Best Campgrounds near Hilo, HI
Camping near Hilo, Hawaii encompasses a range of environments from volcanic landscapes to coastal settings, with options for tent camping, RV sites, cabins, and glamping experiences. Hawaii Volcanoes National Park, located about 30 miles southwest of Hilo, offers camping at Nāmakanipaio Campground and Kulanaokuaiki Campground, where visitors can experience the unique opportunity to camp near active volcanic features. Closer to town, Arnott's Lodge provides centrally located camping with amenities for travelers without vehicles. Several private properties like Wild Blue Water Ranch, Moon Garden Farm Getaway, and Treehouse.Farm offer more intimate camping experiences with varying levels of amenities.
Weather conditions vary significantly by elevation and location. Volcanic areas experience cooler temperatures, especially at night, with campers reporting temperatures dropping into the 60s at higher elevations. According to reviews, rain can be sudden and intense throughout the region. As one camper noted, "Rain in Hawaii is HARD, so make sure you are prepared." Some campgrounds in Hawaii Volcanoes National Park have no running water, requiring visitors to bring their own supplies. Most campgrounds require permits or reservations, with county and state parks typically charging $10-20 per night. Volcanic activity can affect campground availability, particularly in Hawaii Volcanoes National Park where closures may occur due to safety concerns.
Beach camping options provide a different experience from the volcanic highlands. Punalu'u Beach Park offers camping on grassy areas adjacent to a black sand beach where sea turtles are commonly spotted. Laupahoehoe Point Beach Park provides oceanfront camping with the sound of crashing waves. Many private properties feature tropical fruit trees, with one visitor mentioning, "We relaxed wandering the property picking and eating papaya, coconut, and strawberry guava." Backcountry camping is available for experienced hikers at locations like Halape Shelter in Hawaii Volcanoes National Park, requiring permits from the backcountry office. These remote sites offer solitude but demand proper preparation with water filters, rain gear, and mosquito repellent.
