Geocaching and Letterboxing

What are Geocaching and Letterboxing?

Geocaching is a popular game using global positioning systems, or GPS, to locate hidden containers, called caches. Letterboxing is similar, except clues, map coordinates or compass bearings are used to find hidden treasures. Both activities are permitted in Missouri state parks and historic sites and are great ways to get kids and adults outdoors. There are many caches already placed in Missouri state parks.

Anyone wanting to place a cache on Missouri state park or historic site property must submit the cache to geocaching.com and then complete the permit form at the bottom of this page. Continue reading for more information about this process.

Process for Placing a Cache in a Missouri State Park or Historic Site:

  1. Before placing a cache or applying for a permit, please review the below regulations regarding cache placement and content.
    • No digging or disruption of the ground is permitted when placing a cache. 
    • Caches are not to be placed in areas that could potentially cause danger to visitors trying to locate the cache (e.g., in trees, underwater, in potential flood areas, or in areas that require climbing on cliffs or bluffs).
    • Cache placement in recognized wild and natural areas needs to be kept to a minimum.
    • Multi-caches are limited to five total sites, yet treated as one cache and require only one permit.
    • Anyone wanting to place a cache should check with the facility manager for allowed cache placement areas. 
    • The outside of the cache container must clearly display the words "official geocache" or "official letterbox."
    • An explanation of the geocaching/letterboxing activity must be included in the container.
    • The cache must contain family-friendly content.
    • If a non-permitted cache is discovered, the facility is to remove the cache, retain it at the facility office for 30 days, and, if possible, attempt to notify the owner of their actions. If contact is not made, the cache is to be considered abandoned property.
  2. After reviewing the cache guidelines, please submit your cache to geocaching.com for review and approval. You must complete this step before filling out the permit form at the bottom of this page.
  3. Finally, complete the geocaching/letterboxing placement permit form. Permits are valid for 12 months from the approved date. Cache owners are limited to two permits in one facility at one time.

Geocaching/Letterboxing Permit Form:

Cache Owner information
Cache Details
Type of cache (Check all that apply):
more items
Geodetic datum set:
Agreement
I understand that caches not in compliance with the terms of this permit will be removed from the property and this permit will be voided for failure to comply. I understand that I am to monitor this cache monthly and maintain it to be family-friendly. I have read and do understand the terms of this permit and agree to comply accordingly. I will retain a copy of this permit for my records.