Mountain Glory Lodge Opens Its Doors at Lake Cushman

Tucked into the quiet beauty of Washington’s Lake Cushman region, a new retreat is inviting guests to slow down, breathe deeply, and reconnect—with nature, with loved ones, and with themselves. Welcome to Mountain Glory Lodge, a thoughtfully designed getaway where modern comfort meets the restorative power of the Pacific Northwest.

Surrounded by towering evergreens and filtered lake views, the 2,200-square-foot, two-story home feels both expansive and intimate. From the moment you arrive—passing through a private gate and stepping onto the property—you get the sense that this is a place meant for unwinding.

Inside, the lodge blends warmth and intention. A live-edge wood dining table anchors the main living space, inviting long meals and even longer conversations. Nearby, a fully stocked kitchen—complete with a gas range, convection oven, and coffee and tea station—makes gathering effortless, whether you're preparing a casual breakfast or a celebratory dinner.

The home comfortably sleeps six guests across three bedrooms, including two private king suites and a third room featuring a queen bed with a twin XL bunk. Downstairs, a game room adds flexibility (and fun), with a trundle bed and queen pull-out sofa ready for extra guests. It’s a layout that works equally well for families, couples traveling together, or small retreats.

In the main-floor master suite, a spa-like bathroom offers a daily ritual worth savoring: a walk-in shower with dual luxury shower heads, designed to feel more like a boutique hotel than a cabin in the woods.

But it’s outside where Mountain Glory Lodge truly shines.

A sweeping, two-level wraparound deck extends the living space into the landscape. Here, mornings begin with coffee and birdsong, while evenings unfold around the custom outdoor BBQ area, where a Weber grill and Blackstone griddle make cooking part of the experience. A smokeless firepit flickers nearby, and a soft-style hot tub offers a place to soak under the stars.

For those craving activity, the property delivers more than expected. A lighted pickleball court, basketball setup, and classic yard games like cornhole and ladderball create easy opportunities for play. Inside, a pool table and game room keep the energy going, while a collection of yoga equipment, free weights, and even a massage table cater to guests looking to recharge more intentionally.

Despite its many amenities, Mountain Glory Lodge never loses sight of its purpose: to create space. Space to disconnect from the rush of daily life. Space to reconnect with what matters. Space to imagine what’s next.

With modern touches like keyless entry, smart TVs, Bluetooth surround sound, heated floors, and mini-split AC units, the home ensures comfort in every season. And yet, it’s the quieter details—the naturescape fountain, the filtered lake views, the hush of the surrounding forest—that linger most.

Mountain Glory Lodge is now welcoming guests and already booking quickly. For those seeking a Pacific Northwest escape that balances style, substance, and soul, this new Lake Cushman property might just be the place to get a little lost—and find something meaningful along the way.

Rates:
FRI • SAT • SUN $500 A NIGHT
MON - THU $350 A NIGHT
A $250 Cleaning Fee will be Applied to Each Stay

Explore The Glen — where adventure begins and comfort meets the beauty of Washington’s Hood Canal.

Nestled between forest and fjord, The Glen is your ultimate base camp for outdoor escapes, weekend retreats, and unforgettable getaways. With 14 hotel rooms (including pet-friendly options), luxury suites, a vacation rental, and full RV hookups, you’re perfectly positioned to explore the Olympic National Park, Staircase, Lake Cushman, and beyond. From free coffee and waterfront jacuzzis to deep-water diving and forest trails, The Glen blends rustic charm with modern amenities. Whether you're hiking, kayaking, oyster tasting, or just relaxing by the fire pit—this is where your story begins.

Winter Getaways & Holiday Traditions in Mason County

H/T Tracing The Fjord | Winter ‘25

Winter in Mason County has a different pace. The crowds thin out, the forests go quiet, and the Hood Canal takes on a calm, moody feel that makes it easy to slow down. It’s the season for cozy stays, cold-air walks, and warm places to gather afterward.

Tucked along the forested shores of the Hood Canal on the Olympic Peninsula, Mason County becomes a low-key winter retreat. Whether you’re visiting for holiday events or just looking for a quiet escape, the area offers a mix of small-town charm, outdoor access, and places that feel right for the season.

Where to Stay This Winter

Shelton is a natural home base during the holidays. Festival of the Firs events, downtown shopping, dining, and community activities all center here, and everything is close. Lodging ranges from simple, budget-friendly motels to full-service resort stays.
The Shelton Inn remains a longtime community staple, especially convenient if most of your plans are in town. The Super 8 offers a straightforward stay uptown. For a more amenity-filled experience, Little Creek Casino Resort provides spacious rooms, dining, entertainment, and a warm place to unwind after a cold winter day.

