How to Use a Ground Spike for Securing Outdoor Hides

By Wildlife Watching Supplies - Kevin Keatley - Wildlife Watching Supplies | Published: 2026-10-26

Category: How-to Guides

Learn how to properly use a ground spike to anchor outdoor hides, cameras, and trail gear. Follow these steps for a stable setup in soft or hard ground.

Quick answer

A ground spike provides a stable anchor point for portable hides, cameras, and trail equipment. Adjustable length and brass adaptors allow versatile use on various terrains.

Why a ground spike works for outdoor hides

A ground spike transfers the pull of wind or movement from your hide directly into the soil, preventing poles from shifting or collapsing. The E1 ground spike adjusts from 20 cm to 31 cm, and can be joined to reach 57 cm for deeper penetration in loose ground. Its olive green powder coating blends with natural surroundings and resists rust.

Trade-offs: when a ground spike may not be ideal

On very rocky or frozen ground, a spike may not penetrate fully. In such cases, consider a wider base plate or a screw-in stake. The spike works best in soil that is soft enough to accept the tip but firm enough to hold once driven.

Step-by-step guide to using a ground spike

1. Choose the right length: Select the spike length based on ground condition. For firm soil, use the spike at its default 20 cm. For loose soil, extend to 31 cm or join two spikes to reach 57 cm. A common mistake is using too short a spike in soft ground, which can pull out easily.
2. Attach the brass adaptor: Screw the E11 brass camera adaptor onto the spike’s threaded tip. This adaptor accepts standard 1/4"-20 tripod screws, allowing you to attach a hide pole, camera, or trail camera securely. Check that the adaptor is hand-tight; overtightening can strip threads.
3. Drive the spike into the ground: Position the spike at your desired anchor point and push or tap it into the ground using a mallet or your foot on the footplate (if available). Drive until the spike feels firm and does not wobble. A common mistake is driving at an angle, which reduces holding power—keep the spike vertical.
4. Secure your hide or equipment: Attach your hide pole, guy line, or camera directly to the brass adaptor. If using a guy line, tie a knot that won’t slip under tension. A common checkpoint is to test the connection by pulling gently in different directions to ensure it won’t come loose.
5. Store and carry with the camouflage bag: After use, unscrew the adaptor, wipe the spike clean, and store both spikes and adaptors in the included camouflage bag. This prevents loss and keeps the powder coating from scratching. A common mistake is leaving the spike dirty, which can cause rust over time despite the coating.

Product fact

E1 Pair of short ground spikes: Each spike adjusts from 20 cm (8") to 31 cm (12"). By unscrewing one tip and joining the two spikes together you can get a single spike up to 57 cm (22"). This adjustability lets you choose the right depth for your ground type, and the joined length provides extra hold in loose or sandy soil.
E1 Pair of short ground spikes