Geocaching Merit Badge

The Geocaching merit badge introduces Scouts to the world of geocaching, a real-world outdoor treasure hunt using GPS devices. Scouts learn how to find hidden caches and explore new places through this activity. Geocaching combines technology with outdoor adventure, making it a fun and exciting way to learn new skills.

By working on the Geocaching merit badge, Scouts build problem-solving and navigational skills. They learn to read coordinates, use GPS tools, and understand maps. These skills are valuable for both outdoor adventures and everyday life. Geocaching teaches Scouts to think ahead, plan routes, and be aware of their surroundings.

The Geocaching merit badge also encourages teamwork and respect for nature. Scouts often work with others to locate caches, share tips, and explore. They also learn about “cache etiquette,” which includes respecting the environment and following rules set by land managers. This helps Scouts understand the importance of leaving no trace and taking care of the outdoors.

Earning the Geocaching merit badge can lead to new hobbies and interests. Many Scouts continue geocaching long after they earn the badge. It’s a great way to stay active, explore, and enjoy the outdoors. The skills they learn can even be helpful in other activities and careers, like hiking, science, and engineering.

Download the Geocaching Merit Badge Requirements

Geocaching Merit Badge Workbook / Worksheet

Geocaching Merit Badge Check Off Sheet

Checklist for All Merit Badges

Help with Answers for Geocaching Merit Badge Requirements

Find specific helps for some of the Geocaching merit badge requirements listed below. Some of these resources will just give the answers. Others will provide engaging ways for older Scouts to introduce these concepts to new Scouts.

• Requirement 1: Safety
• Requirement 2: Etiquette
• Requirement 3: Terms
• Requirement 4: GPS
• Requirement 5: Maps
• Requirement 6: Finding a Cache
• Requirement 7: Local Geocaches
• Requirement 8: Activities
• Requirement 9: Geohunt
• More Resources

Staying Safe on Your Geocaching Adventure

When working on the Geocaching merit badge, it’s important to understand the risks that can come up during geocaching activities. Most hazards are common to outdoor adventures, but knowing what to expect can keep you safer and make the experience more fun. Here are a few hazards to think about and how to handle them.

One common hazard is rough or uneven terrain. Many geocaches are hidden in parks or wooded areas where the ground may be slippery or have rocks, roots, and other obstacles. To prevent injuries, wear sturdy shoes, watch where you step, and keep an eye on the ground. If you’re walking in unfamiliar places, move slowly and stay alert to avoid trips or falls.

Another hazard is exposure to weather. When geocaching, you may spend a lot of time outdoors, so check the weather before heading out. In hot weather, wear sunscreen, bring water, and take breaks to avoid heat exhaustion. In colder weather, dress in layers and be prepared for changing conditions. Always let someone know where you’re going and bring a basic first-aid kit for minor injuries.

Encounters with animals or plants are also possible. You might come across animals like snakes or encounter plants like poison ivy. To avoid these hazards, stay on paths when possible and learn to recognize dangerous plants and animals in your area. If you’re unsure about an animal or plant, keep your distance and move away. Learning these basic safety tips will help you prepare and stay safe as you work on the Geocaching merit badge.

First Aid and Safety Tips for Geocaching Adventures

As you work on the Geocaching merit badge, it’s essential to know how to handle injuries and illnesses that can happen during outdoor activities. Here’s a quick guide on preventing and treating common issues that may arise while geocaching.

