8 Best Tent Stakes

Last Updated December 9, 2023
Top 3 Best Tent Stakes
MSR Groundhog Tent Stakes
MSR Groundhog Tent Stakes
  • Extremely durable, resisting bending even under heavy force.
  • Y-shaped design ensures strong hold in windy conditions.
  • Reflective cords for easy night visibility.
  • Ideal for rugged terrains.
  • Small notch for securing guy lines, though it lacks a traditional hook.
Coleman 10-In. Steel Nail Tent Pegs
Coleman Steel Nail Tent Pegs
  • Made from stainless steel with a plastic top, combining durability with versatility.
  • Can be used as nail-style stakes or traditional shepherd’s hook style.
  • 10 inches long, offering deep ground penetration.
  • Relatively heavy but affordable.
Vargo Titanium Tent Stakes
Vargo Titanium Tent Stakes
  • Crafted from durable, lightweight titanium.
  • Available in nail peg or shepherd’s crook styles.
  • Each stake is about six inches long.
  • Feature fluorescent orange markings for visibility.
  • High-end choice for weight-conscious hikers, but expensive.
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The best tent in the world is only as good as the parts holding it in place. When the winds start to blow the last thing you want is your expensive hiking tent blowing across the prairie. Tent stakes are an often overlooked part of the hiker’s kit that play a crucial role in safety and comfort. Today we’re covering some of the best tent stakes on the market to help you pick out the set that fills your needs.

Best Tent Stakes Reviewed

A lot of people are confused when we mention tent stakes. After all, don’t those come with your tent?

If you want to be the best hiker you can be, or if you need to replace lost or broken tent Pegs, it’s important to pick out the best ones you can find. There are tons of inexpensive and high-quality options out there.

We picked several great tent stakes at each price and performance level to make it easier to find the best tent stakes for your camping style.

MSR Groundhog Tent Stakes

MSR Groundhog Tent Stakes
The MSR Groundhog tent stakes product picture

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I’ve been an outdoor enthusiast for over 30 years, and I recently got my hands on the MSR Groundhog Tent Stakes. Let me tell you, these stakes have quickly become my go-to choice for securing my tent in various rugged terrains.

First off, MSR is a name that needs no introduction in the hiking and outdoor world. They have a solid reputation for producing top-notch gear, and these stakes are no exception. What immediately impressed me was their incredible durability. Unlike many other stakes that tend to bend easily, these Groundhog stakes are virtually indestructible. I accidentally hammered one into a rock, thinking it was just stubborn ground, and to my surprise, it didn’t bend at all. It did get a bit squished and flattened, but it held its shape remarkably well. In all my years of camping, I’ve never encountered a stake that can handle such abuse without bending.

Moreover, the Y-shaped design of these stakes provides outstanding holding strength. Even in windy conditions, my tent stayed securely anchored to the ground, giving me peace of mind during the night. The reflective cord attached to the head of each stake is a thoughtful addition. It comes in handy when I need to navigate around the tent in the dark, making it easier to spot and avoid tripping over them with my flashlight.

However, I do have a minor gripe with these stakes, which others have also pointed out. They lack the typical hook at the end that makes it easy to secure guy lines and webbing. Instead, they have a small notch near the top, which can be a bit tricky to use, especially with wider webbing. It requires some patience and adjustment to get it to hold securely. I found myself staking things down tighter than usual to ensure they stayed in place, and this may put extra stress on tent seams over time.

Nevertheless, despite this minor inconvenience, I’m sold on these MSR Groundhog stakes. Their durability and ability to withstand abuse are unmatched. I purchased multiple packs of them, and they fit perfectly in a tent stake bag I got from REI. I appreciate the peace of mind they provide when I’m out in the wilderness. These stakes have become an essential part of my camping gear, and I highly recommend them to anyone seeking reliable and resilient tent stakes for their outdoor adventures.

During a recent camping trip in the mountains, I had a firsthand encounter with the MSR Groundhog Tent Stakes that solidified my trust in them. We were hit by an unexpected, gusty mountain storm in the middle of the night. The wind was relentless, and the rain was pouring down. I lay in my tent, anxious about my shelter’s stability. To my surprise and relief, my tent held firm, thanks to these stakes. As I listened to the storm’s fury outside, I realized that I could count on these stakes to keep my shelter grounded, no matter what nature threw our way. It was a defining moment that reaffirmed my choice in camping gear and made me truly appreciate the reliability of MSR’s Groundhog stakes.

