10 Bearded Dragon outdoor Enclosures That Are So Cool, You’ll Want to Move In Too

Ever looked at your bearded dragon and thought, “You deserve a palace fit for a king (or queen)?”

Same here.

From miniature lizard mansions to sun-soaked retreats, these 10 outdoor enclosures are so incredible, you might start wondering if you’re living in the wrong spot.

Spoiler: your dragon is about to be the envy of the reptile kingdom.

10 bearded dragon outdoor enclosure ideas

1. Garden-Style Enclosure With Natural Plants

This setup is enclosed with wooden framing and fine mesh wire. What stands out is the use of live plants like aloe and monstera, giving it a natural, shaded habitat. The dragon gets enrichment and some privacy from the greenery.

How to recreate it:

• Build a wooden frame using weatherproof treated lumber.
• Staple hardware cloth (wire mesh) all around to protect from predators.
• Add pots of safe plants like aloe vera and ferns.
• Include ramps, basking rocks, and shaded corners.
• Make sure it gets partial sun and has good airflow.

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2. Rabbit Hutch Conversion

This was likely built for a rabbit or small animal but adapted for a bearded dragon. It includes an indoor shelter and an outdoor basking area. The structure is on wheels, so it’s easy to move.

How to recreate it:

• Buy or repurpose a two-level rabbit hutch.
• Ensure all materials are reptile-safe (no sharp wire, treated wood okay if sealed).
• Add non-slip ramps and basking tiles.
• Use locking latches to prevent escape.
• Keep the hutch in a semi-shaded outdoor space so it doesn’t overheat.

3. Open-Air Patio Pen

This is a basic, open-top enclosure made with just wood and mesh—simple and budget-friendly. It allows direct sunlight, great for supervised daytime use.

How to recreate it:

• Use 2x2s for the frame and staple fine mesh to it.
• Keep it on a warm patio or deck during sunny days.
• Only use under supervision, since there’s no roof for predator protection.
• Lay a textured surface (like linoleum or tiles) to prevent burns or slippery footing.

4. Full-Sized Walk-In Habitat

This is a large, walk-in style enclosure with plenty of space and height. It mimics a natural desert scene, complete with small trees, sand, and shaded areas. It’s more like a garden for your dragon.

How to recreate it:

• Use wooden framing and secure mesh across large panels.
• Create a proper door with a latch.
• Plant hardy, dragon-safe shrubs or trees.
• Use sand or dirt substrate for digging and basking.
• Add shaded areas and water dishes for comfort.
• Great for those who want to build a permanent, outdoor dragon zone.

5. Portable Enclosure

This is a low-profile, mobile pen that sits directly on the grass. It includes a built-in wooden hide and gives your dragon access to natural sunlight and real ground.

How to recreate it:

• Build a lightweight wooden box frame with wire mesh on all sides.
• Keep it low and predator-safe with a secure latch system.
• Add a shaded hide made from scrap wood or a small crate.
• Move it daily to give your dragon fresh grass and prevent overheating.

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6. Pop-Up Mesh Playpen

This is a collapsible, portable playpen with a mesh cover. It’s soft-sided, lightweight, and ideal for short supervised sessions outdoors.

How to recreate or use:

• Buy a pop-up pet playpen (usually for cats or rabbits).
• Line the inside with towels or fleece for comfort.
• Add a basking rock, some enrichment like safe plants, and water.
• Only use it when you can supervise—it’s not predator-proof.

7. DIY PVC Frame and Chicken Wire Habitat

This setup uses a PVC pipe frame and chicken wire, making it super lightweight and modular. It’s decorated with hammocks, hides, and even fake plants, creating a multi-level lounging space.

How to recreate it:

• Use ½” or ¾” PVC pipes and corner fittings to build a rectangle.
• Wrap the sides with chicken wire or hardware cloth and zip-tie it securely.
• Add rope hammocks, potted fake plants, and basking platforms.
• Keep it on a raised or shaded area to avoid overheating.
• It’s a flexible, affordable design and great for those who like to tinker.

8. Portable Tent-Style Mesh Enclosure

This is a pop-up tent design made with fine mesh, ideal for temporary sunning. It’s super portable and easy to fold down, yet big enough for a small basking setup.

How to recreate or use:

• Use a small camping-style pop-up pet tent or insect-proof play tent.
• Inside, place a wooden platform or hide box and a water bowl.
• Add a basking log and towel to provide comfort and shade.
• Use only under supervision—this is not predator-proof, but great for controlled environments like backyards or patios.

9. Metal Cage with Wood Shelter Combo

This enclosure uses a strong metal cage structure and includes a wooden basking house on top. It’s reinforced with zip ties, has a large branch for climbing, and even a water bottle rigged to the side for hydration.

How to recreate it:

• Use a pre-made metal dog crate or small animal cage.
• Add a custom wooden top box to provide shade and shelter.
• Zip-tie a large branch diagonally for basking and climbing.
• Include a water bottle or dish secured on the outside.
• Stake the corners into the ground or weigh them down to avoid tipping.

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10. Spacious Wood-Framed Chicken Wire Enclosure

This one is made from a wooden frame and chicken wire, giving the dragon plenty of sun and breeze. What sets it apart is the large basking log and a shallow kiddie pool, likely for soaking or extra humidity.

How to recreate it:

• Use 2×2 wood pieces for the structure and staple chicken wire securely.
• Add large logs or driftwood for basking.
• Place a shallow plastic bin or pool for enrichment or hydration (make sure it’s supervised).
• Make it large enough to allow roaming, but secure enough to keep predators out.