If you’re drawn to the water, Hood Canal communities like Union, Hoodsport, and Lilliwaup are especially appealing in winter. Foggy mornings, still water, and quiet docks set the tone. Alderbrook Resort & Spa in Union offers lodge-style rooms and renovated cottages with canal views that feel especially fitting this time of year. It’s an easy choice for anyone looking for a comfortable winter escape with on-site dining and spa options.

In Hoodsport, The Glen offers a great balance between outdoor access and comfort. Close to winter hikes like Rocky Brook Falls, it’s the kind of place where you can spend the day outside and settle in by a fire at night. The Glen is also offering a winter special: stay two nights and get the third free.

For a slower, more residential feel, Allyn and Belfair offer easy access to waterfront parks, trails like the Theler Wetlands, and a relaxed pace. Located in the northeastern part of Mason County near Kitsap County and Bremerton, they’re well suited for travelers who want calm surroundings without being far from events or outdoor options. In Mason County, nothing is very far away, especially when it comes to hikes and views.

Winter Traditions & Holiday Events

Mason County isn’t just a place to stay — it’s a place that leans into the season. Festival of the Firs brings holiday traditions to life with parades, lights, crafts, and community gatherings rooted in the region’s timber heritage. Events like Christmastown at Camp Grisdale add caroling, wreath making, visits with Santa, and family-friendly activities that feel familiar and welcoming.

These winter events pair well with simple days: a morning walk along the canal, an afternoon hike through damp forest trails, and an evening spent downtown or back at your lodging warming up.

A Winter That Sticks With You

Winter here is about small moments — waking up to mist on the water, breathing in cold air, and moving through towns that feel connected and unhurried. Whether you stay close to Shelton’s holiday energy or tuck yourself away along the canal or in the woods, Mason County offers a winter experience that’s quiet, comfortable, and easy to settle into.

And if you find yourself planning a return visit, the same cabins, cottages, and resorts that feel cozy in winter become gateways to kayaking, forest walks, and long summer days by the water. Mason County has a way of fitting every season — winter just happens to show it at its calmest.

Another spot to tie the knot

For generations, Mike’s Beach Resort has been a beloved Pacific Northwest getaway — a place where families return year after year to relax, reconnect, and take in the stunning natural beauty of the Hood Canal. Nestled between the majestic Olympic Mountains and the calm, shimmering waters of the canal, this historic resort offers an authentic slice of coastal Washington charm. From its classic waterfront cabins to cozy family rooms and glamping tents, Mike’s has always been about creating lasting memories in the heart of nature.

Now, as the resort continues its legacy, the classic lodging staple is embracing a new chapter — becoming one of the region’s waterside wedding and event destinations. With the opening of the brand-new Salish Hall, a stunning indoor event space on the waterfront, the resort now offers couples the opportunity to celebrate their love surrounded by breathtaking views and timeless beauty.

Introducing Pine and Tide Events

Welcome to Pine and Tide Events, where the natural beauty of the Pacific Northwest meets thoughtful design. Operating at both Mike’s Beach Resort and Iliana’s Glamping Village, Pine and Tide provides a range of unique venues and accommodations perfect for all inclusive weekend wedding celebrations - including a range of outdoor activities in the woods and on the water.. Whether it’s an elegant waterfront ceremony at Mike’s or a woodland vow exchange at Iliana’s Glamping Village, the updated venue offers a flexible canvas for your dream wedding. Celebrate surrounded by the scent of cedar and salt air, and let nature be your backdrop.

The Venues

Mike’s Beach Resort

• Up to 68 overnight guests

• Waterfront ceremony and reception space

• Brand-new Salish Hall for indoor celebrations

• Bridal prep suite and groom’s flex room

• Pet-friendly accommodations

• Waterfront cabins, family rooms, and cozy motel rooms

Iliana’s Glamping Village

• Up to 28 overnight guests

• Woodland ceremony space beside a tranquil stream

• Lawn reception area and Wildwood Wedding Bar

• Rustic-luxury glamping tents with modern comforts

Together, these venues offer the perfect blend of comfort, adventure, and natural beauty, making them ideal for couples seeking a relaxed, immersive wedding experience that extends beyond a single day.

We especially love that they have a wedding venue supply “closet!” WOW — what a fun Pinterest moment!

Beyond the celebrations, Mike’s invites guests to experience the simple joys of coastal exploring — from gathering around open-air fire pits and BBQs on the waterfront, to harvesting your own oysters and clams at the resort’s private U-Pick shellfish beach. And with Olympic National Park and a host of hikes are just a short drive away, adventure is always within reach. Slow down, reconnect, and celebrate life’s most meaningful occasions surrounded by the natural splendor of the Pacific Northwest.

