Creating a Paradise Kristin Boag
Camp David is the name David Eastman has given his two lots at Lost Lake Resort, and while his property isn’t nearly as pacious as the presidential retreat in Maryland, you would
be hard pressed to find anyplace more suitable for relaxation.
Eastman, a 58-year-old financial consultant, has created his
own oasis at the resort, a private RV park nestled in the woods in
Washington’s Nisqually Valley.
Here, alongside his 40-foot Beaver Marquis motorhome, park
model and home gym, he has created a beautifully landscaped outdoor living space with a covered patio, waterfall, gas firepit, bar,
outdoor kitchen and 55-inch flat panel TV. Elaborate heating and
lighting systems add to the comfort and ambiance.
Eastman concedes he went “over the top” in developing his
lots, but others who have bought in Lost Lake Resort have made
improvements that are substantial, if not quite to Eastman’s level.
All of the improvements are in keeping with Lost Lake developer
Jeff Graham’s vision of a park that fits its rustic setting.
Lost Lake Resort occupies 130 acres in a wilderness area that is
just minutes from Interstate 5, and about 40 miles south of Seattle.
The property is dotted with tall trees—firs, cedars, pines, alders
and even a few redwoods— and includes an 11-acre lake stocked
with trout.
Paved roads loop through the property, and there are many
amenities—a boat dock, recreation facilities with a heated
indoor/outdoor pool, a fitness center and much more.
Lost Lake has lots priced at $40,000 and up. Purchasers can
build an open shelter to house an RV or install a park model. By law,
park models are limited to 400 square feet, but decks and sunrooms
Adam Berman
David and Beverly Eastman have created an elaborate campsite at Lost Lake Resort.
can enlarge the living space. Park models are designed for part-time
use, and occupancy at Lost Lake is limited to six months a year.
Ron D. Beard, an architect and planner who is based in Austin,
Texas, and works with RV parks across the nation, said Lost Lake
is unusual in a couple of ways. First, is the private nature of the
resort. Many RV parks sell or lease lots, but few are entirely private;
most also rent RV spaces overnight. Secondly, he said, the setting
is extraordinary; you are just minutes from populated areas but
seem to be in the woods a world away. And, he said, the resort is
upscale, but the lots are more reasonably priced than the highest-end luxury resorts.
Lost Lake is also remarkable, Beard said, for its high quality of
design and style. Graham, the owner and developer, insists that people who buy lots in the resort follow design standards that are in harmony with the environment. Metal roofs need to be green and park
Adam Berman