Pros:

  • Exceptional durability, resistant to bending even under heavy force.
  • Y-shaped design offers excellent holding strength, keeping tents secure in windy conditions.
  • Reflective cords make stakes easy to locate at night.
  • Ideal for rugged terrains and long-term use.
  • Suitable for beating into hard ground and rocky terrain.

Cons:

  • Lack of a traditional hook design makes securing webbing and guy lines somewhat challenging, especially with wider webbing.
  • Requires staking down tighter than usual to ensure a secure hold, which may stress tent seams over time.

Coleman 10-In. Steel Nail Tent Pegs

Coleman Steel Nail Tent Pegs
The Coleman tent stakes product picture

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Coleman is just about synonymous with camping and the outdoors. Their classic 10 in steel nail tent stakes are made from stainless steel combined with a plastic top to catch and hold guy lines.

Their unique design allows them to be used as nail style tent stakes going through eyelets or as traditional shepherds hook style holding down guy lines. They’re definitely on the heavy side but make up for it with their versatility and durability.

At 10 inches long they have the depth and holding power for serious winds and rough terrain. Even better is their price: You can frequently find them available in a pack of four for well under $10.

If you’re looking for durable and inexpensive tent pegs and aren’t too worried about cutting ounces you should definitely check out the Coleman 10 in steel nail tent pegs.

Vargo Titanium Tent Stakes: Nail Peg and Fluorescent Orange Head

Vargo Titanium Tent Stakes
The Vargo Titanium tent stakes product picture

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Vargo Titanium Tent Stakes are incredibly durable and lightweight. They’re made from titanium and are available in either a nail peg or traditional shepherd’s crook style tent stakes.

They’re each about six inches long and weigh .6 oz for a nail peg or .3 oz for a shepherd’s crook style. Each has a fluorescent orange marking at the top to make them more visible and easy to find.

Picking between the two really comes down to the type of tent you have. Each provides excellent performance, albeit at a very high price.

If weight and performance is the most important thing to you when picking out hiking gear and price is no object the Vargo Titanium Tent Stakes could be the perfect choice for you.

MSR Carbon Core Stakes

MSR Carbon Core Stakes
The MSR Carbon Core tent stakes product picture

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The MSR Carbon Core Tent Stakes are some of the lightest and most high-performance tent pegs on the market today. They’re made using a rigid core of carbon fiber encased in a sheath of aluminum.

This gives them incredible strength and durability without increasing the weight. Each stake is 6 inches long yet weighs just .2 oz. This is remarkably light for stakes as durable as these.

The Carbon Core stakes use a nail peg design with a red reflective cord to make locating and pulling up these stakes easier. Keep in mind though that all this performance isn’t cheap.

The Carbon Core tent stakes are some of the most expensive tent anchors on the market.

If cutting weight is your primary objective when considering tent stakes the MSR Carbon Core Stakes should be your first choice. They’re incredibly lightweight yet highly capable tent stakes.

BareFour Heavy Duty Tent Stakes

BareFour Heavy Duty Tent Stakes
The BareFour tent stakes product picture

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The BareFour Heavy Duty Tent Stakes are extremely capable tent stakes for serious camping. They’re made from forged steel and available in either 8 or 12 inche varieties.

Each stake is a fusion of a nail peg stake with a shepherd’s hook style addon just below the head. This gives you lots of flexibility and makes them easier to hammer into the hard ground.

They’re large and seriously sturdy tent pegs that work well in just about any soil type. The 12 in stakes in particular are effective even in sandy and loose conditions.

The biggest downside to these heavy duty tent stakes is their weight. Forged steel isn’t light, and 12 in of forged steel adds up fast.

If you’re mostly a car camper and are more concerned with performance than portability, the BareFour Heavy Duty Tent pegs are a highly capable and inexpensive option.

Orange Screw The Ultimate Ground Anchor

Orange Screw The Ultimate Ground Anchor
The Orange Screw tent stakes product picture

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The Orange Screw Ground Anchors are plastic tent stakes that use a screw shaped design to lock into the rocky ground. Each ground anchor is 9.5 inches long and is made from 100% recycled materials.

