Cabin

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

Beachfront cabin with kitchen and balcony

from parking to the cabin... an easy trail.

Overview
Amenities
Policies
Location

Exceptional

1 bedroom1 bathroomSleeps 664.1 sq m

Popular amenities

Parking available
Fireplace
Barbecue grill
Air conditioning

Explore the area

kalama, WA

Place, ilani Casino
‪41 min drive‬
Place, Woodland Motocross Park
‪45 min drive‬
Place, Lewis River
‪46 min drive‬
Airport, Portland, OR (PDX-Portland Intl.)
‪86 min drive‬

Rooms & beds

1 bedroom (sleeps 6)

Bedroom 1

2 Single Bunk Beds and 1 Double Futon

Common area 1

1 Double Sofa Bed, 2 Single Bunk Beds and 1 Single Bed

Living Room 1

1 Double Sofa Bed

1 bathroom

Bathroom 1

Toilet · Shower only · Outdoor shower

Spaces

Deck or patio

Porch or lanai

Outdoor shower

Kitchen

Balcony

Outdoor play area

Garden

Dining area

About this property

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.

Add dates for prices

Amenities

Kitchen

Pet-friendly

Free WiFi

Air conditioning

Outdoor space

Parking available

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Washer
Dryer
Pet-friendly

House Rules

Check in after 4:00 PM

Minimum age to rent: 21

Check out before 10:00 AM

Children

Children allowed: ages 3–17

This is not a place to let the kiddos run free...

Events

No events allowed

Pets

Pets allowed: dogs and cats less than 23 kg per pet (limit one pet total)

Refundable deposits may be required for pets

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

On-site parties or group events are strictly prohibited

This property uses a grey water recycling system

Host has not indicated whether there is a carbon monoxide detector on the property; consider bringing a portable detector with you on the trip

Host has indicated that there is a smoke detector on the property

Safety features at this property include a fire extinguisher, a first aid kit and a deadlock

About the area

Kalama

Located in Kalama, this cabin is in a rural area and on the beach. Kalama Marina and Lewis River Golf Course are worth checking out if an activity is on the agenda, while those wishing to experience the area's natural beauty can explore Upper Kalama Water Access Site and Beginners Hole Water Access Site. Haydu Park and Toteff Park are also worth visiting. Make sure you get close to the area's animals with activities such as game walks and birdwatching.

View more Cabin rentals in Kalama

kalama, WA

What's nearby

ilani Casino - 41 min drive - 56.9 km
Woodland Motocross Park - 45 min drive - 57.8 km
Lewis River Golf Course - 45 min drive - 58.1 km
Lewis River - 46 min drive - 59.8 km
Cascades Amphitheater - 49 min drive - 72.3 km

Getting around

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

Frequently asked questions

Is Welch Cabin <A License to Chill> ~we LOVE dogs~ pet-friendly?

Yes, this property allows cats and dogs (limit 1 total) with a maximum weight of up to 23 kg per pet.

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

Check-in begins at 4:00 PM.

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

Checkout is at 10:00 AM.

Where is Welch Cabin <A License to Chill> ~we LOVE dogs~ located?

Nestled on the beach, this Kalama cabin is 11.4 mi (18.4 km) from Upper Kalama Water Access Site and 11.9 mi (19.2 km) from Beginners Hole Water Access Site. Modrow Bridge Water Access Site and Haydu Park are also within 16 miles (25 km).

Exceptional

10/10

Cleanliness

10/10

Amenities

10/10

Property conditions & facilities

10/10

Check-in

10/10

Communication

10/10

Location

9.8/10

Listing accuracy

10/10 Excellent

Mike F.

29 August 2025

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

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

Michael V.

2 August 2022

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

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

Erica R.

16 July 2024

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

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

8/10 Good

John Z.

5 August 2022

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

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

Scott S.

8 September 2023

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

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

Baine T., Seattle. WA

19 August 2022

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

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

10/10 Excellent

Jennifer F.

9 April 2024

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

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

J. C.

22 August 2025

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Great property next to a river.

