Family Fun with Geocaching

By Robyn Wright

Texting, calling, and playing games are just some of the ways we can use mobile devices to connect with our family and friends. Sometimes though, we need to look away from the screen just a little bit more. One way to get outside but still connect using your mobile device is a fun activity called geocaching.

Geocaching takes you outside to hunt for caches utilizing the GPS function of your mobile device. People all over the world take part and hide little treasures for others to find. When you find a cache, you take one of the items, replace it with something else, and return it to its hiding spot for the next person to find. To start hunting, you use coordinates posted on geocaching sites and apps.

One of the great things about geocaching is that the entire family can take part together. There are caches that range from easy to find to very difficult. The kids love treasure hunts and are usually great at finding them once you reach the correct spot. Geocaching gets you all outside together to enjoy both nature and city areas. While you use your mobile device for tracking, you are still able to be out and about together, talking, enjoying the day, and making some wonderful memories.

Geocaching is also educational. Geography is a big part of the activity. Many caches will contain historical information and trivia about the area in which the cache is located. You will be amazed at what you can learn about the area in which you live. If you are hunting in a park or on trails, you can take the time to learn about hiking, trail marking, tree varieties, animal tracks, and much more. Plus, you can find lots of apps about those areas to put on your smartphone as well.

There are a few guidelines that go along with geocaching, so it is best to do a little reading before you set out on your first hunt. Two of the more common sites are openchaching.us and geocaching.com. The latter also offers a premium service if you find your family really enjoys this new adventure. Geocaching.com also offers a mobile app, which is free for iOS, Android, and Windows Phones.

Take some family time to go on a geocaching adventure. You will surely discover much more together than just the physical items, and you’ll make some treasured memories at the same time!

Robyn Wright is a social media specialist and blogs on her own blog, RobynsOnlineWorld.com, as well as several other sites. Robyn has a love for family, technology, food and lots of apps!

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