Family Camping –Finding Treasures Geocaching

A fantastic fun activity for the whole family while camping in Minnesota State parks is a high tech treasure hunt.  Do you want to learn more about geocaching and you are not sure where to start?  Then read on for tips on how. 

First, check your states Department of Natural Resource (DNR) website for possible free classes.  Use their website search box and put in geocaching to see if it is available at your state parks. 

Next, Minnesota State Parks do have classes available – registration is required.  Simply go to their website and under the Recreation link you will find Geocaching.  Also, Minnesota State Parks started a Geocaching Wildlife Safari, which started in May 2, 2009 through May 2, 2012, where you find caches at all 72 parks and collect Critter Cards for rewards.  What an awesome way to explore the state parks in Minnesota.  

What is geocaching pronounced (geo-cashing)?  It is a treasure hunt using a Global Positioning System (GPS) handheld device to find actual caches.  Once you find the treasure you sign the logbook, if a big enough cache you may take a trinket and replace with your item, and then report your find on line at geocaching.com.  In fact, it is free to register with a basic membership to be able to find geocaches anywhere in the world.

Of course, there is a cost if you decide to buy your own Global Positioning System (GPS) handheld device and the expense of entering a state park.  But if you are just starting out why not take advantage of the Minnesota State Parks demo programs.  There are 25 state parks participating in the program and it is free to use the GPS handheld unit and get simply instructions.  Just stop in during regular park hours.

Lastly, be advised this activity can become addicting.  There are certain guidelines to follow when geocaching from put the cache back the same way you found it, follow park rules, do not put yourself in danger, minimal impact to the environment, be considerate of others, and respect property rights.  But most of all have fun!

Besides this program you may be interested in learning about family camping and you are not sure where to begin.  Just look for my other article about Family Camping- No Experience Necessary.