Looking for tent camping near Hawaii Volcanoes National Park? With The Dyrt, it's easy to find Hawaii Volcanoes National Park campgrounds for you and your tent. Each spot offers quick access to one or more of Hawaii Volcanoes National Park, Hawaii's most popular destinations.
Kulanaokuaiki camping area is free and is available on a first-come basis. No reservations and No permits are necessary. Stays are limited to 7 days in a month and cannot exceed 30 days per year.
Nightly rates:
Adult: $5 for residents, $20 for non-residents. Junior: $2 for residents, $20 for non-residents. Child: $1 for residents, $20 for non-residents.
Keauhou is located on the southern seacoast of Hawai`i Volcanoes National Park and is one of the favored destinations of hearty wilderness hikers. The campsite is 7.6 miles from the closest trailhead. The hike to Keauhou can be a grueling, hot hike through predominately non-native grasses to a small rocky bay where cold fresh water seeps to the surface and mixes with the ocean. Permitted campers may stay a maximum of 3 consecutive nights per site. A total of 16 hikers are allowed per night at Keauhou. The campsite may be accessed from several trailheads; Mau Loa o Maunaulu via the Keauhou Trail - 7.6 miles (accessed via Chain of Craters Road). Puʻuloa via the Puna Coast Trail - 9.7 miles (accessed via Chain of Craters Road). Hilina Pali Overlook (10+miles - not recommended)
This Award-Winning off-grid retreat in native Hawai'i rainforest is the perfect oasis for those looking for privacy and relaxation. With all the amenities you need including a fully stocked kitchen, comfortable beds, and hot water shower, you'll have everything you need to enjoy your stay. Lava Rock Clamping offers 3 unique cabins, a Plantation Style Cabin ideal for a couple, a Treehouse that can accommodate 4 guests, and a spacious Big Cabin that can host up to 6 people.
Conveniently located just 25 minutes away from the breathtaking Volcanoes National Park, which offers endless hiking opportunities with stunning views of the surrounding lava fields and the iconic Kilauea volcano. In addition to the park, the area is also home to numerous beaches and waterfalls, ideal for swimming, snorkeling, surfing, or simply relaxing in nature.
For those looking to explore the town, Hilo is nearby and offers plenty of options for shopping, dining, and cultural experiences. Whether you're seeking adventure or a peaceful getaway, this award-winning off-grid retreat offers the perfect blend of convenience and seclusion.
Book your stay at this exclusive property today for an unforgettable rainforest experience!
$100 / night
Roam free on nearly 7 acres of an oceanfront ranch. Pick from the abundance of fresh fruit growing on the property. Hear the crashing waves and the whales playing amidst them. See the turtles and fish swimming. Hear the birds singing. The calming nature of this location will evaporate your worries. Lay poolside, soak in the hot tub, roam the property, explore the island. This is a great launching point to enjoy the treasures that the Big Island has waiting for you. Some places provide more privacy than others, but all are equipped with fire rings. There is a common bathroom and an indoor and outdoor shower with hot water.
**All water used on location is derived from an on site well which is refreshed daily, plenteously, from the cool mountains above as the water makes its attempt to return to the sea.
$49 - $69 / night
Bring your own tent (Hammocks and makeshift tarps are not considered suitable tents) We offer covered outdoor hot water showers and toilets. Children must be at least 7 years of age and supervised by an adult/guardian at all times. No reservations needed (except for groups of 10 or more) Last check in at 4:00 pm Social distancing, sanitizing, and mask wearing is required on Arnott’s Lodge property. Remember, Hilo is the wettest part of the island! You will want a rain fly.
The camping area is a quiet zone after 10:00pm. No music or cellphone use. If you need to take a call, we have a separate guest area or TV lounge where you can talk on the phone. Loud snorers may have to rent out a room.
We will provide you with a camp space, shower, and toilet facilities. Everything else needs to be provided by the camper. We do not lend tools to assist with setting up your tent, nor do we rent out beddings, linens, or cooking supplies. You may purchase a clean towel for $5.00. We also do not provide free storage for your luggage and personal effects. Treat this as any other camping spot on the island and be conscious of your belongings.
