How to Anchor a Trampoline

The best outdoor trampolines can provide lots of daily jumping fun. On a windy day, the size and shape of a trampoline can make it difficult to enjoy some flying, higher altitude fun. That’s why it is so important to know how to anchor a trampoline properly.

Even if you purchase a 17-foot trampoline that weighs several hundred pounds, it is possible for strong winds to topple it over or lift it off the ground.

All trampolines should be anchored if being used outdoors.

There are two methods that are used to anchor a trampoline to the ground and both work well. Anchoring kits are manufactured by trampoline brands to work with specific models, while tie-down stakes work in a similar way to the stakes one would use for a tent.

The best anchors or tie-down stakes will twist into the ground for several inches. For a larger trampoline, 14-feet in diameter or greater, you may wish to consider pouring a concrete foundation for your anchors or stakes.

Place the stakes or anchors over the metal legs according to the instructions of the manufacturer. You may need straps to connect the anchor or stake to the trampoline. If no instructions are provided, it will be necessary to strap each leg of the trampoline to an anchor for best results.

Set the stake or anchor next to the leg which needs to be secured. Twist it into the ground. Then wrap the strap around the trampoline leg as many times as possible before securing it to the stake or anchor.

You Also Need to Anchor Your Trampoline Disk

Once you’ve set your stakes or anchors so the metal legs are secured to the ground, it is important to anchor the disk of your trampoline so it remains secure as well. In high winds or severe storms, it is common for the top portion of the trampoline to rip away from its legs, especially if the installation is permanent.

You’ll want to purchase star pickets or droppers and some safety caps. You’ll be securing the frame using ratchet straps, like the kind you’d use to secure a load in the back of a truck. Drive the pickets or droppers into the ground about 1-foot inside the perimeter of the jumping disk. Then wrap the ratchet straps through the trampoline frame and through the dropper to create a better overall anchor.

Droppers and pickets are often sold in metric lengths, so look for a minimum size of 450mm. If you have sandy soil or live in a damp environment, a full-length dropper will be necessary. You’ll need 4 contact points to secure the top of your new trampoline, equidistant from each other.

No matter how well you’ve anchored your trampoline, severe weather can still damage your equipment or cause it to blow away.

By taking these steps, however, you’ll reduce the risk of losing your trampoline during a severe weather incident. Be sure to anchor your trampoline before using it for the safest possible experience.