I’ve used different backyard hammock styles to enhance the look of several homes. Without a solid hammock setup, you may end up with something unusable. I’m listing creative backyard hammock ideas to hang hammocks safely in an outdoor space for relaxation.
Backyard Hammock Ideas: Creative Ways to Set Them Up
Check your needs to select the right freestanding, portable, or suspended hammock design. Consider backyard layout, spacing, anchors, and surface when determining the best installation method. Below we set out how to create the perfect backyard hammock.
Whether you have sturdy trees or a canopy, here is a comparison table of ways to create a backyard hammock. Our analysis includes material, style, pros, and cons:
| Hammock Idea | Material | Pros | Cons |
| Screen porch | Cotton, nylon | Enjoy porch views | Needs installation spot |
| Freestanding | Steel, wood | No installation needed | Takes up extra space |
| Macramé | Woven cotton rope | Boho-chic look | Less durable |
| Sunroom | Cotton, nylon | Enjoy sunroom views | Needs installation spot |
| Pergola | Cotton, nylon | Stable foundation | Needs pergolas |
| Bright and colorful | Cotton, nylon | Fun, playful look | Need installation spot |
| Spreader | Polyester | Easy to get into | Less stable |
| Swinging chair | Steel, wood | Chair-like comfort | More expensive |
| Metal-supported | Cotton, nylon | Allows freestanding use | Can be heavy |
| Large | Cotton, nylon | Roomy for many people | Need sturdy anchors |
| Quilted | Cotton | Extra comfort | More expensive |
| Cushioned | Cotton, nylon | More comfortable | Cushions need storage |
| Trio | Cotton, nylon | Accommodates more people | Needs more space |
| Loose-weave | Cotton rope | Better airflow | Less cushy |
| Wooden | Wooden slats | Natural material | Easily gets wet |
| Crocheted | Cotton yarn | Decorative edging | Less durable |
| Chair with footrest | Steel, fabric | Feet support | Prevents a person from lying down |
| Swing set | Plastic, fabric | Playspace | Needs a swing-like foundation |
| Bamboo | Bamboo | Eco-friendly material | Prone to breaking |
| Lace | Lace fabric | Decorative look | Less durable |
Hammock Crafting: DIY Backyard Hammock Designs
Our gallery features fantastic backyard hammock ideas ideal for summer lounging. I hope you’ll enjoy this gallery with images of incredible hammocks that will go great in any backyard! For more backyard ideas, check out my definitive guide to backyards.
1. Screen Porch
Whether it’s a canvas or a striped hammock, setting it up on your porch lets you enjoy the yard. This can enhance the beauty of your house while having a cozy area for lounging.
2. Freestanding
A free-standing spreader-bar hammock would be perfect in minimalist or Asian-style gardens. The delicate weave of cotton fibers gives a casual outdoor space a slightly vintage look.
3. Macramé
I’ve positioned my dreamy macramé hammock between two trees that stand 14 feet apart in the yard. This gives me a Bohemian-inspired hammock in the gardens where we can relax and enjoy the sun. A hammock in the shade under large trees is also a good use of the space.
4. Sunroom
Hanging a cozy hammock in a sunroom with a mini indoor garden lets you relax. You can complement it with a table, deck of pillows, or blanket. This is the perfect place for a nap or summer sleep.
5. Under a Pergola
One of my favorite designs is a striped hammock suspended between the supports of a pergola. At the edge of a pool, this also provides shade and privacy as the hammock is under large trees in my backyard.
6. Bright and Colorful
Here is a striped hammock in a colorful Mayan style hung between two trees. The hammock gives a fun twist to your garden, yard, or patio. This lets you create a relaxing outdoor space for guests surrounded by greenery.
7. Spreader
A spreader-bar hammock hung between two trees stands out against the greenery. The loose weave ensures the breeze can keep you nice and cool on a hot summer’s day in the gardens.
8. Swinging Chair
This swinging chair tied on sturdy trees has a lot of hammock-like qualities. It’s a great option to create a decidedly hammock-style for gardens.
9. Metal-Supported
Metal-supported models work in a backyard without traditional hammock options. Relaxing on your house deck with the hammock in a stand is a noble pursuit. This is a portable model that you can take camping while surrounded by greenery outdoors.
10. Large
For my own backyard, a small spot is sectioned off for this 12 foot double hammock. This is a large hammock for two adults to relax on. The spreader bar ensures that it’s easy to get into, but it’s also easier to fall off the hammock while drifting off for a nap
11. Quilted
I’ve also tried using a quilted hammock suspended on a freestanding metal frame. It’s positioned over a mulched section of landscaping under a canopy of tall trees. The hammock with pillows provides shade in gardens.
12. Cushioned
Suppose you don’t find your hammock comfortable enough. You can add pillows and cushions for added comfort to make it a luxurious experience. You may complement it with a nature-inspired table as you lounge in the gardens.
13. Trio
A trio of canvas hammocks suspended from poles is perfect if you have kids fighting over the hammock. The frame supports them, and it can work well on grass or on patios.
14. Loose-Weave
A loose-weave hammock hangs between two oak trees over a landscaped section of the yard. You may also put in pillows and a blanket for added comfort.
15. Wooden
This unusual hammock is made of warped wooden planks and may not be the best place to sleep. It’s fun to swing in the gardens with nature as the background.
16. Crocheted
This crocheted hammock chair sits in the shade between two sturdy, mature trees. It works with the gardens to create a relaxing place in nature.
17. Chair With Footrest
This unique hammock chair has a built-in footrest mechanism. I’ve built one in my own backyard as an extra space for me to read or nap outdoors.
18. Swing-Set
A swing-set structure holds two bucket hammock swings with a table between them. This is perfect for enjoying a morning coffee or reading a book.
19. Bamboo
This bamboo hammock has its own covered structure for shade. You can also layer the hammock with fabric to match the beauty of gardens in the Asian-style backyard.
20. Lace
The delicate arch of the wooden base gives this hammock an ark-like look. The lacey pattern on the sides gives my own backyard a more feminine touch.
Frequently Asked Questions
Where Should a Hammock Be Placed in the Backyard?
For comfort and usability, place your hammock in a level, shady area about four to six feet off the ground. Ensure ample room to get in and out of the hammock on both sides.
How Do You Hang a Hammock Without Trees?
A hammock can be hung without trees using freestanding hammock stands. Even in gardens, you can use frames installed in the ground, beams between two walls, or a gazebo structure.
What Are Ways to Hang a Hammock in an Outdoor Space Safely?
When hanging a hammock outdoors safely, use tree straps to avoid damaging tree bark. Hang the hammock from sturdy branches or solid wooden anchors. Check for stability before using it and putting all your weight on it.
Conclusion
With the right hammock selection for your backyard, anyone can create an ideal oasis to relax. Follow my tips to choose a hammock style that works for your outdoor space. Safely install it using freestanding stands, poles, or straps.