Sacred Waters Retreat in Union WA | Healing, Art, and Community Above Hood Canal

Welcome to Sacred Waters Retreat, a hidden sanctuary perched above the shores of Hood Canal in Union, Washington. Formerly known as Harmony Hill, this sacred space has been a source of healing, reflection, and community for nearly four decades. With a legacy rooted in cancer retreats, grief support, yoga, and meditation, Sacred Waters continues that mission, now with open arms to the entire community.

This video tells the story of Sacred Waters’ transition, from its beginnings as Harmony Hill to its preservation through the generous support of local donors and its new stewardship by St. Andrew’s House. You’ll hear from longtime facilitators, volunteers, and artists who share how this land continues to inspire peace, transformation, and connection.

From the 150-year-old sequoia at the heart of the labyrinth to the windphone, where visitors can speak to loved ones who’ve passed, every inch of this eight-acre property invites stillness and renewal. Visitors can walk the gardens, attend a retreat, volunteer, or simply sit in the shade and take in panoramic views of the Olympic Mountains and Hood Canal.

As part of its new community outreach, Sacred Waters is hosting its first Art & Community Fair on July 20, 2025, from 11 AM to 4 PM. This free, family-friendly event features live music from Chris Eakes, handmade works from regional artists, delicious food by Kern’s Kitchen, and booths from organizations like the YMCA, Mason County Historical Museum, and the Hood Canal Improvement Club.

Whether you’re looking for a quiet place to reflect or a new way to connect with your neighbors, Sacred Waters is here for you. Everyone is welcome.

Discover the Magic of Sunrise Resort on Hood Canal – A Pacific Northwest Hidden Gem

Tucked along the pristine shores of Hood Canal, Sunrise Resort is more than a destination—it’s a tradition. With stunning waterfront views, unmatched diving access, and deep roots in the Hoodsport community, Sunrise offers adventure, tranquility, and unforgettable memories for families, travelers, and divers alike.

In this video, meet the people behind the transformation of this iconic resort, explore breathtaking footage of its natural surroundings, and hear why divers from around the world call this place home. Whether you're planning a weekend getaway, a dive retreat, or just want to reconnect with nature—Sunrise Resort is your gateway to the best of the Pacific Northwest.

Escape to Jarrell Cove State Park | Harstine Island, WA

Located on the northwest tip of Harstine Island in Mason County, Washington, Jarrell Cove State Park is a peaceful, saltwater playground with forested campsites, moorage for boaters, and plenty of space to kayak, paddleboard, or unwind by the water.

In this video, Jeff Slakey from Explore Hood Canal explores the park with Ranger Liesl Plomski and Park Aid Lucas Marin to uncover its hidden history, local wildlife, and everything that makes Jarrell Cove one of the South Sound’s best-kept secrets.

From Logging Legacy to Natural Escape – Discover Schafer State Park

Take a journey through time and trees at Schafer State Park — one of Washington’s original state parks, founded in 1924 by the Schafer Logging family. Set along the beautiful Satsop River near Elma, this park blends rustic WPA-era craftsmanship with brand-new campgrounds and cabins. In this feature, we explore the park’s rich logging legacy, the flowing Satsop, modern upgrades, and the peaceful recreation that keeps visitors coming back year after year.

The Top 5 | Camping on and around Hood Canal

Whether you prefer the simplicity of tent camping or the comfort of RVs there are plenty of campgrounds on and around the Hood Canal to choose from. From your campsite you can take day trips to explore surrounding forests, rivers, and beaches or just relax under the trees and listen to the birds. For some inspiration to plan your Summer trip to the Hood Canal the staff at Hood Canal Adventures have made up their list of top 5 favorite drive-in campgrounds.

The Top 5

#1 Collins Campground

Collins Campground is located within the U.S. National Forest in the Brinnon area. Nestled under giant Bigleaf Maple trees and directly on the Duckabush River, it contains only 16 sites with no-hook ups: and this is why we love it!  From here you are within only a few miles from some of the areas most popular hiking trails including Murhut Falls, Ranger Hole and Duckabush Trail.  Shellfish can be gathered nearby at the Duckabush or Dosewallips tidelands when the season is open for clam and oyster recreational harvests.  The campground is first come / first served and is open mid-May through September. Visit fs.usda.gov or call the USFS Hood Canal Ranger District (360) 765-2200 for details. 

#2 Seal Rock Campground

Seal Rock is another U.S. Forest Service campground in the Brinnon area, however this one is located directly on the Hood Canal with beach access.  Forty-one tent and RV campsites are shaded beneath the evergreen trees, some with water views. There are no RV hook-ups but the campground does have fresh water, flush toilets and electricity in the restrooms. Oysters litter the beach at low tide for you to harvest and cook up over your campfire.  The campground has an area to walk-in your small boat or kayak for exploring the Hood Canal or harvesting Dungeness and Red Rock crab. Hood Canal Adventures of Brinnon will deliver your kayaks, paddle boards, and crab pots if you choose to rent.  Seal Rock Campground is first come / first served and open April through late September. Visit fs.usda.gov for details.

