Getting Started

It's easy to get started, just follow these simple steps:

1. Register for a free Opencaching US account. (How?)
2. Click Seek A Cache from the menu.
   • Set your search criteria or leave the defaults.
   • Enter your zip code and select a radius distance.
   • Click Search!
3. Choose 1, 2 or all of the geocaches shown in your search results.
4. Enter the coordinates into your GPS Receiver or software (GSAK, etc.)
5. Find the cache! Sign the logbook, trade trinkets, etc.
6. Once found, return to Opencaching US and log your find.

Feel free to ask questions! Any question, no matter how simple or strange, is OK to ask.

Helpful hints

• Find a friend to go geocaching with you!
• Always take a pen or pencil with you.
• If you want to trade trinkets, take some with you. The accepted rule is if you take something, you must leave something.
• Mark your vehicle as a waypoint so you can easily get back to it!
• Leave the geocache just as you found it.
• Make sure the public (aka muggles) doesn't see you retrieve or hide the cache.
• Be safe... watch for critters, snakes, bugs, sharp objects, dangerous areas, etc.
• Be sure to carry extra batteries, water to drink, etc.

Online resources

• Read and follow the Geocacher's Creed
• Learn about all things caching at the Geocacher's University
• Buy gear for your adventure at The Geocaching Store
• Be sure to check out the Opencaching US forums.