Best Tent Camping near Hilo, HI

Recent Tent Reviews in Hilo

56 Reviews of 19 Hilo Campgrounds

• 

  Jennifer H.

  Legend

  

  Feb. 23, 2024

  Nāmakanipaio Campground — Hawai'i Volcanoes National Park

  Proximity to NP & Volcano house ++

  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

• J

  Jennifer H.

  Scout

  

  Feb. 21, 2024

  Aloha Acres

  Peaceful paradise

  Convenient location, beautiful property and warm and welcoming hosts.

• 

  Rolf M.

  Scout

  

  Sep. 1, 2023

  Wild Blue Water Ranch

  Destress from the rest! Awesome!

  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!

• 

  Jake C.

  Legend

  

  Jul. 21, 2023

  Lava Rock Glamping

  Glamping in the forests of Hawai'i

  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!

• J

  Jennifer H.

  Scout

  

  Jul. 6, 2023

  Aloha Acres

  Aloha Acres is awesome!

  The property was easy to find, gorgeous and super convenient to all of the things we wanted to do on the Big Island.

• 

  Ashley F.

  Legend

  

  Jan. 18, 2023

  Treehouse.Farm

  A Very Special Place

  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!

• 

  Jen T.

  Scout

  

  Dec. 12, 2022

  Moon Garden Farm Getaway

  Beautiful

  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.

• 

  Shari G.

  Legend

  

  Apr. 26, 2022

  Napau Crater Backcountry Camp — Hawai'i Volcanoes National Park

  Camping on the Edge of a Ancient Crater

  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.

• 

  Shari G.

  Legend

  

  Apr. 26, 2022

  Kulanaokuaiki Campground — Hawai'i Volcanoes National Park

  Away from the 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, 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.

• 

  Annie E.

  Scout

  

  Feb. 13, 2022

  Soil to Soul - PERMANENTLY CLOSED

  Peace on Earth

  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.

• 

  Aubrey G.

  Guide

  

  Jan. 25, 2022

  Arnotts Lodge and Hiking Adventures

  Centrally located in Hilo, city camping!

  Surprisingly 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.

• 

  Miles G.

  Ranger

  

  Dec. 1, 2021

  Punalu`u Beach Park

  Great camping with variety of activities

  Easily accessible and fun to camp here. There are spots for grilling, showers, tables, and drinking water. A good place to go snorkeling too.

• 

  Miles G.

  Ranger

  

  Dec. 1, 2021

  Kulanaokuaiki Campground — Hawai'i Volcanoes National Park

  Lava fields

  Free dispersed camping! Pretty cool lava landscape. Make sure to bring water for your stay.

• 

  Alejandro G.

  Ranger

  

  Oct. 31, 2021

  Nāmakanipaio Campground — Hawai'i Volcanoes National Park

  Amazing Travel

  The 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.

• j

  jake C.

  Guide

  

  Sep. 6, 2021

  Waimanu Campsite

  Be prepared for the hike, a swim, and an amazing campsite

  You have to hike down a hill to get there, but it is super pretty. It’s in a valley, so it will get cool at night and is warm during the day, but it’s super quiet, and an amazing spot.

• j

  jake C.

  Guide

  

  Sep. 3, 2021

  Keauhou Backcountry Campsite — Hawai'i Volcanoes National Park

  Love this Site + The hiking

  This 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.

• j

  jake C.

  Guide

  

  Aug. 7, 2021

  Apua Point

  Amazing Hike-In Camping

  It’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.

• 

  taylor C.

  Scout

  

  Jan. 5, 2021

  Kalopa State Recreation Area

  Upland forest beauty

  Awesome hiking/running trails, many native plant species difficult to find elsewhere. Pavilions and cabins for rent. check the county website for availability.

• 

  Christine N.

  Guide

  

  Apr. 17, 2019

  Nāmakanipaio Campground — Hawai'i Volcanoes National Park

  Great day trip

  lots Of trails for a variety of levels

• 

  Karrieanne W.

  Traveler

  

  Aug. 13, 2018

  Nāmakanipaio Campground — Hawai'i Volcanoes National Park

  Currently Closed

  Due 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.

• 

  Karrieanne W.

  Traveler

  

  Aug. 13, 2018

  Nāmakanipaio Campground — Hawai'i Volcanoes National Park

  Closed due to volcanic activity

  I 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.

• 

  Sasha W.

  Legend

  

  Aug. 1, 2018

  Punalu`u Beach Park

  Great snorkeling

  My 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!!

• 

  Sasha W.

  Legend

  

  Jul. 26, 2018

  Kalopa State Rec Area - Hawaii

  So much fun

  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.

• 

  Sasha W.

  Legend

  

  Jul. 26, 2018

  Laupahoehoe Point Beach Park

  One of my faves

  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.

• 

  Sasha W.

  Legend

  

  Jul. 25, 2018

  Hawaii County Park Kolekole Gulch Park - TEMPRORARILY CLOSED TO CAMPING

  Beautiful, just like Hawaii

  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!!

• 

  Karrieanne W.

  Traveler

  

  Jul. 15, 2018

  Kalopa State Rec Area - Hawaii

  Great hiking, and a nice cool place to escape the heat.

  Kalopa 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.

• 

  Karrieanne W.

  Traveler

  

  Jul. 15, 2018

  Isaac Hale Beach Park

  Closed due to volcanic activity

  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.