In the world of Baldur’s Gate 3, adventurers find themselves exploring the diverse landscapes of the Sword Coast—from the outskirts of Elturel to the bustling heart of its titular city. While the thrill of exploring these locations is undeniably exciting, some of the most crucial moments of the game happen back at the campsite. These sites become the hub for Tav/The Dark Urge and their companions, offering a cozy sense of "home" amidst their journey.
Campsites in Baldur’s Gate 3 are more than just resting places; they are essential for character interactions and pushing the story forward. The game boasts a range of 17 campsites, each artfully designed by Larian Studios to reflect Faerun’s varied landscapes. Each location comes with its own layout, aesthetic, and narrative weight, impacting how players experience the game. And, naturally, different campsites have varied levels of appeal.
Starting with the crème de la crème in Baldur’s Gate 3:
Top-Tier Campsites
- Wilderness Camp: Found in early Act 1, this camp offers a tranquil contrast to the chaos around Elturel. Being the first camp most players access, it’s a classic favorite, surrounded by lush greenery and secret spots perfect for early-game bonding among companions.
- Underdark Camp: A striking departure from the serenity of the Wilderness, this camp thrives under the eerie glow and shadowy hues of the Underdark. The mesmerizing bioluminescence makes this a memorable visual treat, enhancing the mysterious feel of this D&D-inspired realm.
- Shadow-Cursed Lands Camp: Set against the backdrop of Act 2’s eerie plot, this perilous encampment uses its stark red grass and unsettling landscape to amplify the storyline’s tension. The visual storytelling here brilliantly underscores the stakes at play.
High-Tier Campsites
- Rosymorn Chapel Grounds: Among Baldur’s Gate 3’s most picturesque spots, this mountaintop sanctuary offers stunning views and a serene place for relaxation and camaraderie.
- Elfsong Tavern: A beloved stop for weary adventurers by Act 3, this luxurious stay in the heart of the Lower City offers an upgrade from sleeping rough in the wilderness, complete with plush decor and a rich atmosphere-perfect for strategizing over a pint.
- Lower City Harbor: After a day swamped with tasks, adventurers can unwind in this nook by the city harbor. Its gritty setting fosters deeper conversations with companions facing tough choices, making it feel like a secret hideaway amidst Act 3’s chaos.
- Overgrown Ruins: Step into the mysterious ruins of Withers at the beginning of Act 1, where ancient statues and forgotten relics invite players deeper into the lore, casting them as part of something larger.
Mid-Tier Campsites
- Creche Y’liek: Situated in the depths beneath Rosymorn, this camp offers vital cultural context and resources, but its tense atmosphere might deter it from being a camping favorite.
- Gauntlet of Shar Camp: Though daunting with challenging quests, campers find solace among the ethereal beauty of this expansive camp area, a spot to recharge for the journey ahead.
- Last Light Inn: Serving as a bright spark among the Shadow-Cursed Lands, this camp on the riverbank exudes an aura of hope amidst Act 2’s dark mysteries.
- Rivington Outskirts: Located on a farm skirting a city in crisis, this camp provides a peaceful escape from impending threats, reminding players of the adventure’s looming dangers.
Low-Tier Campsites
- Blighted Village Basement: This camp near the Goblin Camp is a hive of bugs and decay, invoking discomfort and urging players to seek refuge elsewhere.
- Grymforge Camp: Nestled among fiery molten lava and intricate stonework, this impermanent camp offers scant respite in a superheated environment, dampening its charm.
- Moonrise Towers Basement: The covert vibes of this impromptu camp offer some solace, but its claustrophobic nature stands at odds with its role as a base.
- Caves as Camps: Both the Owlbear and Spider Lair caves fall short of compelling camp choices. Their compact and colorless settings feel out of sync with the surroundings, making them less memorable despite some unique opportunities, like adopting an adorable NPC at the Owlbear Cave.
These campsites, each with unique characteristics and thematic depths, play a vital role in the tapestry of Baldur’s Gate 3, adding layers to the unfolding drama and the evolving camaraderie among characters.
