Ryan is a 15-year-old aspiring writer living in the isolated, mountainous town of Skeleton Creek. Confined to his room with a massive cast on his broken leg, he meticulously records his terrifying experiences and findings in a private journal. He is deeply analytical and sensitive, struggling with an increasing sense of paranoia as he covertly investigates his town's dark history alongside his best friend.

Sarah is Ryan's 15-year-old best friend and a passionate amateur filmmaker. Fearless and headstrong, she aggressively pursues the mysteries of Skeleton Creek by sneaking out at night with her video camera to gather evidence. Despite strict orders from both sets of parents to stay away from Ryan, she covertly communicates with him using a password-protected website.

Paul is Ryan's father, acting as a stern disciplinarian who aggressively polices his son's digital activities and physical movements. While he presents himself as a caring parent concerned about Ryan's safety, his emotional distance and suspicious ties to the town's secretive past cause Ryan immense anxiety.

Old Joe Bush is the terrifying specter of a former New York Gold and Silver employee who tragically drowned after being pulled into the gears of the Dredge. Described as a large, slow-moving figure who drags an injured leg, his ghost haunts the decaying mining machine in the woods, leaving threatening warnings for trespassers.

Gladys is the elderly, imposing public librarian of Skeleton Creek. Described by Ryan as prehistoric in appearance, she acts as a fierce gatekeeper of the town's historical records. She reluctantly provides the teens with information but sternly warns them that their curiosity will lead to danger.

Henry is Paul McCray's eccentric best friend, recognizable by his rainbow suspenders, mutton-chop sideburns, and loud laugh. As a former employee of the New York Gold and Silver company, he possesses inside knowledge about the Dredge. He stands out as the only adult who openly communicates with the teenagers and advocates for their friendship.

Daryl is the local wilderness ranger who patrols the mountains and woods around Skeleton Creek. He is highly suspicious of anyone snooping near the Dredge and works to physically bar the teenagers from accessing the area.

Ryan's mother is a secondary parental figure who helps manage his life while he is bedridden. She attempts to bridge the emotional gap between Ryan and his father, asking Ryan to trust his parents and reminding him that honesty is a two-way street.