Sons Of The Forest How To Get The Shovel Complete Guide

11 August 2026 | 64

Sons of the Forest introduces players to a beautiful yet treacherous island where survival depends on acquiring key tools scattered throughout the wilderness. Among these tools, the shovel stands out as a critical progression item needed to uncover hidden bunkers, late-game weapons, and story-sensitive locations. Navigating this vast territory requires careful preparation and the collection of pre-requisite gear before attempting to reach the shovel itself.

Acquiring the Vital Pre-requisite Tools

Before players can hope to reach the shovel, they must first venture into two entirely different caves to gather essential equipment. The rebreather is hidden deep within a coastal cave, allowing you to breathe underwater and navigate submerged tunnels. Meanwhile, the rope gun is located in a dangerous cave network further inland and serves as your primary tool for traversing ziplines.

Attempting to reach the shovel without these two items is impossible due to the structural barriers inside the shovel cave. Experienced survivors recommend packing adequate medicine, food, and torch materials before tracking down these foundational instruments. Once both items are secured in your inventory, you are fully prepared to approach the snowy mountain region where the final tool awaits.

Locating and Entering the Shovel Cave

The cave containing the shovel is positioned near the base of the snowy mountain area, identifiable by three deceased mercenaries impaled on stakes outside the entrance. Breaking open the wooden boards covering the opening grants entry into a cold, dark cavern teeming with hostile mutant tribes. Stepping into this deep abyss requires quick combat reflexes and strategic placement of your defensive resources.

Upon entering, players will immediately encounter a long zipline rope stretched across a massive cavern drop. Equipping your newly acquired rope gun allows you to glide effortlessly to the far side of the chasm. From this point, you must plunge into a nearby pool of water and utilize the rebreather to swim through a winding underwater tunnel.

Navigating the Inner Chambers to the Shovel

After emerging from the flooded pathway, you will find yourself navigating through expansive rocky corridors filled with heavy mutant resistance. It is wise to utilize powerful ranged weapons or explosives to clear out tightly packed enemy groups safely. Following the natural slope of the cave will eventually lead you into a unique refinery area filled with modern mining equipment.

The final room reveals a massive underground structure where a deceased worker holds the tool in his lap. Interacting with the body allows you to officially add the shovel to your quick-select inventory. Securing this implement marks a major turning point in your journey across the island, granting you the ability to unearth buried secrets and advance the main narrative.