Geocaching

Geocaching (pronounced geo-cashing) is a high-tech treasure hunting game played throughout the world by adventure seekers equipped with handheld GPS devices. The basic idea is to locate hidden outdoor containers (usually small plastic boxes) called geocaches, and then share your experiences online. Anyone with a GPS device can try to locate the geocache.

There are six caches here at Wintergarden/St. John's Nature Preserve. All the caches here are of a low difficulty rating and not far off the mulched trails. However, they are far enough off the trail that you may encounter poison ivy, so long pants are recommended. Geocachers must remain on park trails until they are within 50 feet of each cache.

Geocaching is enjoyed by people from all age groups with a strong sense of community and support for the environment. Take your family, friends or just yourself outdoors and have some fun.

Bowling Green Parks & Recreation Geocache Placement Guidelines

Placement of geocaches in the City of Bowling Green parks is generally only permitted in City Park and Carter Park. No prior approval is necessary. Caches in these parks must follow all the placement guidelines as outlined at Geocaching.com. In addition, no caches will be permitted that may interfere with the use of the parks or shelters by other members of the public or found to be in an off limits area such as next to a maintenance building. Any cache that doesn't meet these guidelines will be removed, placed in the lost and found at the Bowling Green Community Center, and a "Needs Archived" log will be posted on the cache page.

Simpson Garden Park & Wintergarden / St. John's Nature Preserve

No caches will be permitted at Simpson Garden Park or Wintergarden/St. John's Woods Nature Preserve without the prior approval of one of the naturalists or other authorized staff. If you want to place a cache in one of these areas you must stop at the Nature Center in Wintergarden/St. John's Nature Preserve and speak to a naturalist.

General Guidelines

Simpson Garden Park
Permission for cache placements will only be allowed with the naturalists or other approved staff's on the spot consent. This is a sensitive area and permission will not be easily granted. There will be a limit of two geocaches allowed.

Wintergarden / St. John's Nature Preserve
All caches must be within 50 feet of the trail unless special permission is given. No caches will be allowed in areas that are considered sensitive. This may include areas that have certain plants, buildings or other structures, have grounds under redevelopment, or areas off limits to the general public. There are areas in the preserve that look like park property but are in fact private land. There is a limit of six geocaches allowed at one time. All caches must be archived after 12 months (less if deemed necessary), to allow the area to regenerate. Currently all the allotted cache slots have been filled.

Upon approval by park staff a permit number will be issued and should appear on the cache page.