Looking to brush up on your wilderness survival skills? There’s nothing quite like immersing yourself in a gripping book on wilderness survival to learn the ins and outs of thriving in the great outdoors. Whether you’re an avid hiker, a camping enthusiast, or simply want to be prepared for any situation, these 20 best wilderness survival books will provide you with the knowledge and inspiration you need to conquer the wild. From practical tips to harrowing true stories, these books have got you covered.
Contents
- 1 20 Best Books About Wilderness Survival
- 2 The Survival Handbook
- 3 Deep Survival: Who Lives, Who Dies, and Why
- 4 Bushcraft 101: A Field Guide to the Art of Wilderness Survival
- 5 The SAS Survival Handbook
- 6 Wilderness Survival: Living Off the Land with the Clothes on Your Back and the Knife on Your Belt
- 7 98.6 Degrees: The Art of Keeping Your Ass Alive
- 8 The Ultimate Survival Manual
- 9 Survive!: Essential Skills and Tactics to Get You Out of Anywhere – Alive
- 10 The Natural Navigator: The Rediscovered Art of Letting Nature Be Your Guide
- 11 The Complete Walker IV
- 12 The Lost Art of Reading Nature’s Signs: Use Outdoor Clues to Find Your Way, Predict the Weather, Locate Water, Track Animals—and Other Forgotten Skills
- 13 The Outward Bound Wilderness First-Aid Handbook
- 14 The Survival Medicine Handbook
- 15 The Essential Wilderness Navigator: How to Find Your Way in the Great Outdoors
- 16 The Forager’s Harvest: A Guide to Identifying, Harvesting, and Preparing Edible Wild Plants
- 17 The Trapper’s Bible: The Most Complete Guide on Trapping and Hunting Tips Ever
- 18 The Ultimate Guide to Wilderness Living: Surviving with Nothing But Your Bare Hands and What You Find in the Woods
- 19 Hatchet
- 20 Into the Wild
- 21 Wilderness Survival Handbook
- 22 Conclusion
- 23
20 Best Books About Wilderness Survival
The Survival Handbook
by Colin Towell
The Survival Handbook by Colin Towell is a comprehensive book on wilderness survival that covers essential skills and techniques for thriving in the great outdoors. Packed with practical tips and vivid illustrations, this wilderness survival book equips readers with the knowledge to handle emergency situations, forage for food, build shelters, and navigate through challenging terrain. Towell’s expertise and engaging writing style make this book about wilderness survival an essential resource for outdoor enthusiasts, hikers, and anyone seeking to enhance their survival skills. Whether you’re an experienced adventurer or a novice camper, The Survival Handbook is a must-have guide for preparing for the unexpected in the wilderness.
Deep Survival: Who Lives, Who Dies, and Why
by Laurence Gonzales
Deep Survival: Who Lives, Who Dies, and Why by Laurence Gonzales is a captivating exploration of what it takes to survive in the wild. Gonzales draws on real-life survival stories, scientific research, and psychological insights to unravel the mysteries of human behavior in extreme situations. This wilderness survival book delves into the mindset of survivors and delves into the factors that contribute to their resilience and resourcefulness. Gonzales’s narrative is both gripping and informative, offering valuable lessons for anyone venturing into the great outdoors. Whether you’re a seasoned adventurer or just curious about the human capacity for survival, Deep Survival is a must-read that will leave you with a newfound appreciation for the strength of the human spirit in the face of adversity.
Bushcraft 101: A Field Guide to the Art of Wilderness Survival
by Dave Canterbury
Bushcraft 101: A Field Guide to the Art of Wilderness Survival by Dave Canterbury is a comprehensive book on wilderness survival that covers essential skills and techniques for thriving in the great outdoors. Canterbury, an experienced outdoorsman and survival expert, provides readers with practical advice on shelter building, fire starting, foraging for food, and navigating through the wilderness. The book also delves into the importance of mindset and resourcefulness in wilderness survival situations. With clear instructions and detailed illustrations, this wilderness survival book is a valuable resource for anyone looking to hone their outdoor skills and embrace the art of bushcraft. Whether you’re an experienced adventurer or a novice camper, Bushcraft 101 offers indispensable knowledge for thriving in the wilderness.
