Best Campgrounds near Ewa Gentry, HI
Camping areas near Ewa Gentry on Oahu island feature a mix of established state parks and military recreation facilities concentrated along the coastline. Ten primary campgrounds serve the region, including Sand Island State Recreation Area in Honolulu and Bellows Field Beach Park in Waimanalo. Tent camping dominates the options, though several sites like Bellows Air Force Station and Mālaekahana State Recreation Area accommodate RVs. Most campgrounds provide basic amenities including toilets, showers, and picnic tables, while a few locations like Ho'omaluhia Botanical Garden offer inland alternatives with mountain views.
Reservations are essential at most locations, with popular sites booking up weeks in advance, particularly during summer months and holiday weekends. Several campgrounds operate on limited schedules, with many only available Friday through Monday. As one camper noted, "You NEED a Permit - No permit, no camping. An attendant checks at the entrance gate. I recommend reserving 1-2 weeks in advance to guarantee your spot." Restroom facilities vary widely across the island's campgrounds, with most offering basic toilets and cold-water showers. While beachfront camping is common, some sites require crossing busy roads to access facilities, and many experience daytime crowding from non-camping visitors. Weather considerations include occasional rain, particularly at higher elevations and windward locations like Ho'omaluhia Botanical Garden.
The camping experience varies significantly between locations, with beach access being a primary attraction at most sites. Campers frequently mention the contrast between crowded daytime use and quieter evenings at parks like Kualoa A Regional Park. According to one review, "Like many campgrounds in Oahu the campsites were very close together. We lucked out and there were not many campers in the park after 8pm. However during the day this Regional Park does get very crowded with weekend activities, parties, and tourists." Many sites offer impressive views of surrounding mountains and ocean access, though privacy can be limited. Tent sites at most campgrounds are typically close together with minimal separation, though the stunning natural setting often compensates for this drawback. Water activities remain the dominant recreational option, with swimming, fishing, paddleboarding and surfing available at most coastal campgrounds.
