With endless summer weather comes endless opportunities for summer activities: swimming, surfing, hiking, and perhaps my favorite — camping trips. While camping in Hawaii may look a little different than on the mainland, we do, in fact, have more to offer than beachfront campgrounds. Many of Hawaii’s best inland campgrounds are nestled within our favorite state parks, but there is one unique campground that is found in the heart of one of Hawaii’s prettiest botanical gardens.
Nestled at the base of the majestic Ko’olau Mountains in Kaneohe, the sprawling 400-acre Ho’omaluhia Botanical Garden is a true gem. Tucked away off the beaten path, this gorgeous garden is one of Oahu’s most peaceful camping retreats.
Once you drive through Ho’omaluhia’s entrance, you will be immediately surrounded by a magnificent garden full of vibrant, tropical flora that stretches on for miles. Exhale, and you will surely feel your stress melt away as you enjoy the scenery and settle in for a weekend of relaxation.
Established in 1982, an emphasis is placed on conserving plants native to Hawaii, though the garden is home to tropical plants from around the world, including distinct areas housing flora from Sri Lanka, Africa, India, Malaysia, and Polynesia, among other tropical destinations.
The real gem of this lush, jewel-green oasis is one of Hawaii’s few freshwater lakes; at 32 acres across, the unnamed lake’s sheltered location keeps its waters clear, clean and teeming with life. On Saturdays and Sundays, visitors are encouraged to participate in the garden’s catch and release fishing program — a fun event for the whole family.
In addition to a lake and fishing program, Ho’omaluhia is also home to countless walking and bike trails, a day use area, and a visitor center with an exhibition hall, workshop, and botanical library.
So, what are you waiting for? You'll want to visit this one-of-a-kind campground nestled in the bounds of a breathtaking botanical garden as soon as possible.
Campsites are available on the weekends for three days, Friday through Monday. A weekend of camping at Ho'omaluhia requires a permit that will cost $32.
Ho'omaluhia Botanical Garden is located at 45-680 Luluku Rd, Kaneohe, HI 96744, and is open from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. daily. For more information, or to reserve your campsite, click here.
If you're looking for more incredible campgrounds, particularly those that are perfect for someone who hates camping, click here.
With endless summer weather comes endless opportunities for summer activities: swimming, surfing, hiking, and perhaps my favorite - camping trips. Camping in Hawaii is a little bit different than your traditional forest camping on the U.S. mainland, and while you will find countless beachfront campgrounds across our beautiful islands, you’ll want to venture inland to experience Koke'e State Park Campground. During your stay, you'll be surrounded by the most breathtaking scenery at this Kauai destination. But, don't just take my word for it. Read on to learn more about why The Koke'e State Park campground is one of the best in Hawaii.
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Nestled along the rim of Waimea Canyon between 3,200 and 4,200 feet above sea level, Koke’e State Park is home to some of the prettiest scenery in the Aloha State and is the perfect spot for a weekend camping trip any time of year.
Sprawling more than 4,300 acres, you will find commanding views of both the "Grand Canyon of the Pacific" and Kalalau Valley when you spend time at Kōkeʻe State Park.
If you like hiking, Koke'e State Park is perhaps Hawaii’s best camping destination. The park contains approximately 45 miles of hiking trails along canyon rims and through native Hawaiian forests.
There are seven main hiking trails found in the park, and each takes you on a one-of-a-kind journey — from swamps and ridgelines to jaw-dropping overlooks like this one.
Kokee State Park reservations are affordable for both residents and non-residents. Camping site 1 allows up to 10 people. Children three and under are free.
Though you do need a reservation, the individual, non-numbered campsites themselves are first-come, first-serve, so you might want to arrive right at 3 p.m. to snag an awesome spot.
Whether you choose to go tent camping or stay in a cozy cabin, your trip to Koke’e State Park is sure to be unforgettable. There is truly no better place to get away from it all and spend time surrounded by a natural oasis.
Let's go on an adventure to the Kalepa Ridge Trail at Koke'e State Park in Kauai, Hawaii. (The trail is now closed, unfortunately, but it gives you an example of the beautiful views you can look forward to in this wonderful state park.)
The Koke’e State Park Campground is located in Waimea, Hawaii. To get started on planning you're epic camping adventure, make an online booking through Koke'e State Park reservations.
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With gorgeous views everywhere you turn, this campground in Hawaii deserves to be on our best campgrounds in Hawaii list. Don’t forget to hike the incredible nearby Alakai Swamp Trail while spending time at this Hawaii campground. And then tell us all about your favorite adventures in Hawaii with a comment.
