So you want to place a Geocache??? 

Not sure how to get started, request a cache maker mentor! Click here for a Mentor!

Are you experienced, become a cache maker mentor!  Click Here to volunteer!

Steps to place a geocache! 

1. First you need to find a location

   1. Start by seeing what is  already present. 

      1. If you are new to caching you may not know where all the nearby puzzle caches are hidden. Connect with a local cache mentor or more experienced cacher to help you find a spot. 

      2. What makes a spot good for a cache? 

         1. A spot that can hold a container? Is this a good cache habitat? 

         2. Will a cacher know to look there, but a non-cacher not see it? 

         3. Is it unique, is there a reason to visit this location. There is a spot for power trails in signs, but people love where caching takes them. Start with a cool spot. 

         4. Am endangering nature or the built environment? 

         5. Will I get permission from the land owner? 

            1. Government owned land often has a cache placement policy. 

            2. Private land should have permission. Often time businesses will participate with you if you ask. Some of my favorites have business cooperation. 

   2. Know the Cache Placement Guidelines.

      1. Here is the general geocaching.com rules https://www.geocaching.com/play/guidelines

      2.  In addition there is state Wiki that will help you with our Minnesota Specific Rules.

   3. Pick a Container - You will want an appropriate container. Common Cache Container - Graphic 

      1. Is it durable, mundane, and survivable? No plastic bags, glass is tough, garbage umm no.  

      2. Can you fit a log into it. 

      3. Examples of good containers

         1. Ammo Cans - Old school best container - helps to have items bagged or in a second container inside. 

         2. Water Bottles - These are made to keep water in so they mostly work to keep water out. I like to find them cheap at garage sales and free bins. 

         3. Lock & Lock or other food storage containers - These are usually available cheap in free bins, your family is tossing them out, etc. 

         4. Nanos, Bison tubes, and other small manufactured pill containers. These are available at stores (Axeman, walgreens, etc.) or online just search "bison tube". 

         5.  Cryogenic Tubes - These tubes are made to be frozen, but do not last long in the sun. They are good inside of things or covered up. You can usually get them really cheap. 

         6. Be Creative - Many household items can be converted to containers maybe with the addition of a tube or other second container. Think about a plastic dinosaur, a garden gnome, an old newspaper vending machine, parking meter, etc.? 

   4. Outfit your container! We have pdf printable sheets that you can use! 

      1. At a minimum you need a log sheet. It can be as simple as a piece of paper or you can add #s and information about caching. 

      2. Label the cache as a cache. This can be done on the container, with an instruction sheet in the container, or on the log. 

      3. Add swag! Keep it simple and bag your swag! No perishable items, food, or inappropriate(non-kid friendly) items. 

      4. Is there stamps for Letterbox Hybrid or other specialty things. 

      5. Is there a First to Find Prize or trackable items to share?

   5. Hide your cache on site! 

   6. Publish your cache on the website. https://www.geocaching.com/play/hide

   7. Don't forget to Maintain after being published. 

Not sure how to get started, request a cache maker mentor! Click here for a Mentor!

Are you experienced, become a cache maker mentor!  Click Here to volunteer!