Geocaching Troop Program Feature

The geocaching troop program feature is designed to provide Scouts with a comprehensive and immersive experience in the world of geocaching. This program from BSA offers a structured framework for Scouts to learn and develop important skills while enjoying outdoor adventures.

The purpose of the geocaching troop program feature is to introduce Scouts to the exciting activity of geocaching and to help them develop their navigation skills. Through this program, Scouts will learn how to use GPS devices or smartphone apps to locate hidden geocaches accurately. This skill-building aspect is a key component of the program, as it not only enhances their geocaching abilities but also prepares them for other outdoor activities and adventures.

In addition to skill development, the geocaching troop program feature offers Scouts the opportunity to embark on thrilling adventures. They will have the chance to explore various locations, solve puzzles, and work together as a team to find hidden treasures. This aspect of the program promotes teamwork, problem-solving, and communication skills among Scouts, fostering a sense of camaraderie and unity within the troop.

Overall, the geocaching troop program feature combines skill development and adventure to provide Scouts with a unique and enriching experience. By participating in this program, Scouts will not only have fun but also acquire valuable skills and qualities that will benefit them in their scouting journey and beyond. So, get ready to embark on an exciting geocaching adventure and discover the wonders that await!

Geocaching is a thrilling outdoor activity that combines treasure hunting with modern technology. In simple terms, geocaching involves using GPS devices or smartphone apps to locate hidden containers, known as geocaches, in various locations around the world. These geocaches can be found in urban areas, parks, forests, and even underwater.

To participate in geocaching, Scouts will need a few basic pieces of equipment. The most important tool is a GPS device or a smartphone with a geocaching app installed. These devices will help Scouts navigate to the coordinates of the geocache. Additionally, Scouts should bring a pen or pencil to sign the logbook inside the geocache and small trinkets to trade with other geocachers.

GPS technology plays a crucial role in geocaching. It allows Scouts to determine their exact location and navigate to the coordinates provided for each geocache. By using satellites to triangulate their position, Scouts can follow the GPS coordinates to find the hidden treasure. This technology not only adds excitement to the activity but also helps Scouts develop their navigation skills.

Understanding the basics of geocaching is essential for Scouts to fully enjoy and participate in the geocaching troop program feature. By defining geocaching, explaining the necessary equipment, and highlighting the role of GPS technology, Scouts will have a solid foundation to embark on their geocaching adventures. So, get ready to explore the world of geocaching and uncover hidden treasures in the great outdoors!

The Geocaching Troop Program Feature aims to achieve several objectives that will enhance Scouts’ understanding and experience of geocaching. These objectives include:

• Helping Scouts understand how GPS technology works: Scouts will learn about the role of GPS satellites in determining their location and how to navigate using GPS coordinates. This knowledge will enable them to effectively use GPS devices or smartphone apps to locate geocaches.
• Allowing Scouts to practice using a GPS receiver: Scouts will have the opportunity to gain hands-on experience with GPS receivers, learning how to input coordinates, follow directions, and navigate to geocaches. This practical skill-building exercise will enhance their navigation abilities.
• Demonstrating how to properly hide and find a geocache: Scouts will learn the art of hiding geocaches, including choosing suitable hiding spots and using camouflage techniques. They will also be taught the proper methods for finding geocaches, such as using clues and paying attention to their surroundings.
• Explaining outdoor ethics as they relate to geocaching: Scouts will be educated on the importance of respecting the environment and practicing Leave No Trace principles while participating in geocaching activities. They will learn how to minimize their impact on natural areas and leave them as they found them.
• Showing Scouts how to use Geocaching.com: Scouts will be introduced to the Geocaching.com website, where they can access a vast database of geocaches and log their finds. They will learn how to search for geocaches, read descriptions, and contribute to the geocaching community.
• Encouraging Scouts to work together as a team: Geocaching provides an excellent opportunity for Scouts to collaborate and work as a team. They will learn the importance of communication, problem-solving, and supporting each other in achieving their geocaching goals.

By focusing on these objectives, the Geocaching Troop Program Feature aims to provide Scouts with a comprehensive understanding of geocaching and equip them with the necessary skills and knowledge to fully enjoy this exciting outdoor activity.

