Camp Starting Geocache program.

[jmcoker22]

The camp I work out is starting a geocaching program and I am interested in finding out what would be the best gps for us. We are located in Ohio and the gps units will be used by junior high students and older. Looking for something that is waterproof and rugged. Any help would be appreciated.

 

Thanks

[+Cyclops]

The eTrex series could be a good choice. Some of them are fairly inexpensive. One thing I don't like about them is the button are located around the sides. And they aren't labeled with text. My first GPS was an eTrex Vista. You'll have a learning curve with them. I did put together a one or two page handout for a scout troop that I did a class for. It wasn't to bad for them to use then. Six groups went out on their own and were able to use the units to find some caches.

 

I love my GPSMap 60Cx. Buttons are on the front face and are labeled with text. They run less than $300.

 

Your choice could be based more on cost especially if your going to buy several. Which ever model you choose, search online for good prices.

 

One thing to check on is if Garmin or a retailer could give your camp a discount. Never hurts to ask.

[+mpilchfamily]

Why not go with a a bunch of Geomate Jrs. At $70 each you can get several. They are easy to use and rugged. Then get a couple of the update sits so you have the transfer cable to update all the units with new caches and your good to go.

[+twolpert]

I would guess that a program at a camp would involve something other than permanent caches -- temporaries, stake courses, etc. That might make the Geomate Jr. a poor choice since (even with the update kit) it is limited to permanent caches.

 

The St. Louis Area Geocachers Association (SLAGA) participates in a number of events which involve the general public, including children in the age range you're looking at. We use the eTrex Legend H (the "yellow" eTrex). They are available for less that $100, have good battery life, and are easy enough to use (for these types of events) that the kids pick it up after a 5-minute intro. These are black and white units with no mapping capability -- so if maps are important to your intended use, you might need to step up to the eTrex Legend H. These are still pretty reasonably priced (list at $150).

 

From a setup standpoint (waypoint loading, etc.), the eTrex series is easily connected to a PC. You can load waypoints with any number of geocaching programs including EasyGPS (free), GSAK (low-cost), and ExpertGPS (slightly higher cost).

[+mpilchfamily]

I would guess that a program at a camp would involve something other than permanent caches -- temporaries, stake courses, etc. That might make the Geomate Jr. a poor choice since (even with the update kit) it is limited to permanent caches.

 

The St. Louis Area Geocachers Association (SLAGA) participates in a number of events which involve the general public, including children in the age range you're looking at. We use the eTrex Legend H (the "yellow" eTrex). They are available for less that $100, have good battery life, and are easy enough to use (for these types of events) that the kids pick it up after a 5-minute intro. These are black and white units with no mapping capability -- so if maps are important to your intended use, you might need to step up to the eTrex Legend H. These are still pretty reasonably priced (list at $150).

 

From a setup standpoint (waypoint loading, etc.), the eTrex series is easily connected to a PC. You can load waypoints with any number of geocaching programs including EasyGPS (free), GSAK (low-cost), and ExpertGPS (slightly higher cost).

I believe you meant the eTrex H not the Legend H. The eTrex Legend H is Blue.

Edited January 27, 2011 by mpilchfamily

[+joranda]

I would go with the etrex, it would be a better unit than the Geomate jr. I started with a etrex and it is a great gps. You might be able to find you a place that will give you a great deal if you bought a bulk of them.

[+twolpert]

I believe you meant the eTrex H not the Legend H. The eTrex Legend H is Blue.

Right you are. I was thinking Legend because I wandered off to check the list price on the Legend before suggesting it as a possible step up.

[mclarenc]

Dont know how good it is, but I just picked up an ETREX VISTA H at Sam's Club for $110. Looks like it is going to do decent for some basic caching and geo-tagging photos.