If you’re not into tent camping, why not hang out at one of these incredible Hawaii cabins for a weekend instead? I also suggest referring to AllTrails for hikes within Koke'e State Park.
Hawaii's nickname as the "Paradise of the Pacific" should come as no surprise to the many fortunate travelers who have visited these majestic islands. Its pristine coastline, lush rainforests, exciting volcanic activity, and the array of wildlife that inhabit these realms are just a handful of all that entices visitors to the state. And for those who prefer a more immersive experience in nature, you'll be delighted to discover that the Aloha State offers some of the most pristine and beautiful campgrounds you'll ever come across. We've compiled a list of the best campgrounds in Hawaii to make your travel planning a breeze for your next visit to this beautiful state.
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Best State Park Campgrounds in Hawaii
It is no small task to narrow down the best campgrounds in Hawaii, but these state park campgrounds easily top the list simply due to their pristine, otherworldly beauty. The photos of these incredible state parks below truly speak for themselves, but read on to learn what makes these gorgeous Hawaiian campgrounds stand apart from the rest.
Park Info: Located roughly 26 miles from Honolulu.
Price: Tent camping is $20 per night for Hawaii residents and $30 per night for non-residents
The stunning Ahupuaʻa ʻO Kahana State Park is Hawaii’s only public ahupua’a (designated ancient land division) whose vast and breathtaking landscape stretches from the shores of Kahana Bay to the tip of Pu’u Pauao, which reaches an elevation of 2,670 feet. Camping in this remote locale is likely to be an experience you'll never forget. You'll have access to a handful of hiking trails of varying lengths that offer breathtaking views of Kahana Bay and the lush landscape that surrounds it. You'll be free to enjoy other recreational activities such as boating, fishing, and interpretive programs that share Hawaii's culture and history. Not to mention, it offers a vibrant ecosystem teeming with birds, fish, and other wildlife. Pitch a tent and stay a while at one of the best campgrounds in Hawaii.
Park Info: The entrance fee for non-residents is $5 per person. Parking for out-of-state visitors is $10, or you can walk/bike in or be dropped off for $5.00 per person. Pets are not allowed at this park.
Price: Tent or RV camping is available for $20 per person per night for Hawaii residents and $30 per person per night for non-residents. Cabin reservations are available one week in advance for $70 per night for Hawaii residents and $100 per night for non-residents.
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One of Maui's most sought-after destinations is the majestic Waiʻānapanapa State Park. While this state park is one of the more popular tourist spots (and for good reason, as you'll discover once you catch a glimpse of this unique volcanic coastline), you'll still feel removed from the hustle and bustle of daily life. It's easy to see why this state park is one of the best campgrounds in Hawaii. You'll have access to ample coastal hiking trails through lush tropical forests and plenty of beach fishing. Take in the sights of this rare black sand beach and pristine aquamarine water, but take caution swimming in the water as rip currents and dangerous shore breaks are common. Admire the beauty of this remote and rugged landscape but be sure to respect the environment and Leave No Trace behind you.
Park Info: Due to the remoteness of this campground there are no security personnel and no emergency services at this park. NO CAMPFIRES ALLOWED. Cook on camp stoves or portable grills only.
Price: Campsites cost $20 per night for Hawaiian residents for up to six persons and $30 per night for non-residents.
Kaua'i's pristine Kōkeʻe State Park offers a camping experience unlike anything you can imagine. Picture yourself on the rim of the iconic Waimea Canyon, affectionately referred to as "the Grand Canyon of the Pacific", with jaw-dropping canyon views surrounding you. Explore some of the 45 miles of hiking trails along the canyon rim and through lush forests. Bask in the beauty of this ethereal remote landscape and soak in the peace and quiet of this secluded paradise. Stop by the Kōkeʻe Lodge for their on-site restaurant, bar, and retail shop. Just be sure you come prepared with a full tank of gas and plenty of water, and you'll love your getaway at the unforgettable Kōkeʻe State Park, one of the best campgrounds in Hawaii.
Take a look at this video that shows a preview of the jaw-dropping scenes you'll witness throughout Kōkeʻe State Park.
Best Beach Camping in Hawaii
There may not be a better camping experience than one that involves falling asleep listening to the peaceful rhythm of ocean waves crashing against the shore. So with that in mind, we've hand-selected the best campgrounds in Hawaii for beach camping, and each one is as picturesque and photogenic as the last.