To enhance the Geocaching troop program feature, here are some group instruction ideas for meetings from the BSA program that will engage Scouts and deepen their understanding of geocaching.

• Compass, Maps, and GPS: Have different youth instructors give brief overviews on compass navigation, map reading, and GPS usage. Topics to cover include understanding magnetic vs. true north, degrees, bearings, headings, latitude and longitude on maps, orienting a map to north, and the basics of GPS technology such as satellites, coordinates, and selective variability.
• Using GPS: Invite an expert guest to lecture on using a GPS device and explain how satellites work in relation to geocaching. Teach Scouts about basic menu functions and how to operate specific GPS models. Introduce them to different types of geocaching containers, such as regular, micro, nano, multi, and virtual caches.
• Geocaching.com Website: Show Scouts how to use the Geocaching.com website and emphasize three important rules. Teach them to follow the principle of “take something, leave something” by swapping items of equal or greater value in geocaches. Encourage Scouts to write about their finds in the cache logbook and log their experiences on the website.
• Hide and Find a Cache: Discuss the various types of caches, including regular, micro, nano, multi, and virtual caches. Explain how geocaches are hidden, including camouflage techniques. Teach Scouts how to track a cache and what to look for when searching. Lastly, emphasize the Cache In Trash Out ethic, which encourages Scouts to clean up the environment while geocaching.

By incorporating these group instruction ideas into meetings, Scouts will develop essential geocaching skills, deepen their knowledge, and foster a sense of teamwork and camaraderie within the troop.

The geocaching troop program feature offers skill instruction for meetings at three different levels: Essential, Challenging, and Advanced. Each level provides Scouts with the opportunity to develop their geocaching skills and knowledge. Let’s explore the skill instruction ideas from the BSA troop program feature for each level.

Essential Skills: At the Essential level, Scouts will focus on building basic skills and knowledge in geocaching. Here are some ideas for skill instruction at this level:

• Review the buddy system and emphasize the importance of staying together while geocaching.
• Practice using a compass and teach Scouts how to read a map.
• Introduce Scouts to reading GPS coordinates and understanding their significance.
• Teach Scouts how to turn on a GPS receiver and navigate through the menus.
• Demonstrate how to check the battery gauge and change batteries if needed.
• Help Scouts understand the similarities and differences between a GPS receiver, compass, and map.
• Log on to Geocaching.com using a facilitator’s account and show Scouts how to search for geocaches near their meeting place and in their community.
• Explain the importance of coordinates, cache descriptions, and hints.
• Teach Scouts how to decode a hint and log their finds on the website.
• Show Scouts a sample standard cache and discuss what items they would include in a cache.
• Encourage Scouts to practice hiding caches around their meeting area.
• Emphasize the Cache In Trash Out ethic and encourage Scouts to clean up the environment while geocaching.

Challenging Skills: At the Challenging level, Scouts will build upon their basic skills and take on more advanced activities. Here are some ideas for skill instruction at this level:

• Review the essential map and compass skills and discuss potential hazards that Scouts may encounter while geocaching.
• Teach Scouts how to compensate for magnetic north on a compass.
• Introduce Scouts to using a topographic map and guide them in drawing a slope profile based on a given bearing.
• Review the essential GPS skills and expand on them by teaching Scouts how to enter, delete, and edit waypoints on a GPS receiver.
• Provide opportunities for Scouts to explore the different menu screens of their GPS receivers.
• Review the essential Geocaching.com skills and guide Scouts in creating their own Geocaching.com accounts with their parent’s permission.
• Encourage Scouts to search for caches around the world using their accounts or a leader’s account.
• Teach Scouts how to write and decode messages using the hint code.
• Review the essential cache skills and introduce Scouts to themed caches.
• Show Scouts sample micro and nano caches and discuss their unique characteristics.
• Challenge Scouts to hide a cache near their meeting place and list it on Geocaching.com.