• Cuts and Scrapes: These are common when hiking in the woods. To prevent them, wear long pants and be careful around rocks and branches. Clean any cuts with water and apply a bandage to keep dirt out.
• Snakebite: Be cautious around logs, rocks, and tall grass where snakes may hide. If bitten, keep calm and limit movement to slow the spread of venom. Get medical help right away. Avoid trying to suck out the venom.
• Insect Stings: Bees and wasps can be a problem outdoors. Avoid wearing strong fragrances that attract them. If stung, remove the stinger if present, clean the area, and apply ice to reduce swelling. If allergic, use an epinephrine auto-injector if available and seek help quickly.
• Tick Bites: Ticks can carry diseases. To prevent bites, wear long sleeves and tuck your pants into your socks. Check for ticks after geocaching. If you find a tick, remove it with tweezers and clean the area.
• Exposure to Poisonous Plants: Plants like poison ivy can cause itchy rashes. Learn to recognize poisonous plants and avoid touching them. If exposed, wash the area with soap and water as soon as possible.
• Heat Reactions (Sunburn, Heatstroke, Heat Exhaustion): To prevent sunburn, apply sunscreen and wear a hat. Stay hydrated and take breaks in the shade to prevent heat exhaustion and heatstroke. If you feel dizzy or very hot, rest, drink water, and cool down.
• Cold Reactions (Hypothermia): Cold weather can lead to hypothermia if you’re not dressed warmly. Wear layers and stay dry. If someone shows signs of hypothermia, like shivering or confusion, get them warm and dry immediately.
• Dehydration: Dehydration can happen quickly, especially in hot weather. Carry water and sip it often. Watch for signs like dry mouth or headache. If you feel dehydrated, rest in a cool spot and drink water.

Knowing basic first aid and safety for these situations is important as you work on the Geocaching merit badge. Staying prepared helps you have a safe and enjoyable time finding caches and exploring the outdoors.

Planning a Safe and Successful GPS Adventure

As you work on the Geocaching merit badge, knowing how to plan a GPS-based activity is essential. Good planning helps ensure a fun and safe geocaching experience. Here are the steps to make sure you’re ready to go.

• Use the Buddy System: Never go geocaching alone. Bring a buddy or group so you have help if anything goes wrong. The buddy system is an important part of the Geocaching merit badge because it keeps you safer and allows you to share the experience with others.
• Share Your Plan with Others: Before you go, tell someone who isn’t on the trip about your geocaching plan. Include details like where you’ll be, what route you’ll follow, and when you plan to return. This way, if something unexpected happens, someone knows where to look.
• Check the Weather: Weather conditions can change quickly and impact your safety. Look at the weather forecast for the day of your geocaching trip. If severe weather is expected, consider rescheduling. Dress appropriately for the weather, and bring extra layers if it’s going to be cold.
• Plan Your Route: Study your route ahead of time and make sure you have GPS coordinates for the caches you’re looking for. Choose paths that match your skill level and experience. Planning a clear route also helps you stay on track and prevents getting lost.
• Wear Proper Attire: Dress for outdoor conditions. Wear sturdy, comfortable shoes, and bring sun protection like a hat and sunscreen if it’s sunny. Long sleeves and pants can help protect you from scratches, insects, and poisonous plants.

By following these steps, you’re setting up your GPS activity for success. This level of preparation is important in earning the Geocaching merit badge because it shows you can handle outdoor adventures responsibly and safely.

Why Caches Should Never Be Buried

One important rule you’ll learn while working on the Geocaching merit badge is that caches should never be buried. Burying a cache can damage the environment, cause confusion, and even lead to safety problems. Here’s why it’s important to keep caches above ground.

When you bury a cache, you disturb the natural surroundings. Digging can damage plants, tree roots, and animal habitats. Leaving caches above ground or hiding them in natural spaces like under rocks or in hollow logs helps protect the environment and follows “Leave No Trace” principles. The Geocaching merit badge teaches us to respect nature, so keeping caches unburied is a key part of that.

Buried caches can also be difficult for others to find without digging, which isn’t allowed in geocaching. Digging tools are not part of normal geocaching equipment, and most parks and outdoor areas have strict rules against disturbing the ground. An unburied cache that’s hidden creatively will be easier to find and follow local rules.

Finally, buried caches can lead to safety issues. Digging can create holes or uneven ground, causing people to trip or fall. Keeping caches above ground removes this risk and ensures a safer experience for everyone.

Understanding these rules is an important part of the Geocaching merit badge. It reminds Scouts to be responsible and respectful geocachers who protect nature and follow the guidelines of the game.

