This Geocache is located on the grounds of Cedar Key State Park.
To do: Geocaching is a free treasure hunt for anyone. All you need is the app!
Just because time slows down in Cedar Key—your GPS shouldn't. Cedar Key is a "hidden gem" in the truest sense, making it a premier destination for geocachers looking to combine their love of the hunt with "Old Florida" charm. From historic museum grounds to salt marshes teeming with roseate spoonbills, here is your guide to geocaching in Cedar Key.
Some of the geocaches were lost during the last few hurricanes. I put out a new one this past weekend and will be putting out more in the near future. Remember to bring a small treasure to replace the one you take from inside the cache. If you find an “I Love Cedar Key” bracelet, please take a picture and share it with me on Facebook or IG.
Why Cedar Key for Geocaching?
Unlike the high-traffic tourist hubs of Orlando or Miami, Cedar Key offers a serene, walkable, and golf-cart-friendly environment. The town is rich with history—once a major hub for pencil mills supplying the world’s cedar wood and a bustling railroad terminus— many of the local caches are designed to highlight these stories.
Top Spots to Explore
Cedar Key Museum State Park: A must-visit for any cacher. There is a traditional cache located on the museum grounds (accessible for free, though the museum itself is worth the entry fee).
The Historic Waterfront: Many caches are tucked away near the old Atlantic to Gulf Railroad landmarks and the buildings that have survived hurricanes since the 1800s.
Nature Trails: The local trails often feature caches that reward you with views of ospreys and dolphins. Just remember that in these coastal areas, terrain ratings can jump quickly if you have to account for tides or soft sand. Close toed shoes are recommended.
Local Tips for a Successful Hunt
Item | Importance | Why? |
Pencil/Pen | High | Many Cedar Key caches are "micros" and don't have room for a writing utensil. |
Bug Spray | Critical | The "no-see-ums" and mosquitoes in the salt marshes are world-class. |
Tide Chart | Moderate | Some caches near the shoreline or outer keys may be inaccessible at high tide. |
Sunscreen | High | Florida’s sun is intense, don’t ruin your day with a sunburn. |
Rules of the Coast
When caching in Cedar Key, you are often moving through sensitive ecological zones or historic sites. Please follow these local "Golden Rules":
Do Not Bury: As per Florida State Park and FWC regulations, caches must never be buried. If you have to dig, you’re in the wrong spot.
Respect the historic environment: Leave a location as you found it. Never pull pry or pull on any structures.
Operation Recreation: Check if any local caches are part of the Operation Recreation GeoTour, a statewide initiative that includes several Florida State Parks.
Complete the log to show when the last time the Geocache was found.
Cedar Key offers a unique blend of coastal solitude and community history that makes every "Find" feel like a genuine discovery. Remember to complete the log sheet inside the cache and mark it found on the app. I hope you enjoy this fun hidden adventure in Cedar Key!
Editor’s Note: This article was generated with the assistance of Gemini, an AI by Google, to help highlight things to do in Cedar Key. All facts and details were verified by the editor.
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