Geocaching Course Gets a Trial Run

Subcamp 3 Program is proud to offer geocaching (pronounced "geo-cashing") as a new subcamp activity for the 2005 National Jamboree. The basic idea is for geocaching participants to use a GPS device to locate markers and/or a hidden cache from coordinates that are provided—similar to orienteering with a map and compass.

The Subcamp 3 Communications Team was one of the first to test out the course when we went through on Saturday. The GPS units led us all over the subcamp, following the specified marker locations and clues, and were very easy to use. We found a great cache waiting for us at the end of the trail.

Scouts will receive a Jamboree Geocaching card when they successfully complete the geocaching course in their Subcamp. Geocaching is available to any registered (youth or adult) Jamboree participant.

It takes approximately 30 minutes to complete Subcamp 3's geocache course. It is recommended that no less than two scouts—preferably four scouts—work as a team. If a patrol would like to work together as a team to complete the course, each member of the patrol must actively participate.

To receive a GPS unit to use for this activity, an adult must exchange his or her driver's license at the program tent for a GPS unit. These units are not toys—they are expensive and must be returned after completing the course. This new event is proudly sponsored by Magellan, makers of GPS navigation devices.