Geocaching Etiquette: Hiding, Seeking, and Maintaining a Cache

Good etiquette is essential in geocaching and is a big part of earning the Geocaching merit badge. Following these guidelines when hiding, seeking, and maintaining caches keeps the game fun, fair, and respectful for everyone.

When Hiding a Cache: Choose a safe, accessible location that doesn’t damage the environment. Avoid areas where digging is needed and keep the cache in natural hiding spots like under rocks or in hollow trees. Make sure your location follows the rules of the property, and get permission if you’re on private land. This is an important part of the Geocaching merit badge, as it shows respect for nature and property.

Posting the Cache Online: When you create a new cache, post it on a geocaching website or app so others can find it. Give clear coordinates and a helpful description, but don’t reveal the exact hiding spot. The description should include any special instructions, like needing to bring a pen to log the find.

Maintaining the Cache: Once a cache is hidden, it’s your responsibility to keep it in good condition. Check on it every few months or when you see reports from other geocachers. If the logbook is full or items are damaged, replace them. This upkeep shows responsibility, a key lesson in the Geocaching merit badge.

Dismantling a Cache: If you decide to remove a cache, update the online post to let others know it’s no longer available. Go to the site, pick up all materials, and leave the area as you found it. This helps keep the environment clean and respects other geocachers who might look for it.

Using proper geocaching etiquette while hiding, posting, maintaining, and dismantling a cache is part of being a responsible Scout. By learning and practicing these steps, you’ll be well on your way to completing the Geocaching merit badge.

Applying Leave No Trace Principles to Geocaching

When working on the Geocaching merit badge, it’s important to follow Leave No Trace principles. These guidelines help protect natural spaces and ensure that geocaching doesn’t harm the environment. Here’s how each Leave No Trace principle applies to geocaching.

• Plan Ahead and Prepare: Choose a safe, allowed area to hide your cache, and know the rules for that location. This planning helps prevent damage to the area and ensures the cache doesn’t disturb local wildlife or private property.
• Travel and Camp on Durable Surfaces: When geocaching, stick to marked trails and durable surfaces like rocks or open ground. Avoid trampling plants or disturbing natural areas, as this can cause erosion and other damage.
• Dispose of Waste Properly: Pack out everything you bring, including food wrappers, bottles, and any geocaching supplies. If you notice trash near a cache, take a moment to pick it up and leave the area cleaner than you found it.
• Leave What You Find: Don’t disturb natural or cultural features like rocks, plants, or historical sites. Avoid taking souvenirs or moving things around to hide a cache. The Geocaching merit badge emphasizes leaving nature unchanged for others to enjoy.
• Minimize Campfire Impact: While campfires are not typically part of geocaching, if you’re camping in an area where fires are allowed during your geocaching adventure, make sure you follow all rules and fully extinguish any flames. Fires can damage the environment if not handled carefully.
• Respect Wildlife: Avoid disturbing animals while looking for or hiding caches. Be cautious around wildlife, and never leave food or scented items in a cache. The presence of food could attract animals and cause harm.
• Be Considerate of Other Visitors: Geocaching is a shared activity, so be mindful of others on trails and in parks. Avoid placing caches where they might interfere with people’s enjoyment of the area. Remember to act respectfully to leave a positive impression on fellow hikers and geocachers.

Practicing these Leave No Trace principles is essential for responsible geocaching. The Geocaching merit badge encourages Scouts to protect natural spaces and make sure their adventures don’t harm the environment, ensuring the game remains enjoyable for everyone.

Geocaching Terms You Need to Know

As you work on the Geocaching merit badge, you’ll come across terms that are specific to geocaching. Understanding these words helps you navigate the game more easily.

