The smell of fresh baked cinnamon rolls and coffee fill the cabin with a sweet aroma, remnants of the previous night’s Scrabble game are spread across the kitchen table, and a trickle of rain spatters against the window, all while you enjoy taking in views of the rolling waves crashing along the shore. This is what each morning is like at Iron Springs Resort in Copalis Beach, WA.
For nearly 70 years, Iron Springs Resort has served as a serene, oceanside destination for vacationing families and romancing couples alike. And, while the resort has seen many changes over the years, one thing that hasn’t changed is its undeniable charm.
When Olive Little purchased the vacation property back in 1947, it featured eight cabins and one small lodge. At the time, this was plenty of room to accommodate her guests, but as the years passed by and popularity of the small resort quickly grew, Olive realized she was going to need to expand, and she didn’t hesitate. Development of the resort commenced and 17 new cabins were added, along with an expansion of the lodge. Each cabin added to the property was meticulously placed, making sure no cabin went without a breathtaking view of the ocean.
With 25 cabins all located practically within arms reach of the water, Iron Springs Resort served as a memorable and scenic vacation destination, hosting families, newlyweds, reunions, bonfires, clam digs and more, all until Olive’s passing nearly 60 years later. By this time, however, the resort had seen better days. Requiring some much needed rehabilitation if it were going to continue its six decade long (and counting) legacy, the True family – long time patrons of the Resort – purchased the property in 2010 and went straight to work.
Having spent the past 45 years visiting Iron Springs, the True family knew the resort well. The following year was spent rehabilitating the cabins and surrounding property, making updates as necessary to give the resort a few modern day comforts. “When we started the rehabilitation at Iron Springs, there were almost too many good ideas,” says owner Doug True. “We really had to focus on restoring the resort to its original charm. It is in many ways a timeless place and we had to respect that.”
Doug says he feels that, as the caretaker for something as precious as Iron Springs, it is his and his family’s responsibility to preserve the resort for generations to come. “We feel as if we are the current custodians of a treasure and it is our job to maintain Iron Springs Resort for everyone’s children and grandchildren to enjoy.”
After much hard work, Iron Springs reopened in June of 2011. “We are all really proud of the whole place,” says Doug. “I am proud of the staff. They are wonderful folks who all share a love of the place. I’m also proud when I have the opportunity to talk to returning customers who have been bringing their families [here] for, in some cases, 50 to 60 years.”
The pride and admiration Doug and his family have for Iron Springs is obvious the moment you arrive. Attention to detail – and charm – are evident in every corner of Iron Springs. From each cabin’s unique decor, to morning mimosas at the general store, the True family has not only preserved the charm of this Grays Harbor resort, but has also added an additional layer of delight, one which will only continue to grow and evolve with the resort in the years to come.
Iron Springs Resort, nestled along the shores of the Pacific Ocean in Copalis Beach, is open year-round and features rotating specials and rates, depending on the season. Perfect for a summer escape or a storm watching weekend, Doug says, no matter the season, whether you come to relax or be active, Iron Springs is a “spiritual place.”
Whether you’re planning a family vacation, want to participate in one of Iron Spring’s popular clam digs, or just want to see what all the hype is about, you can learn more about Iron Springs Resort and even take a virtual tour of the cabins and property by visiting their website here.
