Best Campgrounds near Makakilo, HI

Camping near Makakilo, Hawaii, offers a unique blend of stunning landscapes and outdoor activities. Whether you're looking for a family-friendly spot or a quiet getaway, there are several campgrounds that cater to different needs.

What to do

• Beach Access: Enjoy the beautiful beaches nearby. For instance, at Bellows Field Beach Park, you can swim, body surf, or just relax on the sand. One reviewer mentioned, "The white sandy beach is a local favorite and must-see while on Oahu."
• Hiking: Explore local trails like the Crouching Tiger trail near Kahana Campground — Ahupuaʻa ‘O Kahana State Park. A camper noted, "A good close trail is the Crouching Tiger trail which is pretty steep and muddy, so bring good hiking boots!"
• Surfing: If you're into surfing, the cove at Mālaekahana State Recreation Area has great beginner waves. A family-friendly review highlighted, "The beautiful cove has great beginner waves for surfing."

What campers like

• Clean Facilities: Campers appreciate well-maintained restrooms and showers. One visitor at Camp Mokuleia said, "The bathrooms and shower facilities were basic but very clean and nicer than some of the other campgrounds."
• Tranquil Environment: Many enjoy the peaceful surroundings. A reviewer at Mālaekahana State Recreation Area mentioned, "The location is perfect for both relaxation and adventure."
• Friendly Staff: Campers often rave about the helpfulness of the staff. One camper at Camp Mokuleia shared, "The staff were really friendly and helpful."

What you should know

• Crowded Weekends: Some campgrounds can get busy, especially on weekends. A visitor at Bellows Field Beach Park noted, "The campsites were all very crowded and loud throughout the weekend."
• Limited Amenities: Not all campgrounds have full amenities. For example, Kahana Campground — Ahupuaʻa ‘O Kahana State Park has no electric hookups and no market nearby, as one camper pointed out, "There is no market, but the beach area is pretty secluded and not crowded."
• Pet Restrictions: If you're traveling with pets, be aware that many campgrounds, like Mālaekahana State Recreation Area, do not allow them. A frustrated reviewer stated, "There are no dogs allowed on ANY Hawaii State Campground!!!"

Tips for camping with families

• Choose Family-Friendly Spots: Look for campgrounds that cater to families, like Mālaekahana State Recreation Area. One parent shared, "This is perfect for a single mom wanting to show her son the world on a budget."
• Plan for Early Mornings: Be ready for some early wake-up calls. A camper humorously noted, "Be ready for roosters to wake you in the morning."
• Keep Activities Close: Select campgrounds with nearby activities. A family at Camp Mokuleia enjoyed, "The beach area was really nice and not crowded at all."

Tips from RVers

• Check for Hookups: Make sure to verify if the campground has electric hookups. For example, Kahana Campground — Ahupuaʻa ‘O Kahana State Park does not offer electric hookups, which could be a dealbreaker for some RVers.
• Book Early: Popular spots fill up quickly. A reviewer at Bellows Field Beach Park advised, "You need to book early; the good sites go very fast!"
• Be Prepared for Crowds: Expect busy weekends, especially at popular campgrounds. One RV camper mentioned, "During holidays, you can expect large crowds."

Camping near Makakilo offers a variety of experiences, from beach fun to hiking adventures. Just remember to plan ahead and choose the right spot for your needs!