Stayed 5 nights in Aug 2025

10/10 Excellent

Iurii K.

8 July 2024

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

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.

18 May 2024

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

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 traveller

8 May 2024

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

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

Alexander Q.

21 September 2023

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

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

11 September 2023

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

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

kodie h.

1 September 2023

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

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.

2 July 2023

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

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

30 December 2022

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

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

25 August 2022

Liked: Cleanliness, amenities, property conditions & facilities, communication

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

Lyle J.

22 July 2022

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

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

About the host

Hosted by Timothy Peter Welch

Purpose and Impact
All income from Welch Cabin (501c3) goes directly to local environmental and health-related causes. Our mission is to protect, preserve, and promote the natural world, all while being a dog-friendly space.

Welch Cabin is a place for healing, connection, and education, showcasing sustainable living practices like resource-efficient bio-toilets and greywater systems. We serve as a model for land stewardship, working to protect our wild steelhead habitat and preserve the landscapes we all share.

A Secluded Retreat
Perched 90 feet above the pristine Kalama River, Welch Cabin is a private, 19-acre retreat that blends wilderness charm with modern comforts. The cabin offers a secluded experience with no neighbors in sight, surrounded by towering firs, cedars, and wildflowers.

Enjoy modern amenities like hot showers, a full kitchen, internet, and creek-processed water. Relax on the sun deck and take in the sights and sounds of rushing rapids, songbirds, and the whisper of a mountain breeze. Welch Cabin is a one-of-a-kind getaway, just 10 miles from Kalama, WA, that will restore your spirit and inspire a deeper connection to nature.

============================================
Lee and I are 80-something retired professionals... she a rancher and I a book and software publisher. Our BnB properties have garnered 214+ five star reviews, along with an occasional grumpy 4.8 review. This is a labor of love, and we employ local help at above minimum wages. As a not-for-profit biz 100% of our earnings go to local causes. Our love for our homes and the 40+ acres upon which they sit demonstrates our heartfelt affection for our serene part of the world. Come and share it with us!

Why they chose this property

INCLUSION AND RESPECT

We are a BnB where people from every background feel welcome. Our guests to feel comfortable here regardless of how they feel about us old folks!

Tim, Lee and Dan the Man

Team Welch Cabin

What makes this property unique

LOCATION! LOCATION! LOCATION!

~~A NOT-FOR-PROFIT 501C3 ORGANIZATION~~

100% of income goes to local health and eco-centered foundations...
And PETS allowed! We ask pet owners to follow the protocols of good pet hygiene: clean up after Roscoe, keep him off the furniture, and NO puppies please! Kittens are OK because we know a cat will do whatever she wants.

Languages:

English

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

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

Reviews

Popular amenities

Explore the area

Rooms & beds

1 bedroom (sleeps 6)

Bedroom 1

Common area 1

Living Room 1

1 bathroom

Bathroom 1

Spaces

About this property

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

Add dates for prices

Amenities

Have a question?

Similar properties

Unique Riverfront Cabin 1 hour north of PDX

House Rules

Children

Events

Pets

Smoking

Important information

You need to know

About the area

Kalama

What's nearby

Getting around

Frequently asked questions

Reviews

Exceptional

10/10

10/10

10/10

10/10

10/10

10/10

9.8/10

Reviews

10/10 Excellent

Mike F.

Mike F.

10/10 Excellent

Michael V.

Peaceful retreat

Michael V.

10/10 Excellent

Erica R.

Summer Bliss

Erica R.

8/10 Good

John Z.

Truly chill

John Z.

10/10 Excellent

Scott S.

Relaxing

Scott S.

10/10 Excellent

Baine T., Seattle. WA

Great little place!!

Baine T.

10/10 Excellent

Jennifer F.

Tranquility and ombiance

Jennifer F.

10/10 Excellent

J. C.

J. C.

10/10 Excellent

Iurii K.

Loved every minute!

Iurii K.

10/10 Excellent

Michelle O.

Beautiful

Michelle O.