How To Setup Inground Trampoline? Step By Step

A trampoline is a fun addition to any backyard, but it can be difficult to know how to put it in the ground properly. It can be a challenge to install a trampoline, but with the right instructions it can be done relatively easily. In this blog post we will outline the steps you need to take to put your trampoline in the ground properly. Happy jumping!

Measure the area where you want to place the trampoline.

Measure the length and width of the trampoline frame (the metal tubes that span between the jumping mat). Make sure you are measuring from inside of one end to inside of the other end. If you are working with a 15 ft. long frame, measure it at 14 feet 10 inches because that extra foot will easily fit into your measurements.

Measure how far apart the support poles are on the outside of the metal frame tubes. This may be anywhere from 4 inches to 18 inches depending on age and brand so be sure to write down this measurement as well. To accurately measure, push your measuring tape right up against one tube on each side all around each pole.

Look at the instructions on the trampoline and measure how far apart each of your support poles needs to be for that specific brand and model. If you will still be using the stakes that came with your trampoline, use this number instead of measuring around the poles.

Mark where you will dig to make holes for each pole, plus an extra couple feet out in all directions to create a good foundation for your trampoline. Be sure these are wide enough to accommodate both tire halves without them touching one another or any other obstacles in their path (rocks, roots, grass).

Dig a hole that is the same size as the trampoline frame

Use a shovel to dig holes that are about 2 feet deep. If the trampoline kit includes stakes, push one of them firmly into the ground about 2 feet deep.

If you are using your own screws or bolts instead of the included metal stakes, place each tire half onto a pole and mark where to drill holes in the tires for each screw or bolt. Be sure to measure twice before drilling! You can use 5/8″ diameter wooden dowels if you do not have anything else on hand. I used 1/2″ threaded galvanized pipe with 3/4″ couplings which work very well but take almost twice as long to install because they are so long. All other materials will go through these pipes so drill carefully.

Use a hammer or rubber mallet to firmly tap poles into the holes of tire halves.

Place the trampoline in the hole and fill in around it with soil, tamping down as you go.

Keep the jumping mat tight as you do this to make sure there are no air pockets underneath it. If necessary, re-position your support poles/metal stakes to keep your trampoline in place throughout this process.

Be careful not to hit or step on any metal parts because they will puncture holes in socks and feet! If you accidentally damage one of the metal stakes, use zip ties to keep trampoline safely upright until you can replace it with another stake.

Build your trampoline frame

To build your trampoline frame, first insert one end of the first piece of metal. Place it on top of the tire half and hammer into place using a rubber mallet or hammer, working around all sides until it is sturdy enough that you can stand on it without fear of it collapsing. Repeat these steps with each pole until all four poles are inserted. If you were unable to purchase trampoline screws/bolts at your local hardware store, double check that they are sturdy before continuing.

If you want to put padding between the metal tubes and jumping mat so there isn’t any contact when someone jumps, I would recommend using thick pieces of closed cell foam (like what is used in camping mattresses) because it will hold up better over time than the pool noodles shown in my pictures.

Attaching the jumping mat

Lay the jumping mat over the frame and stretch it tightly around each pole. There should be no slack so they are very tight against the poles. Trim if necessary to fit securely around all four poles without excess mat hanging off. Fold excess mat under at base of each pole so it doesn’t hang off or get caught when someone jumps on trampoline, which can rip or tear your metal structure when you least expect it!

Digging holes for support poles

If you are not using the metal stakes that came with your trampoline, drill holes for each of the support poles all the way through one tire half and into the other. Make these about 2 feet deep to ensure they are sturdy enough. If you have metal stakes, just insert them into the ground here. For my 15 ft. trampoline, I had to use two different sizes of pipes so it took longer but was worth it because all four poles are very secure! Note how close together they are on this picture…because again, be sure there is no contact between jumping mat and any metal tubing or you will go flying off your trampoline unexpectedly!

When both tires/poles on one side are inserted at the same time, it may take a bit of effort to get both of them inserted evenly.

Finishing up & making it secure

Now you just have to do the opposite side and trim off excess jumping mat if necessary. You can also add padding between metal poles and trampoline jumping mat for safety so there is no contact when someone jumps…this is what I plan on doing after my kids have worn out all their initial enthusiasm over our finished product. If you use closed cell foam (like camping mattress) it should last a lot longer than pool noodles because they will not get stuck in-between poles or tear when someone inevitably bounces into them with enthusiasm!

Conclusion

Have you ever wondered how to put a trampoline in the ground? It’s not as easy as just digging a hole and dropping it in. Here are some tips for putting your trampoline into the earth safely so that it will last for years of fun!

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