Camping near Pu'u O Umi Natural Area Reserve

Whether you're an RVer or tent camper, Pu'u O Umi Natural Area Reserve, HI is a great place to post up for the weekend—or longer. There's so much to see and do, from exhilarating hikes or bike rides to exploring the local dining and shopping. Find the best campgrounds near Pu'u O Umi Natural Area Reserve, HI. Read helpful reviews and tips to find the perfect camping option for you and your crew.

Best Camping Sites Near Pu'u O Umi Natural Area Reserve (17)

    1. Waimanu Campsite

    3 Reviews
    Pu'u O Umi Natural Area Reserve, HI
    0 miles
    Website
    +1 (808) 657-8041

    "Otherwise this is the most fantastic paradisiacal campsite on a beach you'll find in Hawaii! Less people than the popular Kalalau on Kauai. Research this one a ton and get permits far in advance!"

    "A beautiful pristine beach, waterfalls all around, and towering green mountains covered in dense jungle. Absolutely amazing! Be sure to pack in enough water and food!"

    2. Spencer Beach Park

    9 Reviews
    Pu'u O Umi Natural Area Reserve, HI
    15 miles
    Website
    +1 (808) 974-6200

    "It is located in a great spot. We got up early in the morning and did a hike nearby, then pretty much just sat our bums in the sand and water the rest of the day."

    "Great access to the beach, a beautiful warm beach, nice hike access, cabana with gorgeous view, grills, tables, bathrooms, and showers."

    3. Kalopa State Rec Area - Hawaii

    5 Reviews
    Pu'u O Umi Natural Area Reserve, HI
    15 miles
    Website
    +1 (808) 775-8852

    "It is located in Honokaa. There are so many beautiful plants and trees, and the people who work there say that they are pretty rare plants. The hibiscus plants are amazing, and they are everywhere."

    "Since this location is up in the mountains, it is cold at night. It rains often, and has a wonderfully magical mist that hangs around morning and evening."

    4. Kalopa State Recreation Area

    1 Review
    Pu'u O Umi Natural Area Reserve, HI
    15 miles
    Website
    +1 (808) 775-8852

    "Awesome hiking/running trails, many native plant species difficult to find elsewhere. Pavilions and cabins for rent. check the county website for availability."

    5. Mahukona Beach Park

    2 Reviews
    Pu'u O Umi Natural Area Reserve, HI
    17 miles
    Website
    +1 (808) 691-8311

    "This beach park has quite a few picnic tables around, so we were able to snag one and have a picnic. We packed some lunch, ate and people watched."

    6. Kapa'a Beach Park

    1 Review
    Pu'u O Umi Natural Area Reserve, HI
    18 miles
    Website
    +1 (808) 961-8311

    "Definitely stay here when you go to Hawaii"

    7. Laupahoehoe Point Beach Park

    3 Reviews
    Hilo, HI
    28 miles
    Website
    +1 (808) 974-6200

    "The location of the beach park was good too. Right next to the town, easy to get on the road to get something to eat or shop."

    8. Kiholo State Park Campground

    1 Review
    Kailua, HI
    28 miles
    Website
    +1 (808) 961-9540

    $20 - $30 / night

    "The proximity to the ocean. Make sure to make a reservation and camping is available on weekends only."

    9. Kīpahulu Campground — Haleakalā National Park

    9 Reviews
    Haleakala National Park, HI
    45 miles
    Website
    +1 (808) 572-4400

    "There is no fee to camp here for up to 3 days as long as you've paid the Haleakala NP entrance fee --which of course everyone who makes it to the end of the Hana highway does anyway!"

    "Camp sites are located all along the lollipop of the road that leads into the campground as well as some more spots along the shore."

    10. Kohanaiki Beach Park

    3 Reviews
    Kailua, HI
    41 miles
    Website
    +1 (808) 323-4322
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Recent Reviews near Pu'u O Umi Natural Area Reserve

42 Reviews of 17 Pu'u O Umi Natural Area Reserve Campgrounds


  • SThe Dyrt PRO User
    Mar. 13, 2025

    Spencer Beach Park

    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.

