Cabin camping near Lopez Island, Washington provides access to both forested sites and waterfront options. The San Juan Islands experience a rain shadow effect, receiving approximately 20-25 inches of annual rainfall, significantly less than nearby Seattle. Winter cabin stays typically see temperatures between 35-45°F, while summer months average 65-75°F with extended daylight hours from May through September.
What to do
Kayaking at Deception Pass: Rent kayaks to explore marine wildlife and currents. At Deception Pass State Park Campground, a visitor noted, "I ended a two week long sea kayaking expedition here in the fall. We even spent a few hours playing in the current that rips through Deception Pass."
Beach exploration: Walk the sandy shores for marine life observation. "There are lots of beaches to walk and trails to hike. The little store right outside the camp has amazing salmon," reports a camper who visited in late summer.
Lighthouse visits: Tour historic lighthouses for maritime history. "You are also close to the Point Wilson Lighthouse," notes a winter visitor who appreciated the stargazing opportunities due to "little light pollution" near cabin areas.
Marine wildlife watching: Scan for otters, seals and marine birds from shoreline cabins. A visitor at Fort Worden State Park observed "so much wildlife: otters, deer, crab (lots of baby crabs everywhere!!) and starfish."
What campers like
Hot soaking opportunities: Natural hot springs and soaking tubs provide relaxation after hiking. At Doe Bay Resort & Retreat, one camper mentioned, "The spa is lovely and I highly recommend soaking and getting a massage if you have the time."
Shellfishing access: Collect fresh seafood during low tides with proper permits. "This has to be one of my all time favorite places for Shell Fishing and Crabbing! Don't forget your Shellfish license and hit those beaches at low tide, because dinner is going to be delicious," notes a reviewer at Birch Bay State Park Campground.
Winter cabin stays: Off-season cabin reservations offer quieter experiences with fewer crowds. "The only campground open in the winter at Deception Pass State Park is the Quarry Pond area. And even though the weather was wet and cold the campground was far from empty during our stay."
Cabin amenities: Various comfort levels from rustic to well-appointed. A visitor at Lopez Farm Cottages & Tent Camping reported, "This wonderful lady has the task of keeping the bathroom and the general area of all these campsites cleaned up and ready for their next guests."
What you should know
Naval air noise: Jets from nearby bases create intermittent noise. "Definitely worth a stay with its proximity to the beach, stargazing, hiking. The whole area feels magical. The only downside is the noise from the naval base nearby. You'll hear jets overhead on a regular basis."
Ferry reservations: Vehicle ferry access requires advance planning, especially for summer cabin stays. Reservations typically open two months before travel dates.
Limited cell coverage: Spotty service across the islands affects navigation. At La Conner RV, a visitor noted, "Cell reception is bad but there are businesses and the library in La Conner where cell reception is good."
Seasonal facility closures: Not all cabin amenities operate year-round. "Amenities are closed due to COVID, we're looking forward to coming back in the summer and hopefully when amenities are open."
Tips for camping with families
Activity stations: Some resorts offer organized family crafts. At Lakedale Resort, a family reported, "We had an amazing time. Our 4 year old daughter really enjoyed the activities that were offered, we made family matching tie dies, she made bird feeders, we rented a paddle boat one day and a row boat a different day."
Beach safety awareness: Tidal changes create varying conditions for children. "Cranberry Lake has a designated swimming area where the water is super shallow and just perfect for the kiddos."
Cabin bed configurations: Family-sized cabins have varying sleeping arrangements. "Our tent also had a bathroom with a toilet and shower, an electric heater, a trundle bed/couch, and electrical outlets."
Junior Ranger programs: Educational activities for children at state parks. "Kids of all ages should do the Junior Ranger program which the Gift Shop has the packets."
Tips from RVers
Site leveling challenges: Some cabin and RV sites require adjustment. At North Whidbey RV Park, a visitor noted, "We were in RV spot C-22 and it was quite a tight and unlevel location. The pavement on the grounds is not in great condition with lots of bumps and ditches, but we were able to finagle our trailer to a stable spot."
Limited sewer connections: Full hookups aren't guaranteed at all sites. "This is my first time using a thousand trails membership so I didn't know what to expect. But it was disappointing to find that the few sites that have a sewer connection were all taken and no way to know this in advance."
Year-round accessibility: Some sites accommodate winter cabin and RV camping. "We called early afternoon and asked if they had a space for that night for a fifth wheel with total rig length 53ft. Nice grass around all the campsites, 50 Amp electricity, water and sewer."
