Embarking on a paleontological quest in Red Dead Redemption 2 (RDR2) can be both thrilling and rewarding. One of the intriguing collectibles in the game are the dinosaur bones scattered across the vast, interactive map. With a total of 20 locations yielding these fossils, we've compiled this comprehensive guide to help you track down every single one. Let's dive in and explore the remnants of the geological past tucked away in the wild American frontier of the 19th century.
Before we begin, ensure you have the 'The Legend of the East' quest started, as some dinosaur bones are only accessible after completing certain story missions. Now, saddle up and let's ride towards unearthing these prehistoric relics, one location at a time.
Upper peak of Mount Hagen
Kicking off our journey, we head towards the highest point in the game, Mount Hagen. The first set of bones can be found at the upper peak, requiring a bit of climbing but rewarding you with a stunning view of the surrounding territories.
Once you've reached the peak, search the area marked on your map to spot the first batch of dinosaur bones. Collecting them will trigger the 'A Hyperbolic Stone' mission, where you'll learn about their significance from a fellow collector, Captain Monroe.
Dinosaur Bone #1 - #3
The first three bones can be found clustered together at the very top of Mount Hagen. Look for the prominent mound of earth with bones sticking out, and use your nearest Eagle Eye point to spot them more easily.
After collecting these, make your way back down the mountain, for the Captain's eagerly awaiting your find.
Lower peak of Mount Hagen
Next, we traverse back down Mount Hagen to the lower peak. Here, you'll find two more bones hidden in a small cave, easily overlooked if you're not paying attention. Keep an eye out for the entrance, marked by a tree and a rocky outcrop.
Inside the cave, you'll find the bones nestled among the rocks. Grab them, and exit to complete this part of your journey in the mountains.
Hanging Rock
Our next destination is Hanging Rock, located in theraphicsNorthwest of the map, near Nemeseenia. This area is home to some of the more challenging bone locations, requiring a keen eye and careful navigation.
As you approach Hanging Rock, be prepared for a climb. The bones are hidden in crevices and ledges, so keep an eye out for any unusual rock formations that might harbor our prehistoric treasures.
Dinosaur Bone #4
Heading towards the northwest side of Hanging Rock, you'll find the first bone tucked into a small alcove. The bone is quite visible, sticking out from the wall, making it easier to spot.
Collect it, and continue exploring the rock face for more bones.
Dinosaur Bone #5
For the fifth bone, we need to move around to the southern side of Hanging Rock. Look for a narrow ledge near a waterfall, where the bone is partially submerged in the water. Be cautious while navigating this area, as it can be slippery.
Carefully approach the bone, collect it, and make your way back to solid ground.
Dakota River
Next, we'll journey to the Dakota River, located northeast of Hanging Rock. This area is filled with shallow water and dense vegetation, so be prepared to search diligently.
Use Eagle Eye to scan the riverbanks and waters' edge for the next set of bones, which are often partially hidden by the landscape.
Dinosaur Bone #6 - #8
The Dakota River yields three bones, each requiring keen observation to find. The first is nestled among some rocks on the riverbank, while the second and third are partially submerged in the water, requiring you to get wet.
Gather all three and prepare to head back inland for the next set of locations.
Dinosaur Bone #9
For this bone, we'll venture to the northern tip of the Dakota River. Look for a small island with a single tree, where the ninth bone is concealed beneath some rocks.
Head to the island, collect the bone, and make your way back to the mainlands.
Scarlet Meadows
Our journey brings us to Scarlet Meadows, located east of the Dakota River. This area is known for its dense forests and rolling hills, offering a varied landscape to search for bones.
As you explore Scarlet Meadows, keep an eye out for distinctive rock formations and unusual ground depressions that might indicate the presence of a bone.
Dinosaur Bone #10 & #11
For the tenth bone, head towards the eastern edge of Scarlet Meadows, where it meets the Grizzlies. Look for a large fallen tree with the bone partially concealed beneath it.
Next up, we'll find the eleventh bone near the southern end of the meadows. Keep an eye out for a tall, prominent tree with a depression at its base – the bone is hidden inside.
Dinosaur Bone #12 - #14
For the next three bones, we'll need to travel to the western edge of Scarlet Meadows, near the Owanjila Dam. The thirteenth and fourteenth bones are found near each other, partially buried in the ground.
Search the area around the dam for the distinctive ground disturbances, and collect both bones before moving on.
New*Hanover Refugees Camp (post-game)
After completing the main story, a new location becomes accessible: the New Hanover Refugees Camp. Several dinosaur bones can be found here, adding an additional challenge post-game.
Head to the camp, located near the southern shore of Lake Owanjila. Once there, explore the abandoned buildings and surrounding countryside for the hidden bones.
Dinosaur Bone #15 & #16
The fifteenth and sixteenth bones are located near each other, within the boundaries of the refugee camp. Search the ruins of the buildings and the surrounding grasslands for the partially buried bones.
Collect both and continue your search for the remaining bones in this new area.
Dinosaur Bone #17 - #20
The final four bones are scattered across the landscape surrounding the New Hanover Refugees Camp. Use Eagle Eye and follow your instincts to search the nearby buttes, riverbanks, and grasslands.
Successfully locating and collecting all twenty dinosaur bones in RDR2 will leave you with an incredible sense of accomplishment. Not only have you pieced together a vastly important piece of history, but you've also explored some of the game's most beautiful and challenging locations. Good hunting, and happy collecting!