After getting used to the GPS in Sons of the Forest, players will see a map dotted with many markers. This guide explains how to locate a shovel and dig a grave marked in purple, where to find diving gear, and how to acquire a rope launcher as part of the exploration flow.
Sons of the forest guides
- Sons of the Forest beginner’s guide – how to use inventory, where to find food, water, first aid kits, printer and other tips
- How to build a shelter and save progress in Sons of the Forest
- Using Kelvin (satellite) in Sons of the Forest
- How to find a shovel and dig a grave in Sons of the Forest – where to find diving gear and a rope launcher
To dig graves, the first step is locating a shovel. The shovel sits in a cave that contains several underwater tunnels, so players should prepare to dive and move through water terrains. Along the way, securing a rope launcher becomes helpful, and a rebreather is recommended to extend underwater time.
How do you like diving
Diving gear is found in a cave near the crash site of a helicopter. Head to the northwest beach section and follow the shoreline until yellow barrels appear. The cave has a straightforward layout, which helps prevent getting lost. Within this area, different mutant groups may present a challenge, requiring careful navigation and timing.
Players can bring a life jacket for extra buoyancy. After turning left at the entrance, the diving equipment is stored in a small room shaped like a backpack. Entering the water automatically equips the gear, and oxygen levels should be monitored and conserved by using the equipment only when necessary.
If oxygen usage feels excessive, the gear can be removed from the inventory by hovering over it and selecting the appropriate option.
How to find a rope launcher
The cable launcher is tucked away in a cave toward the western map region, not far from the shovel cave. The cave is long but not as perilous as others, and progress is achieved by following a leftward path to a briefcase that contains the rope launcher.
How to find a shovel
The shovel appears in a cave system west of a snowy mountain near the map’s center. It is located by tracing the stream valley. If arriving after the dive cave, players can move south along the river. The cave is northeast of the character’s current position, and the surrounding terrain includes markers like three dead bodies on stakes outside. The route can be clarified further by following visual cues in the area.
The cave network is sizable and intricate. Before delving, make sure there is enough food and water, plus resources to build a shelter, keep supplies, and ammunitions. Light the way and advance until a cliff appears. Do not jump—look up to spot a rope line and use the rope launcher to cross. A dive will be required to navigate water sections.
On surfacing, expect encounters with nearby mutants. Move forward to a steep slope that requires a controlled slide. The first light sources reveal medicines and useful materials. The journey passes through several busier rooms. The path is linear, yet enemies demand vigilance; staying aware and not letting them trap the player is key.
Further along, follow additional light markers. The final dive leads to a small cave where a worker’s corpse marks the edge of a cliff. Inspect the corpse and claim the shovel.
Sons of the forest: how to dig a grave
To dig the grave, approach the purple marker shown on the map. The GPS will beep as you near the correct location. When aligned with the marker, the shovel will indicate the exact area to dig. Equip the shovel and press the left mouse button to begin digging.
Completing the grave yields various resources, including a shotgun and a GPS tracker. The shovel also proves useful for locating key cards and other items. Securing it early accelerates progress in solving new puzzles throughout the game.
Other guides
Source: VG Times