They’re a bit on the heavy side, each one weighs 1.8 oz, but provide undeniably strong holding power. Even better, they screw right into the ground so you don’t have to carry around a heavy hammer.

The Orange Screw’s come with a plastic drive tool that makes it easy to twist them into and out of the ground. Because of their screwin design they work well in both firm and loose soil.

One thing to keep in mind though, they don’t work well in rocky soil. The plastic screw has trouble finding purchase when large rocks get in its way.

For camping on the beach or in loamy or soft soil the Orange Screw Ground Anchors are excellent tent stakes available at a very competitive price.

Coghlan’s ABS Tent Pegs

Coghlan’s ABS Tent Pegs
The Coghlan’s tent stakes product picture

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Coghlan’s is well known for its no-frills approach to outdoor gear and equipment. Their ABS tent stakes match this image perfectly.

They’re bright yellow y-shape tent anchors made from ABS plastic. This makes them sturdy and lightweight, with Coghlan’s guaranteeing that they are unbreakable under regular use.

The design of the ABS Tent Pegs includes a rounded hook to securely lock down your tent’s guy lines. When combined with the y-shaped design they provide excellent holding power at a very affordable price.

MSR Blizzard Tent Stake

MSR Blizzard Tent Stake
The MSR Blizzard tent stakes product picture

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The MSR Blizzard tent stakes are designed to provide secure tie down points in snowy or sandy conditions. They’re made from lightweight aluminum and each measure 9.5 inches.

They have a very flattened design with several large holes running up the back. This makes it easier for them to find purchase in loose materials like sand or snow.

They weigh 1.12 oz each and are MSR’s signature red color. This makes them light enough to pack in and easy to spot on snow or sand.

For winter camping or a beach trip the MSR Blizzard tent stakes are a great option at a reasonable price.

Best Tent Stake Comparison Chart

Buyer’s Guide to Buying the Best Tent Stakes

When it comes to the best tent stakes many people aren’t aware of just how many choices they have available to them. Not only are there multiple types of tent anchors, you also have to choose between material, size, weight, and design considerations relating to their performance.

Price

Tent stakes, even very high quality tent stakes, aren’t incredibly expensive. You can get a basic set of aluminum or plastic tent pegs for under $10. If you’re looking for a really nices set of technical tent anchors made from titanium or another space age material the price jumps up to around $20-$30.

That’s not a ton of money, but it adds up quickly when you consider the cost of the tent, groundcover, sleeping bag, etc.

Types of Tent Stakes

There are as many types of tent stakes as there are tents. Every manufacturer seems to try and reinvent the wheel when it comes to tent stakes, but the vast majority fall under just a few basic categories.

Shepherd’s Hook Stakes – Shepherd’s hook stakes are what most people picture when they think of a tent peg. They’re basically just a piece of plastic of metal curved at the stop to catch a guy line.

They’re available in just about any material you can think of and are effective and inexpensive. One downside of their basic design is that shepherd’s hook stakes are easy to bend when hammering them into the hard ground.

V-Stakes – V-stakes take a flat piece of metal or plastic and bend it into a v shape. This gives it a long groove down the center for additional contact with the ground. They’re sturdy, effective, and available in a wide range of materials.

Y-Stakes – Y-stakes are nearly identical to v-stakes, just with the addition of another piece of flattened material at the bend. This gives them even more surface area but does add a little bit to the weight.

Nail Stakes – It doesn’t get much more basic than nail stakes. They’re long nail shaped stakes that pound straight into the hard soil. They work best with tents that have metal eyes to pound them through.

Most nail stakes have an attached cord or strap to make it easier to pull them out of the ground.

Snow/Sand Stakes – Snow and sand stakes are larger and wider than traditional tent stakes and usually have a series of large holes running down their center. They’re designed to have as much surface area as possible so they get more purchase in snowy or sandy conditions.

They’re great for their intended purpose but basically useless in any other conditions. If you frequently camp on a beach, in the desert or in wintery conditions though, they’re essential.