The SAS Survival Handbook
by John ‘Lofty’ Wiseman
The SAS Survival Handbook by John ‘Lofty’ Wiseman is a comprehensive guide for wilderness survival, providing essential tips and techniques for staying alive in the great outdoors. This book about wilderness survival covers a wide range of topics including building shelters, finding food and water, navigating without a map, and dealing with medical emergencies. Wiseman, a former SAS soldier, draws from his extensive military training and outdoor experience to provide practical advice for surviving in any environment. Packed with detailed illustrations and step-by-step instructions, this wilderness survival book is an essential resource for anyone venturing into the wild. Whether you’re a seasoned outdoor enthusiast or a novice camper, The SAS Survival Handbook is a must-have for anyone looking to improve their survival skills.
Wilderness Survival: Living Off the Land with the Clothes on Your Back and the Knife on Your Belt
by Mark Elbroch
Are you ready to embrace the challenge of living off the land with only the clothes on your back and a trusty knife? Then Wilderness Survival: Living Off the Land with the Clothes on Your Back and the Knife on Your Belt by Mark Elbroch is the perfect guide for you. This comprehensive book about wilderness survival equips you with the essential skills and knowledge to thrive in the great outdoors. From finding food and water to building shelter and navigating through the wilderness, this book covers it all. With detailed illustrations and practical tips, you’ll learn how to rely on nature and your instincts to survive in any environment. Whether you’re an experienced outdoorsman or a novice adventurer, this wilderness survival book is a must-have for anyone looking to challenge themselves and connect with the natural world.
98.6 Degrees: The Art of Keeping Your Ass Alive
by Cody Lundin
98.6 Degrees: The Art of Keeping Your Ass Alive by Cody Lundin is a captivating wilderness survival book that provides essential knowledge and skills for staying alive in the great outdoors. Lundin, a renowned survival expert, shares practical tips on how to maintain your body’s core temperature at 98.6 degrees Fahrenheit, even in the most extreme conditions. With a blend of humor and expertise, Lundin covers a range of topics including shelter building, fire making, water procurement, and food sourcing. This book about wilderness survival is a must-read for outdoor enthusiasts, hikers, campers, and anyone seeking to enhance their survival skills. Lundin’s straightforward approach and real-world experience make 98.6 Degrees an invaluable resource for anyone venturing into the wild.
The Ultimate Survival Manual
by Rich Johnson
The Ultimate Survival Manual by Rich Johnson is a comprehensive and practical guide for anyone looking to enhance their knowledge and skills in outdoor survival. This book on wilderness survival covers a wide range of essential topics, including building shelters, finding food and water, navigating in the wild, and dealing with emergencies. With its easy-to-follow instructions and helpful illustrations, this wilderness survival book is perfect for both beginners and experienced outdoor enthusiasts. Whether you’re planning a hiking trip or simply want to be prepared for unexpected situations, The Ultimate Survival Manual is an invaluable resource that will equip you with the knowledge and confidence to thrive in the great outdoors.
Survive!: Essential Skills and Tactics to Get You Out of Anywhere – Alive
by Les Stroud
Survive! is a comprehensive guide to wilderness survival written by Les Stroud, a renowned expert in outdoor survival techniques. This book is a valuable resource for anyone venturing into the wild, providing essential skills and tactics to help you navigate through any challenging situation and emerge alive. Stroud’s expertise and firsthand experience in surviving in the harshest environments make this book a must-read for outdoor enthusiasts, hikers, campers, and anyone looking to enhance their survival skills. With practical advice on shelter building, fire making, finding food and water, and navigating through different terrains, Survive! equips readers with the knowledge and confidence to handle any wilderness scenario. Whether you’re a novice or an experienced outdoorsman, this wilderness survival book is an indispensable tool for staying safe and prepared in the great outdoors.
by Tristan Gooley
The Natural Navigator by Tristan Gooley is a captivating book about using nature’s clues to find your way. This wilderness survival guide delves into the art of navigating using natural signs such as the sun, moon, stars, and even plants and animals. Gooley’s engaging writing style and insightful observations make this book a must-read for anyone interested in connecting with the natural world. Whether you’re an outdoor enthusiast, a seasoned adventurer, or just someone who loves to explore the great outdoors, this book about wilderness survival will open your eyes to the wonders of nature and empower you to navigate the wild with confidence. With practical tips and fascinating anecdotes, The Natural Navigator is a treasure trove of knowledge that will inspire you to let nature be your guide.
