A strap works on a straight tree. A mount lets you aim the camera where the deer will be, not where the trunk points. Here are the main options with the makers' specs, checked Oct 10, 2026, with approximate prices. For where to aim the camera, see trail cam placement for bowhunters.

The options

Mount How it attaches Adjustment Fit Price, approx.
Strap Around the trunk Whatever the tree gives you Your camera
HME Trail Camera Holder Screws into the tree 360° rotation, 120° tilt Cameras with a 1/4 x 20 thread $15.99 (HME)
Slate River Stealth Screws into the tree 360° rotation, tilts up to 135° Cameras and Ozonics units with a 1/4 x 20 insert, GoPro adapter included About $20 at retailers
Tactacam REVEAL Tree Mount Strap or lag screws Separate left/right and up/down Listed REVEAL models only (see below)
T-post Camera mounted to a post Set the post where you want it Depends on the bracket

Notes on each

  • HME. HME says it screws into most trees, the camera threads onto the stud, and a locking knob holds the position.
  • Slate River Stealth. Slate River lists a heat-treated corkscrew tip, a single thumb screw to lock the ball, a weight of 3.5 oz and a size of 4 x 2.5 x 1 inches. TrailCamPro notes it isn't strong enough to hold a security case.
  • Tactacam REVEAL Tree Mount. It's made from UV-resistant polymer with a 1-year warranty. Tactacam lists it for the REVEAL X, X-Pro, X 2.0, X 3.0, Pro 3.0, X SK, XB and Ultra. My camera is the Tactacam Reveal Pro 4.0, and it isn't on that list, so check with Tactacam before you buy one for a newer model.
  • T-post. Alabama Extension says a 6-foot T-post works where there's no suitable tree.

Choosing one

  • Tree size. Alabama Extension suggests a tree at least 6 inches across to cut false triggers from the tree moving.
  • Theft. If you use a security case, the Slate River isn't rated to hold one, per TrailCamPro.
  • Rules. Screw-in mounts go into the tree. Check the land rules or ask the landowner first.

Other good options

Questions hunters ask

Do I need a mount? No. A strap works on a straight tree. A mount helps you aim when the tree doesn't line up.

Will a screw-in mount fit my camera? HME and Slate River fit cameras with a standard 1/4 x 20 thread.

Does the Tactacam mount fit every Reveal? Only the models Tactacam lists, so check yours.

Sources

  • HME Products, Trail Camera Holder Tree Mount: https://www.hmeproducts.com/trail-camera-holder-tree-mount/
  • Slate River, Stealth Trail Camera Mount: https://www.slaterivermounts.com/stealth-trail-camera-mount
  • TrailCamPro, Slate River Stealth Game Camera Mount: https://www.trailcampro.com/products/slate-river-stealth-game-camera-mount
  • Tactacam, REVEAL Tree Mount: https://www.tactacam.com/reveal-tree-mount
  • Alabama Cooperative Extension System, "Managing White-tailed Deer: Camera Surveys": https://www.aces.edu/blog/topics/forestry-wildlife/managing-white-tailed-deer-camera-surveys/