Tents must be moved after 3 nights to preserve the lawn; larger tents after two nights.
7 nights maximum stay limit. Management’s approval is needed for any extension.
$25 - $250 / night
Ka‘aha is located on the southern coastline of the park, 3.6 miles from the trailhead at the end of Hilina Pali road. The hike begins with a steep downhill trail that switches back 24 times to the base of the pali (cliff). Along the trail you will be hiking through mostly non-native grasses dotted with native ‘ōhi‘a trees. Two thirds of the way down you will find your only chance for shade on this hot, dry, windy trail under a large ‘ōhi‘a tree.
The rest of the hike is a gradual downhill slope to the coast. Ka‘aha has a rocky shoreline with a well protected cove that has some great snorkeling. You may find green turtles swimming in the cove, or resting on the shore. There are no trees in the area to provide shade, but the shelter on the hillside is a nice place to get out of the elements. Ants are extremely abundant, although they do not bite, or sting, but they will crawl on anything (including you) on the ground. The trail out is uphill the entire way and feels like five miles in the intense sun. We recommend you avoid hiking in the mid-day sun. Ka‘aha can be accessed from several trailheads:
Hilina Pali Overlook Trailhead via Hilina Pali Trail and Ka‘aha Trail 3.6 mi (5.8 km)
Mau Loa o Maunaulu Trailhead via Keauhou Trail, Hilina Pali Trail, and Ka‘aha Trail 11.5 mi (18.2 km)
Puʻuloa Trailhead via the Puna Coast Trail, Keauhou Trail, Hilina Pali Trail, and Ka‘aha Trail 17.4 mi (28.0 km)
Campers may stay a maximum of 3 consecutive nights per site. A total of 16 hikers are allowed per night at Ka`aha.
Scout
There was a coffee farm within walk distance, the church, peace gardens and just nice little area. Lots of pets, the cow! and baby goats. City of refuge and Captain Cook Monument are amazing to hang, and a few private beaches only for people who stay here
Legend
Roddy efficient grass sites - big enough for a couple or snag multiple for a family. Little cabins you can rent too. Bbq at each site l, mowed grass, bathrooms and sinks. Grab dinner at volcano house and have all day and night to explore the NP
Scout
Convenient location, beautiful property and warm and welcoming hosts.
Scout
We really enjoyed swimming in the pool under the Easter Island statue. The facilities were great, and the host was welcoming. Thanks for letting us stay on your beautiful property.
Scout
Beautifully nestled on a section of gorgeous Big Island coastline this immaculately presented ranch was a place we could take a break from our hectic roadtrip and destress. We relaxed wondering the property picking and eating papaya, coconut, strawberry guava to name a few. One of the highlights was our sea turtle watching from the point where we saw at least ten turtles feeding and swimming in the crystal clear waters. Our hosts were nothing short of awesome and welcoming in the use of the beautiful pool from which you could look out to the sea and have wifi access. Looking back on our three weeks touring the four main islands of Hawaii, our stay at Wild Blue Water Ranch was by far the best value for money, hospitable and enjoyable drive-in camping experience we had! Totally recommended!
Legend
Jake from the Dyrt here! We are so excited to welcome the Lava Rock Camp to the Dyrt! They have a history of creating memorable experiences for guests, and we can't wait to see everyone share their highlights on the Dyrt!
ScoutThe property was easy to find, gorgeous and super convenient to all of the things we wanted to do on the Big Island.
GuideI found this listing on here but no way to book it instantly so I contacted the host directly . Kelly is super easy to communicate with and answers right away . The grounds for camping are on her resort property a couple acres behind it in fact , so there’s no visible building from tent sites . We absolutely loved the coqui singing at night and waking to an amazing array of bird’s singing. Kelly’s son Alex gives you a full walkthrough of the different types of tress to pick from , and a tour of the hotel property . There’s amazing facilities here including hot water in the showers. I can’t wait to come back here for a visit when we have more time !
