets for secure tie-downs.

Safety and Hygiene Tips

• Use biodegradable soap only

• Always dispose of greywater properly following park or campground rules

• Never shower directly into lakes, rivers, or streams

• Clean and dry your tarp after each trip to prevent mildew

Compact Packing for Travel

• Fold the tarp into a tight roll, secured with a rubber band or strap

• Coil ropes neatly to avoid tangles

• Store poles in a canvas carrying case or wrap with the tarp

• Pack accessories in a waterproof bag for quick access

Add-On Features for Enhanced Use

• Shower Caddy Pockets: Sew fabric or mesh organizers to hang toiletries

• Privacy Zippers or Curtains: Upgrade entrance design for better enclosure

• Multi-purpose Use: Convert your shower stall into a changing room or toilet tent

Environmental Considerations

As we build and use our DIY shower stall, we must consider our environmental impact. All materials should be reused when possible, and shower wastewater should be managed with respect to natural ecosystems. Avoid leaving any hardware, stakes, or ropes behind after camping.

Conclusion

Constructing a portable tarp shower stall for camping trips empowers us to enjoy the outdoors while maintaining personal hygiene and privacy. This low-cost, high-function solution can be adapted to different terrains, weather conditions, and group sizes with ease. By choosing the right materials, implementing strong setup techniques, and packing for convenience, we can enjoy clean, comfortable showers no matter how remote the destination.