The background of CachePlanner
A tool built by geocachers, for geocachers — so planning can be just as fun as being out in the field.
The problem
Planning geocaches — especially trails, GeoArt, and larger projects — means coordinating points, potential 161 m conflicts, GPX files, and documentation.
Many cache owners currently combine maps, spreadsheets, GPX editors, and separate notes when planning larger projects.
The idea
CachePlanner grew out of my own frustration with planning larger cache projects across maps, spreadsheets, GPX tools, and field notes. The idea was simple: bring the planning work together in one place.
But just as important: you should be able to choose how much you use. No pressure to use every feature — just pick what you need.
Use as much as you want
CachePlanner is not all-or-nothing. You decide how deep you want to go. Here are three ways to use the tool:
Place points, get coordinates
Just plot your caches on the map and export a clean coordinate list or GPX file. Done. Nothing more needed.
Catch common spacing issues
Use the 161 m check to flag potential conflicts between planned caches and imported physical waypoints before review.
Map layers with extra context
Turn on built-in map layers — ancient remains, nature reserves, roads/railways, and other points of interest — and find inspiration for new hides and themes directly on the map.
The point: CachePlanner adapts to you — not the other way around.
CachePlanner is a planning aid. Final availability and publishability are determined during the reviewer process.
Web now, field app later
The working web planner comes first. The Android field app is a separate, clearly marked development track.
The web app
Plan on an interactive map, generate trails and GeoArt, import nearby caches, review potential conflicts, and export GPX or CSV. This is the product available today.
Android field app
Planned features include coordinate measurement, simple navigation, field-data collection, and synchronization back to a project. No public download is available yet.
Designed for field conditions
The web planner is server-centered. Offline coordinate measurement is planned for the Android app, but that app and its project synchronization are still under development.
Bring existing caches in with GPX
Existing caches can currently be imported from GPX. CachePlanner does not automatically fetch or redistribute cache data.
Read the GPX import guide →Who is it for?
- Cache owners planning trails, GeoArt, or other multi-cache projects who want better control over coordinates, potential spacing conflicts, and exports.
- Cache owners planning a single cache who want the same map and export tools without adopting a larger workflow.
The road ahead
CachePlanner is under active development. The web planner is usable now, while mobile field work and deeper synchronization are being developed carefully from user feedback.
If you have thoughts, requests, or want to test it, you are welcome.