Legend
Ashley here with The Dyrt. We'd like to welcome your host, Ed. This special place is located in the forest. "Your site is steps away from Cannabis plants in various stages of growth. The site has a fine gravel floor with a solar panel roofing to protect you from the rain. This site is private and includes access to the outdoor bathroom which includes a hot shower and toilet." Give them a try and come back here to leave them some love!
Scout
Beautiful and peaceful campsite. The bathrooms and showers are super clean with warm running water. The outdoor amenities are a nice touch, I enjoyed playing with the disc golf and walking around the pond in the morning. The grassy road during the rain gets slippery if you don’t have 4 wheel but we never got stuck. I just hate how much we tore up the grass, made me feel bad every time we returned to camp. There are 4 dogs roaming around and for the most part they minded their own business. If you wake up early enough you can get a beautiful sunrise over a cattle farm. If we ever visit again, we’d love to stay here again.
Legend
We spent two nights at the Napau Crater backcountry camp. The hike-in was remarkable with many sections crossing extensive lava flows and through sections of tropical rainforest. The campsite itself had a small pit toilet but no water- so we carried in 18 liters for our multi-day adventure. Let’s just say the hike-out was a bit lighter.
We did find several puddles along the trail that must have been created by feral pigs in the park, where we could have filtered water– but I wouldn’t count on them. Additionally, these are watering holes for wildlife so we shouldn’t be competing with them for water, so plan on packing in the water. We had the whole place to ourselves, we didn’t see any hikers until day three when we were on our way out. It was a lovely break from an island that can seem overwhelmed by visitors sometimes.
Hiking across the lava flows offers no discernable trail except for the regularly spaced ahu stone piles(cairns) which are the only way to navigate. Should the weather turn or fog roll in visibility can be greatly reduced. Backcountry permits were available at the backcountry office near the visitor’s center and the ranger was incredibly helpful. Water was also available there so you can fill up on your way.
Legend
If getting away from the crowds is on your list at Hawaii Volcanoes National Park, then this primitive camping area is one of the places to do it. This lovely primitive camping area has 9 designated sites, 1 pit toilet that was kept clean and well-stocked, and an ADA accessible paved path that accesses many of the camping sites. The sites are a short walk from the parking area so you have to carry your gear to the site. 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.
The campground offers expansive views of Mauna Loa and the surrounding area including some pretty cool night-time glow of the eruption in Kilauea crater. One of the great benefits of camping in the park is the proximity to many hiking trails, but also to some of the better night time viewing. 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. If you can wait until around 9-10pm until you arrive you can have a much easier time finding parking at the trailhead and space along the overlook. Then it’s just a short drive back to your tent, and not an hour’s drive back to your hotel in Hilo. Just outside the park is Volcano Village with a small market and gasoline station for groceries and limited camping supplies. For something specialized like camping gas we had to drive to a hardware store outside of Hilo. The Volcano House Lodge near the park visitor’s center offers two restaurants with the same menu, one is more of a bar and grill, the other a sit down style.
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. Hiking across the lava flows offers no discernable trail except for the regularly spaced ahu stone piles(cairns) which are the only way to navigate. Should the weather turn or fog roll in, visibility can be greatly reduced. Cycling is also a great activity along the park roads, but be ready for a great deal of elevation change.
Note: This campsite is NOT free. It was $10 per night.
Scout
I found this place on Craig’s List. It was for sale when I arrived and has been updated since then. It is such an amazing spot.
GuideWe were trying to camp at the black sand beach but it wasn't a very user friendly experience, so I hit up Hip Camp and found this spot! Like many other places on Big Island, it needs to offer a diverse number of things, so it's also part of the Hawaii Island Resort. Excellent hosting and easy to book. My only disappointment was that the pool was out of service. I chose this place over others for the pool. Oh well. Next time!!
GuideSurprisingly there are few places to camp on this side of the island. Unless you have a car it's almost impossible to get to them with your luggage. Hot showers, wifi, and plenty of common areas for eating, relaxing, etc. Children under 7 not allowed. No stores or restaurants in walking distance. So many birds and other loud creatures singing all night long. Overall a great stop but not quite what we were looking for.
Ranger
Easily accessible and fun to camp here. There are spots for grilling, showers, tables, and drinking water. A good place to go snorkeling too.
