Big Island Camping: 27 Sites and How to Book Them
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The Big Island has a lot of campgrounds, and some require extensive preparation. We don’t want you to spend precious time researching which campground is best for you, how to reserve it, what you need beforehand, or if a campground is legal. We have done all of that for you!
We scoured all of the Big Island’s legal campgrounds to create this comprehensive list of Big Island camping that includes the following:
- Description of the campsite
- locations on the Big Island
- How to reserve the campsite
- Everything else you should know before you go.
Since anybody can offer camping on their private property, we cover every government-operated campground and a few well-established private ones.
Big Island Camping Fast Tips:
– If you’re looking for beach camping, jump to County Campsites
– Up for an adventure? Opt for camping in Volcanoes National Park, which has all hike-in campsites.
– Want more amenities or a campervan site? Check out private campgrounds.
– If this doesn’t narrow it down, find a site by location using the interactive map below.
Big Island Camping at a Glance
Map of Big Island Camping Spots
Big Island Camping FAQ
Can you camp on any beach and anywhere on the island?
No, camping is only allowed in designated campgrounds and with proper permits or reservations. Each section of this article breaks down exactly what you need to camp at any of these sites.
Can you sleep in your car on the Big Island?
Car camping is allowed at certain private campsites on the Big Island. If this is on your Big Island camping bucket list, check out The Haven or search HipCamp for more private RV sites.
You won’t want to take any old rental for car camping, though. Marco at Ready Rigs will get you set up with a 4WD vehicle with absolutely everything you need for car camping on the Big Island.
Is there any free camping on the Big Island?
No, there is no free camping on the Big Island.
How much does it cost to camp on the Big Island?
Typically, camping on the Big Island will run you $10-$50 per night (non-residents). There are a lot of campgrounds located in Volcanoes National Park, so if you choose to camp in the park, you’ll also want to account for a National Park Pass.
Avid campers may want to take advantage of annual National Park or America the Beautiful passes if you don’t have them already and you plan to visit other National Parks within the year.
Can you have campfires on the beach?
No, no campfires are allowed on the beaches anywhere in Hawaii. While you may see this bad practice, don’t follow suit because it is illegal and dangerous.
What is Rapid ‘Ohi’a Death (ROD)?
The ‘Ohi’a is the most abundant native tree species on the Hawaiian islands, and it’s dying at an incredible rate due to a fungal disease called Ceratocystis. Infected trees die within days or weeks, and Hawaii is working hard to stop the spread and protect the ‘Ohi’a.
It has affected all districts in Hawaii, but it is especially important to be aware of it if you plan to camp on Kauai or the Big Island. To prevent the spread to other areas and islands, disinfect all your gear (including hiking equipment) with 70% alcohol.
Here are two great resources for learning more:
National Park Service
College of Tropical Agriculture and Human Resources
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Hawaiian Island Cheat Sheets
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Big Island Camping Permits and Reservations
You’ll see four types of campgrounds outlined below: state, county, National Park (hike-in), and private.
- State-run campgrounds are reserved on a per-night basis, and reservations are made through Wiki Permits.
- County-run campgrounds are reserved on a per-person, per-night basis and can be reserved through the Hawaii County Website.
- National Park-run campgrounds require one permit for up to 12 campers and seven nights. One permit can be used for several campsites. Permits can be purchased through recreation.gov
- Private campgrounds have their own rules, rates, and reservation systems. For more information, jump to the private campgrounds section.
Planning on island hopping to camp all over Hawaii? Check out our other camping articles.
Kauai Camping
Maui Camping
Oahu Camping
Plan the rest of your time on the Big Island:
The Ultimate Hawai’i Big Island Travel Guide
Is There a Best Time to Visit the Big Island of Hawaii?
What to Do in Hawaii When it Rains
Campsites: Legal Big Island Camping Locations
Big Island State Campsites
Tent camping at state campsites costs $30 per night for non-residents and $20 per night for residents. Alcohol is prohibited at both sites.
Kalopa State Recreation Area
This campground is located in an ‘Ohi’a Forest at 2,000 ft elevation on the northeast side of the island, about 1 hour from Hilo. There are cabins at this site, which we cover in the last section of this article.
