Why is Geocaching Important to Tourism?
First, it is important to fully understand what geocaching is.
The modern description is described as an activity in which a GPS device or smartphone is used to follow coordinates to find hidden caches. Once the cache is found the seekers record their names in a logbook inside the cache. Some caches hold trinkets and people are encouraged to take one and leave something of equal value. Caches can be plastic ammo boxes hidden under a log in the woods or a small magnetic container placed under a bench or some other inconspicuous place. 
There are an estimated 3.1 million (and counting) geocaches hidden worldwide, according to geocaching.com. Some geocachers have found hundreds and even thousands of those caches, and travel extensively to discover new ones.
This modern twist on treasure hunting has captured the interest of more and more people and tourism destinations are jumping on the bandwagon, recognizing that geocaching is a good way to stimulate tourism and economic impact.
In Clermont County you will find geocaches that have been scattered throughout the county along with thousands of visitors that come into town to explore these trails and tours. Most caches are strategically placed near important historical monuments to give our visitor a brief history lesson while some are scattered throughout our great hiking trails like those found at East Fork State Park.
On Memorial Day weekend, Clermont County will see a direct economic impact from geocaching tourism. May 26, Geowoodstock XVI will be hosted in Clermont County and the Greater Cincinnati region. This event is expected to bring an estimated 5,000-7,000 visitors, making this the largest geocaching event in United States history.
Aside from geocaching, you will find they are also shopping, eating in our restaurants, looking for entertainment and staying in our hotels. They are leaving their hard-earned dollar right here in Clermont County and creating millions of dollars in economic impact.
Aside from the scattered geocaches throughout the county, a geocaching tour or trail has been the popular ticket item for those traveling to a specific location. These tours consist of multiple stops, which typically reward the participant with a collectable coin once the trail has been completed. Popular trails in our area include the Underground Freedom Geo Trail, the Greater Cincinnati Geo Tour and the Earthcache Geo Tour.
As the weather becomes warmer and visitors start pouring into the Cincinnati region, be on the lookout for geocachers as they begin exploring Clermont County.
