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Welch Cabin <A License to Chill> ~we LOVE dogs~

Enjoy the free WiFi at this beachfront Kalama cabins

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Photo gallery for Welch Cabin <A License to Chill> ~we LOVE dogs~

Property grounds
Property grounds
Fridge, oven, stovetop, coffee/tea maker
Interior
TV, fireplace, books

Reviews

10 out of 10
Exceptional

Entire cabin

1 bedroomSleeps 6690 sq ft

Popular amenities

  • Kitchen
  • Air conditioning
  • Outdoor Space
  • Parking available

Explore the area

View in a map
kalama, WA
  • Place, Upper Kalama Water Access Site
    ‪21 min drive‬
  • Place, Modrow Bridge Water Access Site
    ‪25 min drive‬
  • Place, ilani Casino
    ‪45 min drive‬
  • Airport, Portland, OR (PDX-Portland Intl.)
    ‪79 min drive‬

Room options

About the neighborhood

Kalama

On the beach.Stay at this Kalama cabin and you'll be within 12 miles (20 km) of Upper Kalama Water Access Site and Beginners Hole Water Access Site. Modrow Bridge Water Access Site and Haydu Park are within 16 miles (25 km).
View more Cabin Rentals in KalamaOpens in a new window

What's nearby

  • Upper Kalama Water Access Site - 21 min drive - 13.8 miles
  • Beginners Hole Water Access Site - 22 min drive - 14.4 miles
  • Modrow Bridge Water Access Site - 25 min drive - 16.0 miles
  • ilani Casino - 45 min drive - 36.4 miles
  • Cascades Amphitheater - 55 min drive - 46.2 miles

Getting around

  • Kelso Station - 41 min drive
  • Portland International Airport (PDX) - 71 min drive

About this property

Entire place

You'll have the entire cabin to yourself and will only share it with other guests in your party.

Welch Cabin <A License to Chill> ~we LOVE dogs~


We are a 501c3 ... ALL income goes to local environmental and health-related causes... AND we love dogs!

Welch Cabin is built on a purpose-driven mission to protect, preserve and promote—opening its doors to the public as a place of healing, connection, and education. Welch Cabin serves as a model for sustainable living and land stewardship, from showcasing resource efficient bio-toilets and greywater systems to protecting our wild steelhead habitat.
Welch Cabin is rooted in the belief that time spent in nature restores the spirit and inspires care for the landscapes we share.
Welch Cabin is perched 90 feet above the pristine Kalama River on 19 acres of preserved forest. This secluded retreat blends wilderness charm with modern comforts like creek-processed water, hot showers, bio-toilets, internet, and a full kitchen.
Just 10 miles from Kalama, WA, Welch Cabin is completely private with no neighbors in sight. Surrounded by towering firs, cedars, wildflowers. and sounds of songbirds, rushing rapids, and the whisper of a mountain breeze. Relax on the sun deck or explore the untouched beauty of this one-of-a-kind getaway.

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Property amenities

Beach

  • On the beach
  • Beach loungers
  • Beach towels

Ski

  • Cross-country skiing nearby

Internet

  • Available in the cabin: Free WiFi

Parking and transportation

  • Wheelchair-accessible parking available

Kitchen

  • Blender
  • Coffee/tea maker
  • Cookware, dishware, and utensils
  • Electric kettle
  • Ice maker
  • Lobster/crab pot
  • Oven
  • Paper towels
  • Refrigerator
  • Spices
  • Stovetop
  • Toaster

Dining

  • Dining table

Bedrooms

  • Bedroom
  • Bedsheets provided
  • Sofa bed

Bathroom

  • Outdoor shower
  • Shampoo
  • Shower
  • Soap
  • Toilet paper
  • Towels provided

Living spaces

  • Dining table
  • Fireplace
  • Living room
  • Wood stove

Entertainment

  • Books
  • TV with cable/satellite channels

Outdoor areas

  • Balcony
  • Barbecue grill
  • Firepit
  • Garden
  • Outdoor furniture

Comfort

  • Air conditioning
  • Heating

Pets

  • Pet friendly
  • Welcoming cats and dogs only
  • One pet total (up to 50 lbs per pet)

