RV campgrounds near Pearl City, Hawaii offer options for visitors wanting to camp on Oahu. Most RV sites on the island require reservations well in advance, particularly during peak tourist seasons from December through April when temperatures remain consistently between 70-85°F. The island's limited camping facilities and high demand create competition for available spots.
What to do
Beach activities at Bellows Field: The fine white sand beach provides excellent conditions for boogie boarding. "The waves are perfect for buggie boarding and the beach is peaceful. This spot has plenty of trees to set up a slack line and hammock to relax and play," notes a visitor to Bellows Field Beach Park.
Surfing at Sand Island: While not considered among Oahu's premier beaches, Sand Island offers surfing opportunities when conditions permit. "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," reports a camper at Sand Island State Recreation Area.
Horseback riding near Malaekahana: Visitors can ride horses across the highway from Mālaekahana State Recreation Area. "You can ride horses across the highway. The camp store has some basic items as well," mentions one reviewer who stayed at the campground.
What campers like
Privacy at Malaekahana: The secured campground provides a sense of exclusivity. "It is private and very well maintained! 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," writes a camper.
Quieter beaches at Sand Island: The industrial surroundings deter many tourists. "This rec park is one of the least visited since the area is no longer a busy as it used to be. There are showers and bathrooms with beach access, but I prefer to go to other beaches to swim," explains a reviewer at Sand Island State Recreation Area.
Beachfront waking at Malaekahana: Campers appreciate the proximity to ocean waves. "If you are looking for a campsite next to the beach this is the one to see. It is lovely waking up to the sound of the waves hitting the beach," shares a visitor.
What you should know
Gate restrictions: Many campgrounds enforce strict entry/exit times. "Gates close at 7:00 pm. Watch out for centipedes; I got bit and it was extremely painful," warns a camper at Malaekahana.
Wildlife concerns: Beyond typical beach hazards, some areas have seasonal marine dangers. At Bellows Field Beach Park, one camper cautions, "Beware the manawar here when it's in season. They line up all along the beach."
Sand management challenges: The fine Hawaiian sand infiltrates everything. "The sand here is so fine, it will make its way in to your rent, no matter how tight you close it up," notes a Bellows Field visitor.
Pet restrictions: Despite information sometimes found online, Hawaii enforces strict pet policies. "There are no dogs allowed on ANY Hawaii State Campground!!! Don't know if you know this or not. So if you have a dog in Hawaii, you cannot bring your loved one(s) camping anywhere," points out a frustrated visitor.
Tips for camping with families
Protected swimming areas: Some beaches offer calmer water conditions. "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," explains a reviewer.
Campsite selection strategy: Consider wind patterns when booking. "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 a Maleka Farm visitor.
Insect prevention: Bring appropriate supplies to manage pests. "Only suggestion is to bring fly tape or fly traps. A screen tent would be a superb addition," recommends a camper who stayed with their family.
Tips from RVers
Supply planning: Limited nearby services require advance preparation. "We lived in nearby Hauula Oahu for five years and this campsite was one of our favorites. You can find supplies in nearby Laie or Kahuku," advises an RVer who frequently visited the area.
Water access points: Many campgrounds provide outdoor washing facilities. "There are outdoor beach showers and outdoor sinks throughout the campground to get water, wash dishes and brush your teeth. So convenient," notes a Malaekahana visitor.
Alternative accommodation options: Several 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 camper detailing the rv campgrounds near Pearl City, Hawaii.
