Hidden Water: 23 Unexpected Places to Find Water in a Crisis

In a survival situation, knowing where to find water can be the difference between life and death. While most of us would think of streams, lakes, or rivers as obvious sources, what happens when they aren’t available?

You’d be surprised at the many unexpected places where water can be found if you know where to look. Staying hydrated is critical, and with some resourcefulness and knowledge, you can tap into hidden water sources all around you.

1. Dew on Grass and Plants

Dew on Grass
Image Credit: Jrmichae, CC BY-SA 4.0, via Wikimedia Commons

Dew forms overnight on grass and plants, and it can be collected in the early morning. All you need is a clean cloth to wipe off the dew and wring it out into a container. It’s not much, but in desperate times, every drop counts.

2. Tree Trunks and Roots

Tree Roots
Image Credit: Unsplash+

Some trees, like birches and maples, store water in their trunks and roots. You can extract water by cutting into the bark and allowing it to seep out. This method won’t provide gallons, but it can give you enough to stay hydrated.

3. Solar Stills

Solar Still
Image Credit: Prepping Pro Tips

A solar still uses the heat of the sun to draw water from soil, plants, or even urine. By digging a hole, placing a container in the center, and covering it with plastic, condensation will form and drip into the container as drinkable water.

4. Cactus Plants

Cactus Plant
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In desert environments, some cactus species hold water. The prickly pear is one of the most common. Be cautious, though—some cactus juices can make you sick, so only use plants you can positively identify.

5. Rain Gutters

Rain Gutter
Image Credit: Canva

In urban or suburban areas, rain gutters on houses and buildings can be an excellent source of rainwater. Collect water from downspouts after a rainfall, but always purify it, as it can carry contaminants from the roof.

6. Condensation on Rocks

Condensation on Rock
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At dawn and dusk, rocks often cool faster than the air, which causes condensation to form on their surfaces. Wipe the water from the rocks with a cloth or sponge, and you’ll have a small but valuable amount of drinkable water.

7. Potholes in Rocks

Potholes in Rock
Image Credit: Daderot, CC0, via Wikimedia Commons

Natural rock formations often hold rainwater in small potholes. If you come across these while hiking or in the wilderness, use them to your advantage. Always check for debris or animal waste before drinking.

8. Animal Tracks

Animal Tracks
Image Credit: Prepping Pro Tips

Believe it or not, animal tracks can lead you to water. Many animals, especially herbivores, know where to find water, and they leave trails toward these sources. Follow tracks and see if they lead to a nearby stream or watering hole.

9. Hollow Trees

Hollow Tree
Image Credit: Canva

Sometimes rainwater collects in hollow sections of trees. Peek into the hollow, and you might find a small reserve of clean rainwater. Be sure to inspect the water before drinking for any insects or debris.

10. Bamboo Stalks

Bamboo Stalks
Image Credit: Alain Van den Hende, CC BY-SA 4.0, via Wikimedia Commons

If you’re in an area with bamboo, cut the stalks at the joints. Water often collects there, and with a little effort, you can gather quite a bit. Bamboo can store fresh water, especially after rainfall.

11. Underground Seepage

Underground Seepage
Image Credit: Freepik

If you notice damp ground or moss growing in an otherwise dry area, there’s a good chance there’s water below the surface. Dig down a bit, and you might hit a shallow water source. Filter it before drinking.

12. Vehicle Radiators

Vehicle Radiator
Image Credit: Shutterstock

This one’s tricky and should only be used in absolute desperation. Water from a vehicle radiator can be collected, but it must be distilled, as radiator fluid is toxic. Only use this method if no other sources are available and you can purify it safely.

13. Muddy Puddles

Muddy Puddles
Image Credit: Derek Harper, CC BY-SA 2.0, via Wikimedia Commons

While not the cleanest option, muddy puddles can still offer water. You’ll need to filter and purify it before drinking to remove harmful bacteria, but in a pinch, it’s a valuable source.

14. Water Pipes in Abandoned Buildings

Water Pipes in Abandoned Building
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If you come across an abandoned building, check the plumbing. Turn on faucets or find broken pipes. While the water may be rusty or dirty, it can be filtered and treated to become safe to drink.

15. Bird Nests

Bird Nest
Image Credit: Sardaka, CC BY-SA 4.0, via Wikimedia Commons

Birds often build nests near water sources. Look around tree branches and cliff sides for nests, and then search nearby for water. Birds need water just as much as we do, so their presence can lead you to hidden sources.

16. Melting Ice or Snow

melting snow
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In colder climates, melting snow and ice can be a lifesaver. If you don’t have fire to melt it, simply place ice or snow in a container and let your body heat warm it up enough to drink. Be sure not to eat snow directly, as it lowers your body temperature.

17. Fish and Frogs

Listening to Frogs Croaking
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In a survival situation, even the animals you hunt can help you find water. Fish and frogs contain water in their bodies, and while it’s not ideal, you can extract small amounts of moisture from them if you’re desperate.

18. Solar Panels

Solar Panel
Image Credit: Freepik

Surprisingly, solar panels can also collect dew on their surfaces. The dew can be wiped off and collected, providing a surprising source of drinkable water, especially if you’re in a developed area with solar installations.

19. Water Tanks on Roofs

Water Tanks on Roof
Image Credit: Shutterstock

Many buildings, especially in rural or industrial areas, have rooftop water tanks. These are often filled with rainwater, and with some creativity, you can access this supply and purify it if necessary.

20. Cracks in Cliffs

Cracks in Cliff
Image Credit: Ximonic (Simo Räsänen), CC BY-SA 3.0, via Wikimedia Commons

In mountainous regions, water can seep from cracks in cliff faces. These natural springs are often pure, but it’s still smart to treat or filter the water before consuming.

21. Fresh Animal Droppings

Fresh Animal Dropping
Image Credit: Shutterstock

It sounds unpleasant, but fresh animal droppings can indicate a nearby water source. Herbivores need to drink water frequently, and spotting their fresh waste can lead you to streams or ponds they frequent.

22. Desert Plants’ Leaves

Agave
Image Credit: Freepik

In arid climates, some desert plants store moisture in their leaves. Squeeze or chew certain succulent plants carefully to extract moisture. Be sure to know which plants are safe, as some can be toxic.

23. Tree Leaves

Tree Leaves
Image Credit: Unsplash+

In humid environments, leaves of large trees can hold moisture from fog or rain. You can tie plastic bags around a tree branch, and the moisture from the leaves will condense and drip into the bag over time.

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