RV camping near Halawa, Hawaii offers several established campgrounds with varying levels of amenities within driving distance. Most sites maintain consistent availability throughout the year due to Hawaii's stable climate patterns, with temperatures typically ranging from 70-85°F. Sand Island State Recreation Area in Honolulu and Bellows Field Beach Park in Waimanalo represent the primary options with proper RV facilities, though electrical hookups are limited to 30-amp service at most locations.
What to do
Water activities at Mālaekahana State Recreation Area: This campground features one of the finest swimming beaches on Oahu's North Shore. "One of the best campgrounds on Oahu because it is private and very well maintained! There are day use parking areas for people to use the beach but the campsites themselves are blocked off by a gate with a keypad entry so there aren't random cars driving by your campsite ever," reports Laura H.
Horseback riding near camp: Campers at Mālaekahana State Recreation Area can find equestrian activities just across the highway. "You can ride horses across the highway. The camp store has some basic items as well," notes Steve & Ashley G., who stayed at the site for five years while living nearby.
Surfing at Sand Island: While not the most popular beach, Sand Island State Recreation Area offers surfing opportunities when conditions are right. "Sand Island is an industrial place so there's not many stores nearby but it's a pretty unique park with lots of space to hangout. 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," explains Sarah I.
What campers like
Privacy at campsites: Many campgrounds offer secluded options away from crowds. At Bellows Field Beach Park, campers appreciate the separation between civilian and military sections. "The civilian side is for the true camping enthusiast. The military side has both campgrounds and cabins, with a mini golf course and a mini-mart," shares Leilani P.
Secure campground access: Safety measures at some locations provide peace of mind. "The site has an automatic gate for security and helpful resident staff," notes Steve & Ashley G. about Mālaekahana State Recreation Area, which uses keypad entry systems to control vehicle access.
Clean facilities: Sanitation standards remain high at several locations. According to Jeffery C., Sand Island State Recreation Area offers "clean grounds great beach access clean restrooms." Similarly, at Mālaekahana, "The bathrooms have flush toilets and are very clean! Bring your own roll of TP to share."
What you should know
Wind exposure considerations: Beach proximity can mean significant wind exposure. "Initially I was bummed I didn't get a beach front campsite, ours was only a 30 second walk to the beach. But because it's the windward side, it was sooo windy and we really appreciated our campsite set a little farther back from the beach and protected by trees," advises Laura H. about her stay at Mālaekahana.
Sand management challenges: Beach camping means dealing with sand everywhere. At Papohaku Beach Campground, the beautiful isolated beach offers "miles and miles of beautiful beach" according to Miles G., but expect sand to infiltrate tents and gear throughout your stay.
Wildlife precautions: Some locations require vigilance for local wildlife. "Watch out for centipedes; I got bit and it was extremely painful," warns Crystal C. about her Mālaekahana camping experience, despite rating the location 5 stars overall.
Tips for camping with families
Protected swimming areas: Look for beaches with gentle conditions for children. Sarah I. notes that while Sand Island's beach "isn't the nicest," it's still "good for little kids" when surf conditions permit safe swimming.
Shade importance: Hawaiian sun requires good shade options for family comfort. Maleka Farm provides picnic tables and shade trees that help families manage heat exposure during daytime activities.
Activity planning: Beyond beaches, look for nearby family activities. Noah L. mentions that near Bellows Field Beach Park, "you can go kayaking. Good trees for shade so you don't get too hot," making it suitable for families seeking varied outdoor experiences.
Tips from RVers
Electric hookup limitations: RV camping at Park Pick & Play @ Living Circle Farms Hawaii offers only 5 RV sites with thirty-amp hookups and water connections at each site. No sewer connections are available, requiring judicious use of onboard tanks.
Gate timing awareness: Some campgrounds restrict entry hours. Crystal C. notes, "Gates close at 7:00 pm" at Mālaekahana, meaning late arrivals may not be able to enter with RVs after this time.
Supply proximity considerations: Many campgrounds are isolated from stores. Stephen W. advises RVers to "bring fly tape or fly traps. A screen tent would be a superb addition" when camping at Bellows Field Beach Park, as nearest supply points may require significant driving time.
