Kaneohe RV camping options extend beyond the immediate town limits, with several established parks within 30-40 minutes of the windward Oahu location. Camping facilities range from basic tent sites to areas with limited hookups for recreational vehicles. The consistent trade winds affect camping conditions, particularly in coastal areas where tent stakes and secure awnings become essential equipment.
What to do
Water activities at Papohaku Beach: Drive 45 minutes from Kaneohe to access this uncrowded shoreline. "Incredible views with miles and miles of beautiful beach. Literally only saw 2 other people while I was there," reports one visitor to Maui County Park Papohaku Beach Campground.
Horse riding adventures: Located directly across from Malaekahana State Recreation Area, horseback riding provides a unique coastal activity. "You can ride horses across the highway. The camp store has some basic items as well," notes one camper about the Mālaekahana State Recreation Area vicinity.
Surfing for beginners: Sand Island offers gentle waves suitable for novice surfers when conditions permit. "Sand Island is an industrial place so there's not many stores nearby but it's a pretty unique park with lots of space to hangout. The beach isn't the nicest but it's good for little kids and there's a nice surf break if the swell is in," according to one visitor.
What campers like
Private camping areas: The secured sites at some locations prevent non-campers from wandering through. "There are day use parking areas for people to use the beach but the campsites themselves are blocked off by a gate with a keypad entry so there aren't random cars driving by your campsite ever," explains one camper about Bellows Field Beach Park.
Spacious sites with natural shade: The tree coverage provides relief from Hawaii's intense sun. "Almost all the Area 1 sites have lots of trees to set up hammocks and for the much appreciated shade from the sun. Each campsite has a picnic table and a firepit," notes a Malaekahana camper.
Clean facilities: Several campgrounds maintain well-kept restrooms and shower areas. "The bathrooms have flush toilets and are very clean! Bring your own roll of TP to share. There are outdoor beach showers and outdoor sinks throughout the campground to get water, wash dishes and brush your teeth," reports a visitor to Malaekahana.
What you should know
Military access requirements: Some campgrounds have restricted access. "Oahu's famous east coast is lined with beautiful white sandy beaches, and Bellows is somewhat of a hidden gem. Why? Because you need to have military access to enjoy this beautiful beach park," explains a reviewer of Bellows Field Beach Park.
Pet restrictions vary by location: Hawaii state regulations differ from campground policies. "This website is in error. There are no dogs allowed on ANY Hawaii State Campground! So if you have a dog in Hawaii, you cannot bring your loved one(s) camping anywhere," warns one camper about Sand Island State Recreation Area, though the official listing indicates pets are permitted at this specific location.
Weather protection essential: Strong coastal winds affect camping comfort and safety. "Initially I was bummed I didn't get a beach front campsite, ours was only a 30 second walk to the beach. But because it's the windward side, it was sooo windy and we really appreciated our campsite set a little farther back from the beach and protected by trees," shares one Malaekahana camper.
Tips for camping with families
Beach safety awareness: Monitor conditions for dangerous marine life during certain seasons. "Beware the manawar here when it's in season. They line up all along the beach," warns a visitor about jellyfish at Bellows Field Beach Park.
Sand management strategies: Fine Hawaiian sand infiltrates tents regardless of precautions. "The sand here is so fine, it will make its way in to your rent, no matter how tight you close it up," advises one camper about Maleka Farm and similar beach locations.
Insect protection: Pack appropriate supplies for comfortable camping. "Only suggestion is to bring fly tape or fly traps. A screen tent would be a superb addition," recommends one Bellows camper after their experience with insects.
Tips from RVers
Limited supply access: Most RV campgrounds near Kaneohe have restricted shopping options. "Sand Island is an industrial place so there's not many stores nearby," notes one camper, making advance shopping for supplies necessary.
Alternative accommodation options: Some campgrounds offer cabin rentals alongside RV sites. "There are actually several options for camping. Drive up tent sites, vehicle campsites for vans, hales or houses that sleep 4 with no electricity for $58 and larger suite hales or cabins that have electricity and their own bathroom inside for around $120," explains a Living Circle Farms visitor about nearby camping alternatives.
Local usage patterns: Weekend availability becomes limited as residents utilize nearby camping spots. "This is a great choice for students or other visitors looking for a low cost option in a beautiful location," advises a Malaekahana camper, though noting the need for advance reservations as "the cabins are very popular with local residents."
