Pet friendly camping near Hilo, Hawaii ranges from developed sites in Hawai'i Volcanoes National Park to private farms with fruit trees and ocean views. The Hilo area sits on the eastern, windward side of the Big Island where rainfall averages 140 inches annually. Camping elevations vary from sea level to 4,000 feet, creating temperature differences that can require different gear depending on location.
What to do
Sea turtle watching: Wild Blue Water Ranch provides designated viewing points along the coastline. "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," notes Rolf M.
Volcano night viewing: Nāmakanipaio Campground offers close access to volcanic activity. "Pretty epic experience sleeping so close to Pele. The best entrance to see the volcano at night is a bit of a drive/back ride but well worth it! Talk to locals in Pahoa and Keaau for tips on how to see the best views of the volcano," recommends Tarah W.
Hiking through lava landscapes: Kulanaokuaiki Campground serves as a base for unique volcanic terrain exploration. "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," advises Shari G.
Fresh fruit picking: Many private campgrounds allow guests to harvest tropical fruits. "They really do have lots of fruit trees you can pick. We added it to the fruit we got at the farmer's market, and they offered us fresh coconut on the last morning," reports Sar from their stay at Wild Blue Water Ranch.
What campers like
Quiet locations away from crowds: "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," notes a Kulanaokuaiki visitor.
Clean facilities: Moon Garden Farm Getaway receives praise for its well-maintained amenities. "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," shares Jen T.
Night sky viewing: Campgrounds at higher elevations offer exceptional stargazing. "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," describes Denice S. about her experience at Kulanaokuaiki.
Proximity to park attractions: Staying within Hawai'i Volcanoes National Park eliminates late-night driving. "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," explains a camper.
What you should know
Water availability varies: Some campgrounds require you bring all water needed. "There is no water at this location... There are 8 campsites and actually it's pretty cool that 2 of the sites are wheelchair accessible, I'd never really seen that before," notes Elliott B. about Kulanaokuaiki.
Temperature fluctuations: Treehouse.Farm and other locations experience significant daily temperature changes. "Nice, open sites with decent amenities. You don't really have a lot of privacy at all... but you should be off exploring the park! I say desert, because it can get so hot during the day and turn around and get really cold at night," explains Elliott B.
Early arrival recommended: Popular sites fill quickly. "This was a great little campground! 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. about Nāmakanipaio Campground.
Road conditions: Some private campgrounds have challenging access roads. "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," mentions a Moon Garden Farm visitor.
Tips for camping with families
Pack layered clothing: Temperature variations require adaptable gear. "From the end of the road you get an incredible view of the ocean and you can see the Holei Sea Arch. You can also 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," shares Denice S.
Educational opportunities: Volcano activities provide learning experiences. "Highlights from our time in the park include: learning about the myths and legends surrounding the volcanoes, seeing the 'glow' from the Jaggar Museum, attending intriguing ranger programs, watching the sunset from midway up Mauna Kea," reports SwitchbackKids.
Recreation options: Mango Hale offers family-friendly amenities. "This land is absolutely breathtaking. 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.
Early morning activities: Visit popular attractions before tour groups arrive. "We did the Thurston Lava Tubes first thing in the morning, before 8:00am. It was helpful that we were still on Pittsburgh time as we were up early that morning. There were only 2 people on the trail, which is really just a walk through the lava tube," advises Denice S.
Tips from RVers
Limited hookup options: Most pet friendly camping options near Hilo have basic amenities only. "Great camp site, had everything you would want at a tropical camp site," mentions Leah P. about Nāmakanipaio, though full hookups are rare in the area.
Alternative accommodations: Consider cabin options when available. "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!" shares Alejandro G. about Nāmakanipaio Campground.
Supplies and provisions: Stock up before reaching remote campgrounds. "There is one small gas station store and a true value hardware (which has a little bit of everything)," notes a visitor about the limited shopping options in Volcano town.