The Complete Walker IV
by Colin Fletcher
The Complete Walker IV by Colin Fletcher is a comprehensive and authoritative guide to outdoor adventure. This wilderness survival book is filled with practical advice and invaluable tips on everything from choosing the right gear to navigation and survival skills. The author’s engaging writing style and wealth of experience make this book about wilderness survival a must-read for outdoor enthusiasts. Whether you are a novice hiker or an experienced backpacker, this wilderness survival book is sure to inspire and educate you on the art of exploring the great outdoors. With its timeless wisdom and practical insights, The Complete Walker IV is a true classic in the world of outdoor literature.
The Lost Art of Reading Nature’s Signs: Use Outdoor Clues to Find Your Way, Predict the Weather, Locate Water, Track Animals—and Other Forgotten Skills
by Tristan Gooley
The Lost Art of Reading Nature’s Signs is a wilderness survival book that delves into the forgotten skills of navigating and interpreting the natural world. Tristan Gooley, a renowned natural navigator, shares his expertise on using outdoor clues to find your way, predict the weather, locate water, track animals, and more. Through engaging storytelling and practical advice, Gooley teaches readers how to harness the power of observation and intuition to thrive in the great outdoors. Whether you’re a seasoned outdoorsman or a novice adventurer, this book about wilderness survival is a valuable resource for anyone looking to deepen their connection with nature and enhance their wilderness survival skills. With its fascinating insights and practical tips, The Lost Art of Reading Nature’s Signs is a must-read for anyone seeking to sharpen their instincts and thrive in the natural world.
The Outward Bound Wilderness First-Aid Handbook
by Jeffrey Isaac
The Outward Bound Wilderness First-Aid Handbook by Jeffrey Isaac is a comprehensive guide for anyone venturing into the great outdoors. This book on wilderness survival covers crucial first-aid techniques and essential medical knowledge for handling emergencies in remote environments. Packed with practical advice, clear illustrations, and real-life scenarios, it equips readers with the skills and confidence to respond effectively to injuries and illnesses while in the wild. Whether you are an experienced outdoor enthusiast or a novice hiker, this wilderness survival book is an indispensable resource for staying safe and prepared in the unpredictable wilderness. From treating sprains and fractures to handling hypothermia and animal bites, this handbook is a must-have for anyone seeking to explore and conquer the great outdoors.
The Survival Medicine Handbook
by Joseph Alton
The Survival Medicine Handbook by Joseph Alton is a comprehensive guide for anyone seeking knowledge on emergency medical care in situations where professional help is not readily available. This book on wilderness survival covers a wide range of topics including wound care, infectious diseases, and even childbirth in a post-disaster scenario. With its easy-to-understand language and practical advice, this book about wilderness survival is a valuable resource for outdoor enthusiasts, preppers, and anyone interested in learning essential medical skills for emergencies. Whether you’re preparing for a camping trip or want to be ready for any unforeseen emergency, this wilderness survival book is a must-have for your library.
by David Seidman
The Essential Wilderness Navigator: How to Find Your Way in the Great Outdoors by David Seidman is a comprehensive guide for anyone looking to master the art of wilderness navigation. This book on wilderness survival covers a wide range of essential skills, including map reading, compass use, and natural navigation techniques. Seidman’s clear and practical approach makes it easy for readers to understand and apply the concepts, whether they are beginners or experienced outdoor enthusiasts. With detailed illustrations and real-life examples, this wilderness survival book is a valuable resource for hikers, campers, and anyone who loves exploring the great outdoors. Whether you’re planning a day hike or a multi-day expedition, The Essential Wilderness Navigator will give you the confidence and knowledge to navigate with ease and precision.
