Nāmakanipaio Campground offers tent and cabin camping at 4,000 feet elevation in Hawai'i Volcanoes National Park. The campground features 16 drive-in tent sites with picnic tables and nearby restroom facilities. Temperatures can fluctuate significantly between day and night, often dropping into the 60s after sunset due to the elevation. Campers should prepare for both hot daytime conditions and cooler evenings when planning their glamping close to Kailua, Hawaii experience.
What to do
Explore volcanic landscapes: Nāmakanipaio Campground provides direct access to numerous volcanic hiking trails. "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," suggests one Nāmakanipaio visitor.
Visit nearby attractions: From JoesNuts.com campground, several points of interest are within walking distance. "There was a coffee farm within walk distance, the church, peace gardens and just nice little area. City of refuge and Captain Cook Monument are amazing to hang, and a few private beaches only for people who stay here," reports a camper.
Trail running and hiking: The native forest trails at Kalopa State Recreation Area offer excellent options for physical activity. The trails showcase unique native plant species and vary in difficulty, making them suitable for different fitness levels. "Very quiet location with nearby access to incredible hiking. The higher altitude kept the temperatures in the low 60's and perfect for sleeping," notes a visitor.
What campers like
Proximity to volcano viewing: The location of Nāmakanipaio allows for convenient volcano observation. "The all time highlight is that when it got dark we made the 15-20 minute hike up to the Jagger Museum overlook/observatory to see the glowing lava in the crater," shares one camper who appreciated the campground's strategic location.
Quiet atmosphere: Campers frequently mention the peaceful environment at these locations. "Very quiet location with nearby access to incredible hiking. Not very many campers so it was a peaceful evening," writes one reviewer about their Nāmakanipaio Campground experience.
Efficient site layout: The practical design of the camping areas receives positive feedback. "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, mowed grass, bathrooms and sinks," mentions a Nāmakanipaio visitor who appreciated the functionality.
What you should know
Temperature fluctuations: Despite the tropical location, high-elevation camping areas experience significant temperature changes. "Nice, open sites with decent amenities. I say desert, because it can get so hot during the day and turn around and get really cold at night," cautions a Kalopa State Recreation Area visitor.
Arrive early for tent sites: Site availability can be limited, especially during busy periods. "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 a Nāmakanipaio camper.
Shower availability varies: Not all campgrounds provide shower facilities for tent campers. "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 a bicycle tourist who stayed at Nāmakanipaio.
Tips for camping with families
Multiple connected sites: For larger family groups, consider booking adjacent sites. "Roddy efficient grass sites - big enough for a couple or snag multiple for a family," suggests a camper at Nāmakanipaio, noting the possibility of creating a connected family camping area.
Utilize pavilion spaces: Covered areas provide protection from unexpected weather. "It has toilets and a large pavilion, that we utilized to cook and eat under due to early morning rain," recommends a JoesNuts.com visitor who found the sheltered space valuable during their stay.
Animal encounters: Some locations offer unique opportunities for children to see farm animals. "Lots of pets, the cow! and baby goats," mentions a JoesNuts.com camper, highlighting an aspect of the experience that children might particularly enjoy.
Tips from RVers
Limited hookup availability: RV campers should note that full hookups are not common at these locations. Some sites offer partial hookups or no hookups at all, requiring self-contained operation. Plan accordingly for water, waste, and electrical needs.
Site selection considerations: Choose sites carefully based on RV size as many glamping spots close to Kailua, Hawaii are not designed for larger rigs. "This was a great little campground! We showed up in the early afternoon and got the last spot available," notes a Nāmakanipaio Campground visitor, suggesting the importance of early arrival.
Day/night temperature planning: RVers should prepare for temperature management. "It can get so hot during the day and turn around and get really cold at night," warns a camper, suggesting the need for both cooling and heating capabilities depending on the season and elevation.
