Cabin accommodations near Tacoma range from military-exclusive facilities to public state parks. These cabins provide varying levels of amenities depending on location, with most situated within established campgrounds at elevations between 300-1,200 feet. Winter temperatures average 45°F with summer reaching 75°F, making cabin camping a viable option year-round with proper preparation.
What to do
Water activities at Dosewallips State Park: Access to both river and beach for swimming, fishing, and kayaking just steps from cabin sites. "There are several hiking trail loops but the most appropriate for us was the beach trail which is maybe 2 miles to the beach and back. Be careful what season you decide to make reservations and scout the campsite beforehand if you can," notes a visitor at Dosewallips State Park Campground.
Visit local attractions: Camp Lakeview serves as a convenient base for exploring Mount Rainier National Park, approximately one hour away. The campground offers "access to a lake, fishing is welcome, swimming allowed, great playground for kids," according to a reviewer who appreciated its proximity to larger attractions.
Hiking at Millersylvania State Park: Miles of walking trails through old-growth forest connect to a scenic lake with swimming areas. "Nice state forest with old growth. Lots of walking trails and a lake. Many families and kids running free. Quieted down around 10pm," reports a camper who found the park's trail system accessible directly from cabin sites.
What campers like
Privacy levels: Cabins at Kanaskat-Palmer State Park offer varying degrees of seclusion. "The sites are large with lots of trees. One loop has electricity (no water or sewer hookups but has a dump station) and the other does not," mentions a regular visitor who camps there monthly.
Waterfront views: Beachfront cabins at Fay Bainbridge Park provide direct water access and scenic vistas. "This park has the most tremendous views of Mt. Rainier and Mt. Baker on a clear day and stunning sunrises!" writes an enthusiastic camper who appreciated the panoramic views from their cabin site.
Quiet atmosphere: Many cabin locations offer peaceful settings despite proximity to urban areas. "Beautiful campsite, amazing trails just no cell service," notes a visitor to Millersylvania State Park, highlighting the balance between accessibility and feeling removed from city life.
What you should know
Reservation requirements: Most cabin facilities require advance booking, especially during peak summer months. At Lewis North Travel Camp, "We made reservations online in September. While located in Joint Base Lewis McChord the camp is close enough to I-5 so we had great cell reception," reports a military visitor who planned ahead.
Military access restrictions: Several cabin facilities near Tacoma operate exclusively for military personnel. "Great for those with base access. The tent camp sites were private enough and the laundry and running water/showers were a huge plus!" explains a reviewer at Holiday Park Military.
Utility hookups vary: Cabins offer different levels of amenities depending on location. "Full hookups, sites are a bit close, but the campground loop makes it feel spacious. Clean showers. There is no wifi unless your at the camp office," shares a guest at Holiday Park Military.
Tips for camping with families
Kid-friendly amenities: Look for cabins near playgrounds and safe water access. "Amazing kids area pirate ship. Great beach walk and good camp sites. Be prepared for showers to be closed but the restrooms were open. Can't beat the views," recommends a family who stayed at Fay Bainbridge Park.
Ranger supervision levels: Some parks maintain stricter oversight than others. At Kanaskat-Palmer State Park, "This campground is heavily patrolled by the park rangers. I usually have contact with them in my campsite at least twice a day. 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," advises a parent who camps there regularly.
Wildlife viewing opportunities: Many cabin locations offer chances to see local animals. "Every night, my husband and I would walk to the wildlife viewing platform to see lots of birds, or walk down by the river and see lots of elk and bald eagles," shares a visitor to Dosewallips State Park.
Tips from RVers
Site selection strategy: At Belfair State Park Campground, cabin locations vary significantly. "There's a beach loop for RVs and a woods loop for tents & smaller RVs. Overall pretty quiet, close to town, close to ATV trails & dog friendly," explains a camper who found the different camping sections offered distinct experiences.
Facility cleanliness: Most cabin accommodations maintain clean communal facilities. "The bathrooms were always clean. There's designated dish washing station (though there's no spout right now) and potable water station," notes a visitor to Elkamp Eastcreek who appreciated the attention to maintenance.
Winter accessibility: Many cabin locations remain open year-round with heated facilities. "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," shares a Thanksgiving visitor to Millersylvania State Park who found off-season camping enjoyable despite reduced operations.
