Hammock camping has grown rapidly in the world of outdoor recreation. Portable, affordable, and comfortable, camping with a hammock allows campers to bypass many of the downsides of traditional tents. The only problem? Hanging a hammock is heavily reliant on the presence of trees. Sometimes it can prove tricky to find suitable trees for hammock camping — and even when trees are available, their use may be banned. Investing in one of the best portable hammock stands is a wonderful alternative, as the best models allow for easy setup in a variety of locations.
5 Best Portable Hammock Stands at a Glance
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Benefits of Using a Hammock Stand
Whether you’re looking to up your campsite game or get a solid night’s sleep wherever you happen to park your car, you’ll quickly appreciate the convenience of portable hammock stands. The following are just a few of the many benefits associated with this increasingly popular piece of camping equipment:
- Improved Campsites: Campsite options can be limited, and often, available locations are cramped, sloped, or otherwise less than ideal. Hammock camping may be possible, but sometimes, trees aren’t available or are not situated properly for hanging a hammock. Portable stands allow campers to make the most of virtually any site imaginable.
- Car Camping Opportunities: Some hammocks are specifically designed to be attached to vehicles. Equipped with the right hammock stand, you can spend the night anywhere you can drive. This setup grants you far more freedom during road trips, while also improving your hammock’s stability.
- Alternative to Trees: While most people associate hammocks with trees, this approach is not always available or allowed. Many state and national parks ban the practice of hanging hammocks from trees because the wrong technique could permanently scar them. Hammock stands allow campers to abide by all park rules while still enjoying the experience of camping in a hammock.
- Events and Festivals: Whether you adore country music festivals, state fairs, or other outdoor events, you can save a bundle by staying in nearby campsites. At some events, camping is even regarded as an integral part of the experience. Unfortunately, the settings provided for event attendees rarely offer the tree access needed for hanging hammocks. Stands bridge the gap and are especially ideal in crowded festival camping areas.
- Canoe Trips: Some portable hammock stands can easily be stored in canoes or carried from site to site during long portaging journeys. These stands make it easy to avoid the challenges that often accompany camping excursions near rivers or lakes. No matter the terrain or the presence of moisture on the ground, a stand will allow you to enjoy a comfortable night’s sleep before you once again hit the water.
- Desert Trips: Some of the most beautiful hiking and camping opportunities exist within the desert. Hammock camping can be tricky in this environment, where anchor points may be few and far between. Portable hammock stands allow you to enjoy pristine desert beauty while still taking advantage of the flexibility and comfort of hammock camping.
- Treks Above the Tree Line: The best mountain vistas are typically situated well above the tree line. As with the desert, you’ll find few trees here — and those that are available may not be appropriately situated for safe hammock camping. If you camp away from trees, your hammock stand will open up a variety of spots that might otherwise not be possible. If you choose to camp closer to the tree line, hammock stands can shield you from the dangers of tall trees, which can quickly prove a lightning hazard as you ascend.
Whether you’re looking to up your campsite game or get a solid night’s sleep wherever you happen to park your car, you’ll quickly appreciate the convenience of portable hammock stands. The following are just a few of the many benefits associated with this increasingly popular piece of camping equipment:
Top 7 Hammock Stand Reviews
1. ENO Nomad Stand
Pros: At 15lbs, the ENO Nomad is the lightest hammock stand by far, making it the best choice for shorter backpacking trips. It is extremely quick and easy to set up, less than 10 minutes in most cases and breaks down into its own carry case.
Cons: It accommodates one hammock only, with a max weight rating of 300 pounds. Even though it’s the lightest, it’s not practical for longer backpacking trips. It does not accommodate non-ENO hammocks.
- Frame: Aluminum alloy
- Weight: 15 pounds
- Accommodates a Tarp: Yes
- Number of Hammocks: 1
Editor’s Choice – Best Portable Hammock Stand: Uniquely lightweight and easy to put together, the ENO Nomad Hammock Stand is a great option for car camping or other excursions that require regular assembly. While the bag in which the stand is packed may seem less than ideal for portaging or backpacking, the stand itself is well suited to regular movement due to its extremely low weight. This small build belies the stand’s weight capacity, which, at 300 pounds, exceeds that of many heavier and less durable stands.