• Waypoint: A set of GPS coordinates that marks a specific location, often used to guide geocachers to a cache or other important spots on a route.
• Log: The record where geocachers write down their visit to a cache. Logs are usually small notebooks inside the cache, but there’s also an online log where you can record your find.
• Cache: The hidden container that geocachers seek. Each cache includes a logbook and sometimes small tradeable items.
• Accuracy: A measurement of how close your GPS coordinates are to the actual location of the cache. GPS devices can vary in accuracy depending on the environment and signal strength.
• Difficulty and Terrain Ratings: These ratings help geocachers know what to expect. Difficulty rates how hard the cache is to find, and terrain rates how challenging the area is to navigate.
• Attributes: Special symbols or descriptions that tell you more about the cache, such as if it’s kid-friendly, wheelchair accessible, or available in winter.
• Trackable: A special item with a unique code that moves from cache to cache. Trackables are often part of a “travel goal” to reach specific locations.
• FTF (First to Find): The first person to locate a new cache after it’s published. Many geocachers race to be the FTF and often leave a note or reward in the log.
• Geocoin: A specific type of trackable that looks like a coin and is designed to move between caches. Geocoins often have unique designs or themes.
• Muggle: A non-geocacher. In geocaching, “muggles” are people who are unaware of the game and may accidentally find or disturb caches.
• Spoiler: Information or photos that reveal the exact location or appearance of a cache, which can take away the challenge for other geocachers.
• Hint: A clue provided by the cache owner to help geocachers find the cache. Hints can be decrypted on most geocaching websites.
• Cache Owner (CO): The person who created and maintains the cache. The cache owner is responsible for keeping the cache in good condition.
• Ground Zero (GZ): The spot where the GPS coordinates indicate the cache is hidden. Geocachers often call it “Ground Zero” as they start their final search.

Knowing these terms is essential for understanding geocaching and helps you complete the Geocaching merit badge. With this knowledge, you’ll be ready to explore and communicate easily with other geocachers.

The EDGE method is a teaching approach used in Scouting to help people learn new skills in a clear, step-by-step way. EDGE stands for Explain, Demonstrate, Guide, and Enable.

• First, the instructor Explains the skill, giving a clear description and the reason for each step.
• Next, they Demonstrate the skill, showing exactly how to do it so learners can see it in action.
• Then, the instructor Guides the learner as they try it themselves, offering support and answering questions.
• Finally, the instructor Enables the learner by encouraging independent practice, ensuring they’re comfortable and confident in using the skill on their own.

The EDGE method helps break down learning into manageable stages, making it easier for Scouts to build and retain new skills.

Learn more about the EDGE method here.

Understanding and Using GPS for Geocaching

For the Geocaching merit badge, it’s important to understand how the Global Positioning System (GPS) works and how to operate a GPS unit. GPS helps geocachers locate hidden caches by using satellite signals to determine exact locations on Earth.

How GPS Works: GPS relies on a network of satellites that orbit Earth. Each satellite constantly sends signals down to the ground. A GPS receiver, like the one in a GPS unit or smartphone, picks up these signals. By receiving signals from at least four satellites, the GPS receiver can calculate your exact position using latitude and longitude coordinates. This accuracy helps geocachers find caches and mark important spots, known as waypoints, along their journey.

Teaching EDGE for Using a GPS Unit

To teach others how to use a GPS unit, Scouting’s Teaching EDGE method (Explain, Demonstrate, Guide, and Enable) is very helpful.

Here’s how to use it to teach GPS basics and specific functions required for the Geocaching merit badge.

1. Explain: Start by explaining the main functions of the GPS unit and why they’re important in geocaching. For example, marking a waypoint allows you to record a specific location, and changing the coordinate system lets you match different geocaching formats.
2. Demonstrate: Show each step on the GPS unit, including:
   • Marking a Waypoint: Go to the location you want to save, select the “Mark Waypoint” option, and save it. This creates a saved point you can return to later.
   • Editing a Waypoint: Choose an existing waypoint and select “Edit” to change the name, coordinates, or add notes.
   • Changing Field Functions: Show how to adjust settings, such as switching between map views or adjusting brightness, to make the GPS easier to read and use.
   • Changing the Coordinate System: Demonstrate how to adjust the GPS to different coordinate systems, like UTM or decimal degrees, to match the format used by the cache’s listing.
3. Guide: Let your counselor or other Scouts try each of these functions with your help. Offer guidance as they mark, edit, and change settings on the GPS unit.
4. Enable: Finally, encourage them to try these actions on their own until they feel confident. Practicing these steps builds their independence in using a GPS unit effectively.

