Want to be an explorer in your home town? Try geocaching! It’s part adventure, part exercise, and all about family fun. It’s essentially a treasure hunt, but the emphasis is on the exploration rather than the treasure, usually small trinkets. This is an amazing family activity that is fun for all ages.
Start by picking up a geocache navigator or GPS device in order to track the cache’s coordinates and find the geocaches. There are several available and since I’m an Amazon affiliate, I’ve suggested a few below.
The cost for a navigator may be a little pricey for some but take into consideration you only need to purchase one for your family and it’s a one time cost. Also, any other costs involved are minimal if any.
There are plenty of sites out there with the coordinates of already hidden treasure using geocaching maps. [Check the resource section at the end of this post]. Enter the coordinates into your GPS device and the treasure hunt fun begins!
Most of the hiders will give you excellent coordinators while making it a challenge to find the treasure. You have to keep a keen eye out as you may not know what the cache looks like or how small the container is.
Once you find it, sign the log book and return the cache to its original location. If you take an item from the cache, replace it with something of equal or greater value.
Of course, you’ll also want to hide your own cache, which is part of the fun. Remember to pick a spot that is remote, but safe. I’ve provided several ideas for containers made specifically for geocaching.
Remember to pack food, snacks and plenty of water. Also, bring along a small first aid kit.
Related: Backyard Nature Camp
Hidden behind all of this fun, is an excellent workout. You end up staying active for at least half of the day without even realizing it. Best of all, your kids become enthralled with the outdoors and staying active.
Quality time, exercise, health, and the outdoors combine to make geocaching a wonderful springtime activity for your family!
Resources:
Geocaching.com
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