What are the best locations to set up a wilderness camp?

Setting up a wilderness camp in Red Dead Redemption 2 is a crucial gameplay mechanic that allows you to rest, craft, and manage your resources while exploring the vast open world. To set up a wilderness camp, you need to unlock the feature by progressing through the story. Specifically, you must complete Chapter 2 and purchase the required upgrade from the camp ledger. Once unlocked, you can set up a camp almost anywhere in the wilderness, but choosing the right location is key to maximizing its benefits.\n\nWhen selecting a location for your wilderness camp, consider proximity to resources, safety, and accessibility. Areas near water sources, such as rivers or lakes, are ideal because they provide easy access to fishing spots and clean water for crafting tonics. For example, the Dakota River near Valentine is a great spot due to its central location and abundance of fish. Similarly, the Heartland Overflow area offers a mix of open plains and water, making it a versatile choice for hunting and crafting.\n\nSafety is another critical factor. Avoid setting up camp in areas with high enemy activity, such as gang hideouts or predator-infested regions. For instance, the Grizzlies East region is beautiful but dangerous due to frequent wolf and bear encounters. Instead, opt for safer areas like the Heartlands or Big Valley, where threats are minimal. Additionally, setting up camp near roads or trails ensures quick access to towns for resupplying or selling goods.\n\nGame mechanics also play a role in camp placement. The wilderness camp allows you to fast travel to major locations, but only if you have the Fast Travel Map upgrade from the camp ledger. This upgrade is invaluable for saving time, especially when exploring remote areas. For example, if you set up camp in the Roanoke Ridge region, you can fast travel back to Valentine or Saint Denis without a long ride. Always ensure your camp is in a location that complements your current objectives, whether it’s hunting, story missions, or exploration.\n\nPractical examples can help illustrate the best locations. If you’re hunting for perfect pelts, set up camp near the forests of Big Valley or the swamps of Bayou Nwa. These areas are rich in wildlife and provide ample opportunities for crafting upgrades. Conversely, if you’re focusing on story missions, choose a central location like the Heartlands or Scarlett Meadows to minimize travel time. Always keep an eye on your map to avoid setting up camp in restricted areas, such as private property or towns, where the option is unavailable.\n\nTo set up a camp, open your item wheel and select the campfire icon. Choose a flat, open area, and the game will automatically place the camp. Once set up, you can cook, craft, and rest to restore your health and stamina. If you encounter issues, such as the camp not being placed, ensure you’re in a valid location and not too close to enemies or towns. Moving a short distance away usually resolves the problem.\n\nIn conclusion, the best wilderness camp locations in Red Dead Redemption 2 balance resource availability, safety, and accessibility. Prioritize areas near water, avoid dangerous regions, and consider your current objectives when choosing a spot. With the right location, your wilderness camp becomes a valuable tool for survival and exploration in the game.