Sons of the Forest tasks players with surviving a brutal island filled with cannibals and mutants. To progress through the story and unlock new areas, acquiring the shovel is an absolute necessity. This tool allows you to dig up hidden bunkers, grave sites, and essential progression items scattered across the map.
Prerequisites for the Shovel Cave
Before attempting to enter the shovel cave, you must acquire two critical pieces of equipment. You will need the rebreather to navigate the underwater tunnels hidden inside. Additionally, the rope gun is required to utilize the ziplines that cross the deep chasms.
Attempting to enter the cave without these tools will result in a dead end very early on. Veterans highly recommend gathering plenty of ammunition and explosives before starting this journey. The underground paths are packed with aggressive mutants that will easily overwhelm unprepared survivors.
Locating the Shovel Cave Entrance
The entrance to the cave is located near the center of the island close to the snowy mountain base. You will look for a small stream that flows out from a cluster of rocks. Outside the entrance, three deceased workers impaled on wooden spikes serve as a grim landmark.
Once you locate the impaled bodies, you can approach the narrow rock tear to enter. Make sure your flashlight is fully charged or bring plenty of flares. The dark interior requires constant illumination to navigate safely and spot incoming threats.
Step by Step Cave Walkthrough
Upon entering the cave, use your rope gun to cross the massive gap using the established zipline. After landing, locate the deep pool of water and dive in using your rebreather. Swim through the submerged tunnel until you surface on the other side of the rock barrier.
Continue moving forward through the tunnels while eliminating the mutant forces blocking the corridors. You will eventually reach a large cavern area filled with dynamic lighting and industrial utility boxes. Keep following the natural path downward until you reach the final dead-end chamber.
Securing the Shovel and Exiting
The shovel is located at the very end of the cave system resting on the lap of a deceased worker. Approach the body and interact with the item to add it to your inventory. Gathering this tool unlocks the ability to excavate key story locations across the island.
After grabbing the tool, a large mutant will block your original path back out. Utilize explosives to clear the blockage and follow the newly opened escape route. This alternative path will safely guide you back to the surface air.
