This Fairy Tale Campground In Hawaii Is Like Something From A Dream

Koke’e State Park in Hawaii offers breathtaking scenery, diverse hiking trails, and both tent and cabin camping options.

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.

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.

The campsites found here might be minimally developed, but that won't matter when you're exploring all that this breathtaking park has to offer.

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.

With views this stunning, you’ll wonder if you mistakenly stepped foot into your favorite childhood fairy tale at the mesmerizing Koke’e State Park.

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.

You can check into your campsite at 3 p.m. on the first day of your reservation, and you must leave by noon on the day of your departure.

If you prefer not to pitch a tent, you can opt to stay at the Koke’e Lodge which offers cozy cabins in the heart of the park.

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.)

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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.

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.

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