SESKStuff Everyone Should Know
SESK: Stuff Everyone Should Know · sesk.info/scout-tent-site-drainage

Which ground is best for a shelter when rainwater may collect?

Choose ground that is high enough and gently sloped for drainage.

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  1. A low bowl beside water
  2. High, nearly level ground with drainage ✔
  3. A steep loose hillside

Why: A useful shelter site is mostly level for sleeping. It should also be high enough and gently sloped so water drains away instead of pooling underneath.

Huh, didn't know that: A shelter site should also be protected from wind and drifting sand or snow.

The dad joke
Why did the tent avoid the puddle? It wanted a dry sense of humor.
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References

Answer: High, nearly level ground with drainage. A useful shelter site is mostly level for sleeping. It should also be high enough and gently sloped so water drains away instead of pooling underneath.

  1. Scouting America Wilderness Survival Pamphlet filestore.scouting.org/filestore/Merit_Badge_ReqandRes/Pamphlets/Wilderness%20Survival.pdf
    The site should be relatively level but sloping enough and high enough to provide adequate drainage.
    Checked 2026-10-09.

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