Suitability/Accessibility

  • If you have requests for specific accessibility needs, please contact the property using the information on the reservation confirmation received after booking.
  • 1 accessible parking space
  • No elevator (single-level property)
  • Wheelchair-accessible parking
  • Designated smoking areas
  • Note from host: Outdoor flames, smoking is seasonal-FIRES

Services and conveniences

  • Concierge services
  • Limited housekeeping
  • Meal delivery service
  • Phone

Location highlights

  • In a rural location
  • In a village
  • In the mountains
  • Near the marina
  • On a river

Things to do

  • Kayak
  • Water sports equipment
  • Birdwatching nearby
  • Casino nearby
  • Ecotours nearby
  • Fishing nearby
  • Golfing nearby
  • Hiking/biking trails nearby
  • Hunting nearby
  • Kayaking nearby
  • Motor boating nearby
  • Mountain biking nearby
  • Mountain climbing nearby
  • Rafting nearby
  • Rock climbing nearby
  • Swimming nearby
  • Water tubing nearby
  • Wildlife walks nearby

Safety features

  • Carbon monoxide detector (host has indicated there is a carbon monoxide detector on the property)
  • Smoke detector (host has indicated there is a smoke detector on the property)
  • First aid kit
  • Fire extinguisher
  • Deadbolt lock

General

  • At least 10% of profits reinvested in community and sustainability
  • At least 80% lighting from LEDs
  • Bulk dispensers for toiletries
  • Composting
  • Eco-friendly toiletries
  • Garden
  • Grey water recycling system
  • Humane treatment of captive wild animals
  • Local culture and ecosystem education
  • Locally-owned and organized tours and activities
  • Recycling
  • Unit size: 690 square feet
  • Water-efficient showers
  • Water-efficient toilets

Policies

Check-in

Check-in time starts at 4:00 PM

Contactless check-in available

Minimum check-in age: 21

Check-out

Check-out before 10:00 AM

Contactless check-out available

Special check-in instructions

You will receive an email from the host with check-in and check-out instructions

Information provided by the property may be translated using automated translation tools

Pets

  • Pets are welcome
  • Only dogs and cats are allowed
  • Maximum 1 (weight limit: 50 lbs per pet)
  • Service animals are exempt from fees
  • Note from host: refundable deposits may be required for pets

Children and extra beds

  • Children are welcome.
  • Note from host: This is not a place to let the kiddos run free...

Events

No events allowed

Smoking

Smoking allowed: in designated areas

Outdoor flames, smoking is seasonal-FIRES

Important information

You need to know

Extra-person charges may apply and vary depending on property policy
Government-issued photo identification and a credit card, debit card, or cash deposit may be required at check-in for incidental charges
Special requests are subject to availability upon check-in and may incur additional charges; special requests cannot be guaranteed
Onsite parties or group events are strictly prohibited
This property uses a grey water recycling system
Host has indicated there is a carbon monoxide detector on the property
Host has indicated there is a smoke detector on the property
Safety features at this property include a fire extinguisher, a first aid kit, and a deadbolt lock
This property is managed through our partner, Vrbo. You will receive an email from Vrbo with a link to a Vrbo account, where you can change or cancel your reservation
Charges for extra guests may apply and vary according to property policy.
A cash deposit, credit card, or debit card for incidental charges and government-issued photo identification may be required upon check-in.
Special requests are subject to availability at the time of check-in. Special requests can't be guaranteed and may incur additional charges.
    This property is managed by a private host, not a professional engaged in trade or business. Onsite parties or group events are strictly prohibited. This property uses a grey water recycling system. For guests' safety, the property includes a carbon monoxide detector, a fire extinguisher, a smoke detector, a first aid kit, and a deadbolt lock in each accommodation.

Frequently asked questions

How close is Welch Cabin <A License to Chill> ~we LOVE dogs~ to the airport?

This cabin is 54.3 mi (71-min drive) away from the Portland International Airport (PDX) airport, the closest popular airport to the property.

Does Welch Cabin <A License to Chill> ~we LOVE dogs~ have an airport shuttle?

Airport shuttle services are not available at this cabin.

How close is Welch Cabin <A License to Chill> ~we LOVE dogs~ to the beach?