Park Info: Please note that this campground closes every Wednesday from 10:00 AM to 12:00 PM Thursday for maintenance. A camping permit is required. Only tent camping is permitted, and no pets are allowed in the campground.
Price: $3 per adult per night
The gorgeous Anini Beach Park is a surprisingly secluded and peaceful beach on the island of Kauaʻi. This campground is not only peaceful, but you'll find that each camping spot offers plentiful shade beneath the palm and False Kamani trees mere steps away from the beach. You'll find plenty of picnic tables for dining, as well as shower and bathroom facilities. The pristine beach is a photography gem during sunrises and sunsets, and the waters are typically safe for swimming during calm weather conditions. This beach is a favorite among the locals, and it isn't hard to see why. So relax and let the rhythm of the ocean waves lull you to sleep beneath a starry night sky at Anini Beach Park.
Park Info: A camping permit is required. Be advised that all campsites are closed on Wednesdays and Thursdays. There are 10 campsites plus 1 accessible campsite. Outdoor showers and portable toilets are available.
Price: Camping permits must be purchased for $53.22. Each site allows for a maximum of 10 people, 2 tents, and 3 cars. No pets allowed.
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Camping at the illustrious Waimānalo Beach Park in Oahu is second to none. Known for being the longest beach in Hawaii, it is also among the most idyllic with it's mountainous topography and brilliant aquamarine waters. You'll find this gorgeous slice of paradise nestled on the southeastern fringes of Oahu. This beach is virtually unspoiled, and if you're lucky, you may just spot an endangered sea turtle swimming in the coastal waters. The town of Waimānalo is a haven for locals and tourists alike with its welcoming, low-key vibe. Be sure to visit the Waimānalo Farmers Market for fresh produce and other local delicacies. If you're up for a hike in the area, you'll want to check out Makapu'u Lighthouse Trail for the chance to spot migrating whales in the distance (depending on the season). This camping experience is sure to create a lifetime of memories.
Park Info: Campsites include access to outdoor beach shower and toilet facilities. No pets are allowed except for service animals. Note: The campground is closed for renovations and expects to open Summer 2024.
Price: Tent and vehicle camping rates begin at $9.41 per night, the 4-person Plantation hales rent for $58.82 per night, and the Plantation Suites rent for $117.65 per night.
Malaekahana Beach Campground is one of the premiere campgrounds in Oʻahu. This massive 36,288-acre campground offers 74 tent and RV campsites that are mere steps away from the ocean. You'll be able to enjoy endless water recreation such as swimming, paddleboarding, body surfing, surfing, and kayaking, not to mention access to comforts such as toilet facilities and beach showers. Build a campfire within your fire ring right on the beach and listen to the waves as you drift off to sleep. You'll also have a camp store nearby that you can visit at your leisure for any miscellaneous purchases. Be sure to look for sea turtles and check out the nearby wildlife refuge during your stay at the wonderous Malaekahana Beach Campground.
Top Glamping in Hawaii
Glamping offers the perfect blend of immersion in nature and the comfort you deserve to enjoy while traveling and exploring new places. Enjoy amenities not usually available in the traditional tent camping experience as you explore the beautiful Aloha State. You're sure to fall in love with these best campgrounds in Hawaii for glamping.
Park Info: Off-grid luxury glamping. All units have private baths and showers. Shared fire pit and outdoor kitchen. No pets allowed.
Price: Starting from $125 per night
If you're in search of peaceful seclusion, the Orchard Oasis on Oahu's North Shore is the lodging destination for you. Located within a private gated community in the shadow of Oahu's tallest mountain, Ka'ala, this beautiful site offers all your modern comforts within rustic waterproof, UV-proof tented structures with locking front doors and zip-up windows. You'll have easy access to the nearby historic town of Haleiwa and its many shops and restaurants, as well as endless snorkeling, swimming, and surfing opportunities on the nearby beaches. You'll be enamored by the organic fruit orchard on the property where guests can pick mangoes, avocadoes, papayas, bananas, guava, lilikoi, star fruit, figs, oranges, tangerines, and much more. Then, enjoy your fresh produce in the outdoor kitchen as you soak in the sun.
To book this private listing, please call (808) 829-1079 or email [email protected].
Park Info: Off-grid property utilizing solar power for electricity and rainwater for water. The property is 17 minutes driving distance from Hilo and all the modern amenities and restaurants you may desire.
