Location is everything

Just like in real estate or retail sales, location is everything when it comes to placing a cache. After you select a container, figure out where to put it. The location of your cache usually defines its success and popularity. I recommend doing some initial research to locate a general area to hide your cache. For many geocachers, visiting a new place with some unique feature, incredible scenery, or just gorgeous view is every bit as important as finding a cache. Keep this in mind as you use maps, travel guides, or memories from your own explorations to help you select a good cache location. An important part of your homework is discovering where caches are and are not permitted. The geocaching community tends to be very aware that the continued growth and success of the sport depends on good relationships with landowners.
If you want to place a cache on private property, always first ask the owner’s permission. Because geocaching is so new, many people don’t know what it is, so take the time to explain how the sport works. Always check with a governmental agency before placing caches on its land. You can contact the agency directly, try a Google search to see whether its geocaching policies are published on the Web, or talk with other geocachers in your area to get their experiences in dealing with different agencies. For example, the U.S. Bureau of Land Management recognizes geocaching as a recreational activity and tends to be friendly toward cache hiders who want to locate a cache in places other than wilderness or wilderness study areas. The U.S. National Park Service, on the other hand, prohibits placing geocaches on the land that it manages; if you’re caught hiding a cache on such land, it’s a federal offense. Yipes.