Geocaching
Geocaching is a worldwide treasure hunt using GPS to find hidden containers called geocaches. With over 3 million caches hidden across the globe, you can explore local parks, urban areas, and wilderness while hunting for cleverly concealed treasures that range from tiny capsules to large ammo cans.
What you'll do
Find your first geocache using the free app to navigate to GPS coordinates, discover the hidden container, and sign the logbook.
What you need
Required
- Smartphone with GPS · $0 · household
- Geocaching app (free version) · $0 · household
- Pen or pencil · $0 · household
Nice to have
- Small flashlight · $5-15 · purchased
- Tweezers for micro caches · $3-5 · purchased
- Small trade items (SWAG) · $1-5 · purchased
How to do it
Create your free account
Go to geocaching.com or download the official Geocaching app from your phone's app store. Create a free account with a username you'll use to sign logbooks. The free membership gives you access to most caches and everything you need to start.
Find a nearby cache
Open the app and browse the map for nearby geocaches. Look for caches rated 1.5/1.5 or lower (difficulty/terrain) for your first attempt. Choose a 'Traditional' cache type marked as 'Regular' size—these are easiest to find.
Navigate to the location
Use the app's compass or map to navigate to the cache . Your GPS will get you within about 30 feet of the hide. Read the cache description and hint before arriving—they often contain clues about the container type and hiding method.
Search for the cache
Put your phone away and start searching with your eyes. Look for things that seem out of place—fake rocks, magnetic containers under benches, camouflaged film canisters. Remember: caches are NEVER buried. Check high and low, look under things, and think about where you would hide something.
Sign the logbook
When you find the cache, open it carefully to avoid damaging it. Sign the paper with your username and the date. If the cache contains trade items () and you want one, leave something of equal or greater value. Return the cache EXACTLY where you found it.
Log your find online
Open the app and log your find. Add a brief note about your experience—cache owners appreciate feedback. Congratulations, you've earned your first 'smiley' on your geocaching profile!
Tips
Common mistake: staring at your phone trying to get it to say '0 feet' before searching. GPS is only accurate to about 30 feet, so once you're close, put the phone away and search with your eyes.
Always bring your own pen (BYOP). Many cache logbooks are small and may not include a writing tool, or the included pen might be dried out.
Check recent activity logs before heading out. If several recent visitors logged 'Did Not Find' (), the cache might be missing or damaged.
Be aware of 'muggles' (non-geocachers). If people are watching, wait for them to leave before searching. Acting suspicious often attracts more attention than calmly looking around.
Practice (Cache In, Trash Out)—bring a small bag and pick up any litter you find near the cache. It's part of geocaching culture and helps maintain search areas.
Glossary
- geocache
- A hidden container that geocachers search for, typically waterproof and containing a logbook to sign.
- coordinates
- GPS latitude and longitude numbers that pinpoint the exact location of a cache.
- logbook
- A small paper log inside each cache where finders write their username and date.
- SWAG
- Small items left in caches for trading, stands for 'Stuff We All Get.'
- muggle
- A non-geocacher who might observe or interfere with your search.
- DNF
- Did Not Find—logged when a geocacher searches but cannot locate the cache.
- CITO
- Cache In, Trash Out—the geocaching principle of picking up litter while hunting.
- difficulty/terrain rating
- A 1-5 star system rating how hard a cache is to find (difficulty) and how hard the location is to reach (terrain).
Communities
Resources
- Geocaching 101 Official EducationOfficial beginner tutorials and FAQ from Geocaching HQ covering all the basics.
- Clever Geocache HidesYouTube channel showcasing creative cache hides and beginner tutorials from an experienced cacher.
- REI Expert Advice: GeocachingComprehensive beginner guide covering equipment, etiquette, and getting started tips.
Frequently asked questions
How long does it take to find my first geocache?
Plan about 60-90 minutes for your first outing. This includes travel time, learning the app, and searching. As you gain experience, quick caches take 10-15 minutes, while challenging ones can take an hour or more.
Is geocaching really free?
Yes! The basic Geocaching app and account are completely free, giving you access to thousands of caches. Premium membership ($30/year) unlocks additional caches and features, but it's not needed to start.
What if I can't find the cache?
This happens to everyone! Log a 'Did Not Find' (DNF) in the app—this helps the cache owner and other geocachers. Read the hint again, check previous logs for clues, and try again another day. Some caches are very cleverly hidden.
Are geocaches buried underground?
Never! Geocaching guidelines prohibit burying caches. They may be hidden under rocks, attached with magnets, or camouflaged, but you should never need to dig.
Can I go geocaching with kids?
Absolutely! Geocaching is perfect for families. Choose larger caches (Regular or Large size) with low difficulty ratings for kids. The treasure hunt aspect keeps children engaged, and caches with SWAG to trade are especially exciting for them.