2. Grand Trunk Hangout
Pros: The Grand Trunk is a solid tubular steel framed stand that has a simple tool-free assembly process that has just four steps. It has convenient 18″ hang straps, and will work with a variety of hammock brands. It also comes with a shoulder strapped carry bag.
Cons: The curved tubes and large carrying case limits the stand’s portability, and carabiners are not included.
- Frame: Gorilla-grade steel tubing
- Weight: 32 pounds
- Accommodates a Tarp: No
- Number of Hammocks: 2
Featuring an angular design, the highly versatile Grand Trunk Hangout stand can be used with a variety of hammocks. Why lock yourself into one brand when you can use a stand that will accommodate different hammocks for different situations? No matter your preferred hammock style or brand, you’ll be pleased by the ease of this stand’s setup, as well as the ability to attach a double hammock. While the stand can technically accommodate hammocks up to 11 feet long, this will vary somewhat from one brand to the next.
3. ENO SoloPod
Pros: The SoloPod looks cool, with a polished aesthetic that makes it ideal for car camping or backyard use. It’s heavy but extremely sturdy, accommodating up to 600lbs, more than many of its counterparts. The SoloPod kit comes with steel carabiners.
Cons: At 58 pounds, this hammock stand is not as portable as the Grand Trunk or Nomad. Has the potential to flip if rocked excessively, and should be secured to the ground whenever possible.
- Frame: Powder-coated steel
- Weight: 58pounds
- Accommodates a Tarp: Yes
- Number of Hammocks: 1
Although primarily marketed as a backyard or poolside hammock, the ENO SoloPod can be used in a variety of contexts. At 63 pounds, it’s definitely on the heavier side — so think twice about investing in one if you intend to move your hammock on a regular basis. This model does not fold down nearly as small as the manufacturer claims, but this rarely bothers those using the stand for its intended purpose. Most users appreciate the sturdy build of this durable hammock stand, which comes with nonslip feet for extra traction. Consider investing in this stand if you hope to keep a semi-permanent hammock in your backyard but would also like to travel with it on occasion.
4. ENO Roadie Car Stand
Pros: The Roadie boasts a unique design that is secured under the wheels of your vehicle. This can be expecially useful when car camping or road tripping. Like all ENO stands, the frame is made of rust resistant powder coated steel, and can be assembled and set up in less than 10 minutes.
Cons: Because it is primarily designed for use with a car, this hammock stand is not as versatile as the others, but fills a niche need. It only has a weight capacity of 250 pounds.
- Frame: Powder-coated steel
- Weight: 56 pounds
- Accommodates a Tarp: No
- Number of Hammocks: 1
This stand’s primary purpose is obvious; it’s all in the name. The Roadie isn’t quite like other car camping stands, however. The sleek frame harnesses the power of the camper’s vehicle to keep attached hammocks secure. Simply position each base accordingly and park the vehicle as needed. Because it only accommodates up to 250 pounds, this stand is best for solo travelers — and ideally, average to smaller sized individuals.
5. Byer of Maine Ceara Hammock Stand
Pros: The Ceara stand is the best cheap hammock stand you can buy. There are cheaper stands, but unlike them, this stand is well built. It is compatible with a wide variety of hammocks, has multiple adjustments, and has a respectable 440 pound weight capacity.
Cons: Assembly requires the use of a wrench and six bolts, making it primarily intended for casual recreational use and may not be ideal for extended camping excursions or regular setup and take-down.
- Frame: Powder-coated steel
- Weight: 44 pounds
- Accommodates a Tarp: Yes
- Number of Hammocks: 1
The attractive and versatile Ceara stand from Byer of Maine can be used alongside a wide range of hammocks. No matter which hammock you select, you’ll be impressed by the sheer sturdiness of the stand. Clearly, this product is designed to stand the test of time. Setup requires a wrench, but this single essential tool is provided along with the stand kit. The stand is also aesthetically pleasing, to the point that many people enjoy having it on display in their backyard or on pool patios.
6. ENO ENOpod 3 Person Stand
Pros: This is the best multi-person hammock stand option. It’s heavy, but dang is it cool looking and has a massive 1,200 lb total weight capacity. The assembly is tool free, and is a great option for backyards, festivals, and weekend retreats.
