When most players imagine Minecraft Biomes, they think of green plains, forests, or snowy mountains. The Badlands biome is completely different. With its red sand, layered terracotta cliffs, and deep canyons, it feels harsh, dry, and almost alien compared to the rest of the world.
Because of its unusual look, many players either rush through it or avoid building there altogether. But the Badlands biome is one of the most resource-rich and visually unique biomes in Minecraft.
This guide explains what the Badlands biome is, how to survive in it, what resources it offers, and whether it’s worth building there.
What Is the Badlands Biome in Minecraft?
The Badlands biome, formerly known as the Mesa biome, is a rare overworld biome defined by its colorful terracotta layers, red sand, and tall plateaus. Unlike most biomes, grass is scarce and trees are almost nonexistent.
The biome generates in warm climates and often appears far from spawn, making it feel more like a destination than a starting area.
What makes the Badlands special is that its terrain is naturally eroded, creating steep cliffs, narrow ridges, and deep valleys that look carved by time.
Terrain and Landscape of the Badlands Biome
The Badlands biome has one of the most dramatic landscapes in Minecraft. Instead of smooth hills, you’ll find:
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Tall terracotta plateaus
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Deep ravines and canyons
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Sharp elevation changes
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Flat red sand valleys
This terrain is visually stunning but difficult to navigate on foot. One wrong step can easily send you falling into a canyon.
Despite this, the biome’s exposed layers make mining much easier than in other Biomes.
Why the Badlands Biome Is So Rare
Badlands biomes are considered uncommon because they generate only under specific conditions. Many worlds will have just one or two Badlands regions, sometimes thousands of blocks away from spawn.
Because of this rarity, players often discover the Badlands much later in Survival, usually during long exploration journeys.
Finding one feels rewarding, especially because of the resources it contains.
Resources Found in the Badlands Biome
The Badlands biome does not have many animals or crops, but it more than makes up for that with valuable materials.
Terracotta
Terracotta is the most iconic block of the Badlands. It naturally generates in many colors and does not need to be smelted like clay.
Terracotta is widely used for:
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Decorative builds
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Patterned walls
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Themed bases
Because it generates in massive amounts, this biome is the best place to collect it.
Gold Ore (Major Advantage)
One of the biggest reasons players seek out the Badlands biome is gold. Gold ore generates above ground level here, which almost never happens in other biomes.
This makes gold:
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Faster to mine
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Easier to collect
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Safer to gather
For players who need gold for bartering, Crafting, or powered rails, the Badlands is unmatched.
Red Sand and Red Sandstone
Red sand only generates naturally in the Badlands. It can be used to create red sandstone, which has a unique look and fits perfectly with desert-style builds.
Red sandstone is popular for:
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Temples
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Fortresses
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Desert towns
Mineshafts in the Badlands Biome
The Badlands biome has a higher chance of spawning exposed mineshafts. These mineshafts often generate in open air, attached to cliffs or hanging inside canyons.
This makes them:
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Easy to spot
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Quick to access
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Extremely dangerous
Badlands mineshafts are rich in loot but also filled with cave spiders and traps. They are best explored with preparation and good lighting.
Mobs in the Badlands Biome
The Badlands biome has limited passive mobs due to its dry environment. You will rarely find animals like cows or sheep.
Hostile mobs spawn normally at night, and because the terrain has many shadows and ledges, mobs can surprise players easily.
Lighting the area or sleeping through the night is highly recommended.
Is the Badlands Biome Good for Survival?
The Badlands biome is not beginner-friendly, but it can be excellent for experienced players.
Pros
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Massive gold availability
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Easy access to exposed ores
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Unique building materials
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Incredible visuals
Cons
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Very little food
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No natural wood
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Dangerous terrain
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Limited water
Most players use the Badlands as a resource biome, not a permanent starting base.
Building in the Badlands Biome
Building in the Badlands biome is challenging but rewarding. The natural terrain allows for Creative designs that are difficult to achieve elsewhere.
Popular build ideas include:
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Cliffside bases
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Canyon bridges
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Terracotta castles
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Abandoned mining towns
Using the terrain instead of flattening it makes Badlands builds stand out.
Survival Tips for the Badlands Biome
If you plan to explore or live in the Badlands, preparation is essential.
Bring:
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Plenty of food
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Extra blocks for bridging
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Water buckets
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A bed
Traveling with a horse is also highly recommended, as horses handle elevation changes better than players on foot.
Is the Badlands Biome Worth Visiting?
Absolutely. Even if you never build there, the Badlands biome is worth visiting at least once in every world.
It offers:
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Rare visuals
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Valuable resources
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Unique exploration
For players who enjoy mining, building, or exploration, the Badlands biome is one of Minecraft’s hidden gems.
Final Thoughts
The Badlands biome may look harsh and unforgiving, but it holds some of the greatest rewards in Minecraft. From exposed gold ore to endless terracotta, it offers resources you simply won’t find elsewhere.
It may not be the easiest place to survive, but for prepared players, the Badlands biome is both profitable and unforgettable.
If you’re looking for something different from the usual green landscapes, the Badlands biome is a journey worth taking.