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The Missouri wilderness offers a vast chance for adventure in the great outdoors. Activities ranging from hiking the trails to fishing and hunting draw thousands of visitors a year. While the mountain and hilly ranges are majestically beautiful wandering off marked trails or exploring in unfamiliar territory can lead to a person getting lost. Preparing for the possibility of spending an extended time in the wilderness is worth the time it takes to gather information and items needed to survive until help arrives.

Familiarize yourself with the area you have chosen to explore. There is a myriad of information on the internet dealing with the Missouri wilderness as to what kind of plants are edible, the terrain one can expect to encounter in wilderness areas and the dangers one might encounter.

Once you have decided where you plan to explore, let someone know when you plan on returning. This is important as it gives the secure feeling knowing if you haven't been heard from in a reasonable amount of time then rangers can be contacted to implement a search.

Gathering items for your adventure should include things you may need should you wander too far from the trail. Take into account the weather and how it may change if you are out longer than expected. If hiking prepare a backpack. Should you be hunting make use of the multiple pockets available on your jacket and pants. No one wants to carry a burdensome amount of survival items but things that come in handy will be much appreciated should getting lost become a reality.

There are things you should always carry with you when you enter the wilderness. Items to consider when using a backpack include:

Compass
Multi-utility knife
Bottled water
Cereal or protein bars
Small flashlight and extra batteries
Small compact with mirror
2 extra shirts
2 pairs of socks
Light jacket
Collapsible metal cup
Small metal pan
3 emergency candles
Waterproof matches
2 Reflective blankets
Fishing line and hooks
Chewing gum
Whistle
Small first aid kit
Map of the area (these are sometimes available on the Internet or at the local ranger station)

Check the direction on your compass before you start into the wilderness and take notice of your location. While walking check the compass periodically to note the direction you are wandering. If you find yourself lost note where you are and head back in the opposite direction according to your compass reading. Chances are you will find the trail again, don't panic.

Be aware of the terrain around you. Missouri is known for it's caves, rock ledges, rock over hangs and streams. Only venture into cave entrances far enough to use as shelter. Ledges may be a place to set up for rescuers to find you easier. Using a reflective blanket will draw attention to your location. Use your compact to flash a reflection off the sun maybe noticed by the rescuers. If you are near water stay there. Use your empty water bottles to gather water. Building a small fire you can boil the water before drinking.

Missouri has eight wilderness areas bordered by I-44 on the north and west by I-55 on the east. Also these extend to the Arkansas border. There are thousands upon thousands of acres of natural scenic beauty to behold but along with the wildlife such as white-tailed deer, turkeys and other game there are a variety of rattlesnakes, scorpions, tarantulas and bobcat. Being aware of the dangers along with delights of the area, make it more likely the adventure in the wilderness will be uneventful, just use common sense.

Information Reference:
www.answers.com//top ic/missouri
www.missourigameand fish.com/hunting/turkeyhunting /

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