Cabin accommodations near Sumner, Washington range from basic to full-featured sites across several parks and private resorts. Located in the shadow of Mount Rainier at elevations between 400-800 feet, the area maintains relatively mild temperatures even during summer months. Most cabin locations require advance reservations, with booking windows opening 6-9 months ahead for peak season stays.
What to do
River access: Kanaskat-Palmer State Park features trails leading to the Green River with spots suitable for fishing. "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," notes Ashlie M.
Lakeside recreation: At Lake Sawyer Resort, cabin guests can enjoy water activities directly from the property. "If you can look past the rundown bathrooms and strict rules about dogs and everything else, you can appreciate the beauty of Lake Sawyer every morning," reports Sarah R., highlighting the natural setting despite facility limitations.
Hiking options: Many cabins provide easy access to forest trails. At Elkamp Eastcreek, guests find "acres to gorgeous meadow and evening star viewing," according to Susan S., making it an excellent base for exploring trails around the south side of Mount Rainier National Park.
What campers like
Private settings: Cabin rentals at Tolt MacDonald Park offer secluded spots with natural barriers between sites. "The campground, park and trails are very well maintained and they even provide you with garden carts to help you get your stuff across the bridge," explains Mercedes D., referencing the park's unique suspension bridge feature.
Clean facilities: Many cabin guests appreciate well-maintained bathrooms. Shannon H. commented about Elkamp Eastcreek: "Elkamp was very clean with the nicest campground bathrooms we have ever experienced. The shower is coin-operated so bring quarters if you wish to use."
Alternative accommodations: Beyond standard cabins, unique options exist around Sumner. "We stayed in the yurt. Everything worked," reports Chris A. about Tolt MacDonald, which offers yurts as alternatives to traditional cabins for those wanting more structure than tent camping provides.
What you should know
Military-only options: Holiday Park Military offers cabins exclusively for those with military credentials. "Excellent location for those with military access to the base - active duty, retired or family. 30/50 amp hookups. Beautiful views of American Lake. Pet friendly," explains Christine L.
Reservation requirements: Most cabin facilities require advance booking, especially during summer months. The Lewis North Travel Camp experiences high demand: "We made reservations online in Sept. While located in Joint Base Lewis McChord the camp is close enough to I-5 so we had great cell reception," noted Michael C.
Facility variations: Cabin amenities differ significantly between locations. Some provide basic shelter while others include kitchen facilities, electricity and heating. Sarah Claire B. described one location: "The bathrooms were always clean. There's designated dish washing station (though there's no spout right now) and potable water station."
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Camp Lakeview offers family-friendly amenities with cabins. "We stayed at site number C10 A in our tent with our children. It was a very pleasant and quiet. The bath house isn't too far and was usually well stocked and clean. There is a playground next to a volleyball court and basketball court," notes Julia B.
Swimming options: Several cabin sites provide swimming access for children. Molly N. reports that Camp Lakeview "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, has a small store in the office with some essentials."
Noise considerations: Some cabins experience occasional noise disturbances. At Kanaskat-Palmer, Kelly P. explains: "I have been asked by the park rangers at 10:01 p.m. to be quite as myself and three 9 year old girls were talking too loud. My point with this is, if you are a large group, like to stay up late and listen to music and/or party it might not be the campground for you."
Tips from RVers
Cabin alternatives: For those with RVs who might want occasional cabin stays, consider dual-accommodation campgrounds. At Tall Chief Campground, Isabel G. reports: "We had a great time, even stayed an extra night! Our space was nice and gave us some privacy. The pool, miniature golf, playground and basketball were great. Laundry facilities came in handy."
Utility considerations: Many campgrounds offering cabins also provide RV spots with varying hookup options. Derek & Alex W. note about Tall Chief: "Knocking another star as 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."
Supply availability: Cabin and RV visitors can find essential supplies at some locations. At Camp Lakeview, Curtis B. observed: "Quiet and beautiful, the dump site is out of commission but was told I could empty tanks at one of the full hookup sites, roads coming in are narrow. Staff is very friendly and beautiful lake access with swimming and fishing docks."
