Camping sites near Schofield Barracks on Oahu's central plateau provide access to diverse ecosystems from rainforest to arid coastline. The area ranges from sea level beaches to mountain forest reserves at 2,000+ feet elevation, creating dramatic temperature variations even across short distances. Summer camping typically sees daytime highs around 85°F with cooler mountain temperatures dropping into the 60s overnight.
What to do
Kayaking at Kahana Bay: Kahana Campground offers both ocean and river kayaking options within the same park. "There is a beautiful sandy beach which is great for beginner surfers and kayaking. You can also kayak in the river which runs through the park," notes a reviewer who lived nearby for three years.
Ropes course adventures: Beyond beach activities, Camp Mokuleia offers unique adventure options. "They have a ropes course and it is across the street from a skydiving place," reports a frequent visitor who attends drum circle training at the site.
Hiking accessible trails: Several family-friendly trails run through Ahupuaʻa ʻO Kahana State Park, with more challenging routes nearby. "The Bay has a beautiful sandy beach which is great for beginner surfers and kayaking. You can also kayak in the river which runs through the park. They have camp sites on both sides of the highway and a boat dock," shares a former local resident.
What campers like
Private campground security: Mālaekahana State Recreation Area provides secure camping with controlled access. "The campsites themselves are blocked off by a gate with a keypad entry so there aren't random cars driving by your campsite ever," explains a camper who appreciated the privacy.
Hammock-friendly sites: Many campers note the abundance of trees at several campgrounds. "Almost all the Area 1 sites have lots of trees to set up hammocks and for the much appreciated shade from the sun," reports a Mālaekahana visitor who initially wanted beachfront but found tree-protected sites better.
Wind protection considerations: Windward side beaches experience consistent trade winds that affect camping comfort. "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 camper who found a sheltered spot at Mālaekahana.
What you should know
Military checkpoint access: Peacock Flats - Mokuleia Forest Reserve requires extensive preparation and documentation. "Highly recommend having paperwork, permits, IDs all together in advance because you have to pass through military checkpoints on the west side of Oahu to get through to road to the campground. They ask for everyone's IDs," advises a camper.
Weather preparedness essential: The Oahu mountains create microclimates with rapid weather changes. "The sites can be quite wet, we hammock camped the first time we came out to stay off the ground," reports a Peacock Flats visitor who recommends checking conditions before departing.
Specific camping restrictions: Different areas have unique rules. "The park is open daily for day use and for camping Friday night to Wednesday morning. There are only 10 beach campsites available for tent camping," explains a reviewer about Kahana Valley State Park.
Tips for camping with families
Kid-friendly water activities: Ho'omaluhia Botanical Garden offers fishing opportunities popular with children. "Free fishing (bring your own bread), easy hiking, and large spread out campsites make this a great spot to camp with little ones!" recommends a parent who camped at site #4.
Wagon for gear transport: Some campsites require walking from parking areas. "The hike with fishing gear, cooler, kids, is a little long..bring a wagon!" suggests a Ho'omaluhia visitor who found this solution helpful when camping with children.
Beach camping considerations: When camping at oceanside sites, families should prepare for additional elements. "Watch out for centipedes; I got bit and it was extremely painful. Outdoor showers by the beach. There are toilets," warns a camper at Mālaekahana who still rated their experience highly.
Tips for RVers
Limited hookup availability: RV camping options near Schofield Barracks are limited. Sand Island State Recreation Area offers some of the few RV-accessible sites with hookups. "Clean grounds great beach access clean restrooms," notes a visitor, though the site isn't the most scenic option.
Industrial location considerations: The RV-friendly Sand Island area sits in a more developed zone. "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," explains a camper who found the location convenient despite the setting.
Advance planning required: RV sites book quickly during peak seasons. "Not a lot of people go to this beach because it's not so popular. It's tucked far back behind a coast guard base mixed with old commercial buildings and businesses," shares a reviewer about Sand Island, noting its less crowded nature compared to other Oahu beaches.
