Cabin camping options near Kenmore, Washington provide overnight accommodations within 30-50 miles of the city. The region features a mix of state and county parks with cabin facilities situated among the foothills of the Cascade Mountains and along various waterways. Annual rainfall averages 37 inches, creating lush forested settings for most cabin sites, while summer temperatures typically range from 70-85°F during peak camping season.
What to do
Beach exploration and swimming: At Deception Pass State Park Campground, cabins are within walking distance of both saltwater beaches and freshwater swimming areas. "We stayed in the Quarry Pond area... trails to the bridge and beaches leave from right next to the sites," reports a visitor. "Cranberry Lake has a designated swimming area where the water is super shallow and just perfect for the kiddos."
Historical exploration: Fort Flagler Historical State Park Campground offers cabin guests access to military history exhibits. "The most fun is exploring all the gun batteries. We did the tour and it was very informative. Lots of history and there are even a few geocaches. There is also a museum," notes one camper. The fort provides an educational component to cabin stays.
Wildlife viewing: Watch for elk and other wildlife at Dosewallips State Park Campground. According to a reviewer, "Campground has elk that walk through it and is right on the river. There are several hiking trails that start from the campground." Elk are frequently spotted near cabin areas, especially in early morning and evening hours.
What campers like
Spacious sites: Many cabin campers praise the roomy nature of sites at Tall Chief Campground. "We can easily fit our trailer, tow vehicle, and extra vehicle and still have space!" remarks a visitor. The cabins here provide more separation from neighbors than at some more compact parks.
Clean facilities: Flowing Lake Park & Campground maintains well-kept cabins and restrooms. "Flushing toilets and showers. Lake access with boat launch and fishing dock. Small loop trail," explains a reviewer. Another adds, "The cabins are heated and have bunk beds, which makes for a cozy retreat into nature in the winter."
Family-friendly amenities: Tolt MacDonald Park offers cabins plus unique accommodations. "They offer the typical primitive campsites with fire pits and picnic tables, as well as yurts and shipping container conversions for those who want more of a 'GLAMping' outdoor experience," notes a camper. The park provides garden carts to help transport gear across its signature bridge.
What you should know
Reservation requirements: Most cabin sites near Kenmore require advance bookings, particularly during summer months. For Deception Pass State Park, a visitor advises, "The reservation system is super easy to use... definitely going to want to visit again in the summer." Some parks restrict minimum stays during peak seasons.
Noise considerations: Several parks experience periodic noise. At Deception Pass State Park Campground, "The only downside is the noise from the naval base nearby. You'll hear jets overhead on a regular basis." A camper notes, "The jets do shut off around 5 pm and there is plenty of quiet time from that point on."
Winter options: Many cabin facilities remain open year-round, providing heated shelter during colder months. "We typically visit the cabins here in the winter, so we don't usually partake in the summer activities of swimming, boating, etc., but we do love coming here in the winter," reports a Flowing Lake Park visitor.
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Fay Bainbridge Park offers cabin stays near play equipment. "Good place for families that looks to be kept really clean... There is a ship playground for the kids and beach volleyball court," notes one reviewer. Another adds, "Amazing kids area pirate ship. Great beach walk and good camp sites."
Diverse accommodations: Family groups can choose between standard cabins and alternative options. At Tolt MacDonald, "Spent a night in the yurt. Everything worked," reports one visitor. These options provide more comfortable sleeping arrangements for families with young children or older relatives.
Winter cabin activities: Flowing Lake cabins offer heated winter getaways. "The cabins are heated and have bunk beds, which makes for a cozy retreat into nature in the winter," shares a camper. Many cabins remain accessible during off-season periods when tent camping would be challenging.
Tips from RVers
Hookup limitations: Not all cabin areas provide full RV hookups. At Tall Chief Campground, "No sewer connections which can be a bummer, but the nice bathrooms make up for it. The staff are always super nice and helpful." Many sites offer electric and water, but not sewer connections.
Cell reception: Coverage varies significantly within parks. A Tall Chief visitor advises, "Another thing that can be annoying is trying to find a site with good cell reception due to all the trees. They definitely have a few, but I would say arrive early so you can drive by all the sites while checking to make sure you have good reception if you need it."
Site selection strategy: For those bringing both RVs and using cabins for additional guests, site selection matters. At Dosewallips State Park, "RV sites are blacktop and level. Some sites have partial hookups without septic. Dump station is on site," notes one camper. Some parks offer special arrangements for groups using both cabins and RV sites.