Highlights & amenities include:
- Pavilions
- Picnic tables
- Bathrooms
- Nature trails
- Drinking water
- No hot water or showers are available to tent campers
Remember: This campsite is in an ‘Ohi’a Forest and Rapid ‘Ohi’a Death (ROD) is killing these trees at an alarming rate. Go prepared by reading up on how to prevent the spread and be ready to take measures to disinfect your gear and clothing after camping here.
Make reservations through Wiki Permits
Kiholo State Park Reserve
Once a thriving fishing village, this reserve has a beachfront camping area for tent camping only, 30 minutes from Kona International Airport. This nonprofit reserve only allows camping on weekends, Friday nights through Sunday nights. It is a remote, coastal lava field with small bays.
Highlights & amenities include:
- Fishing, snorkeling, swimming, & hiking
- Porta-potties
- Designated campsites & fire pits
- No drinking water or showers
- Gates locked upon closing at 7:00 pm. There is no entry or exit between 7:00 pm and 7:00 am
Make reservations through Wiki Permits.
Hapuna Beach State Recreation Area
This beach has A-frame shelters that used to be available for camping. They were closed in 2022 for repairs and were supposed to open back up in 2023, but as of late 2024, online reservations are still not open. This is arguably the best beach on the Big Island, so we hope camping reopens! Check the status of the shelters via the Division of State Parks.
Waimanu Campsite
This site is CLOSED to non-residents. The only way to access the trailhead to this campsite is via the Waipi’o Valley Access Road, which is restricted to Hawaii Island residents only. If you’re a Hawaii Island resident, you can get all the information you need and make reservations here.
Fill your day with Big Island activities:
29 Incredible Things to Do on the Big Island (map + video included)
Don’t Miss the 7 Best Coffee Tours on the Big Island
5 Best Big Island Snorkeling Spots (plus how to swim with manta rays)
Big Island County Campsites
All county campsites are oceanfront, but they may not have a sandy beach. Check each description below for more information. Fees for all county campsites include a $1 per person per night processing fee that is non-refundable (and unavoidable).
Pricing is per person, per night as follows:
- Ages 18+ non-resident $21, resident $6
- Ages 13-17 non-resident $21, resident $3
- Ages 12 and under non-resident $20, resident $1
Find and book a county campsite.
The following rules apply to all Big Island county campgrounds, unless otherwise noted.
- Camping is allowed at any of these sites (except Kohanaiki) for up to 1 week from June 1st – August 31st and up to 2 weeks the rest of the year.
- Check-out is at 12:00 pm if the camp remains open on the day of check out or 8:00 am if the camp closes on that day. Kohanaiki campground is closed on Tuesdays and Wednesdays and you can check for monthly closures of other sites here.
- No camping is allowed in pavilions, they are for day use only and must be booked by calling (808)691-8311.
- Alcohol is permitted at the campgrounds from 10:00 am – 10:00 pm at all sites except at Spencer Beach Park where no alcohol is permitted.
Isaac Hale Beach Park
CLOSED for camping indefinitely. Visitors are still welcome to enjoy the black sand beach and explore the lava fields. Camping has not been available since the 2018 lava flow from Kilauea, and it’s unclear if camping will become available again in the future. Check the status of camping here.
Kapa’a Beach Park
This beach is located on the north shore of the Big Island, be careful not to confuse it with Kapa’a on the island of Kauai! It is 1 hour from Kona Airport and 2 hours from Hilo Airport.
Highlights & amenities include:
- Open daily
- Rocky shoreline
- Good for fishing
- Pavilions
- Picnic tables
- Restrooms with running water
- No drinking water
- No showers
Book a site at Kapa’a Beach Park.
Kohanaiki Beach Park
Conveniently located in Kona on the Big Island’s west side, it is equidistant from Kona Airport and Kailua-Kona. Gates close nightly from 9:00 pm to 5:30 am with no entry or exit during these hours. An overnight parking pass is required here, and you’ll pick it up from the guard shack at no additional cost by showing your valid camping permit.
Highlights & amenities include:
- Both a rocky shoreline and sandy beach
- Fishing
- Snorkeling
- Swimming
- Restrooms
- Outdoor showers (near the beach)
- Drinking water
- Night security
- Plenty of parking
- Closed for camping on Tuesdays and Wednesdays
Book a site at Kohanaiki Beach Park.
