How to load a custom map on your Rust Server
Last Update 2025-04-17 20:34:46
How to Load a Custom Map on Your Rust Server
Are you ready to take your Rust server to the next level? Loading a custom map is an exciting way to enhance the gameplay experience. This article will provide you with a simple, step-by-step guide on how to load a custom map on your Rust server.
Step 1: Downloading Your Custom Map
- We need to find and download a custom map that you would like to use for your server. You can download a map from community websites where map makers share their creations.
Codefling is a popular source of custom maps and mods.
- Once you have chosen a map, ensure that it is compatible with your version of Rust.
- After downloading the map, upload it to a cloud service (if it's not already there) that allows public sharing, like Dropbox or OneDrive.
(Make sure that the map file ends with “.map”)

Step 2: Obtaining the Public URL
After uploading your map to Dropbox or any similar service, you will need to get the public URL for that map file.
For Dropbox, make sure to adjust the link so that it ends with “dl=1” to ensure it’s direct access.
(The default URL link gets created with a “0” at the end of it)
This is important because Rust needs to load the map directly from the URL.
Example:
https://www.dropbox.com/scl/fi/5e42lt959vbnvr3s6l1jp/GravelPit1.0.1.map?rlkey=eal2n24vxol4rgoigafxzm7b8&st=ok9ir2jj&dl=1
Step 3: Adding the Level URL
Now we need to set the download URL into the server configuration.
Open the server configuration in our website and click on “Basic Settings” on the left panel.
- In the Basic Settings, locate the “Level URL” field. This is where you will input the public URL of your custom map that you obtained in Step 2.
- Paste the URL into the Level URL field. Ensure there are no extra spaces or characters.
Step 4: Save Your Settings
After entering your Level URL, make sure to save the changes to your server settings. This ensures your server knows to load the new custom map you just added.
Step 5: Restart Your Server
The last step is to restart your Rust server. This allows the server to read the new settings and load your custom map.
Look for the “Actions” option on the left panel and click on “Restart”.

Important Notes
Before you jump into the game, here are a couple of important tips:
- Most map makers suggest removing the World Size, Level Type, and Seed commands from your configuration file. These fields will remain in the basic settings, but they won’t interfere with the custom map being used.
- Make sure that the map is compatible with the game's version.
Always ensure the URL is publicly accessible. You can do this by testing the link from a different browser or in incognito mode. This will confirm that anyone can access the map.
Conclusion
Congratulations! You have successfully loaded a custom map on your Rust server. Enjoy your enhanced gaming experience and don’t forget to share your favorite maps with friends!