Survive in this forest of death by familiarizing yourself with our EFT Woods map guide.
The Woods map in Escape from Tarkov has always been one of my go-to places when I want a mix of long-range fights, hidden loot, and a bit of tension from the unknown.
Before, I was overwhelmed by the Wood’s open terrain and the sheer number of places to get sniped from. But after learning the spawns, extracts, and loot locations, it quickly became one of my favorite maps to run.
So, whether you’re here for quests, loot, or to take on Shturman, knowing this EFT Woods Map Guide is your key to survival. This guide will cover everything from the layout and major loot spots to extraction routes and boss fights to help you master this vast, unpredictable map.
Also Read: All Escape From Tarkov Maps Ranked
EFT Woods Map Guide: Spawns and Map Layout
Woods is a large, open map with a mix of dense forests, open fields, and key structures scattered throughout. Spawns are divided into the western and eastern parts of the map, with most players spawning on one side and having to cross the terrain to reach their objectives or extractions.
Western Spawns
PMC spawns on the western side are typically near Outskirts, UN Roadblock, and around the riverbank near the northern areas. These spawns provide early access to the Village, USEC Camp, and some of the high-ground positions like Sniper Rock.
However, they also leave you vulnerable to players pushing from the center of the map. If I spawn here, my first priority is either securing loot in the Village or setting up an ambush on known enemy routes.
Eastern Spawns
On the eastern side, PMC spawns are closer to the Factory Gate, RUAF Roadblock, and the mountainous terrain near ZB-014. This side favors players looking to contest the Sawmill quickly or those who want to secure high-tier loot from areas like FOB or the Suppressed Weapons Shack.
If I spawn in this region, I have to be cautious of long-range snipers who take advantage of the natural elevation changes.
Also Read: EFT Reserve Map Guide
Major Loot Locations
Looting Woods effectively means knowing where the best items spawn. Here are key areas to check:
Sawmill
As the centerpiece of Woods, Sawmill offers high-tier loot in the warehouses and shacks. Violet keycards, high-tier weapons, and rare barter items can spawn here. However, this is a contested area due to Shturman’s presence, making looting here extremely risky.
FOB (Forward Operating Base)
This military encampment is great for medical supplies, military loot, and ammo. It’s often a PvP hotspot due to its high-value loot and open layout, which makes engagements dangerous. I always check for useful meds like Salewas or military batteries here.
USEC Camp
This camp is one of the best places for weapon mods, elite ammo, and rare items like LEDXs and modded M4s. However, the minefield surrounding it deters many players, making it a high-risk but high-reward location.
Main Village
A great place for barter items and tech spawns. If I’m not looking for combat but still want to make money, I loot the village before heading to a safe extract. It’s also an excellent place for new players to find reliable loot.
Suppressed Weapons Shack
This small shack is a hidden gem for weapon attachments, suppressors, and high-penetration rounds. Many players overlook it, making it a low-risk, high-reward stop.
Hidden Stashes
Scattered across the map, these provide consistent profits without much competition. Running a stash route can be highly profitable, especially if you avoid high-traffic areas.
If I want to make money without fighting too much, I stick to stash runs at night. Some players make millions just by farming these routes with minimal risk.
Extraction Points
- RUAF Roadblock – This extract is only open if the green smoke is visible. Since it’s close to high-traffic areas, I always double-check if it’s open before committing.
- UN Roadblock – One of the most reliable extracts, always available. However, since many players use it, ambushes are common.
- Factory Gate – A cooperative extract that requires a PMC and a Scav. If I run into a friendly Scav, this can be a quick escape route.
- Bridge V-Extract – A high-risk extract due to sniper scavs and landmines. I only use this if I have no other option.
- ZB-016 & ZB-014 – Both require specific conditions to be open, with ZB-014 needing a key. They are great extracts when available, as they are in less-traveled areas.
- Outskirts – One of the safest extracts if I avoid open fields and sniper spots. If I need a low-risk escape, this is my preferred choice.
Also Read: EFT Factory Map Guide
The Boss in Woods: Shturman
Shturman is the Woods boss, and he patrols the Sawmill with two heavily armed guards. He is known for:
- Deadly Accuracy – His guards can engage at long distances, often before I even spot them. Their accuracy makes approaching them directly a challenge.
- Shturman’s Key – This key unlocks a special stash that contains high-value loot, making him a prime target for loot-focused.
- Frequent Spawn Rate – Unlike some bosses, Shturman spawns in most raids, making him a predictable but deadly threat.
The best way to deal with Shturman is to engage from long range. If I can position myself at Sniper Rock or one of the surrounding ridges, I get a better shot at him before his guards notice me. Thermals help spot him through trees, and high-penetration rounds ensure quick kills.
Survival Tips
- Stick to cover – Open fields are sniper bait. Move tree to tree.
- Use elevation wisely – High ground gives an advantage but also makes you visible.
- Be mindful of landmines – USEC Camp and certain areas near the outskirts have deadly minefields.
- Manage stamina – Sprinting too much in the open can get you shot.
- Listen for shots – Woods has excellent sound travel. If I hear distant gunfire, I reposition accordingly.
- Loot smartly – Hidden stashes are low-risk, high-reward, especially at night.
- Know the extract conditions – Not all extracts are always open, so I double-check before heading there.
Conclusion
Mastering the EFT Woods Map requires patience, awareness, and good positioning. Whether you’re just looking for a solid scav run or even hunting Shturman, farming high-value loot, understanding the layout, and knowing where the danger zones are can really make a difference.
With the right approach, Woods can become one of the most profitable and exciting maps in Escape from Tarkov.
