By 1808Delaware
🎉 Get ready for an exciting summer activity that’s perfect for the whole family. The Summer Letterbox Adventure is returning to Delaware County’s Preservation Parks, offering a chance to win a fun prize pack just by exploring local parks and finding letterboxes.
What is a Letterbox Adventure?
A letterbox adventure is a creative and fun form of geocaching and scavenger hunting. Instead of using GPS coordinates, participants follow clues to find hidden letterboxes. These letterboxes, which resemble small school pencil boxes, contain a small activity to prove you’ve found them and a notebook where you can leave a message for the next adventurer.
How to Participate in the Letterbox Adventure
- Register and Get Your Booklet:
- Visit any Delaware County library or Deer Haven Park to sign up and receive a Summer Letterbox booklet.
- Alternatively, create an account on the Preservation Parks online program registration platform and register for the program to receive a PDF booklet. Note: You only need to register once.
- Gather Your Supplies:
- Bring a pencil, marker, or similar writing tool on each letterbox hunt.
- Start Your Adventure:
- Explore the parks and follow the clues in your booklet to find the hidden letterboxes. Inside each letterbox, you’ll find a symbol. Trace, draw, or write the symbol in the designated space on the corresponding park page in your booklet. You can also leave a note for other letterboxers in the notebook provided.
- Return the Letterbox:
- After finding a letterbox, put it back exactly where you found it and leave no trace to ensure the next searcher can enjoy the hunt.
Where to Register
- In-Person: Pick up your booklet at the Wornstaff Memorial Public Library, Sunbury Community Library, or any branch of the Delaware County District Library (locations in Delaware, Lewis Center, Ostrander, or Powell).
- Online: Register at preservationparks.recdesk.com. Create an account and then register for the program to receive a PDF booklet.
Important Rules and Information
- Park Rules:
- Stay on the trails unless a clue directs you otherwise.
- Take only pictures; leave only footprints.
- Dogs are allowed on most nature trails, except all of Gallant Farm, Deer Haven Park, and one trail at Shale Hollow Park. Dogs must be leashed and cleaned up after.
- Parks are open 8:00 AM – 9:00 PM daily. Gallant Farm has specific hours: Tuesday – Saturday 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM and Sunday 12:00 PM – 5:00 PM; closed on Mondays.
- Prizes:
- After finding 4 or more letterboxes, bring your booklet to a Delaware County library or Deer Haven Park to claim your prize, while supplies last.
- Contact Information:
- For questions or to report a missing letterbox or clue, call 740-524-8600, ext. 103.
Tips for a Successful Adventure
- Check park maps and rules before your visit.
- Respect nature and other park visitors.
- Share your adventure and photos on social media to inspire others to join the fun!
Additional Resources
- Visit the Parks & Trails page for location and directions to each park.
Enjoy your adventure and happy letterboxing!
