Trail Camera Mounting Options

Rob Johnston

Editor & Article Writer for Outdoor Wilds

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Trail Camera Mounting Options

In this article I take a look at a number of different trail camera mounts for siting a camera onto a tree.

I’ve taken a look at 5 different ways to mount a camera, all with their own unique features, strengths and price points.

If your looking for a super low cost way to mount a camera, take a look at the DIY method at the end of the article.

All the mounting systems work very well, it’s just down to personal preference and how much you plan to budget for camera mounts this season.

Cuddeback Genius Pan Tilt Lock Mount

Last update on 2024-04-29 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API

This trail camera mount from Cuddeback fits straight onto any Cuddeback trail cam in the configuration shown above by attaching the supplied lock clip.

For other makes of camera the bracket comes with a universal adapter plate that allows you to screw into any 1/4-20 tripod mount on the back or underside of the camera, as shown in the video (See Below).

You have 2 options for attaching the bracket to a tree. Screw the mount directly onto the tree or use a nylon tree strap.

Once the bracket is attached to the tree and the camera plate is fitted, the camera just slides on / off the bracket with ease.

This makes it super quick to remove the camera to check batteries and the SD card, then slide back onto the tree bracket.

Positioning the camera at the desired angle is made easy. The mount will rotate on all 3 axis. Once you have the camera lined up it’s just a matter of tightening the 3 x T6 Torx heads. (Older models did have 2 different size of allen key heads.)

For security, there is a hole to allow you to thread a python lock through the bracket housing and around the tree.

Overall, this mount works very well. It’s well made, durable, quick to set up and doesn’t cost a great deal. It’s definitely worth checking out.

Cuddeback Genius Pan Tilt Lock Mount includes Universal Adapter and Mounting Screws

Last update on 2024-04-29 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API

Spy High Complete Mounting System

Last update on 2024-04-29 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API

The Spy High system takes a fairly unique approach in attaching a camera to a tree.

With this system you can set your camera onto a tree using extendable poles up to 16 feet high. All done while standing on the ground.

First you screw the bracket into the tree. You can use a drill to do this with the supplied chuck or by hand.

The bracket has 2 sides. For both install and removal of the trail camera.

This kit comes with 2 brackets for several cameras. Additional brackets are available.

This is a really neat system, but it does come at a price. Check out the short video below to see exactly how quick and easy it is to mount a trail camera high off the ground. Safe from predators and thieves.

Last update on 2024-04-29 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API

HME Products Better Trail Camera Holder

Last update on 2024-04-29 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API

This is one of my favourite trail camera holders. It’s a heavy duty camera arm at 6 inches long that allows you to rotate the camera at 360 degrees.

Installing the arm to the tree is just a matter of screwing the heavy duty super sharp screw into the tree and your good to go.

The arm not only rotates 360 degrees but also tilts up and down 120 degrees.

The wingnut makes removal of the arm quick and easy.

The arm is compatible with all 1/4-20 threaded insert on the bottom trail cameras. it comes with 6 rubber washers to set the camera base accordingly.

This is a low tech, tough as old boots design camera mount thats quick and easy to line up the camera perfectly.

Last update on 2024-04-29 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API

HME Products Economy Trail Camera Holder

Last update on 2024-04-29 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API

If you’re on a budget and you don’t want to go down the DIY route. This economy trail camera holder does the job.

It’s a no frills camera mount thats robust enough to last at least a few seasons.

Last update on 2024-04-29 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API

Build a DIY Trail-Camera Mount

This tried and tested DIY mount is cheap to make, only a few dollars at most. It’s made up from half a dozen low cost components from your local hardware store.

The video above gives a brief overview of what the mount is and how to make it.

For more information on the exact materials you need to make this trail camera mount and step by step instructions for assembly. Head on over to the QDMA website for more information.

This low cost mount, although nothing fancy, does the job of siting a trail camera just as well as the other more expensive mounting systems in this article.

However, it may take a bit longer to set and aim the direction of the camera lens onto the desired spot. The mount is also more susceptible to being knocked out of line by wildlife, such as a squirrel.

Incidentally, the QDMA have a very good book dedicated to the science of scouting with trail cameras. Read my review on this gem of a book for more information.