Sleep Above the Swarm: The Best Camping Hammocks with Bug Nets
Our tested picks for camping hammocks with integrated bug nets. Real-world advice on features, setup, and choosing the right system for your trips.
There’s a particular kind of misery that comes from lying awake at 2 a.m., listening to a single mosquito circle your head in the dark. You know it’s there. It knows you’re there. And your tent-bound friends fifty feet away have no idea why you’re suddenly thrashing around in your hammock like a fish on a dock.
A quality bug net changes everything. The right system lets you enjoy hammock camping—better sleep, lighter pack weight, more campsite options—without donating blood to every insect in the backcountry.
We’ve spent three seasons testing setups across Ontario’s bug-heavy provincial parks and the Boundary Waters. Here’s what works.
Integrated vs. Separate Bug Nets
Integrated Bug Net Hammocks have netting built in as a sleeve or cocoon. Nothing extra to pack, net always positioned correctly, generally lighter. Downside: can’t remove the net on bug-free nights, and if it tears, you might need to replace the whole hammock.
Separate Bug Net Systems drape over or suspend above your existing hammock. Use only when needed, upgrade components independently, often more interior space. Downside: another piece of gear to manage and more setup fiddling.
For most recreational hammock campers, integrated systems make sense—simpler with fewer opportunities for error. Already own a favorite hammock? A separate net gives you flexibility.
What to Look For
Mesh Density
Standard mosquito netting (1.2mm holes) stops mosquitoes but not no-see-ums, which need 0.6mm or finer mesh. The tradeoff is reduced airflow. For most Canadian camping, standard mesh works—our black flies are big enough to be stopped by regular netting.
Entry System
Side zipper: Most common. Can leave gaps at zipper ends if poorly designed.
Bottom entry: Spread the net and climb through. Eliminates zipper gaps but feels awkward initially.
Horizontal slit: Overlapping fabric slit. Quick access, no zippers to fail.
We prefer bottom-entry or horizontal-slit designs. Zippers fail, and they always fail at 11 p.m. in a cloud of mosquitoes.
Suspension Integration
Better systems use a structural ridgeline that keeps the net lifted away from your face. Cheaper designs drape directly over you—any movement presses mesh against skin, and mosquitoes can bite through mesh that’s touching you.
Weight
Integrated bug net hammocks typically add 4-8 oz over similar hammocks without netting. Separate nets run 8-16 oz. For car camping, get whatever works best.
Our Tested Recommendations
Best Overall: Kammok Mantis Ultralight
Price: ~$249 | Check Price on Amazon
Our go-to for three years running. The integrated bug net uses horizontal slit entry—push through overlapping fabric to climb in. No zippers, no gaps.
At 1 lb 6 oz with straps, it’s light enough for backpacking but comfortable for extended trips. The ridgeline keeps the net off your face, the internal pocket fits a phone, and the included Python straps are excellent.
The price is significant, and you’ll need an underquilt or pad below 65°F.
Best for: Backpackers and serious hammock campers wanting a refined, reliable system.
Best Value: Wise Owl Outfitters Hammock with Bug Net
Price: ~$55 | Check Price on Amazon
New to hammock camping? Wise Owl delivers reliability without major investment. Side-zipper design with decent coverage, 210T parachute nylon body comfortable for weekend trips.
At this price, expect compromises: coarser mesh (fine for mosquitoes, less reliable for small flies), adequate but not overbuilt zippers, functional straps lacking adjustability.
We’ve used Wise Owl hammocks on dozens of trips without failure. Hard to beat for the money.
Best for: Beginners, occasional campers, anyone testing hammock camping.
Best Ultralight: Warbonnet Blackbird XLC
Price: ~$225 | Check Price on Amazon
Serious hammock engineering. The asymmetric design creates a flatter lay—you can actually sleep on your side without feeling like a banana. Double-zipper bug net with overlapping fabric eliminates gaps.
Around 26 oz without suspension, competitive with ultralight options while offering more comfort. Shelf pocket fits essentials, footbox design prevents foot-squeeze.
Made in the USA by a company that only makes hammock gear. That focus shows.
Best for: Ultralight backpackers, side sleepers, experienced hammock campers wanting the best.
Best Separate Net: Paria Outdoor Products Bug Net
Price: ~$30 | Check Price on Amazon
Already own a hammock you love? This standalone net works with virtually any setup. Hangs from included ridgeline, provides full coverage with generous interior space.
Weighs 12 oz, packs to roughly grapefruit size. Setup takes two minutes once learned. Standard mosquito-grade mesh won’t stop no-see-ums but handles everything else.
The triangular end design creates good clearance at head and feet where gaps most often form.
Best for: Hammock campers wanting bug protection without replacing their current setup.
Best for Tall Campers: ENO JungleNest
Price: ~$110 | Check Price on Amazon
Most hammocks cap out around 6’2” for comfortable use. The JungleNest accommodates campers up to 6’6” without the compressed, knee-bent feeling.
Integrated net uses ENO’s Guardian Bug Net technology with quick-entry zipper. Not as refined as the Mantis or Blackbird, but solid protection with room to move.
At 2 lbs including straps, heavier than backpacking picks but reasonable for trips where you’re not counting grams.
Best for: Campers over 6 feet tall, anyone wanting extra room.
Setup Tips for Bug-Free Sleep
Use a structural ridgeline. Supports your bug net, maintains consistent hang, gives you a place to clip gear.
Check your seal before dark. Get in, zip up, look for gaps. Find problems at 7 p.m., not midnight.
Keep the net away from your skin. Any mesh touching your body is a mosquito buffet. Adjust tension to maintain clearance.
Consider a net floor. Open-bottom nets rely on hammock fabric to complete the seal—problematic with underquilts. Look for sewn-in floors if you use underquilts.
Treat your net with permethrin. Chemical backup to your physical barrier. One treatment lasts about six weeks.
Common Mistakes
Buying based on price alone. Cheap systems have coarse mesh, flimsy zippers, poor suspension. Spend more upfront.
Ignoring the bottom. Heat loss comes from below. Budget for an underquilt or pad with your hammock purchase.
Setting up too tight. Creates uncomfortable sleeping position and stresses net attachment points. Aim for 30-degree hang angle with noticeable sag.
Final Thoughts
Hammock camping with proper bug protection beats most tent setups. No condensation, no flat spots, no claustrophobia.
Backpackers should look at the Mantis or Blackbird. Car campers and beginners can start with Wise Owl. Tall campers should go straight to JungleNest.
Spend one backyard night getting your setup dialed before relying on it in the backcountry. Then head out knowing the only thing between you and sleep is gravity.
The mosquitoes will still be there. You just won’t care.
Happy Camping! 🏕️
