Geocaching

Geocaching is a high-tech treasure hunting activity that is growing in popularity, and is permitted in select Will County Forest Preserves.

Geocaching Regulations and Permitting

Placement of a geocache requires a permit, which may be obtained by completing and submitting the Geocaching Permit Application, or by visiting the Sugar Creek Administration Center in Joliet. Any non-permitted geocaches will be removed by Forest Preserve staff and will become property of the Forest Preserve District.

All requests for geocache placement permits will be reviewed to determine whether the request would negatively impact the health of the preserve or safety of its users. The applicant will be notified within one week of the Forest Preserve's decision.

A geocache must be placed in a clear, waterproof container that is no greater than 4"x8"x12" in size. All geocache containers must be labeled with the our "Geocache" label provided upon permit issuance, and the label must be clearly visible from the outside of the container. Geocaches must not contain food or offensive or hazardous materials. They may not be buried or attached to vegetation or structures. Vegetation or natural features may not be disturbed in any manner upon placement of a geocache.

Geocache permits are valid from the date of issuance until March 31 of the following year. Geocaches must be removed by the permittee by the permit expiration date. Geocaches not removed by this date will become the property of the Forest Preserve District. Geocaches may be inadvertently mowed, burned, or destroyed by District staff conducting management activities in the preserves. The Forest Preserve District will not be liable for lost or damaged geocaches. Geocache owners are expected to monitor the approved geocache location every 2 months to ensure that the geocache remains at the approved location and that its contents are intact.

Use of the preserves before or after seasonal preserve hours is prohibited. Please use designated trails when placing or searching for a geocache.

For more information on Forest Preserve regulations, download the District's General Use Ordinance No. 124 or call 815.727.8700.

Geocaching Locations

Geocaches may only be placed in select locations within the preserves listed below. Locations are subject to Forest Preserve staff review as part of the permitting process.