Geocaching with your 4-H club
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To some, geocaching could be described as “using multi-million dollar satellites to find boxes of Tupperware in the woods.” In other words, a high-tech scavenger hunt!
The idea of a cache originated with people on long-term missions, such as backwoods hunters and trappers and the military. Often, these people didn’t want the extra burden of carrying all their gear with them. Instead, they would find a spot to hide some of their gear from humans and other animals. When a particular part of their mission was complete, they could come back to the cache to re-collect their gear.
Geocaching is a modern version of this practice. Volunteers hide geocaches all over the world and then post the latitude and longitude online. You then use a GPS system to locate the cache. Sometimes there are small trade items in the cache; you can put something in and take something out!
To start geocaching, you need to make an account on the geocaching website. It is free, although there is a paid version that gives you more features, if you wish. Once on the geocaching website, you can click on “play -> map” and find geocaches near you. If you move the map around, you might need to click the “Search this area” button to refresh the available geocaches.
As you search, you will probably find geocaches located near where you live. They are hidden in parks, parking lots, the bottom of lakes, highway rest areas and many more locations. If you click on the geocache on the map, a new tab will open with details such as how big the cache is, how difficult it is to find, when it was last found and hints that you can decode. You then pick a place and look for a cache! Be prepared for the weather and normal outside hazards such as thorns, sunburn, mosquitos and poison ivy. Also consider bringing a pencil and items to trade.
In order to find a cache, you need a device that you can input latitude and longitude. You can use a GPS device or your cell phone. If you are using your cell phone, it is helpful to have a geocaching app. There is an official app and several third-party apps; try them out to see which one you prefer.
You might think it would be easy to find a cache, since it takes you to the latitude and longitude. However, most GPS units have limited accuracy. For example, it might only get you within 20 feet of the cache. Then you need to look for what might be a good hiding spot. I have seen caches that look like rats, giant piles of poop and garden gnomes. Most are simple boxes.
When you find the cache, sign the logbook and record your find online. If you trade out items, make sure they are all-ages appropriate and not anything that would attract critters, like food. It should be noted that not all caches have trade items, some are just a logbook and sometimes the logbook is so small, is just a small folded piece of paper. This is why you should bring your own pencil – to sign the logbook! Once you’re done, make sure you put the cache back where you found it. If it is damaged, such as the paper logbook has gotten wet or is full of ants, please note it online so the cache owner can make repairs.
Michigan State University Extension encourages you to enjoy this treasure with your family, 4-H club or other friends. If you go to 4-H Exploration Days, there are several on campus to enjoy!
