So, what resources can I gather to get more proficient at shooting from a tripod when a good solid prone isn't available?

The only thing I can tell you is what you've probably been thinking anyway, trial and error til you get what you like. You could probably look through pictures and see what people are using. It was never a major factor for me so I never really got into it. Out in the woods, found some sticks or used a bungee cord around a tree. I'm sure there are some that would fold up small enough to hump out in the woods but someone who's actually used them would have to chime in for that.

Agreed, trial and error. As far as equipment goes, obviously a very sturdy tripod, I recommend a decent rifle clamp/rest, one that will be able to support your rifle without assistance, and a good sling and riggers belt or a way to connect your sling to the rifle and to your body.

Wow, that's a pretty slick set up.

I don't use mine very often, but it sure is nice on a hillside with a 15lb gun.  This is a Vortex tripod with a homemade saddle using old sleeping pad glued inside.  I like the tripod quite a bit and mostly when I use it I try to either use the shooting stick on the back as a rear support or use my rear bag to try to stabilize my body as well as possible, put it under my butt or something.  I also try to use the bag on the shooting sticks, but unless I can take all damn day it's more of a 'junk wrestling' match than shooting, so it's not very applicable to much imo.  It's also possible I don't know what I'm doing...

I was shown some good tips for shooting with bags, slings and even dirt piles that I want to try soon.  I've had a health setback that has limited my mobility, but as it recovers I'll be going back to trying some shooting with slings and odd positions.

I've only taken out my tripod on one occasion so far and I was quickly humbled. I learned that you have to get as stable as you can with no muscle imput. Your natural point of aim is also important. I probably started off a little too far out at 700 yards on a 1.5 Moa target. Next time I think I'll move it back to 300 until I get comfortable with it.

http://snipershide.scout.com/forums/5537-online-training/13264940-sitting-with-a-tripod?s=541

I think that link redirected me because I no longer have a valid login.

fix that... put your email in and hit fogot pass...

 

This guy did a pretty cool video on how to use one in conjunction with a sling:

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LhEqiwux94Q

I'm sure there are advantages to using a high dollar shooting designed tripod but I've tagged a lot of prairie dogs in S. Dakota using a $45(iirc) tripod from Walmart.

It's light.

Deploys fairly fast.

Gets low enough that I can sit behind it.

I've never used it and wished it could do more.

Has anyone tried lashing three tent poles together?  I like the idea of being able to collapse them and making them portable but seems like they would be pretty flimsy if you try to lean into them a little.