Discover Roseburg 15 Geocache Series kicks off Saturday at the Roseburg Library

ROSEBURG, Ore. — Treasure hunters of all ages are invited to take part in the kickoff of the Discover Roseburg 15: Land of Umpqua Geocache Series on Saturday, Feb. 7, with a free, family-friendly launch event at the Roseburg Public Library.

Hosted by Roseburg Parks and Recreation, the kickoff runs from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. at the library, 1409 NE Diamond Lake Blvd., where participants can pick up coordinate-filled “passports” and instructions to begin a citywide geocaching challenge.

The annual series encourages residents and visitors to explore Roseburg by searching for five traditional geocaches and 15 virtual locations hidden around town. Using a smartphone or GPS device, participants will navigate to each location, record their findings, and complete their passport.

“Geocaching is a great activity for families,” said Parks and Recreation Coordinator Tracy David. “It’s like a game you can take with you wherever you go. Whether you’re running errands in town or traveling, there are always geocaches waiting to be found.”

The kickoff will be held rain or shine — even if fog lingers — and will include an “Ask the Expert” table staffed by longtime local geocacher and former city councilor Mike Baker, who helped bring the geocache series to Roseburg 15 years ago. He will be available to help participants download apps, troubleshoot devices, and learn the basics of the activity.

Participants who complete all 20 stops in the Discover Roseburg 15 challenge can redeem their passport for a limited-edition collectible geocoin with a trackable ID number. Only 200 coins are available, and the challenge continues until they are claimed. Passports do not have to be completed the same day.

After the kickoff, passports can be picked up or turned in at Roseburg City Hall during weekday business hours, or after hours at the Hampton Inn & Suites on Northwest Mulholland Drive.

Organizers recommend participants bring:

• A smartphone or GPS-enabled device
• A geocaching app (such as Geocaching.com, Cachly, C:geo, or GeoGo)
• A pen or pencil
• Weather-appropriate footwear like boots or hiking shoes

The Discover Roseburg geocache series began more than a decade ago as a way to draw people outdoors and highlight local businesses and landmarks. This year marks the program’s 15th installment.

For more information, contact Roseburg Parks and Recreation at 541-492-6899 or email tdavid@roseburgor.gov.