I have seen deer as well as other wildlife drink water from some of the oddest places. Tire ruts in the road, tree stumps after a rain, And I have even seen a deer drink out of a five gallon bucket that was on the edge of a wheat feild that had water in it after a rain. They will drink water when they need it and will get it from the easiest place they can while feeling safe. I have a old bath tub I use to water cattle in a pasture that has no pond and I see deer at it at all times. .