GPS CACHE SCOUTS – WELCOME GUIDE
Boy/Girl Scouts Outdoor Technology Activity

WELCOME
You are now part of the GPS Cache Scouts. This activity teaches navigation, teamwork, outdoor awareness, and basic technology skills. Your mission is to locate hidden caches using GPS coordinates.

WHAT IS GPS CACHING
GPS caching is a real-world treasure hunt. A cache is a small container hidden outdoors. You use coordinates to find it.
Caches may contain:

A logbook

Small trade items

A clue for the next location
Caches are never buried and never placed in dangerous areas.

YOUR GPS DEVICE
Your GPS unit displays:

Coordinates (latitude and longitude)

Compass direction

Distance to the target

Waypoints you can save and follow
Practice entering coordinates before the activity begins.

HOW TO READ COORDINATES
Coordinates look like this:
26.2034 N, 98.2300 W
The first number is latitude (north or south).
The second number is longitude (east or west).
Your GPS will guide you toward the exact point.

MISSION STEPS

Receive your waypoint coordinates.

Enter them into your GPS device.

Follow the compass arrow.

Search the area carefully.

Find the cache container.

Sign the logbook.

Return the cache exactly as you found it.

SAFETY RULES

Stay with your team.

Respect wildlife and plants.

Do not climb unsafe structures.

Do not enter private property.

Drink water often.

Report hazards immediately.
Safety comes before speed.

LOGGING YOUR FIND
Inside each cache is a notebook.
Write:

Team name

Date and time

A short message
Example:
Team Falcon – 07/12/2026 – Found it. Great hiding spot.

TRADING ITEMS
If you take an item, leave one of equal value.
No food, no liquids, no sharp objects.
Keep items family-friendly.

CREATING YOUR OWN CACHE
Your cache must include:

A waterproof container

A logbook

A pencil

Optional small items
Place your cache in a safe, public-accessible area.
Do not bury it.
Record the coordinates accurately.

SCOUT CODE OF HONOR
As a GPS Cache Scout, you agree to:

Respect nature

Respect other teams

Leave no trace

Keep caches safe and clean

Help others if they get lost

Enjoy the adventure