  • M
    Dec. 23, 2024

    Kīpahulu Campground — Haleakalā National Park

    Great campground

    This campground is located in the Kipahulu district of Haleakala National Park. It offers very basic amenities, including cooking grills and vault toilets, with drinking water available only at the visitor center.  I can join activities such as playing slope game. Campsites operate on a first-come, first-served basis, featuring grassy areas that are unmarked except for the presence of grills and picnic tables. The atmosphere is peaceful, with the soothing sound of waves crashing against the rocky coastline below. At night, the stargazing is spectacular! We camped at Kipahulu National State Park in a camper van.

  • t
    May. 28, 2024

    JoesNuts.com

    Nice and easy driveway, walk to painted church and a few cool things

    There was a coffee farm within walk distance, the church, peace gardens and just nice little area.  Lots of pets, the cow! and baby goats.  City of refuge and Captain Cook Monument are amazing to  hang, and a few private beaches only for people who stay here

  • Jake C.The Dyrt ADMIN User
    Oct. 18, 2023

    Uka Hawaiian Native Camp

    A True Hawaiin Experience

    Jake from the Dyrt here! The Uka Hawaiin Native camp is new to the Dyrt and we are happy to have them and the authentic hawaiin experience they provide to campers.  Check them out and leave a review about your stay on the Dyrt!

  • Shari  G.The Dyrt PRO User
    Apr. 26, 2022

    Hamakua Guesthouse & Camping Cabanas

    Hammock Cabanas, Hawaiian Style

    This guest house offers a wide array of lodging opportunities, but the most unique are their hammock cabanas. These elevated, screened and tented porches offer one a pleasant and inexpensive (for Hawaii) night’s sleep. Rather than providing a bed or cot, each tent has two sleeping hammocks, a small cooler, secure gear locker and some basic lighting and electricity.  Note, the power goes off at 10pm, as the whole compound runs on solar power and batteries. It was raining buckets the night we stayed there, but we were dry and comfortable, although torrential rain on any small structure might make sleeping a challenge. 

    The guest house at the top of the property has a great covered back porch with some great cooking, food preparation, and washing up options. Also the bathrooms and showers are lovely, especially if you’ve just come from a backcountry trip in the National Park!  

    The guest house also welcomes the small herd of local stray cats to roam around outside and get an evening meal. It’s so cool if you like cats, but could be a bit of a nightmare if you do not. These furry guests are not allowed inside so no worries there, but they will investigate your food bag and meow like crazy should you be trying to make dinner outside.

  • Annie E.
    Feb. 13, 2022

    Soil to Soul - PERMANENTLY CLOSED

    Peace on Earth

    I found this place on Craig’s List. It was for sale when I arrived and has been updated since then. It is such an amazing spot.

  • Aubrey G.
    Jan. 25, 2022

    Arnotts Lodge and Hiking Adventures

    Centrally located in Hilo, city camping!

    Surprisingly there are few places to camp on this side of the island. Unless you have a car it's almost impossible to get to them with your luggage. Hot showers, wifi, and plenty of common areas for eating, relaxing, etc. Children under 7 not allowed. No stores or restaurants in walking distance. So many birds and other loud creatures singing all night long. Overall a great stop but not quite what we were looking for.

  • Miles G.The Dyrt PRO User
    Nov. 1, 2021

    Hawaii County Park Miloli'i Beach Campground

    Good for roadside stop.

    This is more geared for a day used area rather than a camping stay. We decided to look for another camping spot. Shoreline is rocky and area is good for surfing and fishing. No drinking water here. If you decided to camp here its little to no privacy.

  • jThe Dyrt PRO User
    Sep. 9, 2021

    Mahukona Beach Park

    Peaceful place

    It’s super peaceful with very few people, but they don’t currently have the facilities open. Make sure you bring snorkel gear as well. great place for snorkeling and in the “winter” months, there’s a chance you will see whales.


Guide to Pu'u O Umi Natural Area Reserve

Camping near Pu'u O Umi Natural Area Reserve, Hawaii, offers a unique experience surrounded by stunning landscapes and rich biodiversity. Whether you're looking for a family-friendly spot or a secluded getaway, there are several campgrounds nearby that cater to different needs.

