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Having a portable hammock stand is clutch if you want to enjoy your hammock anywhere trees are not. You may also want to invest in a portable stand so you have the option to take it along with you camping, to the park, wherever.
There are several different types, shapes, sizes, and price points. Given our extensive knowledge and history in hammocking, these are the best quality and most popular portable hammock stands. There are some stands that hold one hammock, two, or more. And, as you will see, some are more “portable” than others.
If you’re looking for something a little more permanent, check out this list of the best backyard hammock stands, along with the best backyard hammocks. Or, maybe you want a hanging hammock chair with stand?
Why you need a portable hammock stand
- You can just about hang anywhere—parks, beach, desert, your own backyard…
- Even if you’re going going hiking or camping in a well forested area, the trail or your specific campsite may lack the perfect trees to hang a hammock. Portable stands are easy to pack in the trunk to ensure you can hang wherever you are.
- Or worse, where you’re headed may ban or heavily restrict hanging hammocks from trees in certain areas or anywhere at all. We’re seeing more and more state and national parks start to crack down on hammocks as they’re becoming more popular, though hammock stands are totally fair game.
- To that end, portable hammock stands are also better for the environment in that they don’t damage trees. Most often, typical tree straps won’t damage trees either—if you’re hanging properly—but this is another nice bonus to having a stand-alone stand.
Things to consider in portable hammock stands
- Weight capacity. Depending on your hammock’s weight capacity, make sure the stand is built to support the same or more weight, especially if you have a double hammock and expect two people to use it at the same time.
- Actual weight. If you truly want something that’s easily portable, make sure it’s not too heavy to carry. Typically, the larger and heavier the stand is, the less likely you’ll be to want to move it or pack it on a camping trip.
- Carrying case. If you do plan to bring it on lots of adventures, does it come with a case to easily pack up? I wouldn’t say this is a dealbreaker, but it’s certainly a nice-to-have.
- Footprint size. Because hammock stands need a fair amount of ground space to setup, the footprint is something you’ll want to make note of. Some of these hammock stands are awesome but larger, thus may limit where you can use it. If footprint is a concern, check out these folding hammocks with stands. There are several that hardly use any space at all.
Vivere Hammock Stand (with hammock)
I own this hammock stand (as you saw in the first photo) and can tell you it’s the best option based on the value alone. Unlike all the other hammock stands on this list, this one comes with a hammock! I’ve also bought it as a gift for several people. It’s a great backyard, porch, patio, etc. hammock set up.
It’s durable and well made, and you won’t ever have to worry about flipping out of it. The only downside is that it weighs a bit more than some of the other portable hammock stands (27.5 lbs). It’s not too heavy or bulky (it packs down to 108 x 48 x 44 inches in its carrying case and can fit in your backseat/trunk), but there are smaller/lighter options if that’s what you’re looking for.
I don’t always want to bring it along for a day in the park, but it’s definitely a necessary item on weekend camping trips. I leave it up in the backyard all summer. It’s a great semi-permanent stand if you’re looking for something for your house that can also double as a portable hammock stand to take with you on adventures.
The steel stand is sturdy and easy to put together and take apart. It doesn’t require tools, and the pieces fit together snugly so you feel very safe and secure.
The Vivere double cotton hammock is made with fabric that can stand up to the outside elements. It’s one of the most popular hammocks on Amazon in this category and for good reason. It comes in a variety of patterns.
Kammok Swiftlet Portable Hammock Stand
Kammok is another leading hammock brand with awesome hammocks for adults (single and double hammocks) and even smaller sized kids hammocks.
This portable hammock stand differs from the rest by having an adjustable bar along the bottom to perfectly accommodate any size hammock from the Roo Jr to extra long hammocks.
The big thing this hammock stand has going for it is the weight. At just 15 lbs, so it’s quite easy to carry around and set up. Trust me, you’ll be much more motivated to bring this stand along to the park for a few hours of relaxation than some of the heavier models.
ENO Nomad Hammock Stand
This stand by Eagles Nest Outfitters—one of the most popular hammock companies—is compatible with most gathered-end (aka portable) hammocks. It comes with a carrying case and packs down for easy transport (when packed, the dimensions are 34 x 11 x 10 inches). It can hold up to 300 lbs and weighs 15 lbs itself.
It’s made of lightweight aluminum alloy with easy shockcorded pole assembly, and it’s super quick to put together and break down. It’s a great option if you want something lightweight that can be assembled quickly and packs down easily without taking up too much trunk space.
ENO SoloPod Hammock Stand
ENO makes several great portable hammock stands, including this other solo version with a different design. This one is highly rated on REI with 4.6 stars and 75 reviews.
It takes up less space than the above Nomad Hammock Stand once it’s set up, but it weighs significantly more at 58 lbs. This hammock stand can hold up to 400 lbs, so it’s going to be a bit more sturdy than the previous model.
It also have a no-tool, easy assembly, plus nonslip footing.
ENO ENOpod 3-Person Hammock Stand
This bad boy lets you hang three hammocks at once. It’s not something you will want to move around much since it weights 101 lbs, but it’s a great option to keep in your backyard, bring along for a day in the park, or set up at a campground or festival for the weekend. It’s a bit of a commitment to get it up and running, but it’s great for groups of people so your family and friends will really thank you for bringing it along.
As with all the other hammock stands, assembly doesn’t take long or require tools. There are quick-release parts to disassemble easily (into 12 pieces) and toss it in the trunk.
One reviewer said: “So easy to build, break down and move. We have it set up in the yard and use it daily. I cannot wait to throw it in the trailer and head out to camp with it! One of the best REI purchases I’ve made.”
ENO Roadie Hammock Stand
This single hammock stand is designed to be used with your car. After setting up the two, free-standing ends behind each tire, simply drive your wheels forward to secure each base. The weight of the car is what provides the stability and security of hanging, and you still have room to sway since the poles are designed at an angle.
This stand weighs 56 lbs and is rated to hold up to 400 lbs. It’s the cheapest option from ENO but only works if you have a car. It’d be perfect for car camping, road tripping, or even hanging in your driveway. It’s also a good option if you don’t have a lot of space to set up the other stands.