If you’ve ever dreamed of adding a tree swing to your backyard, this post is for you. I’m walking you through the exact method we used to install a sturdy, beautiful swing without drilling into the tree. It only took us about an hour, cost less than most store-bought options, and turned our yard into a childhood dream zone. Here’s everything you need to know!
Table of Contents
- Step 1: Why a Tree Swing Is the Best Backyard Upgrade
- Step 2: What You’ll Need for Your DIY Tree Swing
- Step 3: Installing the Tree Swing (Thanks, Stuart!)
- Step 4: Our Honest Tree Swing Review
- Step 5: Tree Swings Aren’t Just for Kids
- Step 6: Want Even More Outdoor Fun?
- Frequently Asked Questions About DIY Tree Swings
Step 1: Why a Tree Swing Is the Best Backyard Upgrade
A DIY tree swing is such a fun, nostalgic addition—and way more affordable than a full swing set. You don’t need a giant metal frame, just a strong branch and a few budget-friendly supplies. It takes up minimal space, requires almost no maintenance, and gives major storybook vibes.
Step 2: What You’ll Need for Your DIY Tree Swing
I ordered two main things online:
- A set of heavy-duty tree swing straps with carabiners (these wrap around the branch and make installation super safe and easy)
- A wooden swing seat with rope and clips already attached
The only other thing we needed was a little bit of chain from the hardware store to adjust the length and get the swing to hang just right. That’s it. Super budget-friendly and easy to customize for your space.
Step 3: Installing the Tree Swing (Thanks, Stuart!)
We are lucky to have one big, beautiful tree in our yard with a thick, sturdy branch that practically begged for a swing. So my husband grabbed the ladder, climbed on up, and got to work. We used the tree swing straps to loop around the branch—no drilling or damage to the tree—and connected the chains and ropes from the wooden swing using the provided carabiners.
If you’re not afraid of heights, this part is a breeze. Once everything was clipped in, we gave it a few test pulls to make sure it was secure. And just like that, we had a functioning tree swing. It took less than an hour start to finish (not counting the celebratory swinging session afterward).
Step 4: Our Honest Tree Swing Review
The only downside to this swing? We’ve got four kids and just one swing. If you’re lucky enough to have more than one sturdy branch, go ahead and hang a few! Trust me, it’ll save you from hearing “Is it my turn yet?” on repeat all afternoon.
Step 5: Tree Swings Aren’t Just for Kids
This isn’t the only swing in our yard. Shortly after hanging the tree swing, I built a DIY pergola-style hammock stand—because moms deserve a swing too! It’s my favorite shady spot to read with the kids or sneak in a few quiet minutes alone while they run wild. Between the tree swing, the hammock, and our beautiful, comfy patio, our backyard has turned into the sweetest little escape for the whole family.
Step 6: Want Even More Outdoor Fun?
Want to level up your backyard even more? Let me just say—inflatable water slides aren’t just for birthday parties. Any hot summer day is the perfect excuse to blow one up and let the kids burn off all that energy. Total game-changer for backyard, summer fun! I’ve got the link to the waterslide and all my other outdoor hosting tips posted for you here.
Frequently Asked Questions About DIY Tree Swings
Look for a mature, healthy hardwood tree with a thick horizontal branch at least 8–10 feet off the ground. Oak, maple, or sycamore trees work well for supporting a tree swing safely.
Yes! Use heavy-duty tree swing straps with carabiners. These wrap around the branch and secure the swing without damaging the tree.
Ideally, the swing seat should hang about 18–24 inches off the ground. This makes it easy for kids to get on and off while keeping them safely elevated for swinging.
We love a classic wooden swing with pre-attached ropes and clips. It’s sturdy, pretty, and adds to that charming backyard vibe.
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