Frequently Asked Questions
Pre Conference
Will there be food available for the pre-conference classes?
Yes, the price is $5 per meal.
Will there be camping available during the pre-conference?
Yes, price is $7 per day.
How do I pay for pre-conference meals and camping?
The fees for meals and camping are included when you register for pre-conference classes.
How do I register for pre-conference classes?
Follow the instructions on the Pre-Conference page.
Do I need to register for the main conference if I am taking a pre-conference class?
Yes. If you plan to attend the main conference you will need to register and pay the registration fee.
Where do I find a copy of the pre-conference classes?
Visit the Pre-Conference page.
Conference
What is included with my full registration fee?
The conference, camping and seven meals.
Where is the conference being held?
The 2009 conference is located at Dragon’s Sphere park, south of Randle, Washington. This park has previously been used by groups for medieval reenactments. The park has 300 acres of land, which includes open fields, timber, a great hall, and the Cowlitz River. Get Direction here »
Has Lewis County hosted the conference before?
Yes, this is our fourth conference. (1997, 2000, 2004, and 2009)
What is hands-on training?
We have over 300 acres of property on-site to offer a wide variety of training, which includes hands-on experiences and not just lectures.
What can I purchase at the conference?
Vendors will have various merchandise for sale. You can also buy your conference t-shirt and hat at Registration. Vendors may accept credit cards, however only cash or checks will be accepted for the conference t-shirt and hat.
K9 – Hot Loads?
To hot load your dog, proof of attending a previous helicopter class or attending the class at the conference is required. Prior proof may consist of a letter from your County SAR Coordinator or some type of identification issued by your SAR Coordinator listing your helicopter certification. A HELMET and EYE PROTECTION are REQUIRED.
Special Activities?
On Friday night we will gather at the Great Hall for music and fun. On Saturday night we will have a special demonstration followed by our parade of units in the camping area. Units are encouraged to decorate their vehicles and join the parade. Afterwards we will gather at the Great Hall for fun and activities.
Awards?
Several special awards will be presented for the following:
Best Camp Display – Best decorated / cleanest camp or group
Longest Distance – Longest distance traveled to conference site for registered attendee
Will there be a SAR Olympics?
A course will be prepared for teams to compete for bragging rights.
Food / Meals
What kind of food will be served?
Visit the Meal Menu page for information.
Can meals be purchased for someone not attending classes?
Yes, click on Conference Registration for more information.
Special Diets?
Vegetarian options will be available at all meals.
Camping
What are the camping rates?
Camping fee is included in your registration price.
What is available in the camping area?
The site provides primitive camping only. Portable restrooms will be located throughout the area. Water is available; however there are no showers on site.
Are fires allowed?
Yes. Bring your own free-standing fire ring, which must be above ground. Fire rings cannot burn the grass, so concrete blocks are recommended to keep the fire ring from touching the ground. We cannot dig holes in the ground. We will attempt to provide some fire rings on a first come basis.
Are dogs allowed?
Yes, dogs are allowed, but they must be on a leash and controlled by the owner. A designated area will be available to run your dogs off leash. You are responsible for cleaning up after your dog.
Road conditions?
All of the roads leading to the park are State or County Roads except the last 2 ½ miles, which is a gravel, one-lane logging road with turn outs.
Cell phones?
US Cellular, Nextel / Sprint function in the area.
If there is an emergency at home what telephone number should be used to contact me at the SAR Conference?
We recommend your personal cell phone number, however individuals can call our dispatch center at 360-740-1105 and we will be contacted.
Are there motels nearby?
Yes, most of the motels in the area are in Packwood, which is about 20 miles away. You can find more information by visiting the Lodging & Camping page.