I have posted threads about my winter camp. However with the warm weather and bugs I do things differently. So rather than just post a few photos of my camp I decided to explain my methodologies. These photos are from a recent trip on the AT. It was only a few miles hike so I did pack some comfort items that could be omitted for longer range trips.
Setting up camp.
The first step to my summer camp is to remove the Hennessy Explorer Deluxe from the pack. The Hammock is stored in snakeskins to allow for setup in the rain.

After that I pitch the hammock inside the snakeskins. Once level I pitch the Equinox siltarp in a flying A-frame setup with peak just above my head. This allows for protected entry into the shelter during rain.

The hammock is unrolled from the skins. Than the side tie-offs are staked. By setting up the tarp early I can do all of this protected from the rain. The undercover offers 100% bottom bug protection and offers a little warmth if it gets cooler at night. There is no real need for the open cell pad during the warmer summer months. The undercover alone does not make my back too hot. A small pile of wood is placed under the tarp earlier in the day before the possible late afternoon thunderstorms roll in.

Gear is stored under the rain fly. I use a small ground cloth for a dirt free hang out and cooking area.

I tie off a little AAA keychain light to the inside of the fly for a little extra hands free light. Makes the shelter easier to find when going off for extra fire wood etc. This is taken down when buttoning up the camp before bed.

Meal time.
I cook under the tarp if rain threatens. This is often the case this time of year.

After dinner it is time for a little hobo stove camp fire. I pack a UL folding pad to sit on. However if going more UL I can remove the ground cover from under the hammock. I can even use the Trailstove for cooking if looking to cut more ounces from my pack. I am willing to carry the 15 oz stove as it saves time and energy building a little fire ring. More importantly this stove complies with the no ground fire rules on the Connecticut AT. Even without the rules I would still opt for the hobo as it burns very little wood and leaves no indication that I was ever there.


Buttoning up camp for night.
First I tie all trash and food in the trees. Than I do normal hygiene stuff like a sponge bath with my bandana, brushing and floss my teeth and do a tick inspection. Ticks are a big problem in my area.

All gear and clothing is placed in my pack if dry or kept outside if wet. Everything is placed under the tarp for protection. The only gear left out is my boots turned upside down, TP, water, poncho/raingear and a flashlight. I do keep my headlight in my hammock but like a backup in an easy to find location.

The AM.
After the AM piss I cook some breakfast. One big advantage with pitching the hammock tarp on its own ridgeline is the fly will not sag with the rest of the hammock.

Breaking camp.
The first step is to remove the hammock side tie-offs. Than slide the hammock back into the snakeskins. After that all my gear is returned to the pack. By keeping the rain fly up until the very end I am covered just in case a thunderstorm moves in. This was the case during this trip.


Everything packed up and ready to go. It was getting dark and felt the need to find some lower ground before the storm moved in. All hell broke loose soon after this photo was taken.

I didn’t take photos of every step including the controversial tick inspection. This is really good news for anyone reading this post. I hope everyone enjoyed the photos.























