Geocaching (Gee-oh-Cash-ing) is hide and seek for treasure at Virginia State Parks!
A geocacher can place a geocache anywhere in the world, pinpoint its location using GPS technology, then share the geocache’s existence and location online. Anyone with a GPS device can then try to locate the geocache. Someone hides a container of inexpensive knickknacks — a cache. Then they post its latitude & longitude on the internet, and anyone can go hunting for it. If they find it they trade knickknacks and sign a log to record their visit.
Before you go:
1. Find a geocache that will meet your immediate goals. Are you looking for a difficult hike or an easy adventure? Learn How to Find a Geocache from the official website here.
2. If you’re headed out on the trail, pack any needed supplies such as water, food and extra clothing. Bring both a map and a compass. Check geocache terrain and difficulty ratings.
3. For safety, let someone know where you are going, never hike alone!
4. Do not forget your GPS and extra batteries.
5. A Digital Camera to photograph your journey.
Get Out and Play
1. Mark your vehicle as a waypoint to ensure your safe return.
2. Be mindful of the environment, practice Cache In Trash Out.
3. Bring friends and family with you; sharing the experience can be very rewarding. Pets are usually welcome, too!
4. Remember that distances can be deceiving. A geocache can take longer to find depending on trails, rivers and other obstacles. It is best to plan your time accordingly, ie a morning hike vs evening hike.
Share Your Experience
1. If you take something from the geocache, leave something of equal or greater value.
2. Write about your experience in the geocache logbook.
3. Place your geocaching stories and photos online.
Information from the Official Geocaching website
But, the real fun is discovering endless new Virginia State Parks and interesting places near you that you never knew were there. Visit this page for more information with coordinates of each of your Virginia State Parks.
It is also fun and free, many Virginia State Parks have scheduled beginning Geocache classes and rental units for you to use while visiting, who doesn’t love a scavenger hunt? Virginia State Parks wants you to know:
• Use existing trails to travel to GPS waypoints whenever possible.
• Do not damage plants, trees, animal nests, etc. Practice Leave No Trace™.
• Comply with all signs and barriers.
• Do not disturb soil or landscape. Geocaches are never buried.
• If the area looks unsafe, don’t go that way.
• Pay attention to surroundings. Look back as you go in so that you’ll recognize the way out.
• Cache In – Trash Out: Never litter, and pick up for those who may have dropped something.
• Notify park staff if you see anything that needs attention.
At Virginia State Parks there is so much to love!