Geocaching
Geocaching is a recreational pursuit that brings technology and nature together.
Geocaching is an entertaining adventure game for GPS (Global Positioning System) users. Participating in a cache hunt is a good way to take advantage of the wonderful features and capability of a GPS unit. The basic idea is to have individuals and organizations set up caches all over the world and share the locations of these caches on the internet. GPS users can then use the location coordinates to find the caches. Once found, a cache may provide the visitor with a wide variety of rewards. For some, the biggest reward is the thrill of the search and the discovery of a place that they have never been.
This growing outdoor sport has a simple set of rules, making it easy for anyone to play. The challenging part is finding the cache.
Once geocachers find a cache, they follow these basic rules:
- fill out the logbook
- take something out of the cache
- put something in the cache
- return the cache to the exact position and condition in which it was found
Caches typically consist of a waterproof container discreetly placed within the local terrain. The container will include a logbook and any number of more or less valuable items such as toys, books, money, jewelry, trinkets, etc. You never know what the founder or other visitors of the cache may have left for you to enjoy. Be sure to fill out the logbook with the date and time you visit the cache and leave something in return.
You will need to go online to start finding cache locations or report a cache that you have created. Several geocaching web sites and clubs have sprouted on the Internet. To find a hidden cache near you or to plant a cache, you can go to www.geocaching.com — the first to bring geocaching to the masses and the most comprehensive site for this adventure-game. After you get the coordinates online and enter them into your GPS, you're ready to get started on your adventure!
Before placing a cache on any of our park properties you must first obtain permission and obtain a special use permit so that we may inform you about sites designated for geocaching on park property. Help make geocaching an educational and entertaining experience while preserving our environment for future generations of geocachers to come!