The Forager’s Harvest: A Guide to Identifying, Harvesting, and Preparing Edible Wild Plants
by Samuel Thayer
The Forager’s Harvest by Samuel Thayer is a comprehensive guide for anyone interested in foraging for wild edible plants. Thayer provides detailed information on how to identify, harvest, and prepare a wide variety of plants found in the wilderness. This wilderness survival book is filled with vibrant photographs and thorough descriptions of each plant, making it easy for readers to confidently find and use these natural resources. Thayer’s passion for foraging shines through in his engaging writing style, making this book about wilderness survival an enjoyable and informative read for outdoor enthusiasts, hikers, and anyone interested in sustainable living. Whether you’re a beginner or experienced forager, The Forager’s Harvest is an essential resource for anyone looking to connect with nature and explore the abundance of edible plants found in the wild.
The Trapper’s Bible: The Most Complete Guide on Trapping and Hunting Tips Ever
by Eustace Hazard Livingston
The Trapper’s Bible by Eustace Hazard Livingston is a comprehensive guide for anyone interested in the art of trapping and hunting. This book on wilderness survival provides a wealth of knowledge on trapping techniques, hunting tips, and essential skills for thriving in the wild. With detailed instructions and insightful advice, readers will learn how to set traps, track animals, and navigate the wilderness with confidence. Whether you’re a seasoned trapper or a novice outdoorsman, this wilderness survival book is an invaluable resource for honing your skills and mastering the art of trapping. Livingston’s expertise and passion for the outdoors shine through in this essential guide, making it a must-have for anyone who wants to enhance their wilderness survival abilities.
The Ultimate Guide to Wilderness Living: Surviving with Nothing But Your Bare Hands and What You Find in the Woods
by John McPherson
The Ultimate Guide to Wilderness Living: Surviving with Nothing But Your Bare Hands and What You Find in the Woods by John McPherson is a comprehensive book on wilderness survival. It provides essential knowledge and practical tips for thriving in the wild with minimal resources. From building shelters to finding food and water, this book covers everything you need to know to survive in the great outdoors. McPherson’s expertise and engaging writing style make this book a valuable resource for anyone interested in wilderness living. Whether you’re an experienced outdoor enthusiast or a novice adventurer, this wilderness survival book is a must-have for your collection. With its detailed instructions and insightful guidance, The Ultimate Guide to Wilderness Living is the ultimate companion for anyone seeking to master the art of living off the land.
Hatchet
by Gary Paulsen
Hatchet by Gary Paulsen is a captivating wilderness survival book that follows the story of Brian Robeson, a 13-year-old boy who must learn to fend for himself after a plane crash leaves him stranded in the Canadian wilderness. Armed with only a hatchet, Brian faces numerous challenges as he battles the elements and struggles to find food and shelter. As he learns to adapt to his new environment, Brian discovers inner strength and resilience he never knew he possessed. The book is a gripping tale of survival, resilience, and the indomitable human spirit. It is a must-read for anyone who enjoys stories of adventure and overcoming adversity in the wild.
Into the Wild
by Jon Krakauer
Into the Wild by Jon Krakauer is a captivating book on wilderness survival that follows the true story of Chris McCandless, a young man who leaves behind his conventional life to embark on a journey into the Alaskan wilderness. Krakauer skillfully weaves together McCandless’s experiences with his own personal reflections on adventure and the allure of the wilderness. As McCandless encounters various challenges and triumphs in the unforgiving wild, readers are drawn into a thought-provoking exploration of the human spirit and the untamed power of nature. This wilderness survival book is a gripping and poignant tale that raises questions about the pursuit of freedom, the meaning of life, and the consequences of venturing into the unknown.
