Geocaching

Geocaching is an innovative outdoor treasure-hunting game where participants navigate to a specific set of GPS coordinates using GPS-enabled devices (including smart phones) to search for cleverly hidden objects, called caches. This high-tech game is fun for all ages and is great for families, groups of friends and individuals.

Caches are located around the world, mostly outdoors in public spaces, and are placed by other geocachers. Many are hidden in parks and on trails throughout Mission Viejo, including the ones we've identified below. Join the fun in locating caches, signing the log book, swapping trade items and then placing the cache back in its hiding place for someone else to find.

Geocaching can be enjoyed by individuals or small groups. But the idea is to use stealth when finally locating the cache and replacing it. You don't want to ruin the fun for another cacher who may be nearby. Participants of all ages embrace the activity. Even the youngest child in the group will enjoy finding a small toy or trinket in the cache container. But if you take something, you should leave something behind of equal or greater value!

To help you get started, the City and community volunteers have hidden a series of caches called a GeoTour for you to discover with the hopes of introducing you to this fun activity and some great places around Mission Viejo. 

Discover Mission Viejo GeoTour (GT4D8):

On Saturday, January 25, 2025 at 10:00 AM, the City will launch an expansion pack of caches to the existing and only Southern California GeoTour. If you find at least 45 of the Discover Mission Viejo GeoTour caches and collect the corresponding code words, you may submit your completed geocache passport at the Norman P. Murray Community Center to receive a souvenir trackable GeoCoin while supplies last.

GC Codes:

Here are some other local favorites to find:

1. GC6HVYF - Paws Off Cache

2. GC6HVZG - 9.85 Mile Bike Ride

3. GC6J0M7 - Smash & Splash

4. GC8KXGE - A Quarter Way Across the Creek

5. GC6HX8Z - Bocce Cache

6. GC6JJB2 - What a PARK!

7. GC6K45R - Them's the Rules (Multi-Cache)

8. GC79VPC - My Two Cents

9. GC6PVT0 H2O to GO!

To learn more about this rapidly growing adventure game, visit a geocaching website like geocaching.com and look for the "Getting Started" or "Frequently Asked Questions" section.