Advanced Skills: At the Advanced level, Scouts will tackle the ultimate challenges in geocaching. Here are some ideas for skill instruction at this level:

• Review the essential and challenging map and compass skills and discuss the importance of carrying first-aid supplies while geocaching.
• Teach Scouts how to determine a compass bearing without a compass.
• Compare and contrast USGS quad maps to orienteering maps.
• Review the essential and challenging GPS skills and guide Scouts in hiding a marker as a group and logging the coordinates of the location.
• Encourage Scouts to experiment with changing the coordinate settings of their GPS receivers.
• Review the essential and challenging Geocaching.com skills and encourage Scouts to create Geocaching.com accounts if they don’t already have one.
• Explore travel bugs and guide Scouts in making one for their group.
• Introduce Scouts to Waymarking.com and compare it to Geocaching.com.
• Review the essential and challenging cache skills and teach Scouts about advanced camouflaged caches.
• Challenge Scouts to create a multi-cache or puzzle cache.

By incorporating these skill instruction ideas into meetings, Scouts will develop essential geocaching skills, deepen their knowledge, and be prepared for the challenges that lie ahead.

In addition to skill instruction, the geocaching troop program feature offers four exciting games and challenges to engage Scouts and enhance their geocaching experience.

• Compass Points: This game focuses on Scouts’ ability to quickly navigate and change positions based on compass points. Each patrol is equipped with eight Scout staves arranged in a star formation, with one pointing due north. The leader calls out two compass points, and the Scouts standing at the corresponding staves must immediately switch places without crossing the staves. Points are awarded to patrols whose Scouts correctly change places, emphasizing the importance of accuracy and quick thinking.
• Compass Relay: The Compass Relay game tests Scouts’ knowledge of compass points and their ability to mark the correct points on a compass circle. Patrols line up in relay formation, and opposite each patrol is a compass circle drawn on the floor or ground. The leader calls out a compass point, and the first Scout in each patrol marks it on their compass circle. Scouts who mark the correct point fall in behind the compass circle, while those who select the wrong point go to the back of the line. The patrol that gets all its Scouts behind their compass circle first wins.
• Find What They Hid: This game challenges Scouts to use their GPS skills to find hidden markers. Each patrol hides markers and notes the GPS coordinates, which are then given to other patrols to find. Points are awarded not only for finding markers but also for having your own markers found. This game encourages teamwork, strategic thinking, and the application of GPS navigation skills.
• Make a Cache Relay: The Make a Cache Relay game tests Scouts’ creativity and teamwork as they race to assemble caches. Materials such as containers, logs, and treasure items are placed at one end of the room. Patrol members individually race from the other side of the room to collect pieces, one at a time, to make a cache. The first patrol to fully assemble a cache wins, promoting collaboration and resourcefulness.

These games and challenges provide Scouts with opportunities to apply their geocaching skills, enhance their teamwork abilities, and have fun while exploring the world of geocaching.

There are three suggested main events, based on the experience levels.

Essential: Local Caching

This event is designed as a day activity where participants will spend time in their local area searching for geocaches. The event is carefully structured, requiring a GPS unit for each group, additional batteries, information sheets from Geocaching.com, and essential items like a first-aid kit, lunch, water, and a cell phone for adult supervisors.

Participants are encouraged to review and bring the necessary items from the Scout Basic Essentials list to ensure they’re prepared for the day’s adventure. The event promotes environmental responsibility through the ‘Cache In Trash Out’ practice, encouraging scouts to collect trash along their route and leave the environment cleaner than they found it.

Safety is a priority for this local caching event, with recommendations to use the buddy system and carry a first-aid kit. Leaders are reminded to ensure that participants do not get lost and to maintain communication with cell phones. The activity is split into clear steps: identifying geocaches online, splitting into groups to search, and competing to find the most caches and collect the most trash. The event is capped with an award for the group that achieves the highest tally in their geocaching hunt, blending fun with friendly competition.

Challenging: Camp and Cache

This event is an engaging overnight camping experience that introduces an element of adventure through geocaching. Participants are tasked with preparing for the outing by packing not only their personal and group camping equipment but also geocaching essentials such as a GPS unit, batteries, and geocache information sheets.

In addition to camping, participants will have the opportunity to search for geocaches identified on Geocaching.com near the chosen campsite. The event also allows for flexibility to incorporate additional activities like hiking or biking. Campers are encouraged to hide caches they prepared in a previous meeting, adding to the global geocaching community and fostering creativity.

