Geocaching

Geocaching, TerraCaching or Letterboxing are outdoor treasure-hunting games in which the participants use a Global Positioning System (GPS) receiver or other navigational techniques to hide and seek containers. Participants in these games are not required to obtain a permit or other permission from the Rockford Park District. However, we do request you consider the sensitivity of the area where you decide to hide your cache and that you abide by the following guidelines. Violation of these guidelines may result in a fine.

Rockford Park District is not responsible for caches and participants should be aware of the risk of removal by third parties. Participation is at the sole risk of the participant.

Location Guidelines: Caches may not be placed in the following parks or areas:

  • Alpine, Sand Park and Harkins Pool, Magic Waters Waterpark
  • Sinnissippi, Ingersoll, Sandy Hollow, Elliot and Aldeen Golf Courses and Aldeen Practice Centre
  • Riverview and Carlson Ice Rinks
  • Playing fields, spectator areas, paths and concession areas of Sportscore One and Sportscore Two; anywhere within the building of Indoors Sports Center (ISC) at Sportscore Two
  • Washington Park Community Center
  • Beattie Park
  • Any designated prairie or nature preserve
  • Ekberg Pine Manor Park, Sand Park
  • Atwood Park
  • Within any building

General Guidelines:

  • No caches larger than 4"x8"x12" may be utilized
  • No placed cache may contain perishable foodstuffs, offensive material, hazardous material, or waste material or refuse
  • No pipe with capped ends or other devices resembling a bomb or other dangerous device may be utilized
  • No cache may be attached to trees or shrubs, buildings or other structures; nor may any cache be buried by digging; nor may any cache be hidden or concealed by cutting, breaking or other disturbances of vegetation
  • Geocaching activities may not unreasonably interfere with other planned or customary park usage