Camping near Kailua on Hawaii's Big Island offers diverse experiences from coastal beach parks to volcanic highlands. Sites range from sea level to over 3,000 feet elevation, creating significant temperature variations between coastal and mountain locations. Temperature fluctuations can exceed 30°F between daytime and nighttime at higher elevation campgrounds, requiring appropriate gear for both warm days and cool evenings.
What to do
Explore lava landscapes: At Kulanaokuaiki Campground, campers can witness volcanic features up close. "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," notes Shari G., highlighting the need for preparation.
Visit nearby attractions: From JoesNuts.com, cultural sites are within walking distance. "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," reports camper t T.
Morning surfing: Wake up early to catch waves at beaches near camps. "Sites are first come, first serve, but you do need a reservation. Known to the locals as pinetree surfing beach, there is some surfing," shares Rachael H. about beach conditions.
What campers like
Night sky viewing: Volcano area campgrounds provide stellar astronomical observations. "The skies cleared up and there were millions of stars. They looked so close that you could reach out and grab one," writes Denice S. about her experience at Kulanaokuaiki Campground.
Early morning beach access: Shoreline campsites allow for dawn activities before crowds arrive. "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," says Shari G., describing the unique scenery.
Native flora: Kalopa State Recreation Area features unique botanical specimens. "Awesome hiking/running trails, many native plant species difficult to find elsewhere," notes taylor C. about this upland forest camping area.
What you should know
Water availability varies: Many campgrounds require bringing your own water supply. "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," warns Shari G. about Kulanaokuaiki.
Reservation requirements: Beach camping spots fill quickly, especially during peak seasons. "This is the place to go if you like nice faculties. Better than most parks here the bathrooms can be a trek but they are clean and well tended to. I only give it 4 stars because it always fairly packed out so plan fairly early especially on holiday weekends," advises Bryce H.
Gate closing times: Nāmakanipaio Campground has specific entry hours. "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!" suggests Brittany R., emphasizing timing importance.
Tips for camping with families
Cabin alternatives: For families needing more amenities, cabins offer comfort while maintaining outdoor access. "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!)," shares Alejandro G. about accommodations at Nāmakanipaio.
Pet accommodations: Travelers with animals can find suitable pet-friendly camping options throughout the area. "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," mentions t T. about the animal-friendly environment at JoesNuts.com.
Weather preparation: Pack for temperature swings, especially at volcanic sites. "Kind of a green desert... 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.
Tips from RVers
Limited hookup options: Most pet-friendly camping near Kailua lacks full RV services. "This is more geared for a day used area rather than a camping stay. 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," reports Miles G. about Hawaii County Park Miloli'i Beach Campground.
Access considerations: RV campers should check road conditions before arrival. "The access road is off of the Chain of Craters Drive and it seems to go on forever through the lava fields. The road is not great, but we were in a little car and did not have any issues," explains Denice S. about reaching some more remote campgrounds.
Early arrival importance: Secure spots early, especially for larger vehicles. "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," notes Jessica F., highlighting the importance of understanding available facilities.
