Cabin camping options near Vashon, Washington provide access to both island and mainland forest experiences. The region averages 40 inches of rainfall annually, creating lush evergreen surroundings and moderate temperatures year-round. Most cabin sites in the area require reservations between 3-6 months in advance during peak summer season, with cabins typically priced between $45-120 per night.
What to do
Trail access: At Collins Campground, riverside trails connect to swimming holes and waterfall viewing opportunities. One camper notes, "There are some great trails in the area as well. The Duckabash trailhead is a short drive from the campground and took two great hikes there during my stay. I hiked up river and found a lovely swimming hole, frigid, but beautiful."
Equestrian activities: Horse camping near Vashon offers trail access for riders at Sahara Creek DNR Horse Camp. A reviewer reports, "Gorgeous site with large sites. However many are reserved for horse campers only. There is also a nice picnic shelter with closable sides for in climate weather and lovely trails. It's also near Mount Rainier."
Water recreation: Tolt MacDonald Park provides river access via a suspension bridge. "You can access the water from both sides of the bridge so don't fret! This park is super close to downtown Redmond so if you are looking for an easy trip, or something a little more remote on the other side of the bridge, this is the spot for you," shares one visitor.
What campers like
Natural surroundings: The South Fork Snoqualmie River dispersed sites offer secluded forest settings. "This spot was truly beautiful. Green as far as the eye can see, with a creek by that provides the perfect white noise to fall asleep to," writes one camper who adds, "The road is fairly accessible, though there are some fairly large potholes that could damage smaller vehicles."
Proximity to attractions: Millersylvania State Park Campground offers a convenient base for exploring. A visitor notes, "This was a great spot right by the park for us to crash for the night. We pulled in on a Tuesday night and there were lots of spots open. Great sites with a table and a fire pit. Multiple bathrooms throughout the area as well."
Campsite layout: Campers appreciate the spacious sites at many equestrian campgrounds near Vashon. "Nice open sites with space for multiple vehicles or trailers. Easy access to ORV trails," reports a visitor to Kammenga Canyon Campground, which accommodates both horse trailers and standard camping setups.
What you should know
Permit requirements: Most Washington DNR horse campgrounds require a Discover Pass. A reviewer clarifies about Sahara Creek: "YOU NEED A WA DISCOVER PASS TO CAMP HERE!!! But it is free with the pass. And there's a gas station 5 minutes down the road in Ashford where you can buy one."
Access conditions: Many roads to horse campgrounds have challenging terrain. At South Fork Snoqualmie River, "Access road is right off the highway and unpaved, has a TON of holes so I wouldn't recommend driving down it without good ground clearance."
Facility limitations: Most horse camps have basic amenities only. "Primitive camping, no water, no restrooms just vault toilets, no trash pickup either so you need to pack everything out," reports a camper at Sahara Creek DNR Horse Camp.
Tips for camping with families
Activity options: Millersylvania State Park provides diverse activities for children. "There are ample trails throughout the park including a lovely trail along the lake, which is not far from the campground," writes one visitor, adding that the park also offers a "nice shallow area and two large swimming areas as well as a fishing dock."
Noise considerations: Some campgrounds near population centers have noise issues. At Evergreen State Fairgrounds, "the racetrack here is non stop noise when they're racing. It's a gravel parking lot with no real amenities. Perfect for a vendor at the fair, not great for someone who wants a peaceful spot."
Site selection: For families wanting more privacy, Collins Campground offers secluded options. "We visited during the week and it was pretty empty. Sites are spacious though they are grouped in such a way that 2-3 sites are open to each other. Would make for a great place for groups with multiple tents."
Tips from RVers
Hookup availability: RV sites at Tolt MacDonald Park provide essential connections. "The only campground we've been to where we didn't need to level the trailer. RV sites are all pull through its fairly quiet. Nice setting lots of outdoor and indoor activities with in a short drive."
Solar power limitations: When using solar at forested horse campgrounds near Vashon, plan accordingly. One RVer at Sahara Creek noted, "I depend 100% on solar. There is deep shade in all camp spots, I chose a fairly sunny spot, but it wasn't enough to charge my batteries. Just a heads up."
Seasonal availability: Many horse camps in the region have limited winter access. "Sahara Creek operates with a 7 day limit in a 30 day period" and closes some sections during wet winter months to protect trail conditions.
