The Olympic Peninsula offers diverse cabin options near Sequim, Washington, ranging from beachfront accommodations to forested retreats. The area sits in a rain shadow created by the Olympic Mountains, receiving just 16 inches of rainfall annually compared to 140+ inches on the western side of the peninsula. Winter temperatures typically range between 30-45°F while summer temperatures hover around 60-75°F, making cabin camping viable year-round.
What to do
Explore historic military installations: Fort Worden Historical State Park features preserved gun batteries and a lighthouse alongside beach access. "Fort Casey provides a wonderful journey to the past. The guns and lighthouse give many hours of exploration. The expansive grass fields allow a place to run our dog and fly kites," notes one visitor who stayed at Fort Casey Campground.
Wildlife viewing: The Olympic Peninsula hosts diverse wildlife near Sequim cabin rentals. "We could spend so many hours exploring the buildings and beaches! Also saw so much wildlife: otters, deer, crab (lots of baby crabs everywhere!!) and starfish," reports a camper at Fort Worden Historical State Park.
Ferry adventures: Many cabin accommodations sit near ferry terminals for day excursions. A Fort Casey visitor suggests: "It would also be a great day excursion to walk onto the ferry and spend the day walking around and exploring Port Townsend, it's about a 30 min ferry boat ride."
What campers like
Beach proximity: Several Sequim area cabin sites offer direct beach access. A visitor to Fort Flagler Historical State Park commented, "From arriving to leaving it was a great experience. Beach front camping, old fort to explore, and endless outdoor opportunities."
Seasonal winter camping: Off-season cabin stays offer quieter experiences with fewer crowds. "We went in winter and it rained a lot, but still got out to explore the bunkers and the beach. Beach front sites and more trees sites. Bikes are helpful to explore the whole park. Quiet island history!" shares a winter visitor to Fort Flagler.
Stargazing opportunities: Clear night skies enhance cabin stays in less developed areas. A winter camper at Fort Worden noted, "We had beautifully clear skies and little light pollution so it was really nice for stargazing. There are two gun batteries right next to the campground and a trail right out to the beach."
What you should know
Noise considerations: Some cabin locations experience periodic noise from nearby transportation. At Fort Casey, one visitor reported, "For over two hours, we were treated to intermittent but frequent LOUD jets flying close to the ground. We both had headaches and our dogs were upset."
Seasonal availability: Winter access changes at certain parks with limited facilities. A camper at Deception Pass State Park advised, "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."
Site selection matters: Location within a campground significantly affects experience. "Do not choose a site by the cabins or field, you will be disappointed. Choose a large site by the river!" recommends a visitor to Dosewallips State Park about cabin placement.
Tips for camping with families
Kid-friendly exploration: Historical sites provide educational opportunities alongside cabin accommodations. "Fun and safe campground. Near the beach with a small aquarium open on the weekend. The family had a blast," states a visitor to Fort Worden about family activities.
Community gardens: Some cabin sites offer unique agricultural experiences. A visitor to Elwha Dam RV Park appreciated that "They have a veggie garden to share, lots of outdoor activity areas and places to explore within walking distance. It's a great base camp for exploring the peninsula."
Winter cabin stays: Sequim area cabins provide all-season options for families. "We went for a winter meet-up with my local teardrop trailer group. As mentioned in other reviews, the beach campground is very open with little privacy between spots, but there is quite a bit of space," notes a winter visitor to Fort Worden.
Tips from RVers
Noise barriers: Road noise affects some cabin locations differently than others. A visitor at Salish Trails Campground advised, "The freeway is about a hundred yards away from the 50 amp pull through sites we were in. This section is the closest, hence all the noise day and at night. I had my white noise machine and fan on and I could still hear the trucks."
Connectivity considerations: Cell service varies widely at cabin locations. "WiFi is good, not great but that's not why we're there," noted a visitor to Elwha Dam RV Park, while another mentioned "Tmobile had 2-3 of 5g so plenty good to download or watch movies."
Winter hookups: Winter cabin campers should verify utility availability. A Fort Casey visitor shared, "Website said water was turned off at the sites but all sites still had water. Nice hosts that left us alone. Docks are pulled out of the water during winter months. Upper campground is closed during winter."