Price: Starting at $128 per night
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The gorgeous Hamakua House is a rustic and truly "off-grid" guesthouse situated on the south end of the Hamakua Coast of Hawaii that offers panoramic ocean and Kapehu River views. Enjoy the lodging experience of your choice including private rooms, outdoor camping cabanas, private cabins, and a hostel-style dorm. You'll love feeling removed from the noise and chaos of life at this paradisical rental property while being conveniently located near a plethora of adventurous activities, restaurants, shopping, and more. Hilo is only a 17-minute drive, while the infamous Hawaii Volcanoes National Park is only a 1-hour drive south, and Waipio Valley is a 1-hour drive to the north. If you'd rather not drive that far, check out Akaka Falls State Park just over 10 minutes away. Whatever your choice of adventure or leisure, Hamakua House makes the perfect respite at the end of the day on this beautiful island.
Location: Hawaiʻi Volcanoes National Park, Volcano, Hawaii
Popularity: Very Popular
Park Info: All guests must pay the entrance fee for Hawaiʻi Volcanoes National Park which is $30 per non-commercial vehicle, $25 per motorcycle, or $15 per individual traveling on foot or bicycle. Each campsite has access to the community campground facilities, including a renovated bathroom with hot showers and toilets. No pets are permitted.
Price: Tent rentals begin at $15 per night
Located within Hawaiʻi Volcanoes National Park is the rustic Namakanipaio Campground. This is arguably the most iconic national park in the country, and getting the opportunity to camp at one of the best campgrounds in Hawaii is the opportunity of a lifetime. As such, this campground is quite popular, but it is well worth the stay. These A-Frame cabins are merely 5 minutes from Volcano House, so you'll have close access to the hotel and its on-site restaurant for your fine dining desires. Enjoy the peace and quiet nestled within a eucalyptus grove at 4,000 feet above sea level in these newly-refurbished 200-square-foot cabins, each outfitted with a full-size bed, two twin bunk beds, and electricity, as well as your own picnic table, outdoor grill, and fire pit for those late-night campfires under the stars.
Park Info: Not likely suitable for large RVs, but smaller camper vans, larger SUV-type vehicles, and 4x4 trucks are suitable here. There is a locked gate with a code box for easy guest access. Pets are allowed.
Price: Starting from $44 per night
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The Land of the Rainbow Honeycomb is an idyllic campground that offers true seclusion to campers visiting Ka’ Lae (or South Point). Your nearest neighbors are 200 acres away, and this stretch of land is sacred to the people of Hawaii as it was the very first settlement site. You'll enjoy incredible ocean views for miles while also being a short 1 mile away from Ka’ Alu’ Alu’ Bay. Enjoy a full outdoor kitchen and the convenience of composting toilets for your comfort. Relax among the old-growth Kiawe trees and soak in the true serenity at the Land of the Rainbow Honeycomb. Many campers vote the Land of the Rainbow Honeycomb as one of the best campgrounds in Hawaii, and we'd have to agree!
Park Info: Parking is available on-site. Check-in time is 2:00 p.m. and check-out is by 11:00 a.m. Enjoy many modern comforts such as flush toilets, showers, and a communal kitchen.
Price: There are 3 RV sites that rent for $55 per night
Nestled within Hawaii's peaceful capital city of Honolulu you'll find the luxurious Sun Farm Hawaii @ Koko Head. This serene farm setting offers a range of camping options including 3 RV sites, which are a rare thing to find in the Aloha State. Explore the famous Koko Head hike, Hanauma Bay (only 5 minutes away), as well as endless shopping and dining options. This is the perfect way to blend nature and camping with the comforts and convenience of city life. Plus, you can rent a surfboard right on-site and go surf the waves all day without worrying about renting a board. Cook fresh meals in the communal kitchen, and rinse off in a hot shower after a day at the beach. This beautiful place will feel like a paradise home away from home.
Park Info: There are only two RV-accommodating sites, which are the Banyan Sites. The other sites are tent only and you'll have to park and set up a tent to camp there. Only two people are permitted per campsite. Be prepared with rain gear as the site is located within a rainforest that receives frequent rain.
Price: Starting at $88 per night
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The Stargazers Jungle Lounge Glampsites are truly magical campsites located within the lush rainforest and some of the largest banyan trees on the island of Maui. While there are only two RV-accommodating campsites, you'll thank your lucky stars if you're able to reserve one during your visit. You'll love the friendly vibe in this communal hostel-style setting along with sweeping ocean views and a short nature trail that leads through a field of tropical flowers. While in the area, you owe it to yourself to drive the length of the Hāna Highway, which is truly one of the most breathtaking highways in the world. Be sure to check out Waiʻānapanapa State Park and the stunning Black Sand Beach nearby as well.
