Living right on the edge of Big Cypress and the Ten Thousand Islands, we’re lucky to have some of Florida’s wildest backcountry in our own backyard. And starting Saturday, there’s a fun new reason to get out there and explore it.

The Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission is kicking off Florida WildQuest, a statewide scavenger hunt on Wildlife Management Areas (WMA). It runs April 25 through May 3. It’s free, open to all ages, and you can play it right here at Big Cypress WMA.

Here’s how it works. Download the free GooseChase app, create an account, and enter game code EBN6F2. Then head out to any Florida WMA and start the missions — photo challenges, short videos, and prompts that get you paying attention to the wildlife around you.

Finish 10 missions plus a short survey and you’re eligible for the prize drawing. A Yeti cooler and Toadfish tumblers. A free weeklong summer camp scholarship for an eligible youth. Or an “FWC Experience” where a winner tags along with biologists — shorebird surveys, manatee surveys, even a bear cub release. You don’t usually get an open invitation to ride along on real field research.

A few tips before you go. Bring sun protection, bug spray, water, and snacks. Cell service can be spotty out on the WMAs, but that’s no problem. Snap your photos with your phone and upload them later once you’re back in range. Some WMAs charge a small daily-use permit, so check site details before heading out.

If you’ve never poked around Big Cypress WMA or spent a day watching for wildlife out there, this is a good excuse to finally do it. Kids love the mission format, and it gives a family outing a little structure without taking away from the adventure. FWC runs these events well — their Florida Python Challenge is another good one.

All missions need to be submitted by midnight on May 3. Winners are drawn at random on May 12. Learn more and find a nearby WMA at FloridaWildQuest.com. Grab the kids or a friend, don’t forget your phone, and go have some fun out there!