Understanding how GPS works and learning these basic functions are key skills for the Geocaching merit badge. By mastering these steps, you’ll be prepared to navigate accurately, set waypoints, and follow coordinates, which are essential parts of successful geocaching.

Navigating with a Map and Compass in Geocaching

Knowing how to use a map and compass is essential for the Geocaching merit badge. While GPS is the main tool for geocaching, a map and compass can help you stay on course, plan routes, and find your way back if the GPS signal is lost.

To use a compass, start by holding it level and pointing it away from metal objects that could interfere with the needle. The needle will align with magnetic north. By lining up the compass with a map, you can set a bearing (direction) and navigate by following that bearing. To read a map, look for landmarks, trails, and terrain features that help you visualize where you are and where you need to go. Combining both tools, you can plot a route and stay oriented, even in unfamiliar areas.

This skill is valuable for geocaching because it adds a backup navigation method. GPS signals can be weak in forests, mountains, or remote areas, making maps and compasses essential for staying on track. By mastering this skill, Scouts working on the Geocaching merit badge learn how to navigate safely and responsibly in the outdoors, which is a key part of the Scouting experience.

Comparing GPS Navigation and Map-Reading Skills for Geocaching

Both GPS navigation and standard map-reading are essential skills for Scouts working on the Geocaching merit badge, but they work in different ways. GPS navigation relies on signals from satellites to pinpoint a specific location and guide you directly to your destination with coordinates. A GPS device calculates your current position, tracks your movement, and often displays detailed maps. This real-time information is very accurate and helps you find geocaches quickly and efficiently.

In contrast, standard map-reading uses a paper or digital map along with a compass. With map-reading, you identify landmarks, interpret symbols, and estimate distances to navigate. This method requires more careful observation of the surroundings, as you’re relying on terrain features rather than exact GPS coordinates. While map-reading takes more practice, it helps you better understand your surroundings and be aware of trails, rivers, and other important features.

Both methods are valuable for geocaching. GPS navigation is quick and precise, allowing you to locate caches even in remote areas. Map-reading skills, on the other hand, are beneficial when GPS signals are weak, when planning a route, or as a backup tool. For the Geocaching merit badge, Scouts benefit from learning both, gaining a deeper understanding of navigation and being better prepared for outdoor adventures.

Steps to Finding Your First Geocache

Finding your first geocache is exciting and an essential part of earning the Geocaching merit badge. Here’s a simple step-by-step process to get started, along with how to mark and edit a waypoint.

1. Choose a Cache: Start by using a geocaching app or website to select a cache nearby. Look for one with a low difficulty and terrain rating for an easier experience on your first try. Review the description, hint, and any attributes to prepare.
2. Enter Coordinates into Your GPS: Enter the cache’s GPS coordinates into your device, or use the app to get navigation directions. The GPS will guide you toward the location, but remember that you’ll still need to be observant and use your surroundings to locate the final spot.
3. Navigate to the Location: Follow the GPS until you’re within about 10–20 feet of the cache, often referred to as “ground zero.” As you get closer, pay attention to landmarks like trees, rocks, or trails mentioned in the cache description.
4. Search Carefully: Once you’re close to ground zero, put away the GPS and search around. Look for areas where a small container could be hidden, such as under rocks, in tree roots, or other natural hiding spots. Remember to respect the environment and keep an eye out for any clues.

Marking and Editing a Waypoint

Marking a waypoint on your GPS device is useful if you want to save your location or return to a specific spot. To do this, select the “Mark Waypoint” option on your GPS, which will save your current location as a waypoint. You can then edit the waypoint by renaming it or adding notes to remember what it’s for, such as “Trailhead” or “First Geocache.”

