Coastal and Aquatic Managed Areas welcomes responsible geocaching. The Geocaching Tour of CAMA contains caches that explore the natural resources in and around CAMA lands. Be the first to finish a geo tour of these sites! Use the contact us button to let us know.

How to Hide a Cache

Most of the lands managed by the Office of Coastal and Aquatic Managed Areas (CAMA) are submerged, but there are still geocaching opportunities. CAMA is responsible for dozens of spoil islands, particularly in the Indian River Lagoon and Pinellas County, and manages uplands through its three National Estuarine Research Reserves.

1. Find a place to hide your cache that will take a bit of time for another geocacher to find. Select a spot with a great view or an unusual location. Avoid archaeological or historic sites as well as bird rookeries or environmentally sensitive areas. Some of this information may not be readily available.
2. Contact the site manager and ask permission for the location you are considering. They will be better aware of environmentally or otherwise sensitive areas.
3. Prepare your cache. The container should be waterproof. Most folks mark the container with www.geocaching.com, the name of the cache and basic contact information.
4. After you have verbal permission from the state park manager, you may place your cache. When you reach the location to place your cache, note the exact coordinates from your GPS unit. Once you have your waypoint, write it in permanent marker on the container and the log book and make sure you have a copy to bring back with you. Write a few notes in the log book if you like, place it in a water-tight baggie and place it in the container. Hide the container, but do not dig or disturb the site. Trail blazing is not allowed.
5. Report the cache by filling out the online form at www.geocaching.com.
6. Maintain the cache. You'll need to return often to ensure that your cache is in good repair. Once people have visited the cache, be sure that other visitors are not disrupting the landscape. If you have concerns, move it or remove it.
7. Please email FloridaCoasts@dep.state.fl.us to let us know that the cache has been placed and include the coordinates.

Tips for Responsible Geocaching

Geocaching can unintended impacts on the Earth's natural resources. Prevent trampled vegetation, damaged wildlife habitats and the disturbance of historical or cultural resources.

• Cache in, trash out. Pick up other litter along the way.
• Use the 'track back' feature on your GPS unit rather than flagging and marking trails.
• Always carry extra batteries, a map and compass and know how to use them.
• Practice the lift, look, replace technique. If you lift a rock to look under it, replace it exactly as you found it.
• Following a trip, wash your gear to reduce the spread of invasive species.
• Consider safety. Bring plenty of water and snacks. Wear a hat, sunglasses or other weather-protective clothing. Get a map and know your route along with possible alternatives. Bring sunscreen, insect repellant and a basic first-aid kit. Respect others.