#3 Twanoh State Park 

Twanoh State Park really has it all! Located on the southern end of the Hood Canal just outside Belfair, you’ll enjoy 22 full hook-up campsites and 25 tent sites, a pump-out station, boat launches and a dock, showers, covered picnic areas, group sites, a staffed park office and store, and even kayak rentals. Over 3,000 ft. of marine shoreline offers shell fishing opportunities and warm summer waters are perfect for swimming and water play. A few campsites are open all year but the beachfront area is open April through mid-October only. Twanoh State Park is first come / first served. Visit parks.state.wa.us or call 360-275-2222 for details.

#4 Potlatch State Park

Potlatch State Park is a 57-acre camping park with 9,570 feet of saltwater shoreline on Hood Canal. The park's beautiful grounds are home to a variety of activities, from interpretive programs for kids to boating and shellfish harvesting. The park has 19 tent spaces, 18 utility spaces, one dump station, one restroom and two showers. Sites have no hook-ups. Maximum site length is 60 feet (may have limited availability). Two of the tent sites are for primitive use (hikers and bicyclers) only.  The Park is divided by Hwy 101 so choose sites that are further away from the road if possible.

#5 Lake Cushman

OK, this isn’t actually a campground but the Lake Cushman area is stunning and well worth exploring. Lake Cushman is located near Hoodsport between the Hood Canal and the Olympic Mountains. Its clear blue waters are framed by beautiful forests and snowy mountain peaks. Popular activities include fishing, hiking, climbing, boating, kayaking, and swimming. There are several campgrounds at the lake but we couldn’t agree as to which is our favorite. Therefore, here's a short list to start you off: Skokomish Park Lake Cushman with 80 RV, tent sites, boat launch, and lake access; Staircase Campground with 49 tent and RV sites on the Skokomish River at the Olympic National Park’s most southern access point; and Big Creek Campground, a 64 site U.S.F.S. Campground which also serves as the trail head to several hiking trails. 

The Hood Canal area offers opportunities for camping whether they be county, state, federal, or private campgrounds. There are many back-country and boat-in only camping areas to explore. Come find your favorite! To discover more campgrounds in the area click here.

Christina Maloney is owner of Hood Canal Adventures in Brinnon, a Fisheries and Marine Biologist, and a local outdoor enthusiast.

Do the Dosewallips

Craig Romano, author

Dosewallips State Park consists of more than 1000 acres of prime wildlife habitat along the Dosewallips River at its delta on Hood Canal. Well-known for its year-round family-friendly campground (complete with yurts) and excellent fishing and shell fishing opportunities, the park also contains a wonderful network of hiking trails. Saunter out to wildlife rich tidal wetlands on Hood Canal or explore quiet groves of mature forest graced with thickets of rhododendrons and cascading creeks. Hike along the glacier-fed Dosewallips River too. And retrace the route of an old railroad grade while sleuthing for relics of the area’s bygone logging days.

Photo credit: Craig Romano

Hit the Trail

There are nearly five miles of trails in Dosewallips Park to explore with your family. Most of them are interconnected allowing for some loop options. An excellent 3.6 mile loop around a good portion of the park’s periphery can be made by following the Maple Valley and Steam Donkey Trails. 

Start this loop hike from the ranger station by walking a short distance northwest up the dirt road signed for the Maple Valley Trail. After passing through the Meadow Group Camp, reach the Maple Valley Trailhead. Now head up the trail and soon come along the Dosewallips River. 

Legend has it that Dos-wail-opsh was a Twana Indian who was turned into a mountain, forming the source of the Dosewallips River. From his lofty position in the Olympic Mountain wilderness, this transformed Native American did well by creating one of the peninsula’s most wild and scenic rivers. 

The Twana once had a village at the mouth of the river on Hood Canal. In 1855 the Treaty of Point No Point resulted in many of the Twana people being relocated to the small Skokomish Reservation located at the mouth of the South Fork of the Skokomish River.

Hike along the river through a forest of cedars, cottonwoods and of course—maples, both bigleaf and vine. In fall the maples add touches of gold to the forest. Scan the forest for elk. They are prolific in this area and are frequently sighted in the state park. If you don’t see any of this hike, you’ll probably see plenty of signs of their presence.

Photo Credit: Craig Romano

Continue along the trail hugging a steep slope above a river channel. The way then reaches a junction with the Rhody Cut-off Trail. You’ll be returning on that trail for this loop—so continue right. The way now gently descends to a bridged crossing of cascading Phantom Creek. 