These skills are helpful for completing the Geocaching merit badge, as they teach you how to organize and track locations effectively. By practicing these steps, you’ll be ready to find more caches and explore with confidence.

Exploring Geocaches in Your Area

As part of the Geocaching merit badge, Scouts are encouraged to explore real geocaches around them. With a parent or guardian’s permission, go to www.geocaching.com to find nearby caches by entering your city and state. The website will list geocaches in your area, showing details about each one.

For this requirement, look up three caches and review the information about each. Geocaching.com provides a description, difficulty and terrain ratings, hints, and sometimes photos. For example, you might find a cache described as a “small container hidden under a log,” with a difficulty of 1.5 and terrain of 2. Another might be in an urban setting, with details mentioning it’s hidden near a landmark. This information helps you decide which one might be the best to try finding.

Once you’ve reviewed all three, choose one to search for in person. Use the GPS coordinates provided to navigate to the cache. When you find it, log your visit on the website and in the cache’s logbook, and trade an item if it’s allowed. Completing this step for the Geocaching merit badge gives you real experience with finding and understanding geocaches, making you a more confident geocacher.

Exploring the Cache to Eagle® Series and Scouting Service

As part of the Geocaching merit badge, Scouts can visit locations in the Cache to Eagle® series if their council has one. This special series of geocaches highlights community service projects led by Eagle Scouts, showing the positive impact Scouting has on local communities. Each Cache to Eagle® location marks a different Eagle Scout project, sharing the story of the work done and its lasting effect.

When visiting these caches, you’ll see various types of projects. For example, one cache might be near a playground built or restored by an Eagle Scout to provide a safe space for children in the community. Another cache may be at a trailhead where an Eagle Scout organized the construction of new hiking trails, benefiting nature lovers and promoting outdoor activity. A third cache could highlight a conservation project, such as restoring a riverbank or planting trees to protect wildlife habitats.

The Cache to Eagle® series helps the public learn about Scouting service by making these project sites accessible and engaging through geocaching. Each cache location shares a story of commitment and leadership, and the series serves as an ongoing reminder of the good that Scouting brings to communities. Visiting these caches as part of the Geocaching merit badge requirement helps Scouts appreciate the work of Eagle Scouts and learn how service projects can make a meaningful difference.

Creating a Scouting Travel Bug® to Share Scouting Values

For the Geocaching merit badge, creating and tracking a Scouting-themed Travel Bug® is a fun way to share the values of Scouting with others in the geocaching community. A Travel Bug® is a small trackable item with a unique code that allows geocachers to see its journey from cache to cache. To start, pick one of the values of Scouting, such as helpfulness or kindness, as the theme for your Travel Bug®.

For example, you might choose helpfulness as your theme and attach a small token, like a miniature Scout backpack, to your Travel Bug®. Write a description for it on geocaching.com, explaining how helpfulness is an important part of the Scout Law and inviting other geocachers to keep the theme going by doing a helpful act before moving the Travel Bug® to the next cache. Then, place the Travel Bug® in a public cache and start tracking it.

With a parent or guardian’s permission, monitor the Travel Bug®’s journey on geocaching.com for 30 days. Record its locations, any comments left by other geocachers, and any stories shared about acts of helpfulness. At the end of the 30 days, share your log with your counselor. Completing this Geocaching merit badge activity lets you promote Scouting values and connect with geocachers across different areas, all while learning how trackables move through the geocaching network.

Setting Up, Maintaining, and Monitoring Your Own Geocache

Setting up and maintaining a public geocache is an exciting requirement for the Geocaching merit badge. This experience teaches responsibility and allows you to share the fun of geocaching with others. Here’s how to complete this task, including a basic maintenance plan.

First, choose a location that follows geocaching rules and guidelines. Look for a safe, accessible spot in a park or public area where permission has been granted. Make sure the location offers a natural hiding place, like under a large rock or near a landmark. Place a waterproof container with a logbook and small, durable items for trading.

