Geocaching Merit Badge

Free Resources and Answers

Time: 2–4 weeks
Difficulty: Easy, Moderate
Setting: Outdoor, GPS navigation
Best For: Scouts interested in technology, treasure hunts, navigation
Hands-On Level: High
Eagle Required: No

The Geocaching merit badge gives you a chance to explore the outdoors in a new way. You use GPS coordinates and navigation skills to search for hidden containers called caches. Along the way, you visit parks, trails, and other interesting places. Geocaching turns an ordinary hike into an adventure with a goal.

As you work on the Geocaching merit badge, you learn how to use maps, GPS devices, and coordinate systems. You practice planning routes and paying attention to details. These skills can help you in many outdoor activities. You also learn how technology can be used safely and responsibly in the outdoors.

The Geocaching merit badge also teaches you to respect nature and work well with others. You follow outdoor ethics and learn how to protect the places you visit. Many Scouts enjoy geocaching with friends, family, or their troop. It is an activity you can continue long after earning the badge.

Download the Geocaching Merit Badge Requirements

Geocaching Merit Badge Pamphlet

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

Requirement 1a: Geocaching Safety Hazards

What You Need To Do

Talk with your counselor about common hazards during geocaching activities. Cover ways to prevent problems, reduce risks, and handle emergencies safely.

Helpful Tips

• Wear sturdy shoes with good traction.
• Watch for rocks, roots, and slippery ground.
• Check the weather before heading out.
• Bring water and drink often during the activity.
• Stay on marked trails when possible.
• Carry a small first-aid kit in your pack.
• Avoid reaching into places you cannot see clearly.
• Keep a safe distance from wildlife and poisonous plants.
• Let someone know where you are going and when you will return.
• Bring a flashlight if there is any chance of low light conditions.

Resources

• GeoCaching Safety: 12 Critical Tips to Stay Safe While Treasure Hunting (website)
• Surviving the Wild—Essential Hiking Safety Tips (video)

Leader Tips

• Review outdoor hazards before starting the activity.
• Encourage Scouts to carry basic safety gear.
• Pick cache locations which match the group’s skill level.
• Watch for signs of fatigue, dehydration, or unsafe behavior.

Requirement 1b: First Aid for Geocaching

What You Need To Do

Discuss first aid and prevention for common outdoor injuries and illnesses related to geocaching. Include cuts, scrapes, insect stings, tick bites, poisonous plants, weather reactions, dehydration, and snakebite.

Helpful Tips

• Clean cuts and scrapes with clean water right away.
• Cover small wounds with a bandage.
• Wear long sleeves and pants in wooded areas.
• Check your body and clothing for ticks after hiking.
• Use tweezers to remove ticks carefully.
• Stay away from poison ivy and other poisonous plants.
• Wear sunscreen and a hat on sunny days.
• Drink water often during hot weather.
• Rest in the shade if you feel overheated.
• Dress in layers during cold weather activities.
• Keep a person warm and dry during cold reactions.
• Get medical help quickly for snakebites or serious allergic reactions.

Resources

• Backpacking First Aid (What To Carry + Foot Care, Snakes, Poison Plants, Hypothermia, etc) (video)

Leader Tips

• Carry a complete first-aid kit on outings.
• Review basic first-aid skills before the activity.
• Remind Scouts to stay hydrated and use sunscreen.
• Check the area for common outdoor hazards before starting.

Requirement 1c: Planning a GPS Activity

What You Need To Do

Discuss how to plan a safe GPS activity. Include the buddy system, sharing your plans, checking weather conditions, planning routes, and wearing proper clothing.

Helpful Tips

• Always use the buddy system during geocaching activities.
• Share your route and return time with someone at home.
• Check weather forecasts before leaving.
• Bring a map along with your GPS device.
• Charge your GPS device or phone before the trip.
• Pack extra batteries or a power bank if possible.
• Pick routes which fit your experience level.
• Wear comfortable clothing for outdoor conditions.
• Bring rain gear if bad weather is possible.
• Carry snacks and water for longer activities.
• Start the activity early enough to finish before dark.