Then it’s time to climb again as the trail ascends a steep bluff and moves away from the river. Washington State Parks has been working with several agencies to greatly increase the size of this park to protect more riverfront. Once public access can be secured, there are plans to construct a trail along the river from the state park to national forest land about five miles upriver. Much of the new protected river corridor will be included in the state park.

Photo Credit: Craig Romano

The Maple Valley Trail now bends southward skirting an old cut along the park’s current boundary. At about one mile from your start it reaches a fire road. The road can be used as a short-cut back to the campground.

To continue the loop proceed straight on the Steam Donkey Trail. Steam donkeys were steam powered winches used by loggers in the early twentieth century for yarding and loading downed timber. 

Here as well as throughout much of the region timber was transported by rail to sawmills or to docks where it was floated to mills

Photo Credit: Craig Romano

Running parallel to the Steam Donkey Trail and reached by walking just a short distance east on the Fire Road is the Izett Grade Trail. This trail follows a half mile stretch of an old railroad grade. The Izett Logging Company had constructed five miles of railroad in this area  in the late 1890s. Logs were then transported to Hood Canal and floated to a mill in Seabeck. The Izett Grade Trail eventually reconnects with the Steam Donkey Trail and shortens the loop by only 0.1 mile.

The Steam Donkey trail continues south along the state park boundary gently climbing through maturing second growth. The trail passes a large fir struck by lightning in 2001 before crossing Phantom Creek. It then comes to a small bridge whimsically named the On Your Arse Crossing. The way then spans another cascading creek before cresting a ridge. It then begins a long gentle descent following an old road grade through maturing timber. After passing the southern end of the Izett Grade Trail the loop reaches a small dammed pool that once provided water to power the Izett Logging Company’s steam donkeys. 

Photo Credit: Craig Romano

The trail then once again comes to the Fire Road. Cross the road and continue straight passing part of another stretch of old railroad bed. The logging railroads here were decommissioned in 1913 shortly after the logging company’s founder James Izett passed away. The trail next descends into a gulch coming to a junction. You can shorten the loop by heading right reaching the park road after crossing the short metal bridge

The recommended loop heads left now following the Rhody Cut-off Trail. It soon makes a bridged crossing of a creek shaded by attractive cedars; then veers left at a junction where a spur trail heads to a group camp. The trail then climbs a low ridge draped with rhododendrons. You’ll want to return to this stretch of trail in May or June. The Rhody-Cut-off Trail then loses elevation returning to the Maple Valley Trail. Return to your start by retracing a short stretch of trail to your right.

If you’ve got time and energy leftover, head over to the park’s North Tidal Trail. Follow this 0.3 mile trail to an observation deck near where the Dosewallips River drains into Hood Canal, creating a productive delta and estuary. Scan this ecologically rich ecosystem for seals and a wide array of birds.

Additional Details 

Dog welcome but must be leashed while on the trail.

Land Agency Contact:
Dosewallips State Park

Recommended Map: Green Trails Olympic Mountains East 168S; State park map available at park ranger station.

Recommended Guidebooks: Day Hiking Olympic Peninsula 2nd edition (Romano, Mountaineers Books) 

Trailhead Directions: From Shelton, drive US 101 north for 40 miles (From Quilcene drive US 101 south for 12 miles) to Dosewallips State Park entrance at milepost 307. Turn left (west) into camping entrance and proceed .3 mile to parking near ranger station. 

Day-use parking is also available at picnic area and North Tidal Area Trailhead, trailhead facilities here include: privy, picnic area, ranger station, campground, and potable water.

Two ways to "glamp" hood canal

The scenic stretch of Hood Canal between Hoodsport and Brinnon has recently seen the additions of some unique accommodations – glamping platform tents. Near Hoodsport, the Sund family hosts couples at their private glamp tent at the Sund Rock Marine Preserve and this summer Mike’s Beach Resort in Lilliwaup converted their traditional campground into Iliana’s Glamping Village.

Sund Rock glamping tent open from May through September is perfect for couples looking for a unique Northwest experience.

What is glamping?

To many of us glamping sounds a little over the top. Even the word root – glamor – is decadent. Especially when combined with the most basic of accommodations – camping. But these places are anything but “basic.”

There are plenty of definitions of glamping. Some feel that cooking on anything beyond an open campfire is glamping. Or sleeping in a bed off the ground, or in a basic cabin or RV. Whatever your definition, glamping it is bringing a whole new level of interest to the camping scene. And with the pandemic, the idea of sleeping in a "tent" over a hotel has brought a certain attraction.

""During Covid some guests expressed hesitancy with coming even to a cabin even though we're not a traditional hotel with a lobby or elevator. Our tents are a great option for those who are interested in getting back out into the world but maybe not wanting to be in a building like a hotel. Everybody is able to get to their own private facility and there's plenty of moving air."

