Build a Swamp Bed
If you are lost in a swampy or muddy area and need a quick shelter, consider building a swamp bed, which will keep you dry until you can continue on your way the next morning.
Contents
Steps
- Look for four trees positioned so that they make a rectangle, with no trees in the middle. They should be well spaced.
- If you cannot find trees in that formation, cut enough stable pole, (e.g., bamboo). or thin logs to make four tripods. Tie them securely. Position them in the mud so that they form a rectangle big enough to hold your body and your equipment.
- Secure two similar length sticks to the longest sides of the rectangle. Use string, wire, reeds, vines, or whatever else is available. Make sure that the sticks are evenly positioned and well above the ground or water. (Keep in mind that the water may rise.)
- Create a frame for sitting and lying on. Lay sturdy sticks across the horizontal sticks, taking care that they are strong enough to hold your weight. If you have enough string, vine, etc., available, tie the sticks in place for added sturdiness.
- Put a cloth, such as a coat or sleeping bag, over the sticks. If you don't have fabric available, use broad leaves and/or grass instead.
- Spend the night on the swamp bed. You will have an easier rest than being on the ground, and be less likely to be bothered by animals and creepy crawlies.
- Finished.
Tips
- The importance of bringing mesh or at least covering your swamp bed cannot be overstated. You might be high and dry above the swamp, but there are still mosquitoes and other biting insects around.
- You can hold the netting down by putting rocks on the edges or poking sticks through it into the ground.
- Sleeping on a swamp bed isn't the same experience as sleeping on a mattress; don't expect to get a good night's sleep on it!
- If you happen to have mosquito netting or cheesecloth with you, hang it over the top of the swamp bed to keep insects away.
Warnings
- Make sure that the cloth you put over the posts is breathable enough for you to sleep inside.