Park Info: All units have a private open-air shower, sink, and a dressing area. Shared fire pit, BBQ grills, Wi-Fi, bathrooms.
Price: Starting from $160 per night
With the beautiful West Maui Mountains setting the backdrop for this secluded glamping oasis you'll enjoy the ultimate luxury camping experience. Camp Olowalu offers what it calls "tentalows" which are tent-like open-air bungalows. Sit out on your lanai in Adirondack chairs enjoying the peaceful Hawaiian vibe near Lahaina. Sit around the community fire pit at night, then retreat to your comfortable home for the night with two twin beds for the single tenalow or four twin beds for the family size. Camp Olowalu also has six plantation-style cabins and 35 tent sites along Olowalu Beach.
Best Primitive Tent Camping in Hawaii
Let's face it: there is no better way to experience nature than by immersing yourself within it wholeheartedly. If you can handle roughing it a bit for these primitive campsites in Hawaii, you'll be rewarded with seclusion and immeasurable beauty. A primitive site is the best place to camp in Hawaii if you want to feel like you are one with nature.
Park Info: Tent and vehicle campsites include access to bathrooms and showers. Linens are not provided. Pets are not permitted at the camp.
Price: Tent and vehicle camping rates are $25 per person per night.
The charming Camp Pālehua is nestled within a forest on the southern fringe of the Wai'anae Mountains. It offers panoramic views of the ocean and Oʻahu's southern coastline, so it naturally made this list of best campgrounds in Hawaii for its scenery alone. What sets this campground apart is that it belongs to 1,600 acres of conservation and agricultural lands and is focused on connecting with nature while protecting and restoring the natural environment. Enjoy the self-guided Nanakuli Overlook hike for $10 per adult and $5 per child, or choose the guided hike for $5 more so you can learn the history of the area. There are a variety of other guided hikes and nature activities for a nominal fee, including a low ropes course. You can also go on horseback rides with unbeatable views starting from $118. At the camp, enjoy a game of hoops or pay a nominal fee for the swimming pool, fire pit, and mess hall with a commercial-grade kitchen. You'll never forget your experience at Camp Pālehua, one of the best campgrounds in Hawaii.
Park Info: There are three campgrounds in the garden, Kahua Lehua and Kahua Nui-Makai. All campgrounds have a picnic table, fit pit, and access to restrooms and outdoor showers. There are accessible sites and parking.
Price Camping permits are required. 3-day permits for up to 10 people are $32, and a 5-day permit is $52.
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There are three campgrounds located within the beautiful Ho’omaluhia Botanical Garden in Kāneʻohe. Kahua Lehua is the smallest of the three with 5 campsites, Kahua Kuou has 8 campsites, and finally, Kahua Nui-Makai offers 15 campsites. The botanic gardens themselves span 400 beautiful acres along the fringes of the Ko'olau Range. You'll find a lush and vibrant rainforest containing plants from India, the Philippines, Malaysia, Tropical America, Sri Lanka, Melanesia, Hawaii, Polynesia, and Africa. The gardens were originally built as flood protection for Kāneʻohe and now offer park visitors countless walking and bike trails, a day-use area, and a visitor center with an exhibition hall, workshop, and botanical library. If camping amidst a lush rainforest suits your vibe, you'll love camping within Ho’omaluhia Botanical Garden.
Park Info: Accessible site and parking available. Public restrooms are available. Hot water is only available at the cabins, which are also for rent. Pets are not allowed.
Price: Tent camping for Hawaii residents is $20 per night and $30 per night for non-residents.
Camping at Kalōpā State Recreation Area
in the shadow of Mauna Kea offers a truly rustic and secluded experience given the very limited number of campsites available. You won't have to worry about a busy campground here, so if peace and quiet are what you crave, you'll surely find it at this campground. The state park itself is also lesser-known, but no less beautiful than other state parks within the Aloha State. Kalopa Forest receives substantial rainfall each year, and you'll love hiking the short trails such as Kalōpā Nature Trail through the lush forest within the park. There are several longer hiking trails at the neighboring forest reserve for those who prefer more of a challenge. You'll love recharging in the quiet solitude of nature at Kalōpā State Recreation Area. This is one of the best campgrounds in Hawaii for folks who want to escape the crowds.
Which of these campgrounds in Hawaii are you most excited to add to your Hawaii camping bucket list? Tag a friend or loved one you'd love to travel with or feel free to share your experiences camping at any of these incredible sites.
If you've ever spent the night at one of these places to camp in Hawaii, share your experience with us in the comments section!
