CampFAQ

Frequently Asked Questions

Here's a handful of questions that we've been asked in the past few months. If you have any questions that this doesn't answer, please email me at h1kari@toorcon.org. We have also created a Google Group for discussing planning, general questions about the camp, and announcements.

Where?

Where exactly is the camp?

The camp is located at the Doe Bay Resort & Spa in Orcas Island, WA.

What airport should I fly into?

The closest major airports are Bellingham International Airport (BLI) (~1 hour away from the Anacortes Ferry Terminal), Seattle/Tacoma International Airport (SEA) (~2 hours away from the Anacortes Ferry Terminal), Victoria International Airport (YYJ) (~10 min away from the Victoria Ferry Terminal). It can then take up to 90 minutes to get to the island on the Ferry and then another 30 minutes drive from the ferry terminal to the Doe Bay Resort. Also, Kenmore Air provides a transfer from SEA and flight from Boeing Field to Orcas Island. Usually SEA has cheaper flights and rental cars. Victoria, BC is closer but probably more expensive because it's in Canada and you may have more issues with renting cars and driving them into the US. If you're going to be flying into Orcas Island you should post your flight to the Rideshare Forums to see if people want to carpool from the airport on the island which is ~20 minute drive from the Doe Bay Resort. Either way, the drive to the site is absolutely beautiful and it'll give you a chance to experience the picturesque San Juan Islands.

That's far from the airport I'm flying into, how am I supposed to get there??

We're suggesting for people to rent large vehicles and carpool out. To look for people to carpool with, we recommend posting to the ToorCamp Google Group. If anyone wants to rent a larger vehicle and provide transportation for people coming out, please let us know and we'll advertise it on the website.

What?

What is the area like out there?

The area has lots of trees, rocky cliffs and beaches. The camping area has been leveled a bit and there aren't as many trees near the beach. The area is very temperate and gets very little rainfall in June but will probably get fog and could get minor drizzle in the early mornings. Expect the weather to vary between 50-75 degrees and around 3mph wind.

How?

What should we bring?

You should bring everything that you would normally bring when you go camping. Here's an example checklist:

• Water
• Food
• Tent
• Sleeping Bag
• Camping Mattress
• Lantern (preferably non-burning)
• Flashlights (headlights are best)(red headlights are even better)
• Sunscreen
• Bugspray
• Warm clothing (it'll get down to 50 degrees outdoors at night)
• Cash (some food will be available on-site and will be cash-only)
• Plain Old Telephone, fax machine, modem, BBS, etc.

What if I want to bring out an RV?

There's a limited number of reserved campsites that are large enough to park an RV or camper. If you are bringing an RV you will need to purchase an RV parking ticket. A limited number of RVs will be allowed to park on-site, the rest will need to be parked in off-site parking.

Will I be able to park on-site? Because of the number of attendees this year, everyone will need to park in our off-site parking down the street except for a few rare exceptions. We will allow you to drop off your gear on-site when you arrive, then you'll need to proceed immediately to the off-site parking lot. We will have a shuttle running regularly between the off-site parking and the event.

Are camps/people expected to pack out their own trash, or will there be dumpsters with scheduled pickup provided where trash can be dumped?

We would greatly appreciate it if people would pack out their own trash. (Yes, we're talking to you Camp Craigslist -- please don't dump multiple couches in the dumpster on your way out of town this time :-)

Who?

I'm press and I'd like to cover the event, do you offer any press passes?

Please email h1kari@toorcon.org for press registration information.

I'm giving a talk, does this mean I get in for free??

Because of the costs of running the conference we aren't providing free admission to people who speak unless they are traveling overseas or are students. We are trying to help some people running workshops, however, since they require a major time investment with prep, setup, equipment, and running them over the weekend so we are providing free admission to people who run workshops. Either way, if you are speaking, doing a workshop, or organizing any other sort of event and need financial help, we are more than happy to work with you. Please email h1kari@toorcon.org to discuss how we can help.

I'm under 18, am I allowed to come?

We don't have a problem with minors coming to the camp as long as they are escorted by a parent or authorized guardian. Also, children 12 years old and younger are allowed in free! Please make sure to Register!

Can I bring my dog?

Dogs are allowed on the campsite but may be subject to an additional fee if staying in one of the cabins, yurts, or domes and must remain leashed at all times. Also, it's expected that owners pick up after their pets and keep an eye on them at all times. You are responsible for any damage your pet causes.

Why?

Why is ToorCamp so expensive?!

It actually isn't. Most security conferences cost much more, especially for a 5 day conference, and most people also end up paying for expensive hotels while staying at conferences which ends up usually costing much more than the conference admission and/or flight. We are cheaper than most of the other camping events out there let-alone 5 day computer security conferences.

What is included in the ticket cost?

The ticket gets you:

- Camping space - Utilities (Power, Internet, Toilets, Water refill, etc) - Access to all Talks & Workshops - Access to special performances & nighttime events

Note that it does not include any travel, food, beverage, lodging, equipment, etc.

Is there going to be just a weekend ticket?

Because the event is limited to only 600 tickets this year, we will not be providing weekend tickets this time. Also reserved cabins, yurts, domes, and campsites can only be booked for all 4 days of the event. Doe Bay would love it if you want to come early or stay longer, make sure to check with them as they often have discounts for longer stays.

Sponsors

We want to give you a bunch of money to have our name on stuff..

Perfect, we don't mind taking your money. Please email sponsor@toorcon.org to discuss our different sponsorship options.

Liability

What if I get injured at the camp?

We will be providing on-site EMT staff as well as a Fire Marshal and will have proper evacuation plans in place. If you come to the camp, we will do all we can do to make sure you have the safest time possible, but please don't come after us if something happens to you. We would like to continue throwing these events in the future so please take responsibility for your own actions while at ToorCamp.