Ranger Spell List — D&D 5e
Rangers are half-casters who blend martial combat with nature magic, specializing in tracking, survival, and fighting favored enemies. They know a limited selection of spells and can cast any known spell without preparation. Rangers excel at utility and mobility magic that enhances their exploration and combat effectiveness.
At a Glance
Casting Stat
Wisdom
Spell List Type
known
Prepare Formula
N/A - Rangers know a fixed number of spells and can cast any known spell
Ritual Casting
No
Cantrips Known
0 - Rangers do not learn cantrips
Unique Mechanic
Rangers learn additional spells from their subclass (Ranger Conclave) that are always known and don't count against spells known. Rangers are skill experts with Expertise in certain skills (in Tasha's variant), and can use Primeval Awareness or Nature's Veil depending on features chosen.
Key Spells
The most impactful spells on the Ranger list and why they matter.
| Spell | Level | Why It Matters |
|---|---|---|
| Hunter's Mark | 1st | Extra 1d6 damage per hit plus tracking, though competes with other concentration spells |
| Goodberry | 1st | Create 10 berries healing 1 HP each, extremely efficient out-of-combat healing |
| Absorb Elements | 1st | Reaction to halve elemental damage and add it to your next melee attack |
| Pass Without Trace | 2nd | Grant entire party +10 Stealth, one of the best infiltration spells in the game |
| Spike Growth | 2nd | Difficult terrain dealing 2d4 damage per 5ft moved, excellent area denial |
| Conjure Animals | 3rd | Summon beasts for action economy, though DM chooses specific creatures |
| Lightning Arrow | 3rd | Turn one attack into AoE damage, good for clustered enemies |
| Guardian of Nature | 4th | Self-buff for advantage on attacks or tanking, excellent concentration option |
| Conjure Woodland Beings | 4th | Summon fey creatures including potentially powerful pixies (DM discretion) |
| Swift Quiver | 5th | Make 2 extra weapon attacks as bonus action, incredible for archers |
Common Mistakes
Common Mistake
Overvaluing Hunter's Mark - it's good but not always better than other concentration spells
Common Mistake
Not swapping spells strategically - you can change one spell per level during long rest
Common Mistake
Forgetting that you can't ritual cast spells unlike clerics/druids - choose spells wisely
Common Mistake
Casting Conjure Animals in combat without knowing it slows down turns - discuss with DM first
Common Mistake
Not using utility spells like Pass Without Trace, Goodberry, and Absorb Elements enough
Common Mistake
Ignoring subclass spells when planning known spells - they're free additions to your list
DM Tips
DM Tip
Rangers struggle in dungeon-heavy campaigns - include exploration and tracking challenges
DM Tip
Pass Without Trace trivializes stealth for most parties - plan around or counter it occasionally
DM Tip
Conjure spells give DM choice of creatures - establish expectations about summon power level
DM Tip
Hunter's Mark requires bonus action each turn to switch - fast-moving combat reduces its value
DM Tip
Tasha's Optional Features significantly improved rangers - discuss whether they're allowed
DM Tip
Rangers have limited spells known - treasure spell scrolls are less useful than for wizards
Sources & Further Reading
- Ranger Spells — D&D 5e Wikidot — Full SRD spell list
- Ranger — D&D Beyond — Official class reference
- Ranger Spell List — RPGBOT — Spell ratings and analysis