Iliana’s Glamping Village

Sara and her family recently opened the tent glamping village at their resort on Hood Canal. The traditional Mike's Beach Resort included guest rooms and cabins but this network of ten glamping tents and all their amenities tucked into the woods below shadow of the Olympics creates a whole new vibe.

Mike’s Beach Resort converted their 70+ year old campground area to accommodate the ten platform tents complete with fire-pits, showers and flushing toilets, and affectionately coined it Iliana's Glamping Village.

The private recreation at Sund Rock

Further down the Canal the Sund family has found a way to share the experience of their property to more people. Most of the year The Sund Rock Marine Preserve is clamoring with scuba divers hoping to catch an encounter with Giant Pacific Octopus or wolf eels. As the water warms, July through September, plankton and algae blooms make the visibility nil for divers. This is a perfect time to open the area up to visitors to the glamping tent. A little simpler than Iliana's Glamping Village (no chandeliers hanging from the ridge pole and you need to bring your own linens) at Sund Rock you’ll find a queen-sized bed, heat, power, and the views from this private beach getaway are unparalleled.

The view from Mike’s Beach Resort overlooking the Canal and oyster beaches

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Lodging Profile #1:
Iliana’s Glamping Village

Lilliwaup, WA

For nearly seven decades, the Shultz family has owned and operated their waterfront rustic and welcoming Canal getaway, Mike’s Beach Resort. Mike and Iliana have recently passed on some duties to daughter, Sara, and her husband, Matt, who also raise oysters on the Resort’s tidelands. We recently caught up with Sara to learn a little about the history of Mike’s and their expansion into the glamor-camping market.

“Mike's Beach Resort was built by my grandparents in 1951,” recounts Sara in the tour of the facility, “they named it after my father, Mike. They started off with a few cabins on the Hood Canal and kept building more every few years.” Along with the recent addition of the glamping village the resort features fully equipped cabins and even a 1969 Airstream trailer with outdoor hot tub. Many of the units are pet-friendly and, along with the beach providing hours of distraction, there are walking trails and a playground. The resort also hosts a launch, dock, moorage, kayaks and paddle boards for rent, and air for scuba visitors. Mike’s is very popular with dive groups with numerous famous cold water dive sites in the area. Many guests return annually to enjoy the shrimp, crab, and salmon seasons on the Canal.

Following the curve of the valley and arranged to provide privacy and views of the Canal below the road, the cluster of platform tents at Iliana’s Glamping Village offer a unique experience that rivals the amenities of a luxury hotel. Each tent is elevated and lined to protect guests from the elements and include electricity, comfortable queen- and king-sized beds, dining areas, coffee makers, toasters, outdoor BBQs, lawn chairs, fire pits as well as access to warm showers and flushable toilets.

Many of the units include fold out futons for additional guests and all the units are custom furnished with a theme. And yes, there are even chandeliers and fans!

Each cabin at the glamping village is custom themed

"As a bonus-bonus," Sara states proudly as she gestures to the bay below, "we have an oyster farm right in front." Their oyster farm is open during low tide for harvest and guests can grill fresh from the beach at their private tent.

During the summer Mike's Beach Resort plans to feature live music and outdoor grill with oysters and burgers on Saturday nights – but any night will be an experience!

Visit mikesbeachresort.com for details and reservations.

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Lodging Profile #2:
Sund Rock gets you close to nature

Sund Rock Marine Preserve Glamp Tent | Hoodsport, WA

Colbein John Sund, a young seafarer from Scandanvia staked his homestead claim on Hood Canal in 1888, ten months before Washington became a state. It was while sailing through Puget Sound and seeing the narrow inlet of Hood Canal that he was reminded of the fjords at home in Norway. He explored the shores of Hood Canal and found an abandoned cabin in a quiet valley. He decided that this was the perfect place to start his family’s history on Hood Canal.

Sund Resort (circa 1930) - Mason County Historical Museum photo

Sund had no idea that his decision would help shape the path of Hood Canal. On that very special and remarkable point lies the present day marine preserve beloved by scuba divers, Sund Rock. Here Colbein built Sund Resort with his wife. It is here too, where his grandson, Robert, eventually managed to establish the marine preserve, Sund Rock, famous for its giant ling cod, Great Pacific Octopus and wolf eels.

Former Dance Pavilion at Sund Resort (MCHM)

The original Sund Resort was a series of platform tents and included a dance hall. Today the resort and dance pavilion are long gone (present site of Rest-A-While RV Resort) but adventurers can celebrate, because once again there is a platform tent for guests to continue to enjoy this special place.

Colbein John Sund’s great-granddaughter, Cindy Sund, shared the experience and a little bit more about her family’s connection to the Canal. “I love being able to maintain it for family as well as we've really developed a kind of clientele that comes to the glamping and diving that respect the property. it's an underwater preserve with organisms that are unique and special. The Giant Pacific Octopus is a big draw. The wolf eel, ling and rock cod population are coming back. It's really a diverse area. I feel honored to be a steward.”

