I've found the distance estimates to be surprisingly accurate. My hunting partners and I have found several sites now by measuring the distances. It surprises me that they could hit so accurately - at least in the cases we've encountered.

I suspect the accuracy of the account is dependant upon how big the group was - as the larger movements usually had engineers and map-makers with them. This is the case with the camps we've located this way.

Measure it off, see if it's near a source of water or a cross-roads, or a significant homesite ... you might be surprised!

-Chris