Tent camping opportunities near Ewa Gentry, Hawaii offer access to diverse tropical environments within a 30-mile radius. Oahu receives widely varying rainfall patterns, with campgrounds on the windward side experiencing more precipitation than those near Honolulu. The island's camping permits operate under different reservation systems depending on whether sites fall under state, city, or military jurisdiction.
What to do
Fishing at designated lakes: Ho'omaluhia Botanical Garden provides freshwater fishing opportunities for campers seeking alternatives to beach activities. A visitor mentioned, "Free fishing (bring your own bread), easy hiking, and large spread out campsites make this a great spot to camp with little ones!" The visitor center sometimes offers bamboo fishing poles on a first-come basis.
Hike to scenic viewpoints: Peacock Flats - Mokuleia Forest Reserve rewards campers with stellar night sky viewing away from urban light pollution. The challenging drive requires preparation as one camper noted, "Come prepared! I also recommend having an air compressor, spare tire and tow equipment if you need to save anyone or be saved yourself." Multiple trailheads offer hiking opportunities with views of both the North Shore and west side of Oahu.
Water recreation beyond swimming: Kahana Bay at Kahana Campground — Ahupuaʻa ʻO Kahana State Park offers kayaking options both in the ocean and river. A camper shared, "The Bay has a beautiful sandy beach which is great for beginner surfers and kayaking. You can also kayak in the river which runs through the park."
What campers like
Protected camping from trade winds: The northwestern side of Oahu at Camp Mokuleia provides shelter during windy periods. One camper reported, "In January, the winds were strongest from the East and we had to vacate our other campground when winds were up to 20MPH off the ocean. This side of the island gave us a break from the wind."
Campground security measures: Several locations offer gated access for additional security. A camper at Mālaekahana noted, "The campsites themselves are blocked off by a gate with a keypad entry so there aren't random cars driving by your campsite ever." Some campgrounds assign designated bathroom facilities to specific sites during busy periods.
Rainforest camping experience: Ho'omaluhia Botanical Garden provides a tropical forest alternative to beach camping. A recent visitor observed, "Plenty of bathrooms with running water, foot-washing stations, and dishwashing sinks. Roomy, level campsites with plenty of foliage to make your site private."
What you should know
Military checkpoint requirements: Some campgrounds require passing through military checkpoints. For Peacock Flats, a camper advised, "Highly recommend having paperwork, permits, IDs all together in advance because you have to pass through military checkpoints on the west side of Oahu to get through to road to the campground. They ask for everyone's IDs."
Gate closure timing: Campgrounds may have strict gate closing hours limiting entry and exit. At Mālaekahana State Recreation Area, a camper warned, "Gates close at 7:00 pm. Watch out for centipedes; I got bit and it was extremely painful." Always verify gate hours before making plans that involve coming and going.
4WD access requirements: Some campgrounds can only be accessed with appropriate vehicles. At Peacock Flats, a reviewer explained, "The drive in can take 1-1.5 hours or longer depending on the conditions of the road... If it's rainy season and you don't have experience driving in steep muddy areas with large dropoffs and cliffs on the side, then maybe wait till summer when it's drier!"
Tips for camping with families
Wagon for gear transport: Walking distances at some campgrounds can be challenging with children and equipment. One family camping at Ho'omaluhia Botanical Garden recommended, "The hike with fishing gear, cooler, kids, is a little long..bring a wagon!"
Beach selection for young children: For families with small children, Sand Island State Recreation Area offers calmer water conditions. A camper noted, "The beach isn't the nicest but it's good for little kids and there's a nice surf break if the swell is in."
Activity options beyond beaches: Camp Mokuleia provides additional recreation for children needing a break from the beach. A visitor mentioned, "They have a ropes course and it is across the street from a skydiving place." The varied activities help keep younger campers engaged throughout longer stays.
Tips from RVers
Limited hookup availability: RV campers should note that while some sites accept RVs, full hookups are rare. At Mālaekahana, a camper observed, "You can find supplies in nearby Laie or Kahuku. The campground was recently put under new management and has invested in new cabins and facilities."
Alternative to traditional RV camping: For those wanting RV-style comfort without towing, Mālaekahana offers cabin options. A visitor explained, "There are actually several options for camping.. Drive up tent sites, vehicle campsites for vans, hales or houses that sleep 4 with no electricity for $58 and larger suite hales or cabins that have electricity and their own bathroom inside for around $120."