Resources

• Geocaching Tips and Tricks (video)

Leader Tips

• Help Scouts review maps and routes before the trip.
• Encourage Scouts to pack proper gear for the weather.
• Pair less experienced Scouts with experienced buddies.
• Check that everyone knows the emergency plan before starting.

Requirement 2a: Never Bury a Cache

What You Need To Do

Discuss why geocaches should never be buried. Cover environmental damage, safety concerns, and geocaching rules.

Helpful Tips

• Hide caches above ground.
• Use natural hiding places like logs or rocks.
• Avoid digging holes in parks or natural areas.
• Protect plants, roots, and animal homes.
• Follow park and land use rules.
• Keep the cache easy to reach without tools.
• Avoid hiding caches where people must damage the area to search.
• Pick safe locations without trip hazards or unstable ground.
• Use waterproof containers to protect the cache without burying it.

Resources

• Don’t Bury Your Cache or Attach It to a Tree (website)

Leader Tips

• Show examples of safe cache locations.
• Remind Scouts to protect natural areas.
• Review local rules about digging and land use.
• Encourage Scouts to pick simple and safe hiding spots.

Requirement 2b: Geocaching Etiquette

What You Need To Do

Discuss proper geocaching etiquette for hiding, seeking, posting, maintaining, and removing caches. Cover ways to protect the area and respect other people.

Helpful Tips

• Get permission before placing a cache on private property.
• Use containers which can handle outdoor weather.
• Post accurate coordinates for the cache location.
• Write clear descriptions without giving away the hiding spot.
• Bring a pen to sign cache logbooks.
• Return the cache exactly where you found it.
• Keep the cache area neat and clean.
• Check your cache regularly for damage or missing items.
• Replace wet or full logbooks when needed.
• Remove all cache materials if you dismantle a cache.
• Update the online listing after removing a cache.

Resources

• Geocaching Etiquette (video)

Leader Tips

• Encourage Scouts to check cache locations in person first.
• Review online cache listings together before posting.
• Remind Scouts to respect property owners and other visitors.
• Help Scouts pick containers and locations suitable for beginners.

Requirement 2c: Leave No Trace and Geocaching

What You Need To Do

Discuss how Leave No Trace principles apply to geocaching activities. Cover ways to protect nature and reduce impact while searching for or hiding caches.

Helpful Tips

• Stay on marked trails whenever possible.
• Avoid stepping on plants and fragile ground.
• Pack out all trash and extra materials.
• Pick up litter you find near caches.
• Leave rocks, plants, and natural objects where they belong.
• Keep food out of caches to avoid attracting animals.
• Watch wildlife from a safe distance.
• Keep noise levels low on trails and in parks.
• Use existing paths instead of making new ones.
• Avoid damaging trees or branches while searching.
• Follow all park rules and posted signs.

Resources

Read more about Leave No Trace
How To Geocache the Leave No Trace Way (video)

Leader Tips

• Review Leave No Trace principles before the activity.
• Encourage Scouts to leave cache areas cleaner than they found them.
• Watch for damage to trails or natural areas during searches.
• Help Scouts pick cache locations with low environmental impact.

Requirement 3: Geocaching Terms

What You Need To Do

Explain common geocaching terms to your counselor. Pick five additional geocaching terms and describe what they mean.

Helpful Tips

• Waypoint: GPS coordinates for a specific location.
• Log: A written or online record of finding a cache.
• Cache: The hidden container used in geocaching.
• Accuracy: How close GPS coordinates are to the real location.
• Difficulty Rating: A number showing how hard a cache is to find.
• Terrain Rating: A number showing how difficult the area is to travel through.
• Attributes: Symbols which give details about a cache.
• Trackable: An item with a code which travels from cache to cache.
• FTF (First to Find): The first person to locate a newly published cache.
• Geocoin: A coin-shaped trackable item.
• Muggle: A person who does not participate in geocaching.
• Spoiler: Information or pictures which reveal a cache location.
• Hint: A clue which helps geocachers locate a cache.
• Cache Owner (CO): The person who places and maintains a cache.
• Ground Zero (GZ): The area where GPS coordinates point to the cache.

