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Best Equestrian Camping in Hawaii

45 Reviews

Hawaii is known for its beautiful beaches, stunning views of Diamond Head, and relaxed way of life. But one thing that is often overlooked by visitors (and really shouldn’t be!) is the amazing experience of camping in Hawaii.

The Hawaiian Islands are made up of eight main islands, including Hawaii, Maui, Oahu, Kahoolawe, Lanai, Molokai, Kauai and Niihau. Each one offers unique camping experiences and different activities.

Oahu, home to the city of Honolulu, and the most populated island, offers a unique blend of city comforts and tropical vibes. The southernmost coast is where you’ll find popular tourist destinations like Diamond Head, Waikiki Beach, and Hanauma Bay. Due to the number of people that live on this part of the island, there are limited camping areas, but just a short drive makes a big difference.

On Oahu’s Windward coast, expect stunning views of the Ko’olau mountains and the turquoise waters of Lanikai and Kailua. Bellows is a great camping spot right on the beach away from the bustle of Honolulu, and only a few minutes drive from the popular Maunawili hike trailhead. Permits are required to go camping in Hawaii, and sites usually book up in advance, so be sure to call a few weeks ahead if you want to get a spot.

If relaxing in nature and getting away from the crowd is what you’re after, Keaiwa Heiau State Recreation Area, located inland near Aiea, provides visitors with lush forest views, and is the site of a former temple of Hawaiian healing. It is also near the trailhead for the Aiea Loop Trail, a popular 4.5 mile hike with stunning mountain vistas, and is just a short drive away from Pearl Harbor.

The Big Island, the largest of the Hawaiian islands and known for its diverse landscape and constantly flowing lava, is another great option if you are looking to do some camping in Hawaii. Camping permits are available for Punalu’u, Hawaii’s famous black sand beach, which has a reputation for great snorkeling and fishing and for sea turtle sightings. You can also snag one of 16 campsites in Hawaii Volcanoes National Park. Sites are available on a first come, first served basis, and although it’s a little more rustic (there are restrooms but no showers), it’s probably worth it to be able to camp at “one of the most unique campsites to visit in the world”.

Whether you’re camping in Hawaii for the first time, or just looking for a new favorite spot, The Dyrt has you covered.

Map showing campgrounds in HawaiiExplore the Map

Best Equestrian Sites in Hawaii (5)

    1. Nāmakanipaio Campground — Hawai'i Volcanoes National Park

    17 Reviews
    Hawaii Volcanoes National Park, HI
    Website
    +1 (808) 967-7321

    "And if anyone knows rain in Hawaii is HARD - so make sure you are prepared if you decide to camp in Hawaii.

    This is a great way to be close to the volcano park to get an early start."

    "Pretty epic experience sleeping so close to Pele. The best entrance to see the volcano at night is a bit of a drive/back ride but well worth it!"

    2. Bellows Field Beach Park

    15 Reviews
    Kaneohe, HI
    Website
    +1 (808) 523-4525

    "Camping in hawaii is special no matter the time and place. Bellows has been a favorite because the waves are perfect for buggie boarding and the beach is peaceful."

    "Because you need to have military access to enjoy this beautiful beach park."

    3. Kōkeʻe State Park Campground

    6 Reviews
    Kapa‘a, HI
    Website
    +1 (808) 335-6061

    "A beautiful, safe, clean campground, run by the State of Hawaii, that can't be beat.

    This campground is nowhere near the beach, but brings you to the interior of the island."

    "Walk over to the lodge for some yummy food and check out the museum and trail maps"

    4. Wiliwili Camp

    5 Reviews
    Kapa‘a, HI
    Website

    $6 / night

    "We were the only campers when we went to bed but woke up to 2 men with horses and hunting dogs staying there."

    "Lots of trash from irresponsible hunters/campers near the shelter but the camping pads close to the river are beautiful."

    5. Pālāʻau State Park Campground

    2 Reviews
    Lahaina, HI
    Website
    +1 (808) 984-8109

    "There is no park entrance fee but there is a cost to some. The views here are amazing and Molokai is a very uninhabited island, so this place is very peaceful."

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Equestrian Camping Reviews in Hawaii

45 Reviews of 5 Hawaii Campgrounds

  • Emily W.
    Aug. 2, 2016

    Bellows Field Beach Park

    Oahu camping

    Camping in hawaii is special no matter the time and place. Bellows has been a favorite because 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.

  • Christy K.
    Jul. 25, 2015

    Nāmakanipaio Campground — Hawai'i Volcanoes National Park

    Nice grassy open area and very clean

    We stayed here Thanksgiving night prior to spending a day in Volcanoes national park. Given the holiday, everything was closed in town so make sure you bring some food and supplies. It was also pretty quiet and felt very safe.

