CampFAQ
Here are a handful of questions that we've been asked in the past. If you have any questions that this doesn't answer, please email info@toorcamp.org. We have also created a Google Group and Discord Chat for discussing planning, general questions about the camp, and announcements.
Where?
Where exactly is the camp?
ToorCamp is located at Doe Bay Resort & Spa in Orcas Island, WA.
What airport should I fly into?
Please see the Travel page
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. 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?
Check out the Site Photos. 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 (all Doe Bay water is potable)
- 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
- Plain Old Telephone, fax machine, modem, BBS, etc.
Can I bring an RV?
There is a limited number of drive-in campsites that are large enough to park a small RV or camper (maximum 25 feet long). 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.
Can I book a cabin?
Most cabins with a toilet and shower go to groups over 10. It's mainly to make sure we maintain a good butt to potty ratio to minimize the impact on public restrooms and spaces. So a lot of the cabins are reserved for our staff, sponsors, and villages. For everyone else with large groups or villages of 10+ people, email cabins@toorcon.org to request a cabin. Cabins and yurts are limited so deluxe cabins with running water are reserved leaving only the rustic ones with no plumbing. We'll try our best to accommodate any special needs.
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 lot 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 Registration.
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 david@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 or run workshops unless they are traveling overseas or are students. 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 david@toorcon.org to discuss how we can help.
I'm under 18, am I allowed to come?
There are quite a bit of activities for teens and young adults. 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!
Can I bring my dog?
Please see ToorCamp Dogs. ToorCamp loves dogs, but there are a limited number of dogs allowed and we have some rules and regulations. Most importantly, please register your dog by emailing david@toorcon.org to ensure they can come. Registering your dog does not guarantee they will be allowed to come.
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, parking, 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.
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.