Cons: Designed for use with ENO brands, which can be problematic for those who already have other types of hammocks. At over 100 pounds, this stand is heavier than most and therefore far less portable.
- Frame: Powder-coated steel
- Weight: 101 pounds
- Accommodates a Tarp: No
- Number of Hammocks: 3
Yet another wonderful option from ENO, this three-hammock stand is arguably your best bet for group excursions. After all, it can accommodate up to six campers in three double hammocks. Although recommended for occupancy of at least three people, the stand is sturdy enough to remain in place if just one or two hammocks are actually occupied. A single user can spend time in the hammock without fear of flipping it. The stand’s quick-release design allows for prompt assembly without the use of tools. Although it can technically be set up by just one person, the process is far easier if at least two people cooperate.
7. Sunnydaze Hammock Stand
Pros: The Sunnydaze hammock stand features easy setup with eight pieces and quick-release locking mechanisms. All tools needed for assembly come with the hammock stand. The lightweight frame is easy to move and fit into tight spaces, making it available for use both inside and outdoors.
Cons: Hammocks attached to this stand tend to hang low to the ground, especially for heavier users, and it’s not as sturdy as some of its counterparts, this hammock stand sometimes feels shaky.
- Frame: Heavy-gauge steel
- Weight: 19 pounds
- Accommodates a Tarp: No
- Number of Hammocks: 1
Featuring just eight pieces, this convenient hammock stand is notoriously easy to assemble without tools. It’s exceptionally light and can easily be transported from one location to the next. This model is popular among music festival attendees, who appreciate its low price and accessible structure. It’s also a great option for on-the-move campers who need to continually set up and take down their hammocks. The stand has a total capacity of 300 pounds.
Hammock Stands 101
A variety of factors go into hammock stand selection. A lot depends on where and when you intend to use your stand. If you already own a hammock, your choices for a stand may be limited. As you determine which stand best fits your unique needs, keep the following considerations in mind:
- Portability: Hammock stands can be highly portable, but some are bulky and difficult to pack. Your need for an exceptionally portable stand will largely depend on which outdoor activities you intend to pursue. If you plan to move around a lot, you’ll want a portable stand that packs down easily. This is doubly true if you intend to pack your stand in a small car.
- Assembly: After a long day of hiking or driving, the last thing you want is a confusing ordeal as you put together your hammock stand. Assembly should be simple and should not require more than a few minutes. The fewer steps and tools needed to put your stand together, the better.
- Build Quality: How much weight can your preferred hammock stand handle? Will it hold up to heavy use over time? Sometimes, the most portable hammock stands are also the least sturdy.
- Accessories: Many hammock stands come with or accommodate accessories that can dramatically extend their versatility. These could include carrying bags, mosquito nets, or rain tarps. Included carabiners are especially useful, even if you already own a few.
- Number of Hammocks: Do you intend to use your stand for solo ventures? Or would a model that accommodates multiple campers prove more practical? Think carefully about the number of hammocks available, as this plays into not only how many stands you need to purchase (which, in turn, impacts the final price) but also how sturdy or portable a particular stand needs to be.
- Value: As a camper on a budget, you’re determined to score the best hammock stand for the lowest possible investment. A quality product may warrant splurging, but some stands purport to provide extras that you don’t really need — and for a substantial increase in cost.
Which Stand Can Keep You Hanging?
There is no one product that can accurately be referred to as the best portable hammock stand. Ultimately, it all comes down to personal preference. Choosing a stand can be tricky, but if you assess the many available options with your unique needs in mind, you’re bound to find with an excellent product. Here are our recommendations:
- For Short Hiking/Backpacking Trips – The ENO Nomad is the way to go. It is by far the lightest and most portable stand, and the fact you can upgrade it to the Nomad shelter system makes this the clear winner.
- For Car Camping or Backyard – Either the Grand Trunk Hangout or ENO SoloPod are excellent choices. Both are well made, easy to set up and take down, and should provide many years of enjoyment.
If you still find yourself coming up short after checking out the hammock stand suggestions outlined above, consider making your own. Sometimes, the best hammock stand for camping begins with an affordable DIY project. Either way, this decision warrants your consideration as you determine how you can make the most of the great outdoors while relaxing in style.
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