Outdoor activities are not only a great way to relax and have fun, they can also teach you new things and help you connect with nature. Geocaching in nature is one of these fun activities that allows you to explore while learning. The steps in this guide will help you plan and carry out a fun nature scavenger hunt.
How do you do a nature scavenger hunt?
On a nature scavenger hunt you have to be outside, look for something or do something. Nature lovers of all ages can enjoy the outdoors, learn about nature and get exercise at the same time.
Make plans for a treasure hunt
Choose the right location
Choose a spot that fits the geocaching theme, is safe and easy to get to, and has lots of different things to see. You can find great geocaching locations in parks, nature reserves, and even in your own backyard.
Choose time and length
When choosing the duration of your scavenger hunt, consider the age and health of those participating in the scavenger hunt. One to three hours is usually a good length of time.
Determine the subject
Themes for different times of the year
Depending on the time of year, the theme can be anything from looking for flowers in the spring to picking leaves in the fall.
education theme
Focus on the flora and fauna of the area, or add a geographic or historical component to your flower hunt.
Make rules
Safety Warning
Make sure everyone knows the rules and what to do in a given situation.
How to play
Make it clear how items will be removed from the list and consider using digital photos to do this.
Make a list
Items to deploy
Choose items that are common enough that anyone can find them, but also choose a few hard-to-find items to keep things interesting.
Tips and instructions
Make the experience better by adding prompts or questions that lead to the next thing.
What you need
basic items
Give each group a bag, a list and some pens or pencils.
Devices to choose from
You may need binoculars for bird watching, or a magnifying glass to take a closer look at small things.
Build a team
How to get people to work together
Teams can be formed by people of different ages, family units or a combination of both.
Advice on how to manage your team
Ensuring that everyone on the team has something to work on promotes collaboration and engagement.
What technology has done for us
Using GPS and apps
Use technology to create maps or directions that can be used and viewed on a smartphone.
Advantages and disadvantages of using technology together
Technology can add something new, but make sure it doesn’t take away from the feeling of being in nature.
Add learning elements
educational goals
Match tasks to learning objectives, such as learning to find your way or finding certain plant species.
Games and fun facts
Includes interesting facts about the things people strive for and tasks that make people more concerned about the environment.
Think safe
Safety tips and first aid
Provide each team with a basic first aid kit and ensure everyone knows how to follow safety rules.
Weather and terrain, etc.
Pay close attention to the weather and choose a route that everyone can participate in.
On the day of the event
Set the start and end points of the route
Provide clear signs and people to help people find their way.
Coordination and conversation skills
Use your mobile phone or intercom to keep in touch with your team leader during the event.
after the hunt
debriefing meeting
Talk about what you find and share your hunting stories and experiences.
Award prizes
You can offer small gifts for things like finding the most items or having the best team attitude.
Enhance the experience
Activities to follow up
Give people ideas about how they can continually learn from discoveries, such as doing more research on a particular animal or plant.
Be prepared for it to happen again
Organize an annual scavenger hunt to get people to spend more time in nature.
In brief
Organizing a nature scavenger hunt can be just as much fun as participating in it yourself. By planning ahead, it can be an educational experience that educates, engages and entertains. We hope this guide will make you want to get out and plan your own nature trip.