How to Build a Lean-To Shelter with Your Family

Learn to build a simple lean-to shelter outdoors with your kids using natural materials and basic techniques.

  1. Choose the Right Location. Look for a spot that's naturally protected from wind and weather. Find a sturdy tree, large rock, or fallen log that can serve as your shelter's backbone. Make sure the ground is relatively flat and dry. Avoid areas under dead tree branches that could fall, and stay away from low spots where water might collect. Check that you have permission to build if you're not on your own property.
  2. Gather Your Materials. Collect a long, sturdy branch or pole to serve as your main beam - this should be about as long as you want your shelter to be deep. Gather several shorter branches to lean against this main beam. Look for pine boughs, leafy branches, or other natural materials for covering. If you're practicing in your backyard, you can use tarps or old blankets. Have the kids help sort materials by size - it's great for teaching them to observe nature.
  3. Set Up the Frame. Place one end of your main beam against your chosen tree or rock at about shoulder height. Let the other end rest on the ground. This creates the spine of your shelter. Now lean your shorter branches against this main beam at an angle, spacing them about arm's width apart. These form the ribs of your shelter. Make sure everything feels stable before moving on to the next step.
  4. Add the Covering. Start from the bottom and work your way up, layering your natural materials like pine boughs or leafy branches. Overlap them like shingles so water will run off instead of dripping through. The thicker your covering, the better protection you'll have. If using tarps or blankets, secure them with rocks or tie them down. Leave the front open as your entrance, but make sure the back and sides are well covered.
  5. Test and Improve. Have everyone crawl inside to test the space and check for gaps where wind or water might get through. Add more covering material where needed. You can improve your shelter by adding walls on the sides using more branches and covering material. Consider adding a ground cover using dry leaves, pine needles, or a tarp to keep moisture from seeping up from the soil.