Red Dead Redemption 2: Best Counties, Ranked

Rockstars Red Dead Redemption 2 offers players an open world filled with beauty and opportunity. Areas sure to impress every type of player, each county provides a unique experience. From the freezing wilderness and big, white snow banks of the Grizzlies to the muddy, quiet Bluewater Marsh, there’s always something for new players and professionals to enjoy.

Red Dead Redemption 2 promises players a memorable experience and the realistic, stellar graphics in the open world will keep players comparing locations, trying to find the best in the game. Whether players prefer hunting in dense forests, fishing in tranquil lakes, or exploring hidden caves, there’s something for each player to discover (or rediscover) in this expansive and unforgettable open world. Here’s a ranking of the best counties in Red Dead Redemption 2.

6 Bluewater Marsh

Big Fish, And Even Bigger Alligators

• Located in the South Eastern region of the map
• Pros: Peaceful atmosphere; close proximity to major city Saint Denis; good for hunting and fishing
• Cons: Flat; wetlands make for dirty clothes and horses; some players may find the scenery repetitive; high risk of getting eaten by an alligator

The north side of the wetlands, Bluewater Marsh, makes for a muddy adventure. This serene and peaceful region is the perfect place to set up camp and hunt for our muddy, marshy friends. Its marshy terrain offers players a change of pace from the wilderness region of the game. This county is home to a variety of wildlife, including alligators and many species of birds.

Lackluster on events or activities, the occasional appearance of Madam Nazar is the most excitement players will find in the region. When playing the main story as Arthur, players can find the ghost of Agnus Dowd for a scare, but unfortunately, online gameplay misses out on the scare. While Bluewater Marsh may not be as exciting as other counties, its fishing opportunities and peaceful ambiance make it a great place to relax and enjoy the beauty of Red Dead Redemption 2.

5 Grizzlies East

Wildlife In Its Natural Habitat

• Located in the North Eastern region of the map
• Pros: Tons of wildlife; unique scenery and high viewpoints; fun landmarks and areas to explore
• Cons: Not many main travel points or cities; cold weather can bring harsh conditions for players and their horse

Grizzlies East, the twin to Grizzlies West, is similar to its counterpart in terms of wildlife and terrain but offers less snow and more exploration. Players will find several fun landmarks to explore, and tons of beautiful mountains, lakes, and reservoirs to hunt or just relax by. Just be sure to have a loyal, hefty horse for the adventure.

While there are many towns or cities in the area, Grizzlies East is home to Calumet Ravine and O’Creagh’s Run, prime spots for fishing and hunting. O’Creaghs Run is the perfect place for players to test their hunting skills and hunt the Legendary Bharati Grizzly Bear.

4 Grizzlies West

Survival Of The Fittest

• Located in the North Western region of the map
• Pros: Good for hunting, collecting treasure, and challenging gameplay
• Cons: Harsh weather conditions; dangerous wolves

This rugged region, known for its mountainous snow banks and ravaging wolves, is the perfect challenge for players looking to stay entertained. Grizzlies West’s challenging gameplay makes it a favorite among experienced players. Hunting bears, elk and exploring hidden caves make for a truly immersive and rewarding experience.

Grizzlies West is dense, cold, and full of activities for players. Hunting treasure on Lake Isabella or throughout the region can yield good rewards and gold bars. The Legendary White Bison can be hunted along the north shore of Lake Isabella, sending players back to the frontier with good loot in their hands.

3 Tall Trees

Peace In The Forests

• Located in the Western region of the map
• Pros: Home to large wildlife; close proximity to Blackwater and Manzanita Post
• Cons: NPC campsites (can be a pro or con) tend to attack players

Players either love or hate Tall Trees. This wooded county is located in the northwest of the map, close to Blackwater, making it easy to travel to. Its breathtaking landscapes, including towering forests and crystal-clear lakes, make it a must-visit for any Red Dead Redemption 2 player.

While some players may think the county is limited in terms of activities and missions, its tranquil atmosphere and stunning scenery make it a perfect place to relax and enjoy the beauty of the frontier. Home to Aurora Basin, serving as a known gang hideout, making for immersive gameplay in story mode and a wildlife hunting extravaganza for online play.

2 Big Valley

Abundance Of Beauty, Abundance Of Treasure

• Located in the Middle Western region of the map.
• Pros: Fill with wildlife, herbs, and resources for players; home to major town Strawberry
• Cons: Large size may be overwhelming for new players

Rolling hills, mountains, dense forests, and flower-filled plains, invite exploration and completion of side activities. Numerous NPC pop-up missions, ranging from hunting down outlaws to rescuing hostages, await within the Big Valley’s boundaries. Home to Strawberry, players find themselves in love with the log cabin town and streams running throughout.

Players find themselves setting up camp and hunting for hours. It is easy to catch a Legendary Buck, players will find it hanging out in the wilting forests of Big Valley. The county’s large size can be scary for new players. To fully appreciate everything it has to offer, it’s crucial to take time and explore at a reasonable pace, allowing the beauty and opportunities to fill the game.

1 The Heartlands

Plains, Rolling Hills, And The Red Dead Redemption Frontier

• Located in the Central region of the map
• Pros: Home to many central main points of interest, full of wildlife, and great for treasure hunting
• Cons: Less dangerous and more open area makes for online player targeting

The Heartlands is an open, central region that offers players a true American, gunslinger experience. Filled with many points of interest and landmarks for players, the Heartlands is a treasure trove of exploration and discovery. While it may not be as challenging or unique as some of the other counties, its eerie (almost spooky) realistic, stunning, and diverse landscapes make it a must-visit for any Red Dead Redemption 2 player.

Players will find themselves familiarizing themselves with many of the locations that the Heartlands has to offer. Mingle online with other players in Valentine or grab a bounty missions at Emerald Station, the Heartlands is filled with activities and hunting alike. Whether players are playing the story or online, the Heartlands is a sure place for players to spend their time playing.