Geocaching is a fantastic family activity that infuses learning and adventure outdoors within your community or while you are on the go through the summer and fall months.
What is geocaching?
In short, it’s a real life “treasure hunt” – and what kid doesn’t enjoy the idea of treasure hunt?
How does it work?
Head to Geocaching.com and type in your zip code to find local caches or to find caches located where you are visiting. When you hunt for a cache, there is a log within that cache to sign and usually a “treasure” to take with you. You are to swap out that treasure with something else for the next person on a caching hunt.
By using the website, you can research your stops in advance and there are notes as to the type of containers you will be finding so you can bring an appropriately sized item for that container. Additionally, by planning out your geocaching day, you can sprinkle a few hikes that require some use of navigation with a few easy cache stops.
Perhaps you can find a park to stop in for lunch as well. Just be certain you have an item to replace each item you take from each cache stop. Planning ahead is essential for that reason.
These are the official rules according to geocaching.com:
- If you take something from the geocache (or “cache”), leave something of equal or greater value.
- Write about your find in the cache logbook.
- Log your experience at www.geocaching.com.
Can I start my own cache?
Absolutely! After going on a few trips with your kids, consider brainstorming the perfect location for your own cache. Design a log book together as well as a durable container and then head out and plant your very first cache somewhere new and then set it up on the website.
Geocaching really is a fantastic way to involve the whole family in an outdoor experience that can be as adventurous or as simple as you’d like. You can plan it for a simple Sunday activity or when you’re visiting the grandparents and want to go on an adventure in the woods. Whatever experience you are going for, geocaching can be as simple or involved as you’d like.
Will you be planning a geocaching outing with your kids?
Image: Bob n Renee
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