Three-Month Maintenance Plan:

1. First Month: Check the geocache every two weeks. Make sure the logbook is dry, items are intact, and that the cache is still in its correct location. Record any issues and check for new entries in the log.
2. Second Month: Visit at least once to refresh any traded items and inspect the container. If the logbook is filling up, add extra pages or a new notebook.
3. Third Month: Perform a final maintenance check, confirming the cache is secure and contents are in good condition. After the three months, plan to either continue regular checks or decide if it’s time to archive the cache.

Once the cache is set up, follow the online logs for 30 days with a parent or guardian’s permission. Track who finds it, read their comments, and note any issues. At the end of your maintenance period, you must archive the cache if you can no longer maintain it. By setting up and caring for a geocache, you gain valuable skills and fulfill an important Geocaching merit badge requirement while helping others enjoy the adventure of geocaching.

Practicing Cache In Trash Out (CITO) to Keep Geocaching Areas Clean

Cache In Trash Out (CITO) is an important part of responsible geocaching and a key aspect of the Geocaching merit badge. CITO encourages geocachers to pick up trash whenever they’re out searching for caches. This practice helps keep parks, trails, and natural spaces clean, and shows respect for the environment. Many geocachers carry a bag with them to pick up litter along the way, leaving each area better than they found it.

To fulfill this part of the Geocaching merit badge, you can participate in a CITO event or simply practice CITO while visiting public geocaches. For example, during one geocaching trip, I brought a small trash bag with me and collected litter near each cache location. This included picking up items like plastic wrappers, bottles, and small bits of trash left by others. Practicing CITO not only helped clean up the area but also set a good example for others.

You can also take this further by creating “CITO kits” to leave in public caches. These kits can include a small reusable bag and a pair of disposable gloves to help others join in the effort. Another option is to organize a CITO event for your troop, pack, or even for the public. At a CITO event, participants work together to remove litter from a park, trail, or beach, often finding caches along the way. Hosting or participating in CITO activities is a valuable experience for the Geocaching merit badge, as it demonstrates the impact Scouts can have on protecting and caring for natural spaces.

Planning a Geohunt for Your Group

Planning a geohunt is a great way to practice skills for the Geocaching merit badge and introduce others to geocaching. A geohunt is similar to a scavenger hunt, but it uses GPS coordinates to lead players to hidden “caches” or waypoints that match the theme you choose. Here’s how to plan and organize your geohunt.

• Choose a Theme: Pick a fun theme that will make the geohunt interesting. For example, a “Nature Explorer” theme could lead participants to learn about different plants or animals at each waypoint. Other themes might include “Scout Skills,” with each stop featuring a Scouting activity, or “History Hunt,” where participants learn facts about the area.
• Set Up Waypoints: Choose at least four locations around your park, school, or other setting. Use a GPS to mark each location as a waypoint, and record the coordinates so players can find them. At each waypoint, place a small container or laminated card with clues or information that fits the theme. For example, if your theme is “Nature Explorer,” each waypoint might include facts about local wildlife.
• Teach Players to Use GPS Units: Before starting, show players how to enter coordinates into their GPS units and how to follow them to each waypoint. Explain any GPS basics they’ll need to know, like marking waypoints or checking accuracy.
• Play the Game: Give each group of participants the coordinates for the first waypoint and let them use the GPS to find it. After they complete the activity or find the clue at each waypoint, give them the coordinates for the next one. Continue until they finish the course.

After the event, discuss your experience with your counselor, focusing on what went well and what you learned from organizing it. Share any maps, instructions, or clue cards you made for the geohunt. Planning a geohunt for the Geocaching merit badge is a rewarding experience that builds leadership skills and teaches others about navigation and the fun of geocaching.

Orienteering Troop Program Feature for Scouts BSA

The Orienteering program feature teaches Scouts to navigate using a map and compass, helping them build confidence in unfamiliar areas. Scouts learn how to read maps, follow bearings, and find their way without GPS. This program also introduces them to the sport of orienteering, where participants race to locate markers called controls as quickly as possible. Orienteering skills are valuable for the Geocaching merit badge, as Scouts learn to navigate precisely and understand terrain. By practicing orienteering, Scouts improve their navigation skills, which they can use in geocaching, hiking, and other outdoor adventures.