While you’re near Kona…
The 21 Best Things to do in Kona (+ tips to know before you go)
Tried and Tested: The 6 Best Manta Ray Night Snorkel (or Dive) in Kona
The 5 Best Captain Cook Snorkeling Tours (by boat type, price)
Laupahoehoe Beach Park
This site is located on the east side of the island and is 45 minutes north of Hilo Airport.
Highlights & amenities include:
- Open daily
- Rocky shoreline
- Great for fishing
- Pavilions
- Drinking water
- Restrooms
- Outdoor showers (near the beach)
Book a site at Laupahoehoe Beach Park.
Miloli’i Beach Park
This small campground is located on the island’s west side, an hour and a half south of Kona Airport. Spots are hard to come by as so few are available for booking in the first place. It’s quiet and secluded, and Google Maps doesn’t take you to the site, so punch in the Hau’oli Kamana’o Church when you head out.
Highlights & amenities include:
- Open daily
- Rocky shoreline
- Great for fishing
- Secluded
- Pavilion
- Restrooms
- Non-potable water
- Very little privacy (and space)
Book a site at Miloli’i Beach Park.
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Hawaiian Island Cheat Sheets
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Mahukona Beach Park
Currently closed to camping, but may reopen. It is open for day use and this is still an excellent spot to snorkel and watch the sunset.
There is a porta-potty available but no running water at this site.
Check here to see if campsites have become available.
Spencer Beach Park
This beach also claims a spot as one of the best beaches on the Big Island and for good reason! It is located 35 minutes north of Kona Airport and 1 hour 40 minutes from Hilo Airport. This is another gated area and gates close 8:00 pm – 7:00 am with no entry or exit during these hours.
The campground has monthly closures for maintenance, so if you book a night before a closure, you’ll have to be packed up and out by 8:00 am on the day of the closure. Check monthly closure dates here.
Highlights & amenities include:
- Night security is present
- Lifeguard
- Fishing
- Snorkeling
- Swimming
- Picnic tables
- Restrooms
- Outdoor showers (near the beach)
- No alcohol
Book a site at Spencer Beach Park.
Punalu’u Beach Park
This is my favorite black sand beach in Hawaii and it is on our list of the best beaches on the Big Island. It’s located on the island’s south side, 35 minutes past Volcano, 1 hour and 20 minutes from Hilo Airport, and 2 hours from Kona Airport. The camping area is adjacent to Punalu’u Bay, so you won’t be right on the beach, but you’ll be just steps away.
Highlights & amenities include:
- Open daily
- Restrooms
- Fishing
- Outdoor showers (near the beach)
- Drinking water
- Rocky shoreline
- Pavilion
Book a site at Punalu’u Beach Park.
Whittington Beach Park
This campsite is on the southeast coast about 1 hour 45 minutes from Kona airport and 1 hour 20 minutes from Hilo Airport. The coastline here is rocky and there is a pond that spills into the ocean. The campsite is close to Punalu’u Beach and a short drive from the town of Naalehu.
Highlights & amenities include:
- Open daily
- Rocky shoreline
- Fishing
- Pavilions
- Porta-potties
- Picnic tables
- Non-potable water
- Outdoor showers (near the beach)
Book a site at Whittington Beach Park.
Heading to the Big Island on a budget?
How to Get A Cheap Ticket to Hawaii: 5 Insider’s Tips
Here’s How We Book our Hawaii Travel (and beyond)
Big Island Hike-In Camping: Hawaii Volcanoes National Park
If you’re looking for something a little more rugged, backpacking in and around Volcanoes National Park is an excellent option. Yes, you can even hike and camp on the world’s largest active volcano: Mauna Loa.
All of these hikes are challenging and should only be attempted by experienced hikers who know their limits. We provide a general overview of each site and all you need to know to make reservations, but you should do additional research to ensure the site you choose is a good fit for you and your group. Find additional information on each site here.
There are 8 backcountry campsites that can all be reserved by the same system. One permit will cover any of these sites for up to 12 campers and 7 nights. Each site has a maximum consecutive stay of 3 nights, but you can hike to a different site to continue your stay within the permit timeframe, simply select the sites you plan to stay at. If you want to camp more than 7 nights, you’ll need to purchase another $10 permit. Get your permit here.
