Well I believe I came up with a workable solution, yet to be tested (waiting
for order to arrive). After more research I discovered this lens review at
http://www.bythom.com/18200lens.htm:

No Converters or extensions. The optical design of the 18-200mm means that
almost any extension would put the focus point inside the lens--I assume you
don't want to focus on the fifth element. TCs also pose multiple problems,
including loss of autofocus and potential damage to the rear element of the
lens. In short, the only thing you can add to this lens are filters
(including things like a Canon 500D close-up lens).

I further researched the Canon 500D close-up lens. This is a high quality
lens with two elements. I found it referenced many times in association with
the 18-200 lens. I ordered one, along with a Nikon D200 and 18-200 lens from
B&H yesterday and will experiment with both the extension tubes and the
500D. By the way, B&H sold their allotment of 18-200 lenses in a matter of
hours and the D200s sold out completely in about one day! These are hot
products for sure.

Thanks to all for your help.

"James P. Clark" wrote in message
...
I know there are specific macro lens available and it's the best solution
if you can afford one. The issue with me is that I want one good all-around
lens to lug on a backpacking expedition and I also want to take macro
photographs. I'm looking to conserve weight.

"Thomas T. Veldhouse" wrote in message
news
James P. Clark wrote:
Has anyone had experience with the new Nikon 18-200 VR DX lens with
extension tubes? I'm interested in doing some macro photography and I
know that some lenses perform better than others with extension tubes. I
don't own the lens currently but I'm considering a future purchase. I
own the Kenko DG extension tube set with my Nikon D100 camera and 24-120
VR lens.
Thanks for your help in advance!


I can't say for sure, but I would expect a lot of light loss, as well as
increased distortion as that lens has a large magnification factor (11x).
Why
not consider buying a Micro lens for the job ... you should get one much
cheaper then what you paid for the 18-200 VRII job.

The Nikkor 60mm Micro is an excellent lens. If you really want to narrow
depth of field, consider a longer focal length lens, like the 105mm Micro
(costs a bit more).

--
Thomas T. Veldhouse
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