Become a cache owner.
Hide a cache or host an Event
Get inspiration and find out how to hide your own geocache and contribute to the global game board.
How to hide a geocache
Hiding a cache is a big milestone for any geocacher. Creating a quality geocache connects you to a community of millions, all from a set of coordinates!
- 1
Find geocaches to get inspired
Try to find a variety of geocache types and sizes hidden by different cache owners.
- 2
Read the guidelines
Every geocache must follow the Geocache hiding guidelines—please read them! Learn how far apart caches must be from each other, how to respect the environment, about regional policies, and more.
- 3
Take the hider quiz
It takes more than a clever hiding spot and a great container to hide a geocache. Test your knowledge of the guidelines you just read.
- 4
Pick a unique location and get accurate coordinates
A quality cache brings the community to an interesting location. Accurate coordinates are essential for finders and to ensure your spot is available.
- 5
Prepare a quality container
Ensure the container is waterproof, durable, and contains a new logbook. We recommend that the container be as large as your location allows.
- 6
Create your cache page and submit for review
Make sure you own or have permission for any photos or content you add. Place your container in its hiding spot, then submit your cache page for review.
- 7
Communicate with your reviewer
Once your cache has been submitted, a geocaching community volunteer reviewer checks the cache page for guideline concerns. They may ask clarifying questions about your cache in a “reviewer note” log.
- 8
Maintain your geocache
Once your cache is published, make sure your geocache remains a positive experience for other geocachers. Monitor logs and visit the cache location periodically. Be aware that unmaintained caches may be disabled or archived.
Ready to hide your cache?
Hide a cache
Map it out
Check out potential geocache locations. Note: Before submitting your geocache, you will need to visit the location and obtain accurate coordinates.
Find a locationInstructions for finders
View and print instructions to include in your geocache container.
Event geocaches
Host an EventGeocaching Events
Geocaching Events are a great way to meet the local geocaching community or even bring geocachers from around the world together.
Read the Event guidelinesCITO (Cache In Trash Out®)
CITO Events are a way for the geocaching community to take care of the natural areas we enjoy while geocaching.
Learn more about CITO EventsShop Geocaching
Cache containers
Choose a durable and waterproof container that fits the hiding location perfectly.
Maintenance supplies
From logbooks to pens—make sure you have what you need to keep your cache in top shape.
Outside of the US or Canada?See our international retailers.