Finding Water Sources in the Wild

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. 01

   Follow terrain downhill

   Water flows downhill. Walk downhill and look for converging drainage lines, valleys, and depressions. Even dry creek beds indicate where water runs after rain and where it may pool below the surface.

2. 02

   Watch for vegetation indicators

   Dense green vegetation in an otherwise dry area means water is near. Cottonwoods, willows, and cattails always grow near water. Insects swarming in one spot often hover over a water source.

3. 03

   Listen and smell

   Stand still, close your eyes, and listen. Running water is audible from surprisingly far away in quiet wilderness. Damp soil and vegetation have a distinct earthy smell that intensifies near water.

4. 04

   Check rock formations

   Water collects in rock depressions, cliff bases, and canyon bends. Look for dark stains on rock faces — they indicate seep points. Springs often emerge where porous rock (sandstone) meets impervious rock (clay or granite).

5. 05

   Collect dew in the morning

   Before sunrise, tie a clean cloth around your ankles and walk through tall grass. Wring it into a container. In heavy dew, you can collect over a quart in an hour. This water is generally safe to drink without treatment.

6. 06

   Use solar transpiration

   Tie a clear plastic bag over a leafy tree branch in direct sun. By afternoon, water will condense inside the bag. A single bag produces 1-3 cups per day. Use non-toxic deciduous trees only.