Q: What ages is this best for?

Kids of all ages can enjoy the fort — even toddlers love gathering sticks (toggles), hammering stakes, and clearing a space for the shelter.

 

For building:

• Ages 2–4: Help with simple tasks + enjoy the finished fort

• Ages 5–7: Learn basic knots + help with most parts (with guidance)

• Ages 8–9: Build mostly on their own (with supervision)

• Ages 10+: Build independently using Field Cards + videos

 

Short answer: Designed for ages 5–13, but little ones can absolutely join the fun.

 

Q: Will it arrive before Christmas?

Yes. All pre-sale kits ship in early December with full tracking so you can wrap it in time for Christmas.

 

Q: Is it safe?

Yes. All components are designed for kid use. Adult supervision is recommended, especially for younger builders.

 

Q: Are there any safety rules we should follow?

Yes — here are our simple, common-sense guidelines:

 

Rope Safety:

• Never wrap ropes around any body parts

• Keep hair + loose clothing clear when tying knots

• Tie ropes only to trees/anchors — never to people

 

Carabiner Safety:

• The included carabiners are light duty and designed to hold the tension of the ridgeline and the minimal weight of the tarp.  They are not suitable for holding significant weight.

 

Tool Safety:

• Mallets + stakes should only be used as intended

• Don’t swing the mallet near others

• Check the ground for rocks/roots before staking

 

Build Safety:

• Use only sturdy, stable anchors

• Avoid dead trees or loose posts

• Make sure there are no dead hanging branches overhead

• Make sure the tarp is secured tightly before playing inside

 

Q: What if my kids don’t love it?

You're covered by our Holiday Happiness Guarantee — returns accepted through January 31 for all orders placed Nov 1–Dec 24.

 

Q: Are the materials durable?

Yes. Everything is camping-grade — waterproof tarps, metal stakes, paracord, tensioners, and carabiners built to last for years of outdoor adventures.

 

Q: How long does it take to build?

Once kids learn the basics, most shelters take around 10 minutes to set up.

 

Q: Where can the Fort Kit be used?

Anywhere your kids can explore — backyards, woods, parks, fields, campsites, and even Grandma’s property.

All you need are two anchor points, such as:

• Trees or saplings

• Fence posts

• Deck/porch columns

• Playset beams

• Large bushes/shrubs

Because everything packs into the adventure bag, it’s easy to take on trips, hikes, or to a friend’s house.

 

Q: What can we use as anchors? What’s safe?

You need two sturdy anchors, ideally 15–20 ft apart (but flexible).

 

Safe anchor options:

• ✔ Mature trees or strong young trees

• ✔ Fence posts

• ✔ Deck or porch columns

• ✔ Playset/swing-set beams

• ✔ Large bushes or shrubs

 

Avoid:

• Dead/damaged trees

• Loose fence posts

• Decorative garden structures

• Thin saplings that may bend or break

 

Q: How do we clean the tarps?

The tarps are waterproof and easy to care for.

To clean:

• Shake off dirt + leaves

• Wipe with a damp cloth or light hose

• Use mild soap if needed

• Hang or lay flat to dry completely

Avoid: harsh detergents, bleach, high heat.

 

Q: How do we care for the adventure bag?

• Wipe with a damp cloth or baby wipe

• Spot clean with mild soap

• Air dry completely before storing

Avoid: machine washing, high heat, or overstuffing.

 

Q: Do the tarps need to be folded a certain way?

No special folding required.
Just make sure the tarp is fully dry, then fold or roll it and slide it back into the adventure bag.

 

Q: How do we care for the paracord, stakes, and hardware?

These materials are rugged and low-maintenance.

Paracord: shake or wipe clean, air dry if wet
Stakes + Carabiners: wipe off dirt, dry to prevent rust

 

Q: Can the kit be stored outside?

Not recommended.

For longest life, store your kit:

• Indoors

• Fully dry

• Packed in the adventure bag

This keeps everything clean, mildew-free, and ready for the next build.