Read the map's legend. The legend is a key on every map that identifies the symbols it uses and what they mean. For example, a symbol of a triangle -- or tent -- may indicate camp sites. Look for the symbol for your destination on the map.
Identify major roads and how to navigate them. For example, interstate highways are usually marked using the interstate "shield" icon with the highway's number on it, while normal highways are marked with an oval containing the highway number. Follow these roads to your destination so you can plan a route.
Look for major geographical landmarks on the map. If you are near a lake, for example, it will be marked on the map both by name and by shape and color -- bodies of water are typically blue, while land is typically green or white.
Use the map's scale to determine distance. All maps feature a scale that explains relative distances -- for example, one inch may equal 10 miles. If that is the case, and you are trying to locate a place 15 miles northeast of your location, measure out 1.5 inches northeast on the map.
