Cabin camping near Lake Tapps, Washington offers visitors access to the glacial lake spanning 2,200 acres with an average depth of 35 feet. The area experiences mild summers with typical temperatures between 70-85°F, making it popular from May through September. Winter cabin options remain available with fewer crowds and temperatures averaging 35-45°F during December through February.
What to do
Water recreation options: Most cabin sites near Lake Tapps provide access to water activities including fishing, swimming and boating. At Elkamp Eastcreek, visitors can enjoy "a gentle creek" while staying in well-maintained cabins. One camper noted, "The meadow over the bridge is a hidden delight. Constant attention to the grounds regularly."
Mount Rainier access: Cabins at Elkamp Eastcreek serve as excellent bases for mountain exploration, located "within minutes of the Nisquilly entrance" to Mount Rainier National Park. As one camper mentioned, "It would be a great base for exploring the south side of Mt. Rainier."
Winter activities: Many cabin options remain open year-round, with Grove Getaways especially suited for colder months. A visitor observed, "The yurt was lovely but it's definitely meant for the cooler months," highlighting its appeal during non-peak seasons when other facilities close.
What campers like
Military-exclusive options: Service members can access specialized cabin facilities at Lewis North Travel Camp which offers competitive rates and additional amenities. A military camper reported, "Great place! Very friendly next to the lake plenty of things to do walking, biking, hiking, fishing, Military museums, not to far off of I-5. Full hookups laundry shower facilities."
Clean facilities: Many visitors praise the exceptional maintenance at Kanaskat-Palmer State Park, with one camper sharing, "Beautiful, clean campground. 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."
Woodland settings: Cabins at Tall Chief Campground provide forest immersion despite proximity to urban areas. As one visitor described, "It feels like you are deep in the PNW rainforest but you close to amenities and shopping."
What you should know
Reservation policies: Lake Sawyer Resort has a strict cancellation policy requiring 7 days' notice, with no exceptions. One camper warned, "Since I made the reservation 4 days prior to the trip, with their horrible policy, I couldn't EVER cancel and get my$ back."
Seasonal considerations: While summer remains most popular for cabin camping, spring and fall offer greater availability. At Kanaskat-Palmer State Park, a camper reported, "We got lucky and snagged the very last spot here on a Saturday in late September."
Cell reception variability: Service can vary significantly between cabin sites, even within the same campground. At Tall Chief Campground, a visitor noted, "I'm getting 120+ mbs download on AT&T in my site right now, but several sites down from me, it can dwindle down to 5mbs!"
Tips for camping with families
Park ranger presence: Camp Lakeview offers family-friendly supervision and facilities. According to one visitor, "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, allows pets."
Activity options: Multiple campgrounds feature recreation facilities beyond just cabin accommodations. At Camp Lakeview, a camper observed, "There is a playground next to a volleyball court and basketball court. A small beach with a large dock was available for use during the day as well as a boat launch and fishing dock."
Privacy considerations: Family cabins vary in seclusion, with some offering greater separation than others. At Kanaskat-Palmer State Park, campers appreciate that "the sites are large with lots of trees" and that "the sites are large and pretty private with vegetation between them."
Tips from RVers
Power requirements: Cabin campers using electrical appliances should note varying power capabilities. At Tall Chief Campground, an RVer cautioned, "The majority of the sites are only 30 amp with antiquated posts. There are a few 50 amp sites but from what I saw they were all taken by RVers that are there on a more permanent basis."
Dump station access: For cabins without private bathrooms, knowing bathroom and shower proximity matters. At Kanaskat-Palmer State Park, a camper noted, "It has 6 very clean individual (one person) bathrooms with a shower in each" and another mentioned, "Showers are hot and free, and there's a free dump and potable water fill as well."
Extended stay options: Some facilities accommodate longer-term cabin arrangements with special rates or services. At Tall Chief Campground, a visitor shared, "For a longer term parking solution, this park was okay. Full hookups weren't always available. Sites are spacious but not always private."