For safety, the event follows standard camping protocols, stressing the importance of the buddy system and carrying a first-aid kit. Participants are reminded to mark a waypoint at their campsite to secure their return after the geocache search. Cell phones are suggested for emergency communication and navigation back to the campsite if needed. The blend of outdoor camping life with the treasure hunt aspect of geocaching promises an enjoyable and challenging experience for all involved.

Advanced: Geocaching Instruction Course

For Scouts looking to take their geocaching skills to the next level, this comprehensive weekend event is designed to teach the essentials of geocaching while also providing practical experience in setting up and navigating a course.

Thorough preparation is required for this event, including the selection of a suitable location, securing the necessary number of GPS units, and creating cache markers. A well-planned schedule for instructors ensures that participants receive structured learning. The curriculum covers how to use GPS for geocaching, setting up and hiding caches, and reinforces the importance of environmental stewardship through the ‘Cache In Trash Out’ initiative.

Safety is paramount, with the event adhering to normal camping safety rules and including an emergency plan to address any incidents that may occur. First-aid kits are to be on hand, and the course layout is designed with participant welfare in mind, possibly integrating the use of two-way radios for better communication. At the end of the weekend, participants should be equipped with the knowledge and skills to not only participate in geocaching activities but also to instruct others in the adventure sport, thereby contributing to the geocaching community’s growth and safety.

These main events provide Scouts with exciting opportunities to further develop their geocaching skills, explore their local areas, and engage in outdoor adventures. Whether it’s a day activity, an overnight camping experience, or an instructional course, the geocaching troop program feature offers something for every Scout. So, get ready to embark on a geocaching journey and discover the hidden treasures of the world around you.

What is the Geocaching Troop Program Feature?

The Geocaching Troop Program Feature is an exciting and engaging program offered to Scouts BSA troops that focuses on the adventure of geocaching. Geocaching is a real-world treasure hunting game where participants use GPS-enabled devices to navigate to specific coordinates and find hidden containers called geocaches. This program feature provides Scouts with the opportunity to learn and develop their geocaching skills while having fun and exploring the outdoors.

How does the Geocaching Troop Program Feature work?

The Geocaching Troop Program Feature is designed to be flexible and adaptable to the needs and interests of each troop. Troop leaders can incorporate geocaching activities into their regular meetings, outings, or even plan a dedicated geocaching event. The program feature includes various objectives, group instruction ideas, skill instruction, game and challenge ideas, and a main event to provide a comprehensive geocaching experience for Scouts.

What are the objectives of the Geocaching Troop Program Feature?

The objectives of the Geocaching Troop Program Feature are to introduce Scouts to the world of geocaching, teach them the necessary skills and knowledge to participate in geocaching activities, promote teamwork and problem-solving skills, encourage outdoor exploration and appreciation for nature, and foster a sense of adventure and discovery

What are some group instruction ideas for meetings in the Geocaching Troop Program Feature?

Group instruction ideas for meetings in the Geocaching Troop Program Feature can include presentations or discussions on geocaching basics, such as how to use GPS devices, understanding coordinates, and reading maps. Troop leaders can also invite experienced geocachers to share their stories and tips, or organize a geocaching-themed game or quiz to test the Scouts’ knowledge.

What skill instruction can be included in the Geocaching Troop Program Feature?

Skill instruction for the Geocaching Troop Program Feature can cover a range of topics, including GPS navigation, compass reading, orienteering, map interpretation, geocache hiding and maintenance, geocaching etiquette and ethics, and environmental stewardship. Scouts will learn how to effectively use GPS devices, navigate to geocache locations, and properly log their finds.

What are some game and challenge ideas for the Geocaching Troop Program Feature?

Game and challenge ideas can add an element of excitement and friendly competition to the Geocaching Troop Program Feature. Troop leaders can organize geocaching scavenger hunts, puzzle-solving challenges, or even create their own geocache containers and hide them for other troops to find. These activities for the Geocaching Troop Program Feature not only enhance the Scouts’ geocaching skills but also promote teamwork, problem-solving, and critical thinking.

