Cabin camping near Vashon, Washington ranges from waterfront accommodations to forest retreats within easy driving distance. The region maintains average summer temperatures of 55-75°F, making it ideal for year-round overnight stays. Most cabin locations provide access to the Puget Sound shoreline where temperature fluctuations are moderated by surrounding waters.
What to do
Explore beach trails: At Fay Bainbridge Park, visitors can walk along shoreline paths with mountain views. "There is a ship playground for the kids and beach volleyball court," notes Brandon K., who appreciates the waterfront access near cabin sites.
Fish for seasonal catches: The Green River at Kanaskat-Palmer State Park offers designated fishing spots accessible from cabin areas. "Big entertainment for three boys who explored the woods and played on the rocks and in the eddy pools at the public river take-out," writes Julie M. about the river access.
Wildlife viewing: Cabin campers at Dosewallips State Park Campground can observe local wildlife from established viewing platforms. "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 Amy & Stu B.
What campers like
Heated facilities: Winter cabin stays benefit from climate-controlled bathrooms at Kanaskat-Palmer State Park. "Bathrooms in that loop were pretty nice... heated and very clean," reports Jay F., highlighting the comfort available during colder months.
Privacy between sites: Cabin areas at Tolt MacDonald Park offer separation between accommodations. "Those bucolic woods are our backyard," writes Mercedes D., who appreciated the park's well-maintained trails and facilities.
Lake access: Waterfront cabin options at Lewis North Travel Camp provide direct lake views. "It has a beautiful view of the lake. It's also not too far from the commissary and gas station," explains Missy C., though noting some infrastructure challenges.
What you should know
Reservation requirements: Most cabins require advance booking, particularly during summer months when availability becomes limited. "We made a next day reservation due to the weather and just wanted a night away," states Emma Y. about Lewis North Travel Camp, adding that "only some of the sites have fire rings (so make sure to ask when making your reservation)."
Varied utilities: Cabin sites offer different hookup configurations depending on location. At Belfair State Park Campground, "the tent loop is also quite nice and a bit more private but we have not stayed there," notes Doug, who prefers waterfront locations despite fewer amenities.
Road conditions: Some cabin access roads may flood seasonally. "Some of the best spots are prone to flooding on the road but if you have a raised vehicle like a truck or SUV it should be a non-issue," explains Michael B. about Dosewallips State Park Campground.
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Several cabin locations feature dedicated play structures for children. "Amazing kids area pirate ship. Great beach walk and good camp sites," Tanya B. mentions about Fay Bainbridge Park's amenities for younger visitors.
Beach wading areas: Shallow water access points provide safer swimming options for children. "The beach was great, water is rather warm for in the sound, it's also pretty shallow which is great for the kids to play in," explains Leah H. about Belfair State Park Campground.
Activity options: Tall Chief Campground offers multiple recreation facilities near cabin sites. "The pool, miniature golf, playground and basketball were great. Laundry facilities came in handy," shares Isabel G. about the amenities available.
Tips from RVers
Electrical capacity: Cabin sites with electrical hookups vary in amperage offerings. "We ended up here during a heat wave and an entire section of the park blew after having several days of power issues," reports Derek & Alex W. about Tall Chief Campground, suggesting awareness of power limitations.
Parking configurations: Vehicle access varies between cabin sites. "RV sites 1, 2, 4, 9, and 11 will be easier to back in to. The other full hook up sites are 90° approaches," advises K D. about Kitsap Memorial State Park Campground.
Water pressure considerations: Cabin sites may have variable water service levels. "Water pressure is low, averaging just over 20psi," notes a review of Kitsap Memorial State Park Campground, suggesting visitors plan accordingly.
