Cabins near Bonney Lake sit at elevations between 400-800 feet in the western Cascade foothills. Most cabins remain accessible year-round with standard weather challenges from October through March including rain and occasional snow. Winter temperatures typically range from 30-45°F while summer highs reach 75-85°F in July and August when cabin reservations are most competitive.
What to do
Riverside activities: At Kanaskat-Palmer State Park, campers can observe skilled kayakers navigate challenging river sections. "Short hike to river spots that are perfect for wading or fishing. 10 minute drive from Deep Lake which is beautiful and great for swimming and paddle boarding," notes Ashlie M., highlighting the park's water recreation options.
Fishing opportunities: Elkamp Eastcreek provides multiple fishing access points along the nearby creek and river. According to one visitor, "Lots of great fishing spots" along the trails that wrap around the river. The location puts anglers within a 20-minute drive of several stocked lakes.
Lake recreation: At Lake Sawyer Resort, the lakefront location offers swimming and boating options. Sarah R. mentioned the natural beauty: "Misty mornings and gorgeous sunsets. Loved our spot right next to the lake." Boat rentals are available during summer months.
What campers like
Privacy between sites: Kanaskat-Palmer State Park offers secluded cabin areas with natural vegetation barriers. "The spaces are very private and spread out. Everything is clean including the bathrooms," notes Jeff O. This separation provides more isolation than many other cabin locations in the area.
Heated facilities: Many cabin campers appreciate access to heated bathroom facilities during cooler months. Laura M. shares that "Showers are hot and free, and there's a free dump and potable water fill as well," making off-season stays more comfortable at Kanaskat-Palmer State Park.
Clean facilities: Elkamp Eastcreek maintains exceptionally clean restroom facilities. Shannon H. states, "Elkamp was very clean with the nicest campground bathrooms we have ever experienced." This attention to cleanliness extends to cabin areas and common spaces as well.
What you should know
Reservation requirements: Most cabin facilities require advance booking, especially during summer months. At Camp Lakeview, one reviewer noted, "We made a next day reservation due to the weather and just wanted a night away," indicating that last-minute bookings are sometimes possible during off-peak times.
Alcohol restrictions: While many campgrounds allow alcohol consumption, Camp Lakeview prohibits alcohol on the property. According to visitor Hilde H., "You can't drink any alcohol here," which differs from policies at other nearby cabin locations.
Cell service variability: Reception varies significantly between cabin locations. At Kanaskat-Palmer State Park, one camper reported "Great cell service if you have TMobile" while another noted "Zero cell reception here for ATT and Verizon" at different locations within the same park.
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Tolt MacDonald Park offers year-round cabin rentals with family amenities nearby. "Love this campground! So beautiful here and peaceful!" notes TreverNkatie M. The park includes playground equipment, hiking trails, and river access within walking distance of cabin accommodations.
Swimming options: Camp Lakeview provides designated swimming areas appropriate for children. Julia B. explains, "A small beach with a large dock was available for use during the day as well as a boat launch and fishing dock. The weekends get very busy but during the weeks it is a cozy little community."
Activity diversity: Several cabin locations feature multiple recreation options for different age groups. Molly N. writes about Camp Lakeview: "This campground has super friendly staff, decent bathrooms and showers, laundry facility, access to a lake, fishing is welcome, swimming allowed, great playground for kids."
Tips from RVers
Hookup limitations: At Holiday Park Military - Lewis McChord Base, cabins include various utility hookups. "Good little camp ground on post with almost everything you need. It is in the wilderness, on the lake, but it is also fairly close to stores and gas stations," notes Tristan R., highlighting the convenience factor for those with military access.
Winter accessibility: Tall Chief Campground cabins remain accessible during cooler months. "It feels like you are deep in the PNW rainforest but you close to amenities and shopping," says Adele W., noting the combination of forested seclusion and practical access to services year-round.
Limited services: Some cabin locations restrict service hours during off-peak seasons. Sarah Claire B. mentioned about Elkamp Eastcreek: "The office has pretty limited hours but I think it's family run and it's small is I get it. The office is really cute if you do go inside though!" Plan ahead for check-in time constraints.
