Cabin camping near Malone, Washington offers wilderness experiences with various accommodations ranging from rustic to well-appointed options. Located in the southern Puget Sound region, the area features dense forests of Douglas fir and Western red cedar with elevations ranging from sea level to 400 feet. Most cabin rentals in the region operate year-round, though winter brings average temperatures around 45°F with frequent rainfall.
What to do
Lakeside recreation at Millersylvania State Park: Just a short drive from Malone, visitors can enjoy Deep Lake activities. "Lots of walking trails and a lake. Many families and kids running free... A bit pricey ($37 peak season) but very convenient if you're in Olympia and need a campsite late/on the fly," notes Anna P. who stayed at Millersylvania State Park Campground.
River exploration at Schafer State Park: The Satsop River provides excellent fishing opportunities for cabin campers. "This campground is located along side the Satsop river. The campsites are nice and the fishing is even better," according to Rich M. who visited Schafer State Park Campground.
Beachcombing at Grayland Beach: For those willing to drive about an hour west, this coastal spot offers unique beach activities. "Great location on an uncrowded beach. Simple, but great facilities. Clean and well organized. Lots of sand dollars," shares Dan N. about his stay at Grayland Beach State Park.
What campers like
Secluded, wooded sites at American Heritage: Cabins set among trees provide privacy not found at other locations. "The lots are well plotted with space and privacy," mentions Steve F. about his experience at American Heritage Campground.
Heated accommodations during winter months: Cold weather doesn't stop cabin camping in this region. "The wood stove keeps you toasty in the cold, the kitchen space is perfect and simple. The windows give you incredible views of the forest," reports Mikal about their October stay at Coffee Creek Community & Gardens.
Access to water activities: Many appreciate the combination of cabin comforts with water access. "We had a pull-through site right across from the dumpster, bathrooms, and camp host. We had decent service for Verizon. There are ample trails throughout the park including a lovely trail along the lake," shares Christina F. about Millersylvania State Park.
What you should know
Seasonal facility changes: Winter operations differ significantly from summer. "The park is on their winter schedule so only sites 1-7 and 226-248 were open. It made for a nice, quiet weekend even though the open sites were 80% full," notes Christina F. about Millersylvania during Thanksgiving weekend.
Bathroom and shower access varies: Not all facilities offer the same level of services. "The only reason for 4 stars instead of 5 is because our site had a huge mud puddle from the road going to the power and water hook-up," Christina F. adds about Millersylvania's winter conditions.
Reservation requirements: "Camp Thunderbird is owned by the Boy Scouts of America and is available for public use. It is located at the base of Summit Lake, with a dock and great swimming spot. There are tent sites, adirondacks, and cabins," explains Rich M. about Camp Thunderbird, which requires advance booking.
Tips for camping with families
Group accommodations: Larger family gatherings need specific spaces. "There's a great big field and lots of trails," mentions Rich M. about Camp Thunderbird's facilities that work well for multi-family outings.
Beach options for kids: The coastal cabins provide safe water play areas. "We were a 5 minute walk from beach. Night time left us listening to the waves breaking on the beach," explains Joseph M. about his family's stay at Grayland Beach State Park Campground.
Playground access: Some locations offer additional recreational facilities. "Not new and fancy but quaint and classic," mentions Yolunde S. about the "old school playground" at American Heritage Campground that families appreciate.
Tips from RVers
RV cabin alternatives: When RV sites are full, cabins provide backup options. "The tent sites are hit or miss on size. Some are way too small for a tent and some are huge and can easily fit 3 tents. Bathrooms are centrally located and clean," explains Deanna M. about Belfair State Park Campground.
Water and electrical connections: Hookup accessibility can be challenging at some locations. "The only reason for 4 stars instead of 5 is because our site had a huge mud puddle from the road going to the power and water hook-up," Christina F. cautions about Millersylvania State Park.
Self-contained requirements at some properties: "The website says it all - family owned for years. Cute place, very friendly and helpful staff. Some sites are better than others, which is normal these days. Only downside for some is that there are no restrooms, so campers, trailers, RVs must have their own bathroom," Sue G. notes about Offut Lake Resort.