Clearing infestation zones in Days Gone is essential for unlocking fast travel routes and ensuring Deacon St. John can safely navigate the post-apocalyptic wilderness of Oregon. The Pioneer Cemetery Infestation stands out as one of the earliest tactical challenges players face in the Cascade region. Safely destroying these dangerous breeding grounds requires preparation, a solid understanding of the surrounding environment, and enough molotovs to complete the task efficiently.
Locating the Three Cemetery Nests
The first nest is situated right inside the main graveyard area, typically built within a stone mausoleum near the center of the grounds. Players will easily notice the dark, organic material covering the entrance and can hear the distinct sounds of resting Freakers inside. It is wise to clear out the roaming patrols around the structure before tossing your incendiary weapon to avoid getting surrounded quickly.
The second nest is located close to the cemetery entrance, housed inside the small wooden shack or guard station on the left side. Because this area is relatively confined, the Freakers will rush out immediately once the fire catches hold of the structure. Keeping your motorcycle parked nearby can provide a quick getaway option if the emerging swarm proves too difficult to handle with early-game weaponry.
The third and final nest is actually located outside the stone walls of the graveyard, positioned slightly down the road in a nearby utility shed. Many survivors struggle to find this last location because they limit their search strictly to the inner burial grounds. Checking your map for the red haze area will help you pinpoint this structure and ensure you do not miss the final nesting site.
Tactical Tips for Burning Nests
Preparation is key before attempting to ignite any of the infestation structures scattered around the Pioneer Cemetery. Ensuring your inventory is fully stocked with kerosene and rags allows you to craft extra molotovs during the middle of the engagement. You should also maintain a full magazine in your primary weapon to handle the aggressive Freakers that emerge from the burning debris.
Choosing the right time of day significantly impacts the difficulty of this specific eradication mission in Cascade. Regular players often prefer executing the purge during the daylight hours when fewer enemies are actively roaming the open world map. However, you must remain alert as the creatures inside the nest will always burst out aggressively regardless of the clock position.
Rewards and Completion Benefits
Successfully cleansing the Pioneer Cemetery Infestation zone immediately rewards players with a significant boost to their regional trust level and valuable experience points. These points are essential for unlocking high-tier survival skills and better firearm options at nearby survivor camps. Additionally, removing the threat permanently clears the local roads, allowing you to utilize the fast travel mechanic through this section of the map.
Beyond the systemic mission completion markers, players will find useful crafting materials scattered around the remnants of the destroyed nests. Collecting the residual Freaker ears provides a steady source of income when traded at bounty brokers in the region. The nests themselves often contain rare items that help you maintain your survival edge in the harsh post-pandemic landscape.
