The best places for your trampoline in the garden

The trampoline location largely determines how safe and enjoyable jumping will be, so in this how-to we explain step by step where to best place your trampoline.

In this article, we cover which surface is most suitable, how much clearance and height you need, and how to take sun, wind, and supervision into account. You will also read about the difference between an inground trampoline and a trampoline on legs, practical tips for leveling, anchoring, and drainage, and a brief explanation of costs and when to hire a professional.

Follow the simple steps and checklists in the rest of this blog so you can confidently choose the right spot and immediately enjoy safe and carefree jumping fun in your garden.

What is the ideal trampoline location?

The ideal trampoline location is a flat, stable, and obstacle-free part of your garden with at least 1.5 meters of clearance around it and at least 6 meters of free height above the jumping area; preferably place it on grass or rubber tiles for optimal safety and comfort.

At Etan, we notice that a good choice of trampoline location makes the difference between years of carefree fun and ongoing problems with stability or wear. In this step-by-step plan, you’ll learn exactly what to consider: surface, clearance, height, sun, wind, supervision, the difference between inground and on-legs trampolines, and practical tips for leveling, anchoring, and drainage. Already have a model in mind? Use our trampoline buying guide or continue reading in our manuals on the FAQ page frequently asked questions.

Checklist (short)

• Flat, stable surface (preferably grass or rubber)
• At least 1.5 m clearance around
• Minimum height of 6 m
• Protected from strong wind and direct view for supervision
• Good drainage when inground

Why is the surface so important?

A solid, flat surface prevents wobbling, uneven frame load, and unnecessary wear on springs and legs.

A stable base ensures that the energy from jumping is properly absorbed by the trampoline and not lost in the ground. Grass is often the best choice: soft for potential falls and gentle on the legs. Alternatives include artificial grass, rubber tiles, or foundations (e.g., gravel or sand with stabilization fabric). Avoid concrete or stone unless you place a wide layer of rubber tiles around to cushion impacts and prevent corrosion on the legs.

Practical tips for leveling

• Check with a spirit level and a straight edge whether the surface is flat.
• Fill low spots with sand or fill sand and compact it well.
• On soft ground: reinforce with a layer of crushed stone and stabilization fabric to prevent sinking.

Tip: planning an inground trampoline? First dig the trampoline pit and optionally use some of the excavated soil to level the area around your trampoline. This saves costs, time, and effort.

Example: leveling in three steps

1. Mark the circle or rectangle of the trampoline with a rope and stakes.
2. Excavate or fill where necessary and regularly check with the spirit level.
3. Let the applied material settle for a few days and check again before assembling.

When to choose rubber tiles?

Rubber tiles are ideal in urban gardens or on terraces where grass is not possible; they provide good shock absorption and are low maintenance, but ensure the tiles are level so all legs have even contact.

How much clearance and height do you need?

The minimum safe clearance around the trampoline is approximately 1 to 1.5 meters; for height, a guideline of 6 meters above the jumping mat is recommended to safely perform jumps with rotations.

Watch out for trees, overhanging roofs, clotheslines, and pergolas. Obstacles within 1.5 meters increase the risk of collisions; anything above the trampoline is dangerous. Consider a safety net and choose extra clearance for higher jumps or limit jump variations for young children.

Practical examples

• Large garden: place the trampoline freely in an open field with view from the terrace for supervision. Anchor a standing trampoline to prevent problems in the wind.
• Small garden: choose a flat-to-the-ground or inground trampoline, or place a model with a safety net closer to the house, provided clearance is respected.

Tip: visibility and supervision

Place the trampoline in a location where you can easily see it from the terrace or kitchen window. At Etan, we always recommend considering daily routines: if the trampoline is in view of where adults often sit, that is ideal.

How to deal with sun, shade, and wind?

Choose a spot with sufficient shade or provide a shade cloth; strong wind can be mitigated by placing the trampoline in a sheltered area or anchoring it.

Direct sunlight can heat the jumping mat and protective pad significantly and shorten the lifespan of plastic parts. A shaded spot increases comfort and reduces heat issues. Wind is an important factor: do not place a trampoline in an open field without shelter, and always anchor well – especially on-legs models, which can tip or shift in storms.