Permits are sold online and in person, with 25% of the permit availability being held for in-person reservations at the Backcountry Office (click here for directions). All reservation systems are cashless. Permits can be purchased 90 days in advance, and all hikers must check in at the Backcountry Office within 7 days of camping. Be sure to check out at the office as well so they know all hikers are safe and accounted for.
Permits do not include park entrance fees, so these hikes also require a National Park Pass. You can explore pass options here.
The first 4 campsites are within a few miles of one another and can be accessed by the same 3 trailheads: Puna Coast Trailhead, Keauhou Trailhead, and the Hilina Pali Trailhead. We outline the recommended (most direct) trail to access each campsite. These sites all have composting toilets and most have non-potable water.
Apua Point
Beachfront camping on the southern tip of the Big Island. This beach has strong riptides, but some shallow areas are safe to access when the water is calm.
Access via Chain of Craters Road:
Puna Coast Trail only, approach from the east: 6.6 miles one way, directions to the trailhead.
Learn more and book Apua Point.
Keauhou
Oceanfront camping is about 3 miles east of Apua Point. Keauhou is a small rocky bay where freshwater comes to the surface and meets the ocean.
Access via Chain of Craters Road:
Keauhou Trail, approach from the west: 7.6 miles one way, directions to trailhead
Halape
Beachfront camping about 2 miles east of Keauhou with plenty of sandy shores to enjoy.
Access via Hilina Pali Road (directions):
Hilina Pali Trail and Halape Trail, approach from the west, 8 miles one way
Ka’aha
Oceanfront campsite with wonderful snorkeling that you’ll have to work for. This site has the shortest hike at 3.6 miles, but don’t let its length fool you. On the way there it’s all downhill with 24 switchbacks, which means heading back, that 3.6 miles starts to feel a whole lot longer as you head uphill and back through the switchbacks.
Access via Hilina Pali Road (directions):
Hilina Pali Trail and Ka’aha Trail, approach from the north: 3.6 miles one way
Discover more of the Big Island:
The 10 Best Big Island Waterfalls (+ ones you can swim in!)
The 6 Best Big Island Luaus by Location
The 11 Best Big Island Farm Tours You Won’t Want to Miss
Pepeiao
This site used to have cabin camping, but the cabin is no longer safe for use, so now it’s reserved for tent camping only.
Access via Hilina Pali Road (directions):
Hilina Pali Trail, approach from the east: 4.8 miles one way
Napau Crater
This tent camping area is accessed via two trails that take hikers through lava fields and dense forests, offering diverse scenery along the way.
Access via Chain of Craters Road:
Naulu Trail, approach from the west: 5.2 miles one way, directions to trailhead
Napau Crater Trail, approach from the west: 6.2 miles one way, directions to trailhead
Learn more and book Napau Crater.
Ainapo Cabin
This is a state-run cabin that does not require a $10 Backcountry Permit or a National Park Pass as long as you do not continue to the Mauna Loa Summit Cabin (the next campsite on this list). Most people stay here on the way to the summit, but the hike to this cabin is challenging enough in itself. Begin at 5,650 feet in elevation and ascend 2,100 feet in 2.7 miles. A 4 wheel drive vehicle, a permit, and gate access are required to stay here.
Access to the Ainapo Trailhead is located through Kapapala Ranch and Kapapala Forest Reserve via a bumpy, steep 8-mile road.
- No more than 30 days in advance, obtain a reservation for Ainapo Cabin for $50 for non Hawaii residents and $30 for residents. This cost is per night and is good for up to 6 campers.
- Register for gate access at Kapapala Ranch at least 3 days before you need the access. This registration is good for up to 2 years. Then request gate access by 10 pm (Hawaii time) the day before you need access. You will receive a text at 4:30 am with the code on the day you requested. All the registration links are at the bottom of this page.
Mauna Loa
This cabin-only campsite is located at the summit of Mauna Loa and requires 2 permits and gate access. From start to finish the trail ascends almost 8,000 feet in elevation over 10 miles, ending at 13,200 feet in elevation, so it is absolutely only for experienced high elevation backpackers.
