What’s the best way to avoid bounty hunters while camping?

Avoiding bounty hunters while camping in Red Dead Redemption 2 requires a combination of strategic planning, understanding game mechanics, and utilizing the environment to your advantage. Bounty hunters are relentless and will track you down if you have a high bounty in a specific region. However, with the right approach, you can minimize encounters and stay safe while camping.\n\nFirst, choose your camping location wisely. Bounty hunters are more likely to find you in populated or well-traveled areas. Opt for remote locations such as the Grizzlies, Big Valley, or the swamps of Lemoyne. These areas are less frequented by NPCs and lawmen, making it harder for bounty hunters to locate you. For example, setting up camp near the northern edge of the map, such as near Colter or the snowy mountains, provides excellent cover due to the harsh terrain and low visibility.\n\nNext, pay attention to your bounty level. The higher your bounty, the more aggressive and frequent the bounty hunter attacks will be. If possible, pay off your bounty at a post office or through a train station clerk. This is the most straightforward way to avoid bounty hunters entirely. However, if you cannot afford to pay your bounty, consider lowering it by completing missions or activities that reduce your wanted level.\n\nWhen camping, always set up your camp in a hidden or hard-to-reach spot. Use natural barriers like cliffs, dense forests, or large rocks to shield your camp from view. For instance, in the Heartlands, you can camp near the large rock formations to obscure your presence. Additionally, avoid lighting a fire unless absolutely necessary, as the smoke can attract unwanted attention. If you must cook or craft, do so quickly and extinguish the fire immediately afterward.\n\nAnother key mechanic to understand is the detection system. Bounty hunters rely on visual and auditory cues to locate you. Stay crouched or use the ''sneak'' mode to reduce your visibility. Avoid making loud noises, such as firing your gun or galloping on your horse, as these can alert nearby bounty hunters. If you hear dogs barking or see red dots on your mini-map, it’s a sign that bounty hunters are nearby. In such cases, pack up your camp and move to a new location immediately.\n\nIf you are caught off guard by bounty hunters, prioritize escape over confrontation. Mount your horse and ride away from the camp, using the terrain to your advantage. For example, in the Bayou Nwa region, you can lose pursuers by weaving through the dense trees and shallow water. Alternatively, use throwable items like dynamite or smoke bombs to create distractions and buy yourself time to flee.\n\nFinally, consider using in-game items to your advantage. The ''Cover Scent'' lotion, available at general stores, can mask your scent and make it harder for bounty hunters to track you. Additionally, stock up on health tonics and ammunition before camping, as you may need to defend yourself in a pinch.\n\nIn summary, avoiding bounty hunters while camping in Red Dead Redemption 2 involves careful planning, understanding game mechanics, and utilizing the environment. Choose remote locations, lower your bounty when possible, and stay hidden. By following these steps, you can enjoy a peaceful camping experience without the constant threat of bounty hunters.