Wilderness Survival Handbook
by Michael Pewtherer
The Wilderness Survival Handbook by Michael Pewtherer is an essential guide for anyone venturing into the great outdoors. This comprehensive book on wilderness survival covers a wide range of topics, from building shelters and finding water to navigating with a map and compass. With detailed illustrations and practical advice, Pewtherer equips readers with the knowledge and skills needed to thrive in the wilderness. Whether you are an experienced outdoor enthusiast or a novice hiker, this book about wilderness survival is a valuable resource for staying safe and prepared in any outdoor environment. Discover the secrets of survival and immerse yourself in the beauty of nature with this must-have wilderness survival book.
Conclusion
Exploring the great outdoors and learning about Wilderness Survival is an exhilarating and essential skill for any adventurer. The 20 best books about wilderness survival listed in this article provide invaluable knowledge and insights to help you thrive in the wild. Whether you are an experienced outdoors enthusiast or a novice looking to sharpen your survival skills, these books offer a wealth of information to keep you safe and prepared in any wilderness setting.
Which Wilderness Survival book is best?
The best book on Wilderness Survival can vary with personal preference, but three widely recommended titles are:
- The Survival Handbook by Colin Towell,
- Deep Survival: Who Lives, Who Dies, and Why by Laurence Gonzales,
- Bushcraft 101: A Field Guide to the Art of Wilderness Survival by Dave Canterbury.
Each offers valuable insights and could be a great starting point.
What are the best books to learn about Wilderness Survival?
For those looking to learn about Wilderness Survival, there is a wealth of literature that can provide a comprehensive understanding of the subject. Some of the most highly recommended books include:
- The Survival Handbook by Colin Towell,
- Deep Survival: Who Lives, Who Dies, and Why by Laurence Gonzales,
- Bushcraft 101: A Field Guide to the Art of Wilderness Survival by Dave Canterbury,
- The SAS Survival Handbook by John ‘Lofty’ Wiseman,
- Wilderness Survival: Living Off the Land with the Clothes on Your Back and the Knife on Your Belt by Mark Elbroch,
- 98.6 Degrees: The Art of Keeping Your Ass Alive by Cody Lundin,
- The Ultimate Survival Manual by Rich Johnson,
- Survive!: Essential Skills and Tactics to Get You Out of Anywhere – Alive by Les Stroud,
- The Natural Navigator: The Rediscovered Art of Letting Nature Be Your Guide by Tristan Gooley,
- The Complete Walker IV by Colin Fletcher
These books offer a range of perspectives on Wilderness Survival, covering various aspects and approaches to the subject.
What are the best books on Wilderness Survival?
The best books on Wilderness Survival include:
- The Survival Handbook by Colin Towell,
- Deep Survival: Who Lives, Who Dies, and Why by Laurence Gonzales,
- The Lost Art of Reading Nature’s Signs: Use Outdoor Clues to Find Your Way, Predict the Weather, Locate Water, Track Animals—and Other Forgotten Skills by Tristan Gooley,
- The Outward Bound Wilderness First-Aid Handbook by Jeffrey Isaac,
- Survive!: Essential Skills and Tactics to Get You Out of Anywhere – Alive by Les Stroud,
- 98.6 Degrees: The Art of Keeping Your Ass Alive by Cody Lundin.
Each offers unique insights into the subject. While these books on the topic of Wilderness Survival are highly regarded, it’s important to note that any list of ‘best’ books is subjective and reflects a range of opinions.
What are the best Wilderness Survival books of all time?
Choosing the best Wilderness Survival books of all time can vary depending on who you ask, but seven titles that are often celebrated include
- The Survival Handbook by Colin Towell,
- Deep Survival: Who Lives, Who Dies, and Why by Laurence Gonzales,
- Wilderness Survival: Living Off the Land with the Clothes on Your Back and the Knife on Your Belt by Mark Elbroch,
- Survive!: Essential Skills and Tactics to Get You Out of Anywhere – Alive by Les Stroud,
- The Complete Walker IV by Colin Fletcher,
- The Outward Bound Wilderness First-Aid Handbook by Jeffrey Isaac,
- and The Lost Art of Reading Nature’s Signs: Use Outdoor Clues to Find Your Way, Predict the Weather, Locate Water, Track Animals—and Other Forgotten Skills by Tristan Gooley.
Each of these books has made a significant impact in the field of Wilderness Survival and continues to be influential today.