Cabin camping near Cougar, Washington puts visitors within 20 miles of Mount St. Helens' south side attractions, with elevations ranging from 850 to 1,200 feet. Winter temperatures can drop below freezing with significant snowfall limiting access to some cabin sites between November and April. The area sits within Gifford Pinchot National Forest where the Lewis River provides both scenic views and recreational opportunities.
What to do
Hiking the volcanic landscape: Access trails to Ape Cave, Lava Canyon, and other geological features from Eagle Cliff Campground. "The camp store had lots of knowledge about local hikes and what roads were open around MSH," noted a visitor about their hiking preparations.
Swimming in summer months: Several cabin locations offer access to Yale Lake and the Lewis River. At Battle Ground Lake State Park Campground, "they have a cool volcanic lake with a swimming area and great fishing. Its like a mini crater lake. I mean mini like pond size," reports Ashley Y.
Seasonal fishing: Mayfield Lake provides trout and bass fishing opportunities year-round. Brian B. at Battle Ground Lake State Park Campground confirms the "great fishing! Trout, bass, blue gill" available nearby.
Winter camping: Some cabins remain accessible during winter months. "Rolled in January 1st. Self pay. About 5 sites with power and water. We got a nice level one. There are only 5 other sites in the whole campground occupied. Short walk to the lake to fish. Beautiful and quiet... And 25 degrees," shares Chris J. about winter camping.
What campers like
Proximity to Mount St. Helens activities: Cabin sites around Cougar provide convenient access to volcanic features. A visitor at Eagle Cliff Campground appreciated that "Ranger gave us detail on ape caves, and other area hikes for kids, AND ranger was cool enough to tell us all about his Bigfoot experience in the area, complete with mobile phone picture of footprint!"
On-site food options: Some cabin locations have cafes or pizza service. "The food at the cafe was delicious!" notes Robert about their dining experience at a local cabin resort.
Pool access during summer: Several cabin rentals include swimming pool amenities. Bill T. at Lone Fir Resort highlighted the "laundry pool table video games swimming pool full bar restaurant that will deliver to your campsite!"
Recreational activities: Many cabin sites provide additional entertainment options. "There are a few cabins that can be rented. Nice playgrounds on site, soccer field, TP, and the like," explains Brian C. about the Lewis River Campground.
What you should know
Cabin reservation requirements: Most cabins require advance booking, especially from May through September. "We picked this campsite as our last stop on a week long camping trip round Rainer and St. Helens area," explains Marcus M. about planning their cabin stay at Eagle Cliff.
Bathroom facilities vary: Cabin options range from private bathrooms to shared campground facilities. At Cougar RV Park and Campground, "There are two bathrooms of one toilet, shower area combined. The shower is coin operated so unless you plan ahead with quarters you are out of luck."
Water access differences: Not all cabin sites offer direct water access. "There's not much beach access from the campground that we saw, but there's a lovely beach area with boat landing and playground in a separate part of the park," notes Lisa K. about one location.
Cell service limitations: Coverage varies significantly between cabin sites. "We couldn't get wifi at our site, but we didn't care," reported one visitor about their cabin experience.
Tips for camping with families
Pack extra clothing layers: Temperature fluctuations can be significant, especially in spring and fall. At Paradise Point State Park Campground, "This is a nice little campground with all the usual amenities: fire pits, trees, ranger station. It's basically two different types of campgrounds in one," notes Brian C., highlighting the need to prepare for varied conditions.
Check for seasonal activities: Many cabins offer special programming during summer months. "At night the campground had a great Junior Ranger program with a very enthusiastic park ranger that kept the almost 50 people/kids entertained," shares Ashley B. about their family experience.
Bring quarters for showers: Some cabins rely on coin-operated shower facilities. "The showers are available at a cost. It's not bad at all, easy to use," reports Susan P. about one cabin location.
Select cabins near playgrounds: Several campgrounds feature play equipment. "The campground has a huge playground and picnic area," notes Suzanne S., making these locations ideal for families with young children.
Tips from RVers
Plan for limited cabin privacy: Cabins at many locations may be positioned close together. "Some camp sites did not accommodate for multiple tents because uneven grounds and tree stumps," explains Susan P. about site limitations that affect RVers with additional tents.
Check electricity options: Not all cabins offer the same power capabilities. At Ike Kinswa State Park Campground, "We were in loop D, which was the only open loop along with the cabins. This is a partial hook-up loop. Full hook-ups are in loop A," clarifies Christina F.
Verify access for larger vehicles: Some cabin areas have restricted access. "The campground is heavily wooded which is really nice for shade, though it can make it tricky to get into a spot if you have slide outs," warns Christina F. about navigating wooded cabin areas.
Consider noise factors: Location relative to roads impacts cabin stays. "Freeway is really really close to the whole camp site. You can hear vehicles at night. If you're a light sleeper or need nature noises when camping - this is not the site for you," advises Susan P.
