Peterson Prairie Cabin
4.7621 reviews2455 HWY 141, Trout Lake, WA, 98650, USA
Peterson Prairie Cabin
$100.00 - $100.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Standard Site Fee$0.00
Hookup Site Fee$0.00
Premium Site Fee$0.00
Hike and Bike Site Fee$0.00
Group Site Fee$0.00
Food Storage Locker Fee$0.00
The cabin costs $100 per night regardless of the season. Additional fees such as a Sno-Park permit ($8 online, $9 via call center) apply during winter.
About this campground
Nestled deep in the Mt. Adams Ranger District, Peterson Prairie Cabin beckons travelers with its perfect blend of historic charm and modern comfort. This lovingly restored wilderness retreat features propane-powered conveniences that make roughing it remarkably smooth, while its sturdy timber walls and cozy interior transport guests back to simpler times. Whether you're seeking solitude in winter's hushed snowscapes or planning summer adventures, this year-round sanctuary serves as your gateway to the pristine Pacific Northwest backcountry.
Peterson Prairie Cabin is a single rustic lodging option within the Mt. Adams Ranger District. Its accommodations are designed for comfort while retaining a backcountry feel.
Historical SignificanceRising from the ashes of adversity, Peterson Prairie Cabin tells a story of resilience and renewal. When wildfire swept through in 2012, it seemed this piece of logging history might be lost forever. But in 2014, dedicated craftspeople painstakingly salvaged and restored the structure, breathing new life into weathered timbers that once sheltered loggers and wilderness rangers. Today, every hand-hewn beam and carefully preserved detail whispers tales of the region's rugged past, when timber was king and these forests echoed with the sounds of crosscut saws and determined pioneers.
Weather and SeasonsEach season paints Peterson Prairie in dramatically different strokes. Winter transforms the landscape into a crystalline wonderland where snow blankets the forest floor and silence reigns supreme—though you'll need to arrive prepared with snowshoes or skis to navigate the white-draped trails. As spring melts into summer, the cabin emerges as a cool refuge from which to explore sun-dappled forests and wildflower meadows, with dry, mild days stretching endlessly under azure skies perfect for hiking, wildlife watching, and mountain adventures.
ElevationPerched at a mountain elevation where the air grows crisp and pine-scented, Peterson Prairie Cabin offers that perfect high-country atmosphere without specific altitude details being documented. The cabin's position provides a natural climate that's refreshingly cool in summer and authentically alpine in winter.
Natural Features and SceneryStep outside your cabin door into a cathedral of ancient Douglas firs, their massive trunks rising like pillars into the canopy above. In late summer, the understory erupts with huckleberry bushes heavy with sweet purple fruit—nature's dessert course served right at your doorstep. This pristine pocket of wilderness serves as your launching pad to explore the nearby Mt. Adams Wilderness, where glaciers gleam against volcanic peaks, subalpine meadows burst with wildflowers, and elk, deer, and black bears roam through habitats unchanged for millennia.
Geological RegionPeterson Prairie Cabin sits at the crossroads of the Pacific Northwest's most spectacular wilderness areas. Within the vast Mt. Adams Ranger District, dense forests of Douglas fir create a green tapestry punctuated by huckleberry patches and mountain streams. The cabin's strategic location puts you within striking distance of the glacier-clad Mt. Adams Wilderness, the lake-studded Indian Heaven Wilderness, and the legendary Pacific Crest Trail—a trifecta of backcountry destinations that showcase the volcanic legacy and ecological diversity of the southern Washington Cascades.
Campsite details
AccessibilityThe cabin's lower floor includes an accessible bedroom and a nearby accessible vault toilet. However, guests with disabilities should note that access during winter requires skiing, snowshoeing, or snowmobiling.
Sites SizeThe cabin is designed to accommodate up to six people.
Sites PrivacyThe cabin provides a reasonable level of privacy due to its isolated location. However, some reviews mention curiosity from nearby visitors when the campground is busy.
Total Campsites1 campsites
Recommended CampsitesBring extra lighting to supplement the propane lamps and fire-starting materials for the wood stove. Check weather conditions before arrival.
Best CampsitesThe cabin itself is the only available site.
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
4:00 PM
Check-out
12:00 PM
Stay Limit
Maximum Consecutive Stay: You may stay up to 7 nights during a visit at this campground.
Guests Allowed Per Site
Maximum occupancy is six guests.
Groups
There are no group camping sites available at this campground.
Tents
Tents are not allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are not allowed
Primitive
Primitive are not allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutThe cabin includes a lower floor with living and dining areas, kitchen, and accessible bedroom. The upper floor has two additional bedrooms.
Open and Closed SeasonThe cabin is open year-round. From December 1st to April 1st, winter access requires skis, snowshoes, or snowmobiles.
Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made on Recreation.gov online, via app, or through the contact center.
Walk-in AvailabilityThe cabin is not available for walk-up stays.
Cancellation PolicyReservations can be canceled anytime before the scheduled arrival date with a $10 fee. Late cancellations (less than 14 days before arrival) forfeit the first night's fee. Modifications carry a $10 fee if the new dates are entirely different.
Accomodation available
Cabin lodgingCabin lodging is available for campers seeking a more sheltered and comfortable experience. These enclosed accommodations offer protection from the elements and are ideal for those who prefer not to camp in tents.
Amenities available
Potable water
Fire rings
Picnic tables
Firewood available
Lodging and accommodations
Vault toilets
Activities you can enjoy
Guests at Peterson Prairie Cabin can enjoy a range of recreational activities. Popular options include hiking, biking, fishing, hunting, and picking mushrooms and huckleberries during snow-free months. Winter activities include cross-country skiing and snowshoeing. The nearby Pacific Crest Trail, Indian Heaven Wilderness, and Mt. Adams Wilderness offer scenic vistas. Atkisson Sno-Park provides access to 95 miles of groomed snowmobile trails and ungroomed cross-country ski loops.
