MSR Groundhog Tent Stake Kit - Lightweight, High-Hold Stakes

In this review of the MSR Groundhog Tent Stake Kit the bottom line is simple: these stakes are made for campers and backpackers who need dependable hold without added weight. The kit of six uses a three-sided Y-beam profile and 7000-series aluminum to combine penetrating strength with a low mass, so tents stay put in a range of soil types. For anyone tired of bent or pulled-out stakes, the Groundhog kit is a clear upgrade that balances durability and packability for short trips and extended backcountry use.

Key Features

• Three-sided Y-beam design: The profile cuts into soil for superior penetration and holding power compared with flat or round stakes.
• 7000-series aluminum construction: Provides a strong yet lightweight alloy that stands up to repeated pounding without excessive weight.
• Notch and reflective pull loop: The top notch secures guy lines reliably and the attached reflective loop makes removal and visibility at night easier.
• Six-stake kit: Includes six individual stakes so users have a complete set for most two-person tents and small tarps.
• Compact length and low weight: Regular stakes are 7.5 in long and weigh 0.46 ounces each, offering a good balance of length and packability for camping and backpacking.

Who It's For

The MSR Groundhog Tent Stake Kit is ideal for backpackers, weekend campers, and lightweight car campers who want dependable stakes that do not add much to their pack weight. The combination of a Y-beam profile and 7000-series aluminum makes it especially appropriate for mixed soils, compacted ground, and sandy coastal conditions where better penetration and holding power matter.

Those who should look elsewhere include travelers needing extremely long or heavy-duty steel stakes for permanent setups, and ultralight thru-hikers who demand sub-0.3 ounce stakes; this product sits in the middle with a clear bias toward strength and reusability rather than absolute minimum weight.

Pros & Cons

Pros

• High holding power from the three-sided Y-beam design, keeping tents secure in wind and rain.
• Lightweight 7000-series aluminum construction balances durability with packability.
• Notch and reflective pull loop make securing guy lines and stake removal straightforward.
• Six stakes per kit provide a complete complement for typical small tents or tarps.

Cons

• Not as heavy-duty as steel for extremely rocky or frozen ground where thicker metal is preferred.
• Regular length may be longer than needed for some ultralight setups seeking the absolute lowest weight.

Specifications

Brand	MSR
Material	7000-series aluminum
Design	Three-sided Y-beam
Included	Six individual tent stakes
Regular stake length	7.5 in
Regular stake weight	0.46 ounces each
Warranty	Manufacturers limited 3-year warranty

Our Verdict

The MSR Groundhog Tent Stake Kit is a practical upgrade for most campers who want reliable hold without a heavy weight penalty; its Y-beam shape and 7000-series aluminum make it durable in varied soils and easy to remove. For the price and included quantity it represents solid value for weekend trips, coastal sand, and typical backpacking setups.

Frequently Asked Questions

Are these stakes good in sand?
Yes; reviewers note the Y-beam design and length perform well in coastal sands compared with flat stakes.

How many stakes come in the kit?
The kit includes six individual tent stakes, which covers most small tent and tarp setups.

What material are the stakes made from?
They are constructed from 7000-series aluminum for a balance of strength and low weight.