A simple painted rock can turn an ordinary summer day into a treasure hunt in Turbeville.
The annual Turbeville Rocks community rock hunt is underway once again, inviting residents of all ages to search for hand-painted rocks hidden throughout the community while encouraging participants to keep the fun going by hiding them again for others to discover.
Organized by Jenna Windham, the project traces its roots to 2017, when students painted rocks and placed them around town as a one-time school initiative. After the tradition faded, Windham revived it in 2022 with a new twist that has helped the event continue to grow.
In addition to the regular painted rocks hidden throughout the summer, local businesses and families sponsor special prize rocks. Each sponsored rock is tied to a prize donated by the sponsor, giving finders the opportunity to win gift cards, cash or other prizes while also highlighting businesses that support the community.
"What started as a fun idea has really taken on a life of its own," Windham said. "The kids have enjoyed it so much that it has become something we look forward to every year."
The response from sponsors has expanded significantly since the project returned. What initially featured prize rocks through the early summer now has enough community support to continue placing sponsored rocks through September.
Sponsors typically donate a prize valued at about $20, though they are free to assemble gift bags or provide cash or gift cards. Organizers paint a custom rock for each sponsor, hide it, monitor when it is found and coordinate prize pickup if needed. Sponsors also receive recognition on social media alongside the winner.
Windham said one of the project's biggest goals is promoting the "find one, hide one" philosophy. Volunteers regularly paint and place rocks around town, but participants are encouraged to either rehide the rocks they discover or paint new ones to replace them so the hunt can continue for others.
To reinforce that message, organizers hold two end-of-season prize drawings each year. Participants earn one entry by sharing a photo of a rock they found and another after someone else later finds that same rock, rewarding those who rehide their discoveries.
"It pays to rehide," Windham said.
Last year also introduced a grand finale challenge sponsored by Clarendon County Sheriff Tim Baxley and his wife. Organizers placed about 35 special qualifier rocks throughout the community, with everyone who registered one of those rocks entered into a drawing for a $100 grand prize.
The Baxleys have already committed to sponsoring the grand finale again this year, and organizers plan to increase the number of qualifier rocks available throughout the season.
With volunteers, sponsors and families continuing to embrace the project, Windham said the goal remains simple: creating smiles, encouraging outdoor fun and bringing the community together one painted rock at a time.