This cabin is on the beach. Don't forget your sunscreen!

Does Welch Cabin <A License to Chill> ~we LOVE dogs~ offer free breakfast?

This cabin does not offer free breakfast.

Is there a casino at Welch Cabin <A License to Chill> ~we LOVE dogs~?

No, there is no casino at this cabin.

What time is check-in at Welch Cabin <A License to Chill> ~we LOVE dogs~?

Check-in begins at 4:00 PM.

Is there free parking at Welch Cabin <A License to Chill> ~we LOVE dogs~?

Free parking is not available at this cabin.

Does Welch Cabin <A License to Chill> ~we LOVE dogs~ have a pool?

This cabin does not have a pool.

Does Welch Cabin <A License to Chill> ~we LOVE dogs~ have a spa?

There are no spa services available at this cabin.

How close is Welch Cabin <A License to Chill> ~we LOVE dogs~ to downtown Kalama?

This cabin is 9.9 mi away from Kalama.

Welch Cabin <A License to Chill> ~we LOVE dogs~ Reviews

Reviews

10

Exceptional

Rating 10 - Excellent. 20 out of 21 reviews
Rating 8 - Good. 1 out of 21 reviews
Rating 6 - Okay. 0 out of 21 reviews
Rating 4 - Poor. 0 out of 21 reviews
Rating 2 - Terrible. 0 out of 21 reviews

10/10

Cleanliness

10/10

Amenities

10/10

Property conditions & facilities

Reviews

10/10 Excellent

Jordan G.

Liked: Cleanliness
Incredible spot and amazing hospitality from Tim and team.
Stayed 3 nights in Feb 2026

10/10 Excellent

Stephanie C.

Liked: Cleanliness
The perfect getaway: private, surrounded by woods, dog friendly, and with both a view and access to the river! The hosts are helpful and welcoming. Plenty of firewood provided. There is so much we are excited to come back to experience on a hot sunny weekend!Fyi: Can't accurately rate skiiing since we didn't go.
Stayed 2 nights in Dec 2025

10/10 Excellent

Mike F.

Liked: Cleanliness
This is an amazing cabin in the woods. Dan was wonderful with communication and showing us the ins and outs of the place. It was incredibly clean and our dog LOVED the location. We will be back!
Stayed 4 nights in Aug 2025

10/10 Excellent

Kurt

Liked: Cleanliness, property conditions & facilities
Listing says, "sleeps 6", unless people are sleeping on the floor, this is not possible. Listing also says that there is A/C and TV with Cable, also not true. The hike down to the river takes 3-4 minutes and is not for smaller kids. Ownership and Manager were very nice!
Stayed 2 nights in Aug 2025

10/10 Excellent

J. C.

Liked: Cleanliness
Great property next to a river.
Stayed 5 nights in Aug 2025

10/10 Excellent

Erica R.

Liked: Cleanliness

Summer Bliss

We had a great stay at Welch Cabin! This is a great place to get away and slow down. We enjoyed relaxing on the big deck as we listened to the river and birds and we had a great time cooling off by the river. We saw an otter family swimming in the river, frogs, deer, eagles, a shooting star and lots of smiles. We'll be back!
Stayed 3 nights in Jul 2024

10/10 Excellent

Iurii K., Vancouver, WA, USA

Liked: Cleanliness

Loved every minute!

Absolutely loved my stay in the cabin. Had so much fun and slept like a log! Dan and Tim were awesome hosts, and I appreciate the great experience they’ve provided. The cabin was impeccable clean and had a lot of personal touches that added to the character. My dog loved the gourmet selection of sticks and pinecones tastefully left around the property. The river was close and amazing. Even though I didn’t catch any fish, I did catch lots of memories with my pup.
Stayed 3 nights in Jul 2024

10/10 Excellent

Michelle O.

Liked: Cleanliness

Beautiful

Really beautiful place, right on the river, fabulous view, private, warm and cozy. This place is really incredible we will be back. Not a fan of the outdoor bathroom but worth it. Bring a book. No TV.
Stayed 4 nights in May 2024

10/10 Excellent

Verified traveler

Liked: Cleanliness

Recharge your soul

Beautiful getaway to recharge your soul. Just a rushing river, birds calling in a lovely native habitat, and a fire crackling in the fireplace. Just one word of caution - the trail down to the river is steep. Thank you to the wonderful hosts!
Stayed 2 nights in Apr 2024

10/10 Excellent

Jennifer F.