Ground Anchors – Once you get past the basic styles of tent anchors there’s a broad category of exotic and specialized tent anchors usually referred to under the catch all term of ground anchors. One of the most popular types of ground anchor tent stakes uses a twisting screw style entry point to provide high levels of strength.

These are usually a little heavier than traditional tent stakes but provide excellent stability in very windy conditions.

Material

The material of your tent stake is probably the single most important thing to take into account when considering your options. It plays a considerable role in determining the weight, strength, and size of your tent peg.

Stainless Steel – Stainless steel is one of the oldest and cheapest ways to make tent stakes. It’s cheap and very sturdy but weighs more than just about any other type of material. If you’re buying a large tent intended for car camping there’s a good chance it will have stainless steel tent stakes.

In the recent past just about every tent came with stainless steel tent anchors, but they’ve long since been surpassed. There are now cheaper, lighter, and higher performance materials, relegating stainless steel tent stakes to a distant second in just about every category.

They’re definitely good enough, but they’re by no means the best.

Aluminum – Aluminum is by far the most commonly used material for hiking and lightweight camping tents. It’s reasonably sturdy, inexpensive, and extremely lightweight.

You can find aluminum tent pegs in every style and type.

Plastic – Plastic is widely used in value priced tents and replacement tent stakes because of its extremely low cost and light weight. Plastic tent pegs come in just about every size and shape imaginable and are commonly used for larger applications like snow/sand stakes.

Titanium – Titanium is an exceptionally strong and lightweight material that’s rapidly becoming the gold standard for ultralight hikers. Titanium tent pegs are some of the lightest and most durable available but do have a major downside.

Price.

Expect to spend three to four times as much per stake on titanium stakes as you would on aluminum or plastic tent stakes.

Carbon Fiber – Until very recently carbon fiber was a material only used for aerospace and supercar applications. A few manufacturers have begun to experiment with carbon fiber tent anchors but they’re still a lot less common than any other material.

They’re the lightest possible material available but have a very high price, even higher than titanium.

Weight

With tent stakes weight usually is a serious consideration. They’re small but you tend to carry a lot of them. The material you go for will have the biggest impact on weight.

Smaller stakes are lighter, of course, but we rarely find it worth the tradeoff. You want your tent anchors to secure your tent firmly to the ground. Saving half an ounce on six tent stakes isn’t worth losing an extra inch of ground penetration.

Size and Length

The size of your tent stake is very dependant on the type and application you’re using it for. Standard tent pegs are usually about seven to ten inches long, including the above ground attachment point.

Once you get into more specialized tent anchors like snow/sand stakes the size and length starts to increase rapidly.

Holding Strength

Holding strength of a tent peg is basically its entire job. The only purpose of tent anchors is to hold your tent down under windy conditions and keep you comfortable inside.

Longer tent pegs and those with more surface area provide greater bite and security than do shorter and smaller ones.

Visibility

The last thing you want to do is spend several minutes searching the ground in twilight to try and find your dropped tent stakes. We prefer tent stakes that are marked with blaze orange caps or body coloring.

At the very least they should be silvered and shiny rather than matte and dark. That makes it a lot more likely you’ll find them if they should fall to the ground.

Dealing with a Broken Tent Stake in the Backcountry

The last thing you want when miles from shelter is to start setting up your tent and accidentally break or lose some of your tent stakes. If there’s even a light breeze setting up a tent without stakes is a recipe for disaster.

Thankfully there are several ways you can deal with this minor emergency in the field.

The best option is to always carry extra tent stakes. We recommend at least two extra stakes, kept in a different place than your regular stakes. This allows you to quickly switch out a broken stake and replace or repair it when you get back home.

If you’re deep in the woods and fresh out of spares it’s time to look for other options. You want to try and find a branch about ½ an inch to ¾ of an inch in diameter, preferably with a smaller limb sticking out from it.

Cut it off to about 5 inches long with your trusty pocket knife, hatchet or multitool and put a basic wedge or spear style point on it. If you were lucky enough to find one with a limb attached cut that off with about 1.5 inches of stump.

If it’s a smooth branch take your trusty tool and cut a basic wedge into the side near the top, pointed side down. This gives you a basic tent stake that will help secure your tent in a pinch and get you back to civilization.

