Kalopa State Rec Area, near Honokaa, Hawaii, is a fantastic spot for those looking to immerse themselves in nature. This campground is surrounded by lush greenery and features a unique jungle vibe that many visitors rave about.

You can choose between cozy cabins or tent camping, with the cabins offering a dining hall and kitchen for your convenience. Campers appreciate the hot showers and the cool mountain air, especially at night when it can get a bit chilly. One visitor mentioned, “The nights are cool and the tent site is in the woods,” making it a perfect escape from the heat.

Hiking is a big draw here, with trails ranging from easy strolls to more challenging hikes. The Kalopa Nature Trail is a favorite, winding through beautiful native plants and trees. Reviewers have noted the stunning views and the magical mist that often blankets the area, adding to its charm.

If you’re looking to venture out, the beach is just a short drive away, and there are plenty of dining options nearby. Campers have enjoyed swimming and bodyboarding, making it easy to mix relaxation with adventure. With its friendly atmosphere and beautiful surroundings, Kalopa State Rec Area is a great choice for your next camping trip.

Kalopa State Rec Area - Hawaii

Whether you're an RVer or tent camper, Pu'u O Umi Natural Area Reserve, HI is a great place to post up for the weekend—or longer. There's so much to see and do, from exhilarating hikes or bike rides to exploring the local dining and shopping. Find the best campgrounds near Pu'u O Umi Natural Area Reserve, HI. Read helpful reviews and tips to find the perfect camping option for you and your crew.

Pu'u O Umi Natural Area Reserve

The Best Camping Near Pu'u O Umi Natural Area Reserve, Hawaii

Amazing section of the island. You need a permit to camp, but you'll find yourself immersed in a tropical lush wonderland. Bring ear plugs unless you sleep like a log... The crogui frogs will wake the dead.

Beautiful, but oh so noisy...

I live on the island, but down at sea level. I had always wanted to come up and camp here because the nights are cool and the tent site is in the woods. Some times we need to escape the heat. :) It is a small location that needs to be reserved in advance. The cost is different for residents and visitors. We stayed at the tent sites, but have heard good things about the cabins. There are three tent sites, with a men and women bathroom and large shared pavilion. I liked how the sites have raised and covered places you can pitch your tent under in case it rains. Make sure you bring a mattress of some sort as the shelter floor is concrete. Also bring mosquito spray they like this campsite as well.

We met the others camping that night and had great conversation under the shared pavilion. There are also a couple really lovely hiking trails to explore during the day!

"Coolest" place to camp

Year round accessibilty. Phenominal views of the mountains and ocean.Super friendly camplers on site!

Undescriblable

Kalopa is one of my favorite campgrounds here on the Big Island. the cabins are
affordable, and including a large dining hall with a kitchen.  The kitchen does have a few pots and pans, but if you want coffee, bring a press.  Showers in the cabin are small, but nice and hot.  Just don't forget to turn on the water heater. Since this location is up in the mountains, it is cold at night. It rains often, and has a wonderfully magical mist that hangs around morning and evening. My husband and I chose this location to get married, since it is such a beautiful and cool spot, hurricane Issel had other plans for us. 
The trails there range from easy to difficult. The native plants in the area are beautiful, there is even a small gated garden with all the native plants inside labeled. 
The staff at the park are a wealth of knowledge, and are amazingly kind. 

Great hiking, and a nice cool place to escape the heat.

The Kalopa State Rec Area park/beach is one of my favorites. It has such a jungle feel to it is why I think I really love it. It is located in Honokaa. There are so many beautiful plants and trees, and the people who work there say that they are pretty rare plants. The hibiscus plants are amazing, and they are everywhere. Loved seeing these flowers everywhere that I walked. The weather was okay when we went. It rained quite a bit, it was damp and pretty cloudy. One thing we enjoyed doing was hikes nearby. You can do the Kalopa Nature Trail. It is super easy, and only about 1 mile long. The loop takes you through all the gorgeous greenery and pretty trees. You can stay in little cabins in the campground, which were about $90 per night. A lot cheaper than staying in a hotel. You can also camp, which we didnt do but I saw that it costs around $20 a night to do this, even cheaper! The cabins were pretty small. There was 4 of us staying in here, and it felt a little tight. We made it work, though! Restaurants are nearby, maybe a 10 minute drive. Some great yummy places to eat. There is also a grocery store around there too. We went here and grabbed a few groceries to have for snacks, breakfast and dinners. We also went down to the beach that isnt far away. Drove about 15 minutes to reach the beach. Loved swimming and body boarding.

Photos of Kalopa State Rec Area - Hawaii

Real photos from real campers