Anchoring steps (short)

1. Get a trampoline anchoring set
2. Place anchor points at equal distances under the frame.
3. Screw ground anchors vertically into the soil at points under the legs.
4. Attach straps over the frame and hook them to the anchors.
5. Tighten all straps and check monthly.

Example: wind-sheltered corner

A hedge or fence on two sides creates a natural windbreak. Place the trampoline with the open side away from the wind to reduce the risk of lifting.

What is the difference between inground and on-legs trampolines?

An inground trampoline sits lower and is usually safer for children because the fall height is smaller; a trampoline on legs is portable and requires less digging but is more sensitive to wind and has a higher entry height.

Inground trampolines come in two main types: inground (partially buried, edge slightly above ground) and groundlevel (fully level with lawn). Groundlevel often has a ventilation system in the jumping mat – such as OptiFlow mats – allowing air to escape while jumping; this improves rebound. When inground, pay attention to drainage, pit ventilation, and preventing soil subsidence. See size and depth examples in manufacturer manuals or use our guide for the correct dimensions for your model: discover the right size.

Depth and dimensions flat-to-the-ground trampoline (practical guideline)

Practical tip for inground: shape the pit like a bowl, deeper in the center with firmly graded edges. Lay weed cloth and consider a drainage pipe for clay or peat soil.

How to properly anchor and maintain the trampoline?

Anchor using Etan's anchoring set: ground anchors and straps at fixed points under the frame, with maintenance consisting of periodic checks for corrosion, spring tension, and condition of the net and pad.

Follow this maintenance checklist once per season: check frame and welds for cracks, lubricate hinges if needed, replace damaged springs, and inspect the condition of the protective pad. Clean the jumping mat with lukewarm water and a soft brush; do not use harsh chemicals that affect UV resistance.

Step-by-step anchoring

1. Place anchors and straps in sets around the trampoline.
2. Screw each anchor vertically into the ground under the frame or use ground spikes for harder soil.
3. Pull the straps over the frame and click into the anchors; tighten well.
4. Check after strong wind and every spring that anchors are still secure.

Maintenance example (annual)

• Spring: full inspection and cleaning, check anchors
• Summer: monthly visual inspection
• Autumn: remove leaves and check drainage
• Winter: if not in use, install a protective cover and remove snow

When to hire a professional?

Hiring a professional is recommended for deep inground, poor machine access, unclear utility locations, or if you want to save time and material.

It is also wise to hire a professional if you are unsure about soil bearing capacity or if a lot of soil needs to be removed. Professionals often have mini-excavators, can check KLIC notifications, and ensure correct drainage and finishing – saving time and preventing costly errors. Request multiple quotes and ask about guarantees on work.

Tip: contact Etan or see Etan's inground service.

Cost indication (approx.)

• DIY digging (weekend with wheelbarrows): low direct cost, labor-intensive
• Rent mini-excavator + container: costs rise quickly (a few hundred to >1000 euros)
• Professional including installation and finishing: variable, from €699 at Etan

Example situation

A standard inground trampoline 305 cm – digging on normal garden soil can save dozens of hours of manual work if you rent a mini-crane; with a lot of soil removal or hard surfaces, the price rises. At Etan, we recommend sending photos and measurements first for a realistic quote.

At Etan, we are ready with advice, technical know-how, and practical checklists to place and anchor your trampoline safely and durably; rely on our experience if you need help with execution.

The location of your trampoline largely determines how safe and enjoyable its use will be: choose a flat, stable, and obstacle-free part of the garden with at least 1.5 meters of clearance around and about 6 meters of free height above the jumping mat. Preferably place the trampoline on grass or rubber tiles; hard surfaces require extra cushioning to limit impact and corrosion. Always ensure good drainage and a solid base when leveling and digging, and anchor on-legs models securely against wind. An inground trampoline generally provides a lower fall height and more comfort but requires more work on drainage; a trampoline on legs is easier to move but more sensitive to wind. Regular maintenance and seasonal checks of frame, springs, protective pad, and anchors extend lifespan and increase safety. Consult the mentioned manuals, selection guide, and product pages in this article for practical dimensions and specific options, or contact us for personalized advice.