Liked: Cleanliness

Tranquility and ombiance

A magical place to rest and rejuvenate, host was prompt and friendly. Felt like we had the whole woods to ourselves. The hammock and outdoor shower with instant hot water were my favorite. We will be back. Kitchen had essentials and much more. The oven was new and great for cooking with 6 burners. Plenty of firewood on hand for indoor wood stove and outdoor fire pit. So many little quirky touches it made the place feel like home. Did I mention the flannel sheets and large soft towels?
Stayed 3 nights in Apr 2024

10/10 Excellent

Alexander Q.

Liked: Cleanliness

Piece of Heaven on Earth.

My husband and I stayed at Welch Cabin last weekend to celebrate our 19th anniversary and words fall short to describe our experience. Both Tim and Dan made sure we had all the details of our stay at the cabin. The day we arrived Dan greeted us at the entrance with a big smile and showed us around the property and all the important details we needed to know, especially how the bio-toilet works (we had no idea how it was used. Hey don't judge! LOL) From the moment we arrived we could feel the peace that comes from this piece of heaven on earth. I explored the cabin, and I found a harmonica and we started the party. After that, I found a BB gun and I can't remember since when we didn't laugh so hard. We not only reconnect with nature, but we also reconnect with ourselves. This place is for anyone who wants to take a break from this busy life and enjoy the creation God created for us. We are so grateful to God for allowing us to spend the best anniversary of our lives in this beautiful place that exceeded our expectations and made us remember why we made the decision to share our lives 19 years ago. If you're still thinking about booking...Just do it!! Don't think twice, this is the place. You will be completely in love, and you will not want to leave there. We will be coming back very soon!
Stayed 2 nights in Sep 2023

10/10 Excellent

Christopher

Liked: Cleanliness

Unique river perch

I've traveled a fair amount, and stayed in all kinds of places, but this cabin is truly unique and special. The character of the cabin is what really makes it stand out - you can tell that everything was put together with a lot of care and meaning. You can feel that you're staying in a real place with its own history, that was built specifically to exist for this location. The river is magical, and seeing the neighborhood bald eagle perch across from the cabin deck is truly special. For being a remote cabin, the amenities are surprising - the shower is hot, the wifi is strong, and the kitchen is well equipped.
Stayed 5 nights in Aug 2023

10/10 Excellent

Scott S.

Liked: Cleanliness

Relaxing

An amazingly beautiful cabin sitting on a gorgeous hillside. The roaring of the river and absolute silence of the night had me taken a back. Nightly campfire or fireplace going made this retreat very peaceful. This cabin has everything you need and some extras such as the hot shower, WiFi, and electric. Everyone involved with this cabin has been amazing and truly care about your experience. Don’t waste your time looking for another place and book now!
Stayed 3 nights in Sep 2023

10/10 Excellent

kodie h.

Liked: Cleanliness

Hidden paradise!

In my 39 years have never experienced true peace, serenity and joy like I did the moment my feet hit the earth of this secluded mountain paradise. The entire experience from the clean, fresh air to the sounds of the river and the birds on the deck to the mossy trees in every shade of green restored my soul and sent me home with a gratitude for life that will stay with me forever. We will be back every year for as long as we’re able. Thank you Tim, for sharing this hidden bit of heaven on earth.
Stayed 4 nights in Aug 2023

10/10 Excellent

Mimi F.

Liked: Cleanliness

Wonderful summer stay

The property itself was beautifully situated. The property manager greeted us warmly and showed us all the tricks for a successful stay. We used the barbecue, fire pit, and wood burning stove along with the fantastic gas stove. The weather for our weekend was nothing short of spectacular, so there was that too. We took our young springer spaniels and needless to say they wasted no time in jumping in the river and teaching themselves how to fetch sticks and doggy paddle. Relaxing on that hammock was by far my favorite part. If your family needs a place to unplug and unwind, this is it.
Stayed 2 nights in Jun 2023

10/10 Excellent

Megan B., Gig Harbor

Liked: Cleanliness

A License to Chill!