Hiking
Several trails are accessible within driving distance, including the Pacific Crest Trail and trails in the Indian Heaven and Mt. Adams Wilderness areas.Fishing
Fishing is available in nearby lakes, such as Goose Lake, which is drying up according to user reviews.Biking
The area provides opportunities for biking trails, though specific details on terrain or skill levels were not mentioned.Boating
Nearby lakes such as Goose Lake might offer boating opportunities, though specifics were not described.Wildlife viewing
Wildlife in the area includes spotted owls, black tail deer, and Roosevelt elk. Occasionally, cougars, bobcats, and pine martens are seen.Winter Activities
Winter activities include cross-country skiing, snowmobiling, and snowshoeing. The Atkisson Sno-Park offers three ungroomed ski loops ranging from 4 to 11 miles.Water Sports
Non-motorized water sports such as kayaking and canoeing were not explicitly mentioned, though nearby Goose Lake might provide some opportunities.Campground rules
- Pets are not allowed
- Firewood is provided for the wood stove. Outdoor fires are allowed in the designated fire ring.
Hazards
General hazardsRodents have been reported inside the cabin. Guests should sanitize surfaces and bring items for pest management.
Active alertsRefunds granted if winter access via Atkisson Sno-Park is restricted due to snow.
Weather forecast
84
°F
Aug 25
Monday
Overcast
Precipitation: 0%
Moderate wind, may affect light items
Humidity: 28%
Very dry conditions, stay hydrated
Wind: 7.8 mph
Moderate wind, may affect light items
Overcast
7-Day Forecast
Access to 7-day forecasts tailored to each campground—covering temperature, precipitation, wind, and sky conditions.
Daily & Hourly Insights
View hourly forecasts with expected weather patterns throughout the day.
Temperature Trends
Visualize how temperatures shift over the month to help pick the most comfortable days for your trip.
Precipitation Trends
Plan around rain or snow with monthly visualizations of expected precipitation patterns.
Weather Summaries
Assess conditions with visuals for easier decision-making on when and where to camp.
Weather data powered by Open-Meteo
Emergency Services
Closest emergency services are available at Mt. Adams Ranger District, Trout Lake, WA. Guests may contact 509-395-3400 for updates and assistance.
Good to know
Peak season datesJanuary 1st - December 31st annually
Trash and recyclingTrash and recycling facilities are not available; guests must pack out all garbage and recycling.
Proximity to water featuresNo direct water features, but Guler Ice Cave and Goose Lake are nearby.
Common complaintsRodent issues have been noted in user reviews. Lack of running water in certain seasons is a recurring concern.
HostGuests can contact the Mt. Adams Ranger District at 509-395-3400 for updates and assistance.
Campground Map
2455 HWY 141, Trout Lake, WA, 98650, USA
Driving directionsFrom Vancouver take Highway 14 East to Highway 141. Go North to Trout Lake WA then drive 4 miles past the Mt. Adams Ranger Station at the end of Highway 141. Continue West on Forest Road 24 for 2.5 miles. The cabin will be on your left.
Access to the cabin is seasonal. During snow-free months (typically June-October), guests can drive directly to the cabin. From December through April, the road is closed to wheeled vehicles. Guests must park at Atkisson Sno-Park and ski, snowshoe, or snowmobile 2.5 miles to the cabin. Refunds are not issued for limited access due to snow conditions.Nearby places
Trout Lake (7 miles, approx. 10 minutes), Vancouver (approx. 1.5 hours), Portland (approx. 2 hours)
Nearby supplies
Basic supplies and groceries can be found in Trout Lake, WA. Guests are advised to bring essentials, especially water during non-summer months.
Camper Reviews
4.8
21 reviews
Peterson Prairie Cabin is top-rated, placing it in the top 15% of campgrounds based on reviews
User reviews generally praise the cabin's coziness, cleanliness, and well-stocked amenities, though some mention issues such as rodents and limited lighting.
Review Summaries
Based on 21 reviews
What Campers Love
Users consistently highlight the cabin's cozy atmosphere, well-stocked kitchen, and proximity to outdoor attractions like the ice caves and hiking trails.
Based on 21 reviewsCommon Concerns
Common complaints include rodent sightings, lack of running water during winter months, and limited lighting at night.
Based on 21 reviewsPro Tips & Recommendations
Guests recommend bringing extra lighting, cleaning supplies to address potential rodent activity, and additional firewood during winter. Visiting nearby attractions such as the ice caves is highly...
Based on 21 reviewsShow more
Seasonal Insights
Reviews indicate that winter stays offer unique charm, with snow adding to the cabin's cozy appeal. However, accessibility issues arise due to heavy snowfall. Summer visits are favored for hiking and...
Based on 21 reviewsShow more
Camper Quotes
"This place is great! All lighting is with propane lighting...The cabin is also well stocked with games and books." - Christopher Anderson (2018)
"We had a wonderful time at the cabin. It was snug,...
Based on 21 reviewsShow more
Site-Specific Reviews
Many reviews pertain to the cabin as a whole, particularly its amenities and accessibility. Specific feedback on site '001' includes praise for coziness and complaints about rodents.
Based on 21 reviewsAccessibility Features
Reviews note the accessible lower floor and vault toilet but highlight the challenges of winter access, which requires snowmobiles or skis.
Based on 21 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
Pets are not allowed at Peterson Prairie Cabin, consistent with the facility's policies.
Based on 21 reviewsLast updated August 10, 2025