Cama Beach State Park cabins close permanently

OLYMPIA —Following a public process, the Washington State Parks and Recreation Commission voted Oct. 10 to keep the cabins at Cama Beach Historical State Park permanently closed. 

Significant septic and infrastructure failures led to the closure of the cabins and other buildings in the beach area of park in February 2024. In addition to this issue, impacts of rising sea levels have damaged buildings in the area. Data shows these impacts will only increase in the coming years. There are also known cultural and historical complexities that impact the sustainability of the cabins.

“State parks are often spaces that are deeply personal for visitors,” said Washington State Parks Director Diana Dupuis. “We take that seriously and don’t make decisions like this lightly. We are committed to adapting this park to the current realities we are faced with while continuing to provide a unique place to make memories for years to come.”

A special commission meeting was held in July 2024 to present information and hear comments from the public, relative to the question of reopening the cabins where they currently sit. The staff recommendation given – based on the environmental, operational, historical and cultural complexities of the site – was to not reopen the cabins. Staff recommended a long-term planning process should look at the future of the park, consider the complicated circumstances at the site and evaluate other options for overnight accommodation.

Hundreds of written public comments followed. Most were in favor of reopening the cabins, with some in favor of the staff recommendation to keep them closed where they currently sit.

Parks staff presented detailed information at the special meeting in July and the regular meeting on Oct. 10. In their remarks preceding the vote, commissioners and Dupuis, acknowledged how difficult this decision was. These cabins are important to the community and families that have been staying at the park for years. It has also long been an important site for local tribes.  

The long-term planning process for the park will continue with this direction from the commission and continued public and tribal input. 

There are other significant issues at the site. Electrical problems, water line breaks and partial failure of the seawall add to the challenges in managing the infrastructure at the beach.

Planning is expected to go through 2026. 

Of all coastal parks in the state parks system, Cama Beach Historical State Park is one of the most vulnerable to sea level rise.  

Day use in the park remains open, as does the Cama Center and café. Restrooms are not available in the lower beach area but are available in other parts of the park. 

Source: Washinton State Parks