This is a must-try experience for nature lovers. A quaint and beautifully warm cabin sits atop ancient breathtaking cliffs. We arrived at the peak of a late December storm and were met by Dan, longtime Caretaker. He walked us through the quirks of operations. He had a fire going and Sharon his wife made floral arrangements for that extra touch. This property has been lovingly cared for. The trails maintained for easy access to the river. Though the Kalama was too high for fishing, we will certainly be back when conditions are right. We would come back with or without the bonus fly-fishing holes. Rockhounders may also enjoy the variety of metamorphic deposits. Though the property is in a conservation trust, so taking anything is not ethical. Just being here and enjoying the majesty of it all is enough. Wood stove was very easy to use, efficient and beautiful to watch. There was plenty of wood on site. Kitchen was stocked with everything we needed. The gas stove with cast iron skillet was an added bonus. Please take care not to scrub the cast iron. This surface can be easily ruined by soaps and scrubbing. We simply used hot water while still on to break down food debris, then wiped off with a paper towel. Then a little avocado oil to season. While some couples may be discouraged by 2 sets of bunkers, don't knock it til you try it. I highly recommend you bring your own blankets. Pillows and mattresses are comfortable. This is an ideal destination for a group of buddies and a romantic getaway for the wilder sort of people. They have an amazing mantra however, welcoming everyone regardless of where you're from, how you worship or who you love. And this mantra shines true in the spirit of the people who built and operate this slice of heaven on earth. You MUST be ok with walking outside to take a shower and do your business. Give this experience a chance. Have you ever sat down on a toilet while bald eagles fly by? It's pretty rad. The shower and toilet is enclosed just enough to feel private but open enough to feel one step closer to the forest. The wildlife won't judge. Thanks again to the Welch's & Davis's
Stayed 2 nights in Dec 2022

10/10 Excellent

kristi

Traveled with family
Liked: Cleanliness, amenities, property conditions & facilities
I loved this little cabin in the woods. If you want to get away from it all and love camping, but also like to shower this is the place for you. Somewhere between rustic and glamping. A perfect balance. A wonderful river view high atop a cliff side. Spotted a lot of Bald eagles and fell asleep to the sound of the river. My family loved it. We will absolutely visit again🙂
Stayed 3 nights in Aug 2022

10/10 Excellent

Baine T., Seattle. WA

Liked: Cleanliness

Great little place!!

Great cabin for getting back to basics. It has an amazing cliff side view of the river. I’ve looked for years for a basic cabin on the river and this one definitely fits the bill. It’s a very cool setup with amazing and peaceful surroundings. I loved building a fire in the pit and chilling on the deck and looking at stars. There are a few great swimming holes just down the hill from the cabin. Water is pretty cold but totally worth it. We were sad to leave 😞 but we’ll be back!
Stayed 3 nights in Aug 2022

8/10 Good

John Z.

Liked: Cleanliness

Truly chill

Had a great long weekend at this peaceful, charming cabin. You can really feel the love that was put into this place. If you pay attention you'll see vultures and bald eagles fly the river valley in the morning and evening. Stay up late to enjoy a spectacular display of stars. Don't let the biolet scare you off!
Stayed 3 nights in Jul 2022

10/10 Excellent

Michael V.

Liked: Cleanliness

Peaceful retreat

Appreciated the remote location of the cabin situated above the clear-flowing Kalama River and part of land trust conservation area. A good place for self-reflection and writing in a setting of natural beauty.
Stayed 4 nights in Jul 2022

10/10 Excellent

Lyle J.

Liked: Cleanliness

Beautiful and Quiet Place

This a beautiful piece of property. It's very quiet, with just the gentle flow of the river that seems to sooth the soul. It's very private which, for us, made it really nice. My puppy loved it too. She's generally uncomfortable in new places but seemed to ease in wonderfully. To be honest, I was a little worried about the composting toilet but it's not nearly as bad as I thought it would be. Both Tim and Dan are really nice and accommodating Will be back!
Stayed 3 nights in Jul 2022