Finding this is straightforward once you know where to look; the hard part is that the game never points you there.

The approach below has been checked against the current version rather than a patch from two years ago. People often blame the game when the actual cause is a setting they changed weeks ago. Most advice on this topic assumes you already know half the answer, which is exactly the problem.

The short answer

There is one reliable route and several unreliable ones. Take the first, and bring what the list below suggests.

Getting there safely

Treat the numbers as a guideline; your exact result depends on your setup and current version. Most advice on this topic assumes you already know half the answer, which is exactly the problem. The difference between a smooth run and a frustrating one usually comes down to preparation, not skill. If something here stops matching what you see on screen, the game has probably changed a value in an update.

People often blame the game when the actual cause is a setting they changed weeks ago. If something here stops matching what you see on screen, the game has probably changed a value in an update. One clean run beats five rushed ones, both for results and for your patience.

Where to look

Most advice on this topic assumes you already know half the answer, which is exactly the problem. The difference between a smooth run and a frustrating one usually comes down to preparation, not skill. The approach below has been checked against the current version rather than a patch from two years ago.

  • Check the version you are running before following any step-by-step advice.
  • Back up your save if the game gives you the option.
  • Restart fully after a change rather than trusting a quick reload.
  • Write down what you changed, so you can undo it if the result gets worse.
  • Test one change at a time instead of five at once.

If it is not there

People often blame the game when the actual cause is a setting they changed weeks ago. If you are short on time, the first section alone is usually enough. Mark the location the moment you arrive, because coming back is common. Start with the simplest option before touching anything that is hard to reverse.

Carrying capacity ruins more of these trips than combat does. One clean run beats five rushed ones, both for results and for your patience. If something here stops matching what you see on screen, the game has probably changed a value in an update.

Mistakes worth avoiding

  • Following a guide written for an older version and assuming nothing moved.
  • Giving up one attempt before the point where it usually clicks.
  • Changing several settings at once, then having no idea which one helped.
  • Skipping the preparation step because it looks boring, then repeating the hard part four times.

Frequently asked questions

Can I get it early?

Usually yes, with enough patience. Whether that is worth doing depends on how much the item actually helps at that stage.

Is the location randomised?

The general area is fixed in most versions; the exact placement within it can shift between saves.

Is there a faster method?

Usually yes, and usually it is riskier. The route above trades a little speed for a much lower chance of having to start over.

If you take one thing away about how to find gavin rdr2, make it the preparation step; everything after it becomes much easier.