Camping options near Pu'u O Umi Natural Area Reserve range from sea level locations to sites at 3,000 feet elevation, creating distinctive microclimates across the region. Temperature variations can exceed 20 degrees between coastal and upland sites, with upland areas receiving significantly more rainfall. The terrain throughout this northern section of Hawaii's Big Island features dramatic elevation changes that influence camping conditions and accessibility.
What to do
Snorkel with wildlife: Mahukona Beach Park offers exceptional snorkeling opportunities with minimal crowds. "Great place for snorkeling and in the 'winter' months, there's a chance you will see whales," notes jake C., who found the area "super peaceful with very few people."
Hike native forests: The native plant trails at Kalopa State Recreation Area provide access to rare Hawaiian flora. "Awesome hiking/running trails, many native plant species difficult to find elsewhere," reports taylor C., who appreciated the "upland forest beauty" of this distinctive ecosystem.
Experience sunrise over the Pacific: At Kipahulu Campground, strategic tent placement rewards early risers. "I found a tree to sleep under towards the edge of the cliff with a view of the ocean from my bed—and I was able to watch the sunrise over the Pacific without even getting out of my sleeping bag!" shares Stephanie Z.
Explore tidepools: Kohanaiki Beach Park features extensive shoreline exploration opportunities. "Not a great swimming beach, but plenty of shoreline and tidepools at one end to explore," explains Rachael H., who enjoyed "camping on white sands" at this less-visited coastal park.
What campers like
Challenging backpacking routes: Waimanu Campsite requires significant effort but delivers isolation. "It starts out at Waipio Valley lookout and continues 9 miles up to the next valley over. It's a moderately strenuous hike with a pack on your back! Be prepared with water filter, rain gear, mosquito repellant and everything else you need for backpacking," advises Laura H.
Temperature escape: Upland campsites provide relief from coastal heat. "I live on the island, but down at sea level. I had always wanted to come up and camp here because the nights are cool and the tent site is in the woods. Some times we need to escape the heat," explains Sharon N. about her experience at Kalopa State Recreation Area.
Concrete camping platforms: Covered concrete camping pads at some upland sites provide protection during frequent rain showers. "I liked how the sites have raised and covered places you can pitch your tent under in case it rains. Make sure you bring a mattress of some sort as the shelter floor is concrete," recommends Sharon N.
Oceanfront positioning: Kohanaiki Beach Park allows for true beachfront camping. "This place is amazing. You wake up right on the beach and get to watch surfers in the morning," writes Raquel M., though she notes "gates close at 9pm" as an operational consideration.
What you should know
Wilderness water safety: Stream crossings to remote campsites require careful planning. "Check the weather in advance because there are two stream crossings that can get rather dangerous if it rises," cautions Laura H. about the Waimanu Valley trail.
Early arrival advantages: Spencer Beach Park fills quickly, especially for protected camping spots. "Beware of winds. Apparently this place is prone to high winds which we did not see in any review. Get here early to put your tent in a protected spot if you can find it," advises Sar.
Permit requirements: Advance planning is essential for many Pu'u O Umi Natural Area Reserve campsites. "Get permits far in advance!" urges Laura H. regarding Waimanu Valley camping, which sees less traffic than popular sites on other islands.
Beach park access hours: Some coastal camping areas have strict gate closure times. Kohanaiki Beach Park gates close at 9pm according to Raquel M., requiring campers to plan evening activities accordingly.
Challenging tent staking: Coastal sites often have difficult ground for securing tents. "The terrain is dust, with bedrock about two inches down, making it hard to get my tent stakes in. When the wind kicked up before dawn, I ended up with dust in my mouth," reports Jessica F. about her Spencer Beach Park experience.
Tips for camping with families
Protected swimming areas: Kapa'a Beach Park offers family-friendly beach access with necessary facilities. "Great facilities. Shower, restrooms, etc. You can camp right on the beach. And wake up to the ocean," reports jake C.
Pavilion access: Spencer Beach Park features covered areas for weather protection. "Great access to the beach, a beautiful warm beach, nice hike access, cabana with gorgeous view, grills, tables, bathrooms, and showers," notes Tarah W.
Kid-friendly shore access: Some parks offer gentler ocean entry points. "This is such a serene park, lots of parking, trails to hike up to the heiau, beautiful open ocean to swim in, basketball court, bathrooms, a pavilion with outlets. Park manager comes through in the morning and night. Kids really enjoyed this location and we had no issues staying," explains Kela W. about Spencer Beach Park.
Insect preparation: Mosquitoes are prevalent at some upland sites. "Also bring mosquito spray they like this campsite as well," advises Sharon N. about camping at Kalopa State Recreation Area.
Tips from RVers
Limited hookup options: Laupahoehoe Point Beach Park offers some of the region's only electric and water hookups. "The campground is the site of a tsunami that killed several school children and there's a memorial there to commemorate that event. There are a couple of grills, but when people are using the pavilions, you can not use them," notes Dave G.
No designated RV spaces: Most camping areas near Pu'u O Umi Natural Area Reserve lack formal RV sites. "There are no designated sites, so you can basically camp wherever you please," explains Dave G. about Laupahoehoe Beach Park's open camping arrangement.
Seasonal crowd planning: Holiday periods bring increased local use. "We arrived here on Easter and the campground was completely crowded with families celebrating Easter. For us wanting to setup our camp, we couldn't until most were on their way out," reports Dave G. about navigating busy periods.