The generations who have enjoyed this property have developed a strong sense of place and a fierce desire to protect it for future generations to continue to create memories and share this special place with all who wish to visit. For the last four years, Cindy Sund has opened the glamping tent for guests to enjoy. “My parents wish,” she continues, “is that this property remain in the family for as long as possible. So when they moved into assisted-living, it was sort of my responsibility to make sure that that happened. I started the diving and glamping business to help subsidize property taxes and all the expenses that go along with owning a piece of property, and also help with my parents assisted-living. It's working out really well so far.”

Sund Rock glamping tent

Sund’s glamping tent has composting toilets and, since COVID, guests are required to bring their own bedding. However, a soft queen-sized bed, lights, heat, small refrigerator, propane bbq, propane fire pit, and a shower by the privy definitely set this beyond sleeping in an REI tent. And you’ll appreciate the phone charging ports by the bed for the hundreds of photos you’ll be taking because despite its small environmental footprint, this experience will leave a lasting experience on all who visit.

Beach access to Sund Rock dive site below is shared with scuba divers who are allowed limited access by the Sund family. Glamping guests are encouraged to bring their own beach towels, swim floats or kayaks to enhance the beach experience. There is also plenty of hiking in the area and amenities like groceries or restaurants available in nearby Hoodsport. Cindy meets each guest upon arrival, providing a tour of the property and instructions on how to use the facility. Members of the Sund family are available if needed as they also live on the property, but allow guests their privacy to enjoy the space.

Mid-September the tent is removed and stored indoors until May. “The diving operation goes year-round,” reflects Cindy, “we're busier in the winter than we are in the summer because the temperature of the water drops and you get less plankton bloom so your visibility is better.” November is often the busiest month for Sund Rock with the glamping in the summer providing opportunities for other adventurers to Hood Canal.

To reserve the Sund Rock glamping tent, learn more about the preserve and the family history, visit sundrock.com. There is a minimum stay of two night and most of the weekends are booked through September although there is plenty of mid-week availability (which honestly, is a much better time to visit Hood Canal in the summer). This site is not designed for children (more suited to a couple), but pets are allowed. Rates begin at $114/night and every guest that left a review, yes 100%, gave the experience a 5 star rating.

Hood Canal "Glamping"

If your idea of a camping excursion is freeze dried food and dry shampoo – and luxury to you is a bed of moss under your sleep sack or a solar-powered lamp – "glamping" may not hold much interest for you.  Glamping or  "glamor-camping" as the name suggest, goes WAY beyond the coleman stove and solar shower upgrade.  If you crave a star-studded forest canopy while enjoying gourmet camp cuisine and all the comforts of home – bed, pillows, duvet, light switches– glamping may be a great compromise to get outdoors!

Header Image credit: Poppi Photo

One of the best thing about "camping" is relaxing with a final roasted marshmallow and a steaming mug of hot chocolate. Wrapped in a cozy blanket, the tall trees keep you close in the inky darkness beyond the glow of the fire.  Far from the glow and clatter of the city, the sky displays a covering of unrealistically bright stars. Good conversation and the people you love surrounding you. Who wants to consider the uncomfortable night ahead? Rocks in your lumbar. Slick "high performance" sleeping cocoons that tangle and suffocate. Never mind the 3:00 AM Call of Nature. Stumbling through the dark stubbing toes and tripping over roots. 

Trailer camping is technically considered in the "glamping" category, above the waterfront view and tall trees at Twanoh State Park, Hood Canal definitely set the standards high.

Enter glamping.  A purist would say if you want the experience of camping you need to embrace the whole experience, not cherry-pick the best parts. Galen Patterson, a journalist with Arcadia Weekly, remarks in a recent article, "in its luxury, comfortable camping (glamping) loses what makes the experience worth the discomfort in the first place." He goes on to say that, "instead of connecting with nature and all of its uncomfortable facets, people are bringing the comforts of home with them, and, in doing so, are sapping the spirit of what it means to connect to the outdoors." Patterson advocates that through discomfort and deprivation, he "finds appreciation and, with it, follows a new zest for life." 

Hmmmm. So unless you are suffering you will not appreciate the wilderness?  Good riddance. Rough camping has its place – when space is limited in your kayak or you are pack/wilderness camping and every extra ounce needs to be "weighed" in necessity. However, if you can enhance the joy of spending time outdoors by increasing the comfort level – there is no shame in that!