Resources

• Geocaching Acronyms and Terms (website)
• Geocaching Terms (website)

Leader Tips

• Encourage Scouts to practice using the terms during activities.
• Show real examples of logs, trackables, and cache listings.
• Review cache ratings and attributes before a geocaching trip.
• Let Scouts share additional terms they discover while geocaching.

Requirement 4: GPS and the EDGE Method

What You Need To Do

Explain how GPS works and demonstrate basic GPS unit functions using the EDGE Method. Include marking and editing a waypoint, changing field functions, and changing the coordinate system.

Helpful Tips

• GPS units receive signals from satellites orbiting Earth.
• A GPS receiver uses several satellite signals to calculate location coordinates.
• Latitude and longitude help identify exact positions.
• Turn on the GPS unit in an open outdoor area for better signal reception.
• Wait for the GPS unit to connect to satellites before starting.
• Use the “Mark Waypoint” feature to save a location.
• Edit waypoint names so they are easy to recognize later.
• Practice changing map screens and display fields on the GPS unit.
• Switch between coordinate systems such as UTM and latitude/longitude.
• Use the Explain step to describe each GPS function.
• Use the Demonstrate step to show each action on the device.
• Use the Guide step to help another person practice the skills.
• Use the Enable step to let the person try the skills independently.
• Practice with the GPS unit several times before meeting with the counselor.

Resources

• Learn more about the EDGE method here.
• How Does GPS Find Your Location (video)
• How To Use a Garmin eTrex 10 GPS Receiver (video)

Leader Tips

• Give Scouts time to practice with real GPS units outdoors.
• Demonstrate each GPS function slowly and clearly.
• Encourage Scouts to teach skills to each other using EDGE.
• Check that Scouts can complete each GPS task without assistance.

Requirement 5a: Using a Map and Compass

What You Need To Do

Show how to use a map and compass for navigation. Explain why these skills are important during geocaching activities.

Helpful Tips

• Hold the compass flat for accurate readings.
• Keep the compass away from metal objects and electronics.
• Use the compass needle to find north.
• Match the map to the direction you are facing.
• Look for trails, hills, rivers, and landmarks on the map.
• Practice setting and following a compass bearing.
• Check your location often while traveling.
• Carry a paper map even when using a GPS device.
• Use a map and compass if GPS signals become weak or unavailable.
• Practice navigation skills in parks or familiar outdoor areas.
• Protect maps by storing them in a waterproof bag.

Resources

• Compass 101 (video)
• THIS Is How To Use a Compass and Map (video)

Leader Tips

• Give Scouts time to practice outdoors with real maps and compasses.
• Demonstrate how to orient a map before starting.
• Encourage Scouts to identify landmarks along the route.
• Remind Scouts to carry backup navigation tools on outings.

Requirement 5b: GPS Navigation and Map Reading

What You Need To Do

Explain the similarities and differences between GPS navigation and map-reading skills. Describe the benefits of both methods.

Helpful Tips

• GPS devices use satellites to calculate location coordinates.
• Maps and compasses use landmarks, symbols, and directions for navigation.
• Both methods help people travel safely outdoors.
• GPS navigation gives fast and accurate location information.
• Maps show a larger view of the surrounding area.
• GPS devices may lose signal in forests, canyons, or bad weather.
• Paper maps do not need batteries or satellite signals.
• Map-reading skills help with route planning.
• GPS units help geocachers locate exact cache coordinates.
• Carry both navigation tools during outdoor activities.
• Practice using both methods during hikes and geocaching trips.

Resources

• Using a GPS with a Map and Compass (video)

Leader Tips

• Let Scouts compare routes using both GPS and paper maps.
• Encourage Scouts to practice navigation without relying only on electronics.
• Review situations where one method may work better than the other.
• Help Scouts build confidence using both navigation skills.

Requirement 6: Finding a Cache

What You Need To Do

Describe the four basic steps for finding a geocache. Then demonstrate how to mark and edit a waypoint on a GPS device.