Top Tent Stakes Video

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) – Best Tent Stakes

As you prepare for your next camping adventure, choosing the right tent stakes becomes essential for a secure and hassle-free camping experience. We understand that you may have questions about tent stakes and their various aspects. In this FAQ section, we aim to address the most commonly asked questions to help you make informed decisions.

Whether you’re a seasoned camper or new to the world of outdoor exploration, understanding the importance of tent stakes, the different types available, and how to use them effectively can enhance your camping experience. From the number of stakes required to the types suitable for different terrains, we’ve got you covered.

Explore the following frequently asked questions to gain valuable insights and make confident choices when it comes to selecting the best tent stakes. Remember, well-chosen tent stakes ensure your tent stays firmly in place, protecting you from unexpected weather conditions and ensuring a restful night’s sleep under the stars.

If you have any additional questions beyond what we cover here, please don’t hesitate to reach out to our camping experts, who are always ready to assist you. Now, let’s dive into the frequently asked questions about tent stakes and discover the answers you’ve been seeking!

Why are tent stakes important?

Tent stakes are crucial for securing your tent and preventing it from being blown away by wind or other weather conditions. They provide stability and ensure your tent stays in place during your camping trip.

How many tent stakes do I need for my tent?

The number of tent stakes required depends on the size and type of your tent. As a general guideline, it is recommended to have at least one stake for each corner of your tent, and additional stakes for the rainfly or vestibule areas.

What types of tent stakes are available?

There are various types of tent stakes available, including aluminum, steel, titanium, and plastic. Each type has its own advantages and disadvantages in terms of weight, durability, and holding power. It’s important to choose the type that suits your specific camping needs.

How long should tent stakes be?

The length of tent stakes depends on the ground conditions where you’ll be camping. For general camping on average ground, tent stakes around 6 to 8 inches in length should suffice. However, if you’ll be camping in sandy or loose soil, longer stakes (10 to 12 inches) may be more appropriate for better anchoring.

Are all tent stakes suitable for all types of terrain?

No, different tent stakes perform better on different terrains. For example, aluminum or titanium stakes work well in firm or rocky ground, while longer and wider stakes are more suitable for sandy or loose soil. It’s essential to consider the terrain you’ll encounter and choose tent stakes accordingly.

Are lightweight tent stakes durable enough?

Lightweight tent stakes, such as those made from titanium or aluminum, can be durable enough for most camping trips. However, they may not withstand extremely harsh conditions or heavy use. If you anticipate challenging weather or rough terrain, consider using heavier and more robust tent stakes, such as steel or heavy-duty plastic.

Can I reuse tent stakes from my old tent?

In most cases, you can reuse tent stakes from an old tent as long as they are still in good condition. Inspect the stakes for any damage or signs of wear and replace any that are bent or damaged. Reusing tent stakes can save you money, but it’s important to ensure they are suitable for your new tent and camping conditions.

How can I drive tent stakes into hard ground?

Driving tent stakes into hard ground can be challenging. To make it easier, you can use a rubber mallet or a piece of wood to gently tap the stake into the ground. You can also pre-soak the ground with water to soften it slightly. If the ground is extremely hard, consider using heavy-duty stakes designed for challenging conditions.

What are some additional tips for using tent stakes effectively?

Here are a few tips for using tent stakes effectively:

  • Insert the stakes at a slight angle away from the tent to maximize holding power.
  • Ensure the stakes are driven deep enough to provide sufficient stability.
  • Use guylines or tensioners to secure the tent to the stakes, minimizing any slack.
  • Avoid placing the stakes too close to the tent’s fabric to prevent damage.
  • Clean and dry the tent stakes after each use to prevent rust or corrosion.

Remember, the right tent stakes can make a significant difference in the stability and security of your camping setup. Choose wisely based on your camping needs and the terrain you’ll encounter.

Disclaimer: The information provided here is for general guidance purposes only. Always refer to the manufacturer’s instructions and recommendations for your specific tent and stakes.

Best Tent Stakes Recap

Final Thoughts

When it comes to the best tent stakes, less is generally more.

The lighter your tent stakes are the easier they are to pack and carry. Price wise as well cheaper tent pegs are usually more attractive than more expensive ones.

So long as you balance the weight, price, and performance of the different tent stakes we reviewed you should have no problem finding the best tent stakes for your specific needs.

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