Hammock camping in an old growth cypress tree, Florida, USA

Lying suspended above the lake may seem like a dicey way to spend the night. But it’s in keeping with the spirit of the hammock’s original intent. While we may associate the suspended nap-inducer with summer afternoons in idyllic suburbs, the hammock was originally used by native people in Central and South America. Sleeping on the ground isn’t a good idea if you’re out in nature, where biting ants, snakes, and other small critters come out at night. But suspend a net or canvas sling between two trees and you’ve greatly increased your chances of getting some beauty rest. Now, who’s going to get up, swim to shore, and get coffee for the rest of us?