Helpful Tips

• Pick an easy cache for your first search.
• Read the cache description before leaving home.
• Check the difficulty and terrain ratings.
• Enter the cache coordinates into your GPS device or app.
• Follow the GPS toward the cache location.
• Watch for landmarks near the cache area.
• Slow down when you get close to the coordinates.
• Search carefully around rocks, trees, benches, or signs.
• Return the cache exactly where you found it.
• Sign the cache logbook if space is available.
• Use the “Mark Waypoint” feature to save a location.
• Rename waypoints with clear names for easy use later.
• Practice editing waypoint notes and coordinates.

Resources

• 10 Things To Do When Playing Geocaching (video)

Leader Tips

• Start Scouts with beginner-friendly caches.
• Encourage Scouts to search carefully without damaging the area.
• Demonstrate waypoint features before letting Scouts try them.
• Give Scouts time to practice GPS skills independently.

Requirement 7: Local Geocaches

What You Need To Do

With permission from a parent or guardian, use Geocaching.com to locate geocaches in your area. Share information about three caches with your counselor and find one of them in person.

Helpful Tips

• Ask a parent or guardian for help creating a free Geocaching.com account.
• Search using your city and state to find nearby caches.
• Read the cache descriptions carefully before choosing one.
• Check the difficulty and terrain ratings for each cache.
• Look at cache size, hints, and recent activity logs.
• Pick caches in safe and public locations for beginners.
• Write down information about three different caches.
• Bring a GPS device or smartphone with coordinates loaded.
• Dress for the weather and outdoor conditions.
• Bring water and a pen for signing the logbook.
• Search carefully near the coordinates without damaging the area.
• Return the cache exactly where you found it after signing the log.

Resources

• Geocaching.com (website)
• How To Find Your First Geocache! (video)

Leader Tips

• Encourage Scouts to choose beginner-friendly caches nearby.
• Review online cache listings together before the outing.
• Remind Scouts to follow geocaching etiquette and Leave No Trace practices.
• Help Scouts prepare navigation tools and safety gear before searching.

Requirement 8a: Cache to Eagle Series

What You Need To Do

Visit three locations in a Cache to Eagle series if one exists in your council. Describe the Eagle Scout projects connected to the caches and explain how the program shares Scouting service with the public.

Helpful Tips

• Look for Cache to Eagle series listings in your council area.
• Read the cache descriptions before visiting the locations.
• Bring a notebook to record information about each project.
• Look for signs, plaques, or improvements connected to the project.
• Take note of how the project helps the community.
• Follow all geocaching and park rules during your visit.
• Compare the different types of Eagle Scout service projects.
• Look for projects related to parks, trails, playgrounds, or conservation.
• Share details about each project with your counselor.
• Explain how public cache listings help people learn about Scouting service.

Resources

• She Created a Geocaching Trail That Links Together 14 Eagle Scout Service Projects (website)

Leader Tips

• Help Scouts locate nearby Cache to Eagle series caches.
• Encourage Scouts to research the Eagle projects before visiting.
• Remind Scouts to follow Leave No Trace practices.
• Discuss how service projects benefit local communities.

Requirement 8b: Scouting Travel Bug

What You Need To Do

Create a Scouting-themed Travel Bug which promotes a Scouting value. Release it into a public cache and monitor its movement online for 30 days.

Helpful Tips

• Pick a Scout Law value for your Travel Bug theme.
• Attach a durable item to the Travel Bug tag.
• Write a short description for the trackable online.
• Give the Travel Bug a travel goal or mission.
• Place the Travel Bug in an active public cache.
• Check the tracking page regularly during the 30 days.
• Record locations visited by the Travel Bug.
• Save comments left by other geocachers.
• Keep a written log of the Travel Bug’s journey.
• Share your log and updates with your counselor.

Resources

• What Is a Travel Bug in Geocaching (video)

Leader Tips

• Encourage Scouts to use simple and durable trackable items.
• Review online safety and account use with Scouts and parents.
• Help Scouts create realistic travel goals for the Travel Bug.
• Remind Scouts to monitor the trackable regularly.

Requirement 8c: Hide and Maintain a Geocache

What You Need To Do

Set up and hide a public geocache and create a three-month maintenance plan. Follow online logs for 30 days and archive the cache if you stop maintaining it.