National Outdoor Award Hiking Segment Requirements

The National Outdoor Award for Hiking recognizes Scouts, Sea Scouts, and Venturers who excel in hiking and related outdoor activities. To earn it, they must achieve the First Class rank, Sea Scout Apprentice rank, or complete parts of the Venturing Ranger Award. They also need to complete requirements for either the Hiking or Backpacking merit badge and for either the Orienteering or Geocaching merit badge. Next, they log at least 100 miles hiking, backpacking, snowshoeing, or skiing with BSA. Additional miles earn special devices: gold for every 50 miles and silver for every 200 miles, showing dedication to outdoor adventure.

What is the Geocaching merit badge?

The Geocaching merit badge teaches Scouts how to use GPS devices to find hidden containers called geocaches. Scouts learn navigation skills, geocaching etiquette, and how to create and hide their own geocaches.

Do I need my own GPS device for the Geocaching merit badge?

You don’t need to own a GPS device. Many Scouts borrow one or use a smartphone with a geocaching app. Check with your counselor to see what equipment they recommend.

What will I learn by earning the Geocaching merit badge?

You’ll learn to navigate using GPS, understand map-reading basics, use geocaching websites, and follow Leave No Trace principles in geocaching. You’ll also learn how to create and maintain a geocache.

What is a geocache?

A geocache is a hidden container that includes a logbook and sometimes small items for trading. Geocachers use GPS coordinates to locate it. The Geocaching merit badge teaches Scouts how to find and hide geocaches safely and responsibly.

Why is it important to follow Leave No Trace for the Geocaching merit badge?

Leave No Trace principles help protect nature and ensure geocaching doesn’t damage the environment. By following these principles, Scouts learn to geocache responsibly and respect the outdoors.

How do I mark and edit a waypoint for the Geocaching merit badge?

To mark a waypoint, use the “Mark” or “Save Location” feature on your GPS unit. After saving it, select “Edit” to change the name or add notes about the waypoint. This skill is used for tracking important locations during a geohunt.

Do I have to find a real geocache to earn the Geocaching merit badge?

Yes, finding at least one real geocache is part of the requirement. This gives you experience with using GPS and the chance to apply what you’ve learned in a real setting.

What is a geohunt, and why do I need to plan one?

A geohunt is like a GPS-based scavenger hunt where you set up a course with waypoints for others to find. Planning a geohunt is part of the Geocaching merit badge. It helps you practice organizing and teaches others how to geocache.

What are some safety tips for geocaching?

Always use the buddy system, tell someone where you’re going, check the weather, wear proper clothing, and carry water. These are important steps you’ll learn in the Geocaching merit badge to keep geocaching safe and enjoyable.

The Geocaching merit badge introduces Scouts to the exciting world of geocaching—a real-world treasure hunt using GPS devices. With this merit badge, Scouts learn how to navigate with GPS, find hidden caches, and explore new outdoor places. Along the way, they develop skills in problem-solving, map reading, and working with coordinates. Each cache is a small adventure that challenges Scouts to think and act like explorers.

Scouts also learn about geocaching etiquette and the importance of Leave No Trace principles. They find out how to hide caches respectfully and responsibly so they don’t harm the environment. Scouts must also understand how to plan geocaching activities safely, using the buddy system and preparing for any outdoor conditions. This part of the Geocaching merit badge teaches them to enjoy nature while protecting it.

A key part of the Geocaching merit badge is practicing Cache In Trash Out (CITO), where Scouts clean up litter around cache locations. They may also create their own caches or track a Travel Bug®. Each of these activities shows Scouts how they can make a positive impact on their surroundings and share the fun of geocaching with others.

The Geocaching merit badge is a great way for Scouts to explore, learn about GPS navigation, and care for the environment. It’s an adventure that builds outdoor skills, teaches responsibility, and connects Scouts with the geocaching community.