What is the main event of the Geocaching Troop Program Feature?

The main event of the Geocaching Troop Program Feature is a culminating activity that brings together all the skills and knowledge the Scouts have acquired throughout the program. This can be a geocaching outing to a local park or wilderness area, where Scouts have the opportunity to find a series of geocaches, solve puzzles, and complete challenges. The main event allows Scouts to put their geocaching skills to the test and celebrate their achievements.

How does the Geocaching Troop Program Feature benefit Scouts?

The Geocaching Troop Program Feature offers numerous benefits to Scouts. It provides them with an opportunity to develop valuable outdoor and navigation skills, encourages physical activity and exploration of nature, fosters teamwork and problem-solving abilities, promotes environmental stewardship, and instills a sense of adventure and curiosity. Additionally, Scouts who participate in the Geocaching Troop Program Feature can earn the Geocaching merit badge, which recognizes their achievements and further enhances their geocaching abilities.

Can Scouts participate in geocaching outside of the Geocaching Troop Program Feature?

Absolutely! Geocaching is a popular activity enjoyed by people of all ages around the world. Scouts who have participated in the Geocaching Troop Program Feature can continue to explore and enjoy geocaching on their own or with their families. There are millions of geocaches hidden in various locations, providing endless opportunities for adventure and discovery.

Is safety a concern for the Geocaching Troop Program Feature?

Proper safety precautions should be followed for the Geocaching Troop Program Feature. Troop leaders should ensure that Scouts are equipped with appropriate gear, including GPS devices or smartphones with geocaching apps, and that they understand how to use them safely. It is important to emphasize the importance of staying on designated trails, respecting private property, and being aware of their surroundings. Troop leaders should also encourage Scouts to geocache in groups and communicate their plans with adult leaders or parents.

Can Scouts with disabilities participate in the Geocaching Troop Program Feature?

Yes, Scouts with disabilities can participate in the Geocaching Troop Program Feature. Geocaching can be adapted to accommodate different abilities and needs. Troop leaders can modify activities, provide additional support, or seek assistance from trained professionals to ensure that all Scouts can fully participate and enjoy the geocaching experience. Inclusivity and accessibility are important aspects of the Scouting program, and adaptations can be made to make geocaching accessible to all Scouts.

Geocaching Merit Badge

The Geocaching Troop Program Feature offers scouts the opportunity to earn the Geocaching merit badge. This badge is a great way for scouts to showcase their knowledge and skills in geocaching. To earn the badge, scouts must demonstrate their understanding of geocaching principles, including how to use GPS devices, navigate to caches, and log their finds. They will also learn about the history and ethics of geocaching, as well as the importance of environmental stewardship. By earning the Geocaching merit badge, scouts can gain recognition for their achievements and further develop their geocaching abilities. This badge serves as a testament to their dedication and commitment to the geocaching troop program feature.

Geocaching offers tremendous value for scouts in their personal and skill development. Through the geocaching troop program feature, scouts have the opportunity to engage in a thrilling adventure that combines outdoor exploration, teamwork, problem-solving, and environmental stewardship.

By participating in geocaching, scouts can enhance their navigation skills, learn how to use GPS devices effectively, and develop their ability to work together as a team. The treasure hunt aspect of geocaching adds an element of excitement and challenge, encouraging scouts to think creatively and persevere in their search for hidden caches.

Furthermore, geocaching promotes environmental responsibility through the ‘Cache In Trash Out’ practice, instilling in scouts the importance of leaving the environment cleaner than they found it. This fosters a sense of respect and appreciation for nature, while also teaching scouts the value of taking care of their surroundings.

I highly encourage troops to try the geocaching troop program feature. It provides a unique and engaging experience that not only allows scouts to have fun but also helps them develop important life skills. Whether it’s the local caching event, the camp and cache experience, or the geocaching instruction course, each main event offers its own set of challenges and rewards.

View the full troop program feature.

So, gather your troop, embrace the spirit of adventure, and embark on a geocaching journey. Discover the hidden treasures of the world around you and create lasting memories while building essential skills. The geocaching troop program feature is an opportunity not to be missed.