If you're looking for a place to pitch your tent near Hawaiian Paradise Park, look no further. The Dyrt can help you find the best tent campsites for your next trip. You're sure to find the perfect campsite for your Hawaii tent camping excursion.
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
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
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.
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
Camping will continue to be suspended pending an upcoming State Department of Transportation project.
Major improvements include construction of a new comfort station; a new pavilion; potable water infrastructure; fire protection water system; refurbished pavilions; and new walkways, ramps, picnic tables, lighted parking areas and landscaping.
“Kolekole Gulch Park looks and feels entirely brand new,” said Maurice Messina, Director of Parks & Recreation. “We are excited to return this valuable resource to our community, enhanced in so many ways to allow greater access and enjoyment by all.”
The Kolekole Gulch Park project is one of several Department of Parks & Recreation construction projects underway or recently completed that enhance accessibility and ensure parks meet ADA requirements.
The park’s pavilions will be available to rent beginning April 25 by calling the Parks & Recreation Administration Office at (808) 961-8311. Camping will continue to be suspended pending an upcoming State Department of Transportation project.
Kolekole Gulch Park hours are 7 a.m. to 8 p.m. The gate to the park will be locked nightly.
$20 / night
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)
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
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.
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.
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.
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.
ScoutAwesome hiking/running trails, many native plant species difficult to find elsewhere. Pavilions and cabins for rent. check the county website for availability.
Guidelots Of trails for a variety of levels
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!!
Legend
The Kalopa State Rec Area park/beach is one of my favorites. It has such a jungle feel to it is why I think I really love it. It is located in Honokaa. There are so many beautiful plants and trees, and the people who work there say that they are pretty rare plants. The hibiscus plants are amazing, and they are everywhere. Loved seeing these flowers everywhere that I walked. The weather was okay when we went. It rained quite a bit, it was damp and pretty cloudy. One thing we enjoyed doing was hikes nearby. You can do the Kalopa Nature Trail. It is super easy, and only about 1 mile long. The loop takes you through all the gorgeous greenery and pretty trees. You can stay in little cabins in the campground, which were about $90 per night. A lot cheaper than staying in a hotel. You can also camp, which we didnt do but I saw that it costs around $20 a night to do this, even cheaper! The cabins were pretty small. There was 4 of us staying in here, and it felt a little tight. We made it work, though! Restaurants are nearby, maybe a 10 minute drive. Some great yummy places to eat. There is also a grocery store around there too. We went here and grabbed a few groceries to have for snacks, breakfast and dinners. We also went down to the beach that isnt far away. Drove about 15 minutes to reach the beach. Loved swimming and body boarding.
Legend
If I could pronounce this park, that would be great :) The name is pretty cool, and sounds awesome when a local says it. This park was really cool, had a lot of great amenities. The location of the beach park was good too. Right next to the town, easy to get on the road to get something to eat or shop. We took the morning and did a quick hike, some shopping and had lunch nearby. We then picked our spot on the beach and laid by the water the rest of the day. We had fun body boarding in the water, and people watching. The beach was pretty busy, but luckily we found out spot early enough to have enough room between us and the next family beside us. There was a really good snow cone place right up the beach- i think we got a few each that day. The weather was great, definitely bring plenty of water and snacks and sun screen. Even in December, it was still high 80's. Beautiful day! The water was great, a little ruff but we didnt get in very deep. There is restrooms up at the top of the beach area, and they have water hoses to use for your sandy feet. Picnic tables in the grass area as well. Those seemed to be taken pretty early, so if you want a picnic table I would highly recommend getting there early and reserving your spot. It was pretty loud on the beach- people playing music and playing games. My family didnt mind this, but if you want something a little more relaxing and quite, I wouldnt recommend this beach for you. Lots of people and lots of music being played.
Legend
My family and I visit Hawaii every other Christmas. I know, spending Christmas without snow may seem weird to some people, because we always have a white Christmas where I am from (Washington State). But honestly, we love going this time of year because it isnt as busy. We love either camping, staying at my families condo, or doing a combo of both. We visited Kolekole Beach Park when we came last Christmas, and it was great. It was super clean, which we really loved. There was also some great small cliffs that we could jump off of- the whole family loved doing this. It almost feels like you are in a "jungle" only because of the greenery and trees. Not to mention the weather is pretty muggy. My family and I had a picnic here, and played in the water for the day. They didnt have any life guards on duty just FYI. Weirdly, there were a lot of cats around? Not sure why? but thought this was interesting. The park is a little hard to find, we drove past the sign and had to turn around. It's a pretty small, spray painted sign. We hiked in the morning before we came here, which was beautiful hike overlooking the water. Highly recommend!!
TravelerKalopa is one of my favorite campgrounds here on the Big Island. the cabins are affordable, and including a large dining hall with a kitchen. The kitchen does have a few pots and pans, but if you want coffee, bring a press. Showers in the cabin are small, but nice and hot. Just don't forget to turn on the water heater. Since this location is up in the mountains, it is cold at night. It rains often, and has a wonderfully magical mist that hangs around morning and evening. My husband and I chose this location to get married, since it is such a beautiful and cool spot, hurricane Issel had other plans for us. The trails there range from easy to difficult. The native plants in the area are beautiful, there is even a small gated garden with all the native plants inside labeled. The staff at the park are a wealth of knowledge, and are amazingly kind.
Traveler
Due to the new volcanic activity, you can no longer reach this beach. I love this park, and enjoyed getting to surf it only twice in my life. my heart broke when the lava closed off all access points. Fissure 8 is producing a large volume of lava, and it is unclear how long this event might last. While this tiny section of our island is closed off, there is still plenty to do and see.
GuideAwesome access to lots of trails and of course the volcano. Wouldn’t go right now with the eruptions but worth the visit in the future.
Bring extra warm stuff; can get windy and quite chilly at night.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is the most popular tent campsite near Hawaiian Paradise Park, HI?
According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular tent campground near Hawaiian Paradise Park, HI is Isaac Hale Beach Park with a 4.5-star rating from 6 reviews.
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TheDyrt.com has all 18 tent camping locations near Hawaiian Paradise Park, HI, with real photos and reviews from campers.