RangerFree dispersed camping! Pretty cool lava landscape. Make sure to bring water for your stay.
Ranger
This is more geared for a day used area rather than a camping stay. We decided to look for another camping spot. Shoreline is rocky and area is good for surfing and fishing. No drinking water here. If you decided to camp here its little to no privacy.
RangerThe campground was lovely. Great location, just down the road from Volcano House (where you go to check in). We stayed in a cabin and it was excellent. The doors have key cars swipe (don't forget your key, the doors lock automatically behind you!) The shower was good and even the complimentary shower gel in the women's shower was nice! Dinner at Volcano House was good. I only wish we had stayed more than one night to be able to explore the area more.
GuideThis is a beautiful campsite. It’s near lava rocks and right by the ocean. There is a 7 mile hike to the shelter. So bring lots of water and supplies. There is also a water tank there but you need to get a permit to be able to get the water. Practice LNT. Bring sunscreen and enjoy. You can camp for a max of 3 nights.
GuideIt’s about a 7 mile hike, so bring loooottttsss of water but it’s one of the quietest back country camping spots in Hawaii you will find. It’s right by the beach. Bring sunscreen, water, first aid, all the regular supplies for a hike. As always practice LNT.
Scout
Beautiful and clean.
Unfortunately, Locally run and corrupt.
I live here. I had a dispute with one of the "security/managers" of the park. I wanted to be treated with respect and he disagreed. Out of spite, he made up a story about me breaking rules.
I wrote a letter to the board and discovered that they're all his friends and family.
So I've been banned forever from camping at my favorite beach in the world, for resisting bullying. So be prepared to be treated with disdain from parking to check out without defending yourself. This experience was only with one man. The rest were really nice.
Guidelots Of trails for a variety of levels
Legend
My husband and I really liked Manuka State Wayside. One thing we really loved about this place was that there was an awesome place to scuba dive close by. It was a company that took us out pretty far, and we were able to scuba dive with some turtles, and even saw some shark. I can't remember the name of the business, but it was right next to Manuka. The scuba diving took about 4hrs total, because of the boat ride plus dive. When we came back we played on the beach and did some people watching. We went to an ice cream shop up the road, and came back to the beach and watched the sunset. This area was pretty busy, but I think thats because it was during the summer. There is a walking/running path that goes along the beach that was nice as well. We walked along here in the evenings after dinner.
TravelerDue to the draining of the Lava Lake and constant earthquakes in Volcanoes National Park, this area is closed. At this time it is uncertain that it will open again.
TravelerI love camping at this spot. Namakanipaio has wonderful views the Milky Way, and used to have a great view of the glowing lava lake. It was a short hike to Jagger Museum, that now is being consumed by the caldera. With daily earthquakes in the area, it is no longer safe. you can not even stop in the highway in that area. Hopefully it will open again in the future.
LegendMy family and I loved this part of Hawai’i and coming to this beach. We had some of the best snorkeling we have ever had, here. We saw turtles, tons of fish, and 1 shark!! The water was super clear and pretty warm. There was also a really cool cliff to jump off of. This beach Park is close to the town, which makes it nice for food. There was a really great fish and chips place down the road. Reminded me of “Ivars” in Washington that we love! We also stopped by a snow cone place that served some of the biggest cones we’ve ever had. They also put ice cream in there’s which was awesome!!! In the morning before we did some hiking nearby, we stopped by a juice place. Wasn’t Sam good as the Kauai Juice Co. but it was still really good! The hiking was great! Great views of the beach and ocean. Super hot though, so I’m glad we started early in the morning. Loved this place and will definitely be back next year!!
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is the most popular tent campsite near Hawaii Volcanoes National Park?
According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular tent campground near Hawaii Volcanoes National Park is Kulanaokuaiki Campground — Hawai'i Volcanoes National Park with a 4.2-star rating from 5 reviews.
What is the best site to find tent camping near Hawaii Volcanoes National Park?
TheDyrt.com has all 20 tent camping locations near Hawaii Volcanoes National Park, with real photos and reviews from campers.
