Reflecting on Baldur’s Gate 3, many players fondly recall their thrilling journeys across the Sword Coast, from the wilderness around Elturel to the bustling heart of the titular city. Larian Studios has masterfully created a rich tapestry of locations for players to explore. Yet, some of the most profound experiences occur at campsites, which act as pivotal points of rest and storytelling for Tav, The Dark Urge, their companions, and other unique companions.
Campsites in Baldur’s Gate 3 aren’t just places to rest; they’re integral to the narrative and character interaction. With 17 distinct campsites spread throughout the campaign, Larian Studios crafted immersive bases reflecting the diverse lands of Faerun. Each campsite is uniquely laid out, offering varied aesthetics and narratives that enrich the gaming experience. However, not all campsites hold the same allure; some truly stand out against the rest.
S-Tier: The Best of Baldur’s Gate 3
Wilderness Camp: This serene haven is accessible from multiple points in early Act 1 and serves as the game’s initial campsite. Located just beyond the fallen city of Elturel, it holds a special place in players’ hearts. Surrounded by lush greenery and offering cozy nooks, it’s an ideal starting point for this epic adventure where companions can bond amid early game tensions.
Underdark Camp: Offering a stark contrast to the wilderness, the Underdark Camp plunges players into an atmosphere filled with mystery. The eerie hues and darkness give it an uncanny edge, but its colorful flora and mesmerizing bioluminescence make exploring this D&D-inspired nook totally worth it.
Shadow-Cursed Lands Camp: Draped in secrets, the Shadow-Cursed Lands harbor one of the best rest spots in the game. With its haunting red grass and barren landscapes, this camp amplifies the stakes of Act 2, offering deep visual storytelling aligned with the narrative’s tension.
A-Tier: Campgrounds Fit for Heroes
Elfsong Tavern: A beloved location among players, the Elfsong Tavern offers a luxurious respite once players rent a room in Act 3. Its lush decor and inviting atmosphere make it a splendid setting for any adventurer wanting a break from the wild.
Lower City Harbor: Amidst the bustling quests of the Lower City, this harbor side spot provides a unique refuge, presenting a slice of city life where intimacy and camaraderie grow amidst swirling dilemmas.
Overgrown Ruins: Mysteries abound in these ruins from early Act 1. As the site of Withers’ resting place, it tingles with the intrigue that pulls players deeper into the lore with statues and relics of forgotten worshipping practices.
Wyrm’s Lookout: A brief yet stunning resting spot between Acts 2 and 3, Wyrm’s Lookout offers breathtaking vistas. However, it remains just a one-night stand in the journey, unlike many other campsites.
B-Tier: Gather The Party, But Stay A While
Last Light Inn: Amid the Shadow-Cursed Lands, this beacon of hope offers a decent getaway. Nestled by a river, it provides a glimmer amidst Act 2’s mysteries.
Rivington Outskirts: Set on the edge of a city facing a refugee crisis, this camp gives a little space away from the main city’s brewing troubles.
Creche Y’llek: Situated beneath Rosymorn Monastery, this location holds cultural riches and resources, primarily for Lae’zel’s mission lines, yet it doesn’t perfectly suit a campsite vibe due to its tense atmosphere.
Gauntlet of Shar Camp: A campsite reminding players of the challenges lying ahead. Unforgiving yet visually fascinating, it provides a stage for weary adventurers.
C-Tier: Just for a Night
Grymforge Camp: Nestled amidst molten lava, Grymforge offers only a brief and moderately engaging stay despite its picturesque surroundings.
Moonrise Towers Basement: A rather odd camping choice, providing privacy amid scheming territories.
Blighted Village Basement: A cramped camp with an uneasy air, only inviting players to find better spots eventually.
Cave Camps: Both Owlbear Cave Camp and Spider Lair Cave feel cramped and disconnected from Act 1’s unfolding story, though the Owlbear spot offers a cute NPC adoption arc to remember it by.
In Baldur’s Gate 3, every campsite adds a unique flavor to the tale, but their beauty lies not just in the landscapes but in the stories and bonds forged within those spaces. Whether a humble first camp or a lavish tavern room, each has its own charm, making the adventure all the more immersive.