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May 21

Written by: news editor
5/21/2009 1:00 AM 

05/21/09 The Northeast Ohio Geochallenge is an opportunity for geocachers to search for hidden caches on Ohio state parks.


High-Tech Treasure Hunts at Ohio State Parks

Northeast Ohio Geochallenge kicks-off May 23
 
AKRON, OH - Outdoor enthusiasts with GPS units can combine the fun of state park outings with the excitement of high-tech treasure hunting this summer during Ohio State Parks' Northeast Ohio Geochallenge.
 
The Northeast Ohio Geochallenge is an opportunity for geocachers to search for hidden caches on Ohio state parks starting May 23 and running through Labor Day. Treasures have been hidden at 19 parks in northeast Ohio, including Cleveland Lakefront, Headlands Beach, Geneva, Punderson, Pymatuning, Mosquito, Nelson Kennedy, West Branch, Tinkers Creek, Lake Milton, Mohican, Malabar Farm, Portage Lakes, Quail Hollow, Guilford Lake, Beaver Creek, Jefferson Lake, Dillon and Salt Fork.
 
Coordinates for the hidden caches are available on the official global positioning system web site for caches, www.geocaching.com. After logging onto the geocaching web site, treasure seekers can find the necessary information for the Geochallenge on the Ohio State Parks cache page.
 
The first 100 participants who find the caches hidden in all 19 state parks will receive a Geo-Coin. The challenge will conclude on September 7.
 
Most of the parks included in the Geochallenge offer campgrounds for overnight stays, along with a variety of outdoor recreational opportunities including swimming beaches, boating facilities and boat rentals, fishing, and nature programs.  Information about state park activities, facilities and special events is available on the Ohio State Parks web site, www.ohiostateparks.org. Reservations for stays can be made online as well.
 
Children who visit state parks with their families and hike the trails while geocaching can receive credit towards the ODNR Explore the Outdoors Hike/Bike a Trail activity. Explore the Outdoors is a hands-on family program that gives Ohio children the opportunity to reunite with nature, improve their physical and emotional health and discover the rewards of becoming environmental stewards. Program information and downloadable activity guides can be found at www.exploretheoutdoorsohio.com.
 
The Ohio Department of Natural Resources ensures a balance between wise use and protection of our natural resources for the benefit of all. Visit the ODNR web site at www.ohiodnr.com.
 
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For further information, contact:

Todd Metz, ODNR State Parks
330. 385. 3091
Beth Ruth, ODNR Media Relations
614. 265. 6860

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