What are the best spots to farm wood and thatch in the Redwood Forest of ARK: Survival Evolved?

The Redwood Forest in ARK: Survival Evolved is one of the most resource-rich areas in the game, particularly for gathering wood and thatch. However, it is also one of the most dangerous regions due to the presence of aggressive creatures like Thylacoleos, Microraptors, and even the occasional Rex. To efficiently farm wood and thatch in this biome, you need to understand the mechanics, prepare adequately, and employ the right strategies.

First, letÔÇÖs discuss the mechanics of gathering wood and thatch. Wood is primarily obtained by hitting trees with tools like a Stone Pick, Metal Hatchet, or by using dinosaurs with harvesting abilities. Thatch is also gathered from trees but is more abundant when using tools like a Stone Hatchet or certain dinosaurs. In the Redwood Forest, the trees are dense and tall, making it an ideal location for farming these resources. However, the dense foliage and uneven terrain can make navigation tricky, especially when riding larger dinosaurs.

To begin farming, youÔÇÖll need the right tools or dinosaurs. For early-game players, a Metal Hatchet is the best tool for gathering wood, while a Stone Hatchet is better for thatch. However, the most efficient way to farm these resources is by using dinosaurs. The best dinosaurs for wood gathering are the Beaver (Castoroides), Mammoth, and Therizinosaurus. For thatch, the Stegosaurus and Brontosaurus are excellent choices. The Beaver is particularly useful because it can carry a large amount of wood and has a weight reduction for it, making it easier to transport large quantities.

When entering the Redwood Forest, itÔÇÖs crucial to be prepared for the dangers. Bring a strong mount like a Rex, Spino, or even a pack of Raptors to protect yourself from predators. Thylacoleos, which often hide in the trees, can dismount you and cause significant damage, so always be alert. Additionally, Microraptors can stun you, leaving you vulnerable to other threats. Having a strong mount or a tribe member to watch your back is essential.

A good strategy is to set up a small outpost near the edge of the Redwood Forest. This outpost should include a bed for respawning, storage boxes for resources, and a feeding trough to keep your dinosaurs fed while you farm. This minimizes the need to travel back and forth to your main base, saving time and reducing the risk of losing resources to predators.

When farming, focus on the densest areas of trees. The Redwood Forest has clusters of trees that can yield large amounts of wood and thatch in a short time. If youÔÇÖre using a dinosaur like the Beaver or Mammoth, position yourself so that you can hit multiple trees in one swing. This maximizes efficiency and reduces the time spent moving between trees. For thatch, the StegosaurusÔÇÖs tail swipe can hit multiple trees at once, making it a great choice for bulk gathering.

One common mistake is overloading your dinosaur or inventory with resources. Always keep an eye on your weight limit, as being over-encumbered will slow you down and make you an easy target for predators. If youÔÇÖre farming solo, consider bringing a second dinosaur to act as a pack mule. For tribes, assign roles where one player gathers while another protects and transports resources.

Advanced techniques include using a Quetzal with a platform saddle to carry a Beaver or Mammoth. This allows you to fly over the forest, dropping your harvesting dinosaur into dense tree clusters and then picking it up again once itÔÇÖs full. This method is highly efficient but requires a well-leveled Quetzal and a coordinated team.

Resource requirements for this task include a strong mount, harvesting tools or dinosaurs, and possibly a flying mount for transportation. Preparation involves ensuring your dinosaurs are well-fed and have enough stamina for extended farming sessions. For tribes, communication is key to avoid conflicts over resource distribution and to ensure everyoneÔÇÖs safety.

In summary, farming wood and thatch in the Redwood Forest requires careful planning, the right tools or dinosaurs, and constant vigilance against the biomeÔÇÖs dangers. By setting up an outpost, using efficient harvesting methods, and being prepared for combat, you can maximize your resource gathering while minimizing risks. Whether youÔÇÖre playing solo or in a tribe, these strategies will help you thrive in one of ARKÔÇÖs most challenging yet rewarding environments.