Best Campgrounds near Kapa‘a, HI
Campgrounds for various types of camping can be found in multiple areas near Kapa'a, Hawaii. The eastern shore of Kauai offers established camping options at Lydgate State Park Campground, just south of Kapa'a, and Anahola Beach Park, located about 10 miles north. Camping accommodations range from basic tent sites to more developed options with amenities. Kumu Camp provides glamping opportunities including yurts and cabins for those seeking more comfort. Most campgrounds in this region feature oceanfront locations with direct beach access, though inland options like Kōkeʻe State Park Campground in the mountains offer a different experience with cabin accommodations and forest surroundings.
"This park is very well maintained. The sites are close together and each gets a picnic table. I liken these kinds of sites as outdoor motels with a tent square and table and a neighbor within 15ft," noted one camper about Lydgate State Park. Camping permits are required for all public beach parks and state recreation areas, typically costing around $3 per person per night for non-residents. Facilities vary significantly between locations, with most beach parks offering basic amenities like outdoor showers, restrooms, and picnic tables. Weather conditions remain warm year-round, though rain showers are common, especially in winter months. Campers should be prepared for the ubiquitous wild chickens found throughout Kauai, which many reviewers mention as early morning noise sources. Some beach locations experience strong currents and rip tides, making swimming hazardous in certain areas.
Several visitors mentioned shoreline views and water access as key highlights of camping in this region. Anini Beach Park receives particularly high ratings for its protected reef that creates calm swimming conditions. "We saw sea turtles at this beach. It was ok as far as camping. Everyone is pretty close together and tourists are always walking around and close by you," shared one reviewer about Lydgate State Park. Campgrounds closer to town tend to have more activity and occasional noise issues, while more remote locations offer greater privacy. Some beach parks have reported safety concerns after dark, with reviewers recommending camping in groups at certain locations. The inland mountain campgrounds provide a completely different experience with cooler temperatures, hiking trails, and views of Waimea Canyon and Kalalau Valley, offering a high-altitude alternative to beach camping.