A 4WD vehicle is required to access the Ainapo Trailhead through Kapapala Ranch and Kapapala Forest Reserve via a bumpy, steep 8-mile road. From the trailhead, most hikers stay at Ainapo Cabin, 2.7 miles into the trail, for a night on the way to Mauna Loa Summit Cabin. From there, it is an additional 7.5 miles to the Summit Cabin for 10.2 miles. This is an extremely difficult hike, so we encourage you to plan your trip this way.
Steps for making reservations:
- Obtain the $10 National Park Backcountry Permit up to 90 days in advance
- No more than 30 days in advance, obtain a reservation for Ainapo Cabin for $50 for non-Hawaii residents and $30 for residents. This cost is per night and is good for up to 6 campers.
- Register for gate access at Kapapala Ranch at least 3 days before you need the access. This registration is good for up to 2 years. Then request gate access by 10 pm (Hawaii time) the day before you need access. You will receive a text at 4:30 am with the code on the day you requested. All the registration links are at the bottom of this page.
The Mauna Loa Summit Cabin has non-potable water and a pit toilet.
Red Hill Cabin
This cabin is located at 10,035 feet up Mauna Loa, on a trail that ascends almost 3,400 feet in 7.5 miles. Like the Mauna Loa Summit Cabin, it should only be attempted by experienced high-elevation hikers.
Access via Mauna Loa Trailhead (directions)
Mauna Loa Trail, approach from the east: 7.5 miles one-way
Learn more and book the Red Hill Cabin.
If camping in the NP isn’t feeling like your cup of tea, but you’d still like to visit on your trip, check out these amazing private Volcanoes National Park tours from Joel and Scott.
Private, Cabin, & Vehicle Big Island Camping
The private campgrounds on the Big Island offer more comfort and amenities than government-run sites, but they do cost significantly more. Whether you’re looking for a luxury experience or just a little extra shelter, this section covers you. We cover the most well-known private campsites, but more are on the island. Check out HipCamp if you want more options.
The Haven at Hawi Nani Ranch
Located in Hawi, at the northern tip of the Big Island, this camp allows campervan and vehicle camping. It also has luxury bell tents situated around the property. You can book either spot via its website. Prices start at $100 per night.
Arnott’s Lodge
This is a traveler’s lodge in Hilo that offers shared and private accommodations such as suites, apartments, and rooms, as well as tent camping. No reservation is needed for tent camping, but stays are limited to to 7 days. Prices start at $30 per night for one person.
Camp Ho’okena
Though the beach is public, the campground is privately run. In addition to camping, they offer beach gear rentals and even camping gear rentals. Online reservations must be made at least 3 days in advance, but if you’re already on the island and feeling spontaneous, you may be able to get lucky with same-day availability (in person only). Pricing for non-residents is $21 per person per night and $1-6 for Hawaii residents depending on age.
Namakanipaio Campground
While this campground is privately run by Volcano House, it is located in Volcanoes National Park, so you will need a National Park Pass. Opt for cabin or tent camping nestled at 4,000 feet elevation in a eucalyptus grove. Prices start at $15 per night for tent camping and $95 per night for a cabin.
Kulanaokuaiki Campground
Also located in Volcanoes National Park (get that park pass ready) this tent camping site is unique as no reservations are given. All camping is on a first come, first served basis with payment made at a self-pay station. The price is $10 per night.
Kalopa State Recreation Area
This state-run campground also offers cabin camping with many more amenities than the tent camping counterparts. These duplex cabins sleep 8 and come equipped with hot showers, bunk beds, and a kitchen with a refrigerator, stove, and limited dishes and utensils. There is no linen, towels, or soap provided. Reservations must be made at least 7 days prior to check-in. Cabins cost $100 per night for non-residents, or $70 per night for residents.
Remember: this campground is located at 2,000 feet in elevation in an Ohi’a Forest.
Mauna Kea Recreation Area
This is a county-run campground that offers cabin camping only. It is located at 6,500 feet in elevation on the slopes of Mauna Kea. There is a large playground, picnic areas, a walking path, and public toilets on site. Cabins cost $150 per night for non-residents, or $75 per night for Hawaii residents.
Get The Big Island Itinerary
The step-by-step itinerary takes you to all the best beaches, snorkeling spots, restaurants, and sights. You’ll get six carefully planned excursion days to help you see the can’t miss stops no matter how limited your time is.
Get all the details on our itinerary and download it for a memorable and easily planned trip to Hawai’i (Big Island).