    In the middle of the night we woke up to RAIN! And if anyone knows rain in Hawaii is HARD - so make sure you are prepared if you decide to camp in Hawaii.

    This is a great way to be close to the volcano park to get an early start.

    There is a paystation on site and restrooms, firepits and picnic tables.

  • riki L.
    Dec. 8, 2020

    Bellows Field Beach Park

    NO PETS (DOGS) ALLOWED ON ANY HAWAII STATE CAMPGROUNDS!

    This website is in error. 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. Too bad.

  • Dmitri W.
    Sep. 28, 2018

    Kōkeʻe State Park Campground

    Take a High-Altitude Break from the Beach

    A beautiful, safe, clean campground, run by the State of Hawaii, that can't be beat.

    This campground is nowhere near the beach, but brings you to the interior of the island. From here you can view the Kalalau Valley lookout and look out over Waimea Canyon, known as "The Grand Canyon of the Pacific." Also you have access to hike the Alakai Swamp, which is one of the wettest places on Earth, or take a couple-mile hike up to the highest point on the island.

    This campground offers indoor toilets and showers, a nice restaurant, and a gift shop.

  • A
    Aug. 31, 2018

    Wiliwili Camp

    Beautiful views by the river

    The 2.5 mile hike down Waimea Canyon to arrive at this site is worth it for the views alone. The campground is rustic. There is one outhouse and a covered picnic area. Our site was directly on the river. We stayed in the river or on the rocks in the river to swim, cook and hang out as it was the only spot free from mosquitoes. The views from the bottom of the canyon were breathtaking. We were the only campers when we went to bed but woke up to 2 men with horses and hunting dogs staying there.

  • YEN P.
    Sep. 5, 2016

    Bellows Field Beach Park

    White Sandy Beach of Military Paradise

    Oahu's famous east coast is lined with beautiful white sandy beaches, and Bellows is somewhat of a hidden gem. Why? Because you need to have military access to enjoy this beautiful beach park. Go for a short drive from Waikiki along the scenic southeast coast and keep going past Makapuu Lighthouse bend, and you'll see some of the most sea-green bluest waters ever. Keep going past Waimanalo Beach Park and you'll be at the entrance of Bellows. You can keep going on the long driveway in, but you'll need military access or sponsorship to get in.

  • Tarah W.
    Oct. 30, 2017

    Nāmakanipaio Campground — Hawai'i Volcanoes National Park

    A Volcano at Midnight

    Pretty epic experience sleeping so close to Pele. The best entrance to see the volcano at night is a bit of a drive/back ride but well worth it! Talk to locals in Pahoa and Keaau for tips on how to see the best views of the volcano. Cheap site about like $15 i believe.

  • Dave G.
    Jun. 5, 2017

    Nāmakanipaio Campground — Hawai'i Volcanoes National Park

    Arrived and Left in Awe

    We were able to snag a walk up site right at check out time, which is when you should arrive if you want to camp here. The campground was full by dinner time. The huge upside of this campground is the proximity to the Jagger Museum and the inner caldera of the volcano. You can hike from the campground to the caldera overlook and if you get lucky with a cloudy night sky, you'll be treated to a fiery display with the volcano glow lighting up the sky. The only downside of this campground is that there are no showers for tent campers. Definitely not something that would prevent us from returning.

Guide to Hawaii

Horse camping in Hawaii offers a unique way to explore the islands' stunning landscapes while enjoying the companionship of your equine friends. With a variety of campgrounds that cater to horse enthusiasts, you can experience the beauty of Hawaii from a different perspective.

Most campgrounds have horse-focused amenities like picnic tables and fire pits

  • At Kōkeʻe State Park Campground, you’ll find well-marked campsites with picnic tables, making it easy to enjoy meals outdoors with your horse nearby.
  • Wiliwili Camp features a rustic setting with a fire pit, perfect for cozy evenings after a day of riding.
  • Pālaʻau State Park Campground offers amenities like water hookups and toilets, ensuring a comfortable stay for both you and your horse.

Tips for equestrian camping in Hawaii

  • Always check the weather conditions before heading out, as some trails can become challenging after rain, especially around Wiliwili Camp.
  • Bring plenty of water for both you and your horse, as some campgrounds, like Kōkeʻe State Park Campground, may have limited water sources.
  • Ensure your horse is comfortable with the terrain, as some areas may have steep trails, particularly around Pālaʻau State Park Campground.

Equestrian campers like these nearby activities

  • Explore the breathtaking views at Waimea Canyon, accessible from Kōkeʻe State Park Campground, where you can enjoy scenic rides and hikes.
  • The trails around Wiliwili Camp lead to stunning vistas and natural water slides, perfect for a refreshing break after a long ride.
  • At Pālaʻau State Park Campground, you can discover the island's rich history and enjoy peaceful rides through uninhabited landscapes.

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