This news item expired on Tuesday, December 31, 2019 so the information below could be outdated or incorrect.
If you’re unfamiliar with geocaching, it is a recreational activity that involves discovering hidden objects by means of GPS coordinates and clues posted on geocaching websites or on geocaching phone apps. To participate you will need either a smartphone or a GPS device. Did you know that Buncombe County parks are filled with these hidden finds? It’s fun and free to play along! (Some apps require a low-cost purchase to access all Geocaching – but there are free options.)
There are hundreds of geocaches hidden in and around Buncombe County Parks, including Lake Julian, Charles D. Owen Park, the Buncombe County Sports Park, Hominy Valley Park, the Collier Cove Nature Center, and all of the County’s river parks!
Some of the benefits of geocaching:
- It fights summer boredom for youth (and adults)!
- It’s a free activity for the entire family (some apps require purchase).
- Being outdoors in nature has many positive effects on our health and mental states (Journal of Environmental Psychology).
- You can explore more of your Buncombe County Parks system and learn more about their amenities.
- It’s fun and empowering for youth to solve the riddles to find the treasures.
According to seasoned geocacher Amanda Pertillor: "From the time I found my first geocache I was hooked! At first it was just the thrill of the hunt and how many I could find. Later it became all about the interesting places it took me. I've lived in this area for 30 years and these geocache hunts take you to some of the most beautiful places that you'd never stop to look at. Geocaching isn't just finding hidden treasure boxes, its about a secret community with rich stories, clever puzzles, and magical places to visit."
Aside from geocaching, Buncombe County Recreation Services has an entire calendar of fun activities for every age and interest listed on their homepage. While you’re there, check out all the parks and facilities (including directions), great ways to volunteer, and information about our greenways!
How to participate:
If you own an iPhone:
- Go to the App Store
- Search for "Geocaching" (Free - in app purchases available)
- Install
- Follow the steps to create an account
- Begin your journey
If you own a Samsung Galaxy:
- Go to Galaxy Apps
- Search for "Geocaching" (Free - in app purchases available)
- Install
- Follow the steps to create an account
- Begin your journey
If you own a Google Pixel:
- Go to the Google Play Store
- Search for "Geocaching" (Free - in app purchases available)
- Install
- Follow the steps to create an account
- Begin your journey
No Smartphone? Then you will need a GPS device to participate.
