Camp Mokuleia and Bellows Field Beach Park represent two distinct glamping experiences on Oahu. Camp Mokuleia sits on the island's northwestern shore about 35 miles from Schofield Barracks, while Bellows Field Beach Park is located on the eastern shoreline approximately 25 miles from base. Both locations accommodate tent camping and offer beach access, with Mokuleia featuring tent cabins directly on the beach and Bellows providing both civilian and military camping options.
What to do
Hiking at Kaena Point: The northwestern location near Camp Mokuleia offers access to scenic trails. "This campground is very close to the highest concentration of rock climbs in all of Hawaii! The Mokule'ia wall has over 60 climbs ranging from beginner to expert and includes trad, sport, and toprope routes," notes Alan B.
Water activities: The calm waters at Bellows Air Force Station create ideal conditions for families and beginners. "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," explains Emily W.
Adventure sports: Several campgrounds offer proximity to unique activities. At Camp Mokuleia, one visitor mentioned, "They have a ropes course and it is across the street from a skydiving place." The military side of Bellows features additional recreational facilities including "putt-putt, driving range, bar w/ pool table, foose, beach equipment rental, paint ball, small bouldering area!"
What campers like
Beach proximity: Most sites offer direct beach access with varying levels of privacy. At Sand Island State Recreation Area, campers appreciate the "clean grounds, great beach access, clean restrooms." The campground is "not super busy" and offers a more secluded experience than other Oahu beaches.
Security features: Campers consistently mention feeling safe at established campgrounds. Camp Mokuleia provides "a gate with a code that you can go in and out as you please," and many visitors note the helpful staff. One camper highlighted that Camp Mokuleia "felt the safest" of the campgrounds they visited on Oahu.
Diverse accommodation options: Many locations offer more than standard tent sites. At Bellows Field Beach Park, "there is actually both a civilian and military campground. The civilian side is for the true camping enthusiast. The military side has both campgrounds and cabins, with a mini golf course and a mini-mart."
What you should know
Military access requirements: Several campgrounds have restricted access. At YMCA Camp Mokule'ia, all visitors can access the facilities, but Bellows Air Force Station requires appropriate identification. As one reviewer clarified about Bellows, "You need to have military access or sponsorship to get in."
Reservation timelines: Plan well ahead, especially for yurt camping near Schofield Barracks. For Bellows cabins, "reservations are booked for about a year out, so you never know what kind of weather you'll get when the reservation finally comes along."
Weather considerations: The island's microclimates affect camping conditions. The northwest location of Camp Mokuleia provides shelter from eastern winds, making it preferable during certain seasons. One camper noted, "In January, the winds were strongest from the East... This side of the island gave us a break from the wind."
Tips for camping with families
Beach safety awareness: Monitor conditions carefully with children. At Bellows Field, one camper warns to "beware the manawar here when it's in season. They line up all along the beach." These jellyfish-like creatures can cause painful stings.
Insect preparation: Bring appropriate supplies for comfort. One camper at Bellows suggests "to bring fly tape or fly traps. A screen tent would be a superb addition" to enhance the family camping experience.
Activity options: Living Circle Farms offers unique agricultural experiences with its "Park Pick & Play" concept, allowing families to combine camping with farm activities. The site provides tent camping and glamping options with basic amenities including drinking water, electricity, and restroom facilities.
Tips from RVers
Limited hookup availability: While several campgrounds accommodate RVs, full hookups are rare. At Bellows Field Beach Park, electric and water hookups are available, but there are no sewer connections or sanitary dump stations.
Space considerations: Most Hawaii campgrounds aren't designed for larger RVs. Sand Island State Recreation Area is one of the few described as "big-rig friendly" with electric hookups and a sanitary dump station available.
Proximity to supplies: RVers should plan for limited on-site resources. For Camp Mokuleia, "it's about 15 minutes back to Haliewa where there are tons of restaurants, food cards, groceries and a Longs Drug."
