How to Go Geocaching with Your Family for the First Time

Learn how to start geocaching with your family using this beginner-friendly guide to the world's largest treasure hunt.

1. Download the Geocaching App and Create an Account. Start by downloading the official Geocaching app on your smartphone or visit geocaching.com on your computer. Create a free account by choosing a username that will represent your family. The basic account gives you access to plenty of caches to get started. Make sure your phone's GPS is turned on and you have a reliable data connection.
2. Choose Your First Cache. Look for caches marked as 'beginner friendly' with a difficulty rating of 1 or 1.5 stars. Choose something close to home, ideally in a park or public area you're familiar with. Read the cache description and recent logs from other geocachers to make sure it's still there and accessible. Avoid caches with terrain ratings above 2 stars for your first few hunts.
3. Gather Your Geocaching Supplies. Bring a pen or pencil to sign the logbook inside the cache. Pack small trinkets or toys to trade if the cache is large enough to hold items. Bring hand sanitizer or wet wipes, especially after handling cache containers. Consider bringing a flashlight, even during the day, as some caches are hidden in dark spots. Dress appropriately for the weather and terrain.
4. Navigate to the Cache Location. Use the app's map to navigate to the general area. When you're within about 30 feet, put your phone away and start looking around. GPS isn't perfectly accurate, so the cache could be anywhere within a 10-20 foot radius. Look for unnatural hiding spots like gaps in rocks, hollow tree stumps, or behind signs. Think about where you would hide something if you were the one placing it.
5. Search Smart and Stay Safe. Involve everyone in the search but establish boundaries. Don't reach into areas you can't see, and never search anywhere that could be dangerous. If other people are around, be discreet - part of geocaching etiquette is keeping cache locations secret from non-geocachers. If you can't find it after 15-20 minutes, don't give up completely, but consider trying an easier cache first.
6. Log Your Find. Once you find the cache, open it carefully and sign the physical logbook with your username and the date. If there are toys or trinkets inside and your children take something, make sure they leave something of equal or greater value. Close the container securely and put it back exactly where you found it. Log your find on the app and share your experience with other geocachers.