What to do:

  • Hiking: Explore the beautiful trails around the area. At Kalopa State Rec Area - Hawaii, one camper mentioned, "The Kalopa Nature Trail is super easy, and only about 1 mile long. The loop takes you through all the gorgeous greenery and pretty trees." This makes it a great option for families or those looking for a leisurely hike.
  • Beach Access: Spend a day at the beach! Spencer Beach Park is close by, and one visitor said, "We got up early in the morning and did a hike nearby, then pretty much just sat our bums in the sand and water the rest of the day." It’s perfect for relaxing after a hike.
  • Wildlife Watching: Keep an eye out for unique birds and plants. A reviewer at Kīpahulu Campground — Haleakalā National Park noted, "The campground offers expansive views of Mauna Loa and the surrounding area including some pretty cool night-time glow of the eruption in Kilauea crater."

What campers like:

  • Scenic Views: Campers rave about the views at Kulanaokuaiki Campground — Hawai'i Volcanoes National Park. One camper shared, "The sites are spaced out nicely, offering great sunset views and quiet wake-ups."
  • Clean Facilities: Many appreciate the cleanliness of the campgrounds. A visitor at Kīpahulu Campground mentioned, "The grounds were clean but very exposed to sight and the elements," highlighting the well-maintained facilities.
  • Family-Friendly Atmosphere: Families enjoy the welcoming vibe at Spencer Beach Park. One parent said, "Kids really enjoyed this location and we had no issues staying," making it a great choice for those with children.

What you should know:

  • No Water Access: Many campgrounds, like Kulanaokuaiki Campground, do not have water available. A reviewer advised, "Make sure to bring water for your stay," so plan accordingly.
  • Crowded on Weekends: Expect larger crowds on weekends. A camper at Kīpahulu Campground noted, "We spent the first night stuck next to a HUGE party that didn't quiet down till late at night," suggesting that weekdays might be quieter.
  • Reservations Recommended: Some campgrounds require reservations, especially during peak seasons. A visitor at Kalopa State Rec Area - Hawaii mentioned, "It is a small location that needs to be reserved in advance," so check ahead.

Tips for camping with families:

  • Choose Family-Friendly Campgrounds: Spencer Beach Park is noted for its family-friendly amenities. One reviewer said, "There was a walking path just up from the beach that we saw a ton of people walking on," making it easy for families to enjoy outdoor activities together.
  • Pack Snacks and Drinks: Since some campgrounds lack water access, be sure to bring plenty of snacks and drinks. A camper at Kīpahulu Campground mentioned, "We went here and grabbed a few groceries to have for snacks, breakfast, and dinners."
  • Plan for Activities: Keep the kids entertained with planned activities. A parent at Kalopa State Rec Area - Hawaii said, "The hibiscus plants are amazing, and they are everywhere," which can spark interest in nature for young ones.

Tips from RVers:

  • Check for Hookups: If you're bringing an RV, make sure to check for electric hookups. Spencer Beach Park offers electric hookups, which can make your stay more comfortable. A visitor noted, "Great access to the beach, a beautiful warm beach," making it a solid choice for RV camping.
  • Be Prepared for Crowds: RVers should be aware that some campgrounds can get crowded. A reviewer at Kīpahulu Campground mentioned, "This campground is popular with the locals/residents on Maui," so plan your visit accordingly.
  • Bring Extra Supplies: Since some campgrounds are remote, it’s wise to bring extra supplies. A camper at Kulanaokuaiki Campground advised, "There is no water available at the campground so be prepared," emphasizing the need for self-sufficiency.

Camping near Pu'u O Umi Natural Area Reserve, Hawaii, is a fantastic way to enjoy the great outdoors while making lasting memories. Just remember to plan ahead and enjoy all the beauty this area has to offer!

Frequently Asked Questions

Which is the most popular campground near Pu'u O Umi Natural Area Reserve?

According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular campground near Pu'u O Umi Natural Area Reserve is Waimanu Campsite with a 5-star rating from 3 reviews.