Camping near Hawaii Volcanoes National Park
Hawaii Volcanoes National Park features several camping areas ranging from developed sites to backcountry shelters set among unique lava landscapes. The Nāmakanipaio Campground provides tent and RV sites with picnic tables and access to drinking water, while Kulanaokuaiki Campground offers a more remote camping experience with nine designated tent sites surrounded by volcanic terrain. Backcountry options include Halape, Keauhou, and Kaaha shelters accessible only by hiking trails. Several campgrounds accommodate both tent and cabin camping, with Lava Rock Glamping offering a more upscale experience just outside park boundaries.
Access to camping areas within Hawaii Volcanoes National Park varies significantly by location, with some sites requiring backcountry permits obtained from park rangers. Many campgrounds lack running water, particularly at Kulanaokuaiki where campers must bring all necessary water supplies. Weather conditions fluctuate dramatically with higher elevations experiencing cool temperatures even during summer months. The volcanic landscape provides minimal shade, and sites can be exposed to wind, especially at night. Cell service is limited throughout much of the park, particularly at remote backcountry campsites. "Make sure to bring water for your stay," noted one visitor to Kulanaokuaiki, highlighting the primitive nature of some park camping areas.
Campers consistently mention the dramatic volcanic landscapes and night sky views as highlights of staying within the park. The opportunity to witness the glow from Kilauea crater is frequently cited in reviews, with some campers hiking from their sites at night for better viewing. Backcountry sites like Halape receive praise for their isolation and proximity to beaches, though they require substantial hiking to access. According to one visitor who stayed at Halape, "It's hard to get to but worth the trip!" Many campers appreciate the relative solitude of park campgrounds compared to more crowded areas on the island. Wildlife sightings, including sea turtles at coastal sites, enhance the camping experience, while the varying elevations throughout the park create distinctly different camping environments from coastal areas to higher volcanic slopes.