Helpful Tips

• Choose a safe and legal location for the cache.
• Use a waterproof container with a secure lid.
• Include a logbook inside the cache.
• Pick a hiding spot which does not damage the environment.
• Record accurate GPS coordinates before posting the cache.
• Visit the cache regularly during the maintenance period.
• Replace wet or damaged logbooks when needed.
• Remove trash from the cache area during visits.
• Read online logs for reports of problems or damage.
• Fix missing or broken containers quickly.
• Archive the cache online if maintenance will stop.

Resources

• What To Do (and NOT Do) When Hiding a Geocache (video)

Leader Tips

• Review geocaching placement rules with Scouts.
• Encourage Scouts to use beginner-friendly cache locations.
• Help Scouts create a realistic maintenance schedule.
• Remind Scouts that cache ownership includes ongoing responsibility.

Requirement 8d: Cache In Trash Out (CITO)

What You Need To Do

Explain the meaning of Cache In Trash Out and describe ways you have practiced it. Then create CITO containers or host a CITO event.

Helpful Tips

• Carry a trash bag during geocaching trips.
• Pick up litter near cache locations and trails.
• Wear gloves when handling trash.
• Sort recyclable items when possible.
• Leave each area cleaner than you found it.
• Create small CITO kits with bags and gloves.
• Place CITO kits in public caches if allowed.
• Invite your unit to help with cleanup activities.
• Choose safe public areas for a CITO event.
• Follow local trash disposal rules after cleanup.
• Record the amount or type of trash collected.

Resources

• Cache In Cache Out Geocaching Events (video)
• Geocaching Capital of Canada Cleanup (video)
• Event Caches (website)

Leader Tips

• Encourage Scouts to practice CITO during every geocaching trip.
• Help Scouts organize safe cleanup activities.
• Review proper trash handling procedures before starting.
• Praise Scouts for helping care for parks and trails.

Requirement 9: Plan a Geohunt

What You Need To Do

Plan and run a geohunt for a group such as a troop, pack, school group, or youth group. Create a theme, set up at least four waypoints, teach GPS skills, and lead the activity.

Helpful Tips

• Pick a simple theme which matches the group’s age and interests.
• Choose safe locations for all waypoints.
• Test the GPS coordinates before the event begins.
• Place clues, cards, or small containers at each waypoint.
• Keep the course short enough for the group’s skill level.
• Create written instructions for participants.
• Show players how to enter coordinates into a GPS unit.
• Demonstrate how to follow a waypoint on the GPS screen.
• Divide players into small teams if the group is large.
• Bring extra pencils, maps, and batteries.
• Walk the course yourself before the event starts.
• Record what worked well and what you would change next time.
• Save maps, clue sheets, and coordinate lists to share with your counselor.

Resources

• Geocaching—Setting up the Experience (video)

Leader Tips

• Help Scouts pick locations with clear and safe access.
• Encourage Scouts to practice teaching GPS skills before the event.
• Remind Scouts to keep instructions simple for younger participants.
• Review safety plans and supervision before starting the geohunt.

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 Scouting America. Additional miles earn special devices: gold for every 50 miles and silver for every 200 miles, showing dedication to outdoor adventure.

More Merit Badge Resources

The Geocaching Merit Badge adds a modern outdoor activity to the wide set of badges Scouts can explore. It blends navigation, technology, and adventure in a hands-on way. In a program with many topics, it offers something different by mixing GPS skills with problem solving on the trail. It helps Scouts try a new hobby and see how outdoor skills can connect with everyday tools.

This badge fits well in the overall merit badge program because it encourages learning by doing. Scouts follow clear steps, work outdoors, and build confidence as they complete each task. It shows how the program offers both fun and useful skills.

Learn More about Scouts BSA

The Geocaching Merit Badge also supports the larger goals of Scouts BSA. It promotes fitness because Scouts are moving, hiking, and exploring. It builds leadership and teamwork when Scouts search together and help one another.

The badge also encourages personal growth. Scouts learn patience, planning, and careful use of equipment. It supports citizenship by teaching respect for public spaces and good outdoor manners.

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.