Camping near Hawaii Volcanoes National Park

Camping near Hawaii Volcanoes National Park offers a unique experience filled with stunning landscapes and the thrill of being close to active volcanoes. Whether you're pitching a tent or parking an RV, there's something for everyone in this beautiful area.

What to do:

• Hiking: Explore the numerous trails in the park. Many campers rave about the variety of trails available. One visitor mentioned, "lots of trails for a variety of levels," making it perfect for both beginners and seasoned hikers.
• Snorkeling: Head to Punalu`u Beach Park for some of the best snorkeling. A family shared their experience: "We had some of the best snorkeling we have ever had, here. We saw turtles, tons of fish, and 1 shark!!"
• Stargazing: The clear skies around Kulanaokuaiki Campground provide a fantastic view of the stars. One camper noted, "At night you could see the glow and the steam from the crater. Right before dawn the skies cleared up and there were millions of stars."

What campers like:

• Proximity to attractions: Campers appreciate being close to the park's main attractions. One reviewer at Nāmakanipaio Campground said, "Grab dinner at Volcano House and have all day and night to explore the NP."
• Unique landscapes: The lava fields and volcanic scenery are a big hit. A visitor to Kulanaokuaiki Campground described it as "a very unique setting: you’ll walk among old lava flows to get to your site."
• Quiet atmosphere: Many campers enjoy the peacefulness of the campgrounds. One camper mentioned, "We were the only people there," highlighting the solitude found at Kulanaokuaiki Campground.

What you should know:

• Limited amenities: Some campgrounds, like Kulanaokuaiki Campground, have no drinking water or showers. A visitor reminded others, "Make sure and bring lots of water (you'll want it)."
• Volcanic activity: Be aware that some areas may close due to volcanic activity. A camper at Isaac Hale Beach Park noted, "Due to the new volcanic activity, you can no longer reach this beach."
• First-come, first-served: Many campgrounds operate on a first-come, first-served basis. A visitor at Kulanaokuaiki Campground advised, "Arriving early will be important in securing a site for the night."

Tips for camping with families:

• Choose family-friendly spots: Look for campgrounds with amenities like picnic tables and restrooms. One family enjoyed their stay at Punalu`u Beach Park, saying, "There are spots for grilling, showers, tables, and drinking water."
• Plan activities: Keep the kids engaged with activities like hiking and exploring. A camper at Nāmakanipaio Campground mentioned, "We stayed in a cabin and it was excellent," highlighting the comfort for families.
• Safety first: Always keep an eye on the kids, especially near water or hiking trails. A visitor reminded others about the "strong undertow" at some beaches, so swimming should be done with caution.

Tips from RVers:

• Check campground features: Make sure the campground can accommodate your RV size. One reviewer at Nāmakanipaio Campground noted, "NO big rig friendly," which is crucial for larger vehicles.
• Electric hookups: If you need power, look for campgrounds that offer electric hookups. A camper at Punalu`u Beach Park appreciated the "electric hookups" available.
• Plan for waste disposal: Be aware that some campgrounds do not have sanitary dump stations. A visitor at Kulanaokuaiki Campground mentioned, "NO sanitary dump," so plan accordingly.

Camping near Hawaii Volcanoes National Park, Hawaii, is an adventure filled with natural beauty and unique experiences. Whether you're hiking, snorkeling, or just soaking in the views, there's something for everyone to enjoy.