Nāmakanipaio and Kulanaokuaiki are the two main dog friendly campgrounds Hawaii Volcanoes National Park offers. Located between 3,700 and 4,000 feet elevation, these campgrounds experience temperature fluctuations from 80°F daytime to 40°F nights, significantly cooler than coastal areas. The volcanic terrain contains sharp, brittle a'a lava that requires careful navigation with pets, and fog frequently rolls through campgrounds during early morning hours.
What to do
Sunrise hiking at higher elevations: Trails around Nāmakanipaio Campground offer unique morning experiences. "The higher altitude kept the temperatures in the low 60's and perfect for sleeping. Not very many campers so it was a peaceful evening," notes Eric N.
Nighttime volcano viewing: The crater glow is spectacular after dark when crowds thin. "Talk to locals in Pahoa and Keaau for tips on how to see the best views of the volcano. Cheap site about like $15 i believe," recommends Tarah W.
Wildlife observation: Birdwatching opportunities abound, especially near Kulanaokuaiki Campground where diverse native species can be spotted. "The trail also had lots of wild life as in birds and little critters and the Sulphur banks were very colorful," reports Denice S.
Primitive coastal hiking: For experienced backpackers, trails from Kulanaokuaiki lead to coastal areas. "From the end of the road you can pick up the Puna Coast Trail that takes you along the coast which affords ocean front back country camping. In some cases, with sea turtles," explains Denice S.
What campers like
Temperature variation for sleeping: The elevation provides comfortable nights despite warm days. "I say desert, because it can get so hot during the day and turn around and get really cold at night," explains Elliott B. about Nāmakanipaio.
Late-night stargazing opportunities: Clear nights at elevation deliver exceptional astronomy experiences. "Right before dawn the skies cleared up and there were millions of stars. They looked so close that you could reach out and grab one," notes Denice S. about her Kulanaokuaiki stay.
Privacy at less developed sites: Treehouse Farm offers secluded options away from crowds. "This site is private and includes access to the outdoor bathroom which includes a hot shower and toilet," according to Ashley F.
Fruit trees on private properties: Some nearby private campgrounds feature edible landscaping. "They really do have lots of fruit trees you can pick. We added it to the fruit we got at the farmer's market," shares Sar about Wild Blue Water Ranch.
What you should know
Water access varies significantly: Many sites require bringing your own supply. "There is no water available at the campground so be prepared. Water is available at the visitor's center up the hill about 7 miles away," explains Shari G. about Kulanaokuaiki.
Hot shower availability limited: While Moon Garden Farm Getaway offers "bathrooms and showers are super clean with warm running water," most park sites have only basic facilities.
Weather changes rapidly: Be prepared for unexpected conditions. "Should the weather turn or fog roll in, visibility can be greatly reduced," warns Denice S.
Early arrival recommended: Popular sites fill quickly. "We showed up in the early afternoon and got the last spot available but only because the original person who got it had upgraded to a cabin. If you're planning on staying here I'd definitely recommend getting here early!" advises Brittany R.
Tips for camping with families
Pack layers for children: Temperature variations require proper clothing. "Hiking is extensive in the park, and many trails will carry you far from the crowded center of the park, but be sure to be prepared with layers, water and snacks," recommends Shari G.
Plan bathroom breaks strategically: Facilities vary widely between campgrounds. "The camping bathroom didn't have showers, but the communal bathroom for the cabins did, and a sympathetic cabin renter let me into that bathroom," shares Jessica F. about Nāmakanipaio.
Avoid peak viewing times with children: Mango Hale offers quieter alternatives. "Hot showers, bathrooms, 15 minutes from the ocean and the property is covered in fruit trees..what else could you ask for?" notes Ashley F.
Consider private campgrounds for amenities: Pet-friendly private options often provide more services. "The outdoor amenities are a nice touch, I enjoyed playing with the disc golf and walking around the pond in the morning," shares Jen T.
Tips from RVers
Road conditions challenge smaller RVs: Some access roads require careful navigation. "The grassy road during the rain gets slippery if you don't have 4 wheel but we never got stuck," reports Jen T.
Cooking facilities vary: Plan accordingly for meal preparation. "There was a pavilion with a stone fireplace that was very attractive for groups," notes Jessica F. about Nāmakanipaio.
Limited big-rig options: Most pet-friendly campgrounds near the park accommodate smaller vehicles only. "The road is not great, but we were in a little car and did not have any issues," explains Denice S. about accessing Kulanaokuaiki.
Parking challenges for late arrivals: Plan nighttime returns carefully. "The popular Kilauea overlook is packed like a rock concert as soon as the sun goes down. Parking is a disaster, and the overlook is simply too crowded," warns Shari G.