There are plenty of definitions of glamping. Some feel that cooking on anything beyond an open campfire is glamping. Others consider having cell service a mark of glamor camping.  Perhaps it's sleeping in a bed off the ground, in a cabin or RV. Whatever the case, glamping is a more glamorous spin on camping and it is bringing a whole new level of interest to the camping scene. Love it or hate it, glamping is a thriving trend that continues to grow.

Give it A Try....

Belfair State Park is a 65 acre, year-round camping park on 3,720 feet of saltwater at the southern end of Hood Canal. It is noted for its saltwater tide flats, wetlands with wind-blown grasses and pleasant beach walking and swimming. Cabins sleep five and are furnished with tables and chairs. Outside is a picnic table and fire pit. Bathrooms and showers are nearby. All cabins are heated, but visitors should take along blankets and warm clothing as evenings can be cool. Belfair cabin rates range from $40 (off-season) to $69(peak).  Reserve

Dosewallips State Park offers canvas platform tents for rent. Situated in a maple forest near the Dosewallips River, the tent sleeps up to five people. Made of white canvas on wooden platforms, they are light inside, even on cloudy days. Each tent has three bunks, a futon, lights, table and heater. Outside is a deck, picnic table, fire grill and utility hookup. Bathrooms nearby. All platform tents are heated but campers must bring their own bed linens. Cabins at Dosewallips are situated among evergreen trees looking towards the Olympic Mountains. Each cabin features a covered porch, electric heat, lights and locking doors. Bathrooms are nearby. Tent and cabin rates range from $40 (off-season) to $69 (peak). Reserve

Hamma Hamma cabin is available through the Olympic National Forest

The Hamma Hamma Cabin in the Olympic National Forest is a historic cabin that offers guests a tranquil setting. Formerly a guard station, the cabin was built in 1937 by the Civilian Conservation Corps. The site is nominated to the National Register of Historic Places for the skill and craftsmanship that went into its construction and architecture. The cabin is open year-round. Accommodating up to six guests, the single-story cabin features a living room with a hexagonal bay window overlooking the Hamma Hamma River drainage. There are two bedrooms, one with a double bed and one with bunk beds. The bathroom has a flush toilet. The cabin is equipped with a propane heater and propane lights. An outdoor picnic table, fire ring and pedestal barbecue grill are available for cooking and campfires. Guests provide their own bedding, linens, towels, dish soap, matches, first aid kit, toilet paper and garbage bags. Reserve

Located in Union, the Pebble Beach Cottage has two beds, one bathroom and can sleep up to 5-6 guests. Sitting approx. 75 feet from the water it has a beautiful view of the canal, and surrounded by a cedar forest. This carriage house is a bed and breakfast style stay with a part-time caretaker on sight. Guests enjoy privacy of a vacation home, (as this property is completely separate from the main house), yet access to concierge services. (Rate $195) Reserve at glampinghub.com.  

The Tahuya Adventure Resort is located in the heart of the Tahuya Forest past Belfair.  Featuring campsites with hook-ups and luxury platform tents, this is glamping heaven! The Log Cabin tent features a king size log bed, bunk-beds, oversized chairs and tables, pellet stove, carpet, refrigerator, microwave, and a coffee pot. Each site has an outdoor picnic table and fire ring or you are welcome to use their covered kitchen. (Rate $500/2 nights) Reserve at tahuyaresort.com.

The ultimate "glamping" experience can be provided by Hood Canal Events located in Union, WA. For a fee they can arrange the perfect getaway for you and your signifigant other – or the whole family. From setting up the camp & tent (pictured above) in a spectacular location, arranging tours, hikes or kayaking expeditions, to chef prepared gourmet meals in your camp – Jeff and Kerry can take care of it all for you. Call them directly at (360) 710-7452 or visit  hoodcanalevents.org. Photo Poppi Photography

Hood Canal Events, based in Union, can provide unique glamping experiences. Offering everything from a Hood Canal beach glamor picnic (great for intimate gatherings, family picnicking, lounging, or celebrations) to a fully catered overnight trip, they can arrange special requests your group may have. Hood Canal Event's packages include furnishings, amenities, activities (kayaking to mushroom foraging or live music) and a chef for locally prepared food and beverages.  Overnight glamping packages are available. For information on rates or customizing an experience, call (360) 710-7452, or visit hoodcanalevents.org.

Above are just a few ways you can elevate your "glamping" experience on Hood Canal.  There is no wrong way to do it. If you prefer backcountry camping, with your home on your back and no connection to civilization, the Olympic National Park has that too. Camp for days and never see another soul in the backcountry areas. Talk about "finding appreciation."  

If camping or glamping is not your thing thats cool too. Hood Canal and South Puget Sound have wonderful guest lodging and rentals right on the beach – with power and flush toilets. Visit explorehoodcanal.com/lodging for a complete list that is updated weekly. 

Whatever you choose, just get out there and create some great memories – stubbed toes or not!