Geocaching in the Park

Anne Arundel County Department of Recreation and Parks will need to approve prior to placing a cache. To obtain approval, you must submit the Geocaching Approval Form to the appropriate park office. In most cases, you will be advised of a decision within three (3) business days. In cases where a cache is not approved, the Department will recommend a more appropriate location for placement.

The cache approval form may be submitted to the Anne Arundel County Department of Recreation and Parks Administration Office.

Geocaching Approval Form and Guidelines

1. You must receive approval from the Anne Arundel County Department of Recreation & Parks (AACDRP) prior to placing a cache. To obtain approval, you must submit a Cache Approval Form to the appropriate park office. In most cases, you will be advised of a decision within three (3) business days.
    
2. In cases where a cache is not approved, the AACDRP may recommend a more appropriate location for placement.
    
3. A transparent container is required. DO NOT use PVC pipe, ammo cans or any other military-looking container that may cause alarm should an unsuspecting person happen upon the cache.
    
4. DO NOT dig any holes or disturb the surrounding environment. DO NOT attach caches to live trees or structures of any kind.
    
5. DO NOT place your cache in plain view. Attempt to conceal the cache to minimize the chances that a non-participant will spot it, which could lead to worry, theft or vandalism. Try to hide the cache off the beaten path by at least a few yards to provide the finder some measure of privacy to sign the log without arousing undue alarm.
    
6. Clearly mark the container with the appropriate identification, such as Geocaching.com and the name of the cache. Place a stash note inside explaining the sport to any non-participants who may discover the cache.
    
7. Think SAFETY when hiding and/or seeking a cache. Use common sense!
    
8. As a cache seeker or cache owner, you must abide by park hours and all other rules and regulations. Carry documentation such as the cache detail sheet, so that you can explain your activity to anyone who may ask.