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One of our favorite family activities is Geocaching. It gets us outdoors and helps us spend some fun quality family time together. Plus, purchasing fancy Geocaching equipment isn’t necessary (thanks to the use of Smartphone apps) so it can be FREE too. Family fun that is FREE is always good!
What is Geocaching: Geocaching is an real life outdoor version of a treasure hunt. You use a GPS-enabled device to help you navigate to a specific set of GPS coordinates. Once you are there, you search around and follow clues for the hidden container (the Geocache).
What are you looking for: Generally the Geocache will be a small container. It really can be any shape or size that can be easily hidden somewhere, we have seen large containers, film canisters, Altoids tins and even creative containers like a light bulb shaped Geocache.
What’s in the Geocache: Each Geocache usually contains a log book so you can sign your name and the date your found the Geocache. Often times there will be small trinkets inside the container. You are allowed to take an item from the Geocache, but in return you should leave your own item of equal or lesser value. Make sure you brings some small trinkets along, kids love to exchange their items for ones that are inside the Geocache.
Here are some examples of items we found in one of the most recent Geocaches we found. This Geocache container was much larger than normal so several items in the container were much bigger than what you would normally find.
- Mini Slinky
- Sunglasses
- Crayons
- Whistle
What do you need to go Geocaching: You will need a Geocaching GPS or a Smartphone with a GPS app installed. You do not have to have an expensive device for this, their are several cheap or inexpensive apps that will help you get the job done.
Where are the Geocache’s Hidden: You may be surprised to find out you have a Geocache hidden just down the road from your house, they are everywhere! We found that we even have one walking distance from our house. A great place to see where they are located is to use a Geocaching GPS or a GPS app , but you can also go to Geocaching.com to get an idea of what is available in your area.
Once you know the general location, you will find the Geocache is often hidden in logs, under rocks, in trees or just about anywhere. Many Geocaches will give you a “clue” or a name of the Geocache that will give you a hint as to where to look once you reach the correct GPS coordinates.
Once you find the Geocache: Once you find the Geocache, you can sign the log book and trade an item of yours for something inside. You will need to put the Geocache back exactly where you found it so others will be able find it too.
Has your family been Geocaching yet? You should give it a try, it’s a great way to get outdoors and enjoy some family time. I’d love to hear about your Geocaching experiences.
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