Camping on the Big Island of Hawaii

Hawaii’s heartland has tropical beaches, active volcanoes, and a rich cultural heritage.

94% (2943 reviews)
94% (2943 reviews)

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12 top campgrounds in Big Island

90%
(310)

Ohia Hale

3 sites · RVs, Tents15 acres · Captain Cook, HI
As all the land here is born of lava, many moons ago this land began to host plants and critters. Long after, it was sculpted and a number of families and farmers have contributed to what we have today. An abundance of fruit and vegetables within sight of the ocean. Peaceful breezes and warming sun make for unparalleled tranquility. Today the land still gives back to its visitors. Come recharge. As this is agricultural lands, there are many critters. Dogs, chickens, pheasants, peacock, mongoose, and many birds. Tge invasive coqui frog is annoying to some and calming to others. The micro climate here swings from warm and dry to wet quickly. Best to always prepare for rain. There is snorkeling, beaches, local food, Cafe, BBQ, poke, fish-n-chips, grocery, Sunday farmers market and hiking nearby. It is peaceful here, but also an active farming community. As an organic farm, we put alot of effort into soil building and as such, there are soft places that will be damaged by the weight of a vehicle. Staying on the driveway is best. We will guide you to where you need to go. Our road is paved, but bumpy. Any vehicle will make it without damage if driven slowly. 1 to 4mph tops. *Be sure to avoid the camper rental companies that restrict certain roads. Aloha and have a great day.
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$45
 / night
99%
(292)

Wild Blue Water Ranch

4 sites · RVs, Tents7 acres · Pahoa, HI
Welcome to a realm where Hawaii's raw landscapes unfold before you - Wild Blue Water invites you to discover the extraordinary. Your sanctuary awaits amidst the tropical jungle's lush embrace, where volcanic vistas add an enchanting allure. Awaken to the melodic chorus of tropical birds amidst towering palms and vibrant flora, with the wild Pacific crashing against volcanic shores. Step outside your canvas and immerse yourself in an adventure of senses - the fragrances, sounds, winds, and flavors of exotic fruits. Witness the fiery hues of sunrise against the volcanic skyline; each moment here celebrates nature's magnificence. Enjoy your camping experience with refreshing well water, a spacious hot shower, pristine restroom, an inviting pool, and a soothing jacuzzi. This is Wild Blue Waters- where your adventure begins!! **All water used on location is derived from an on site well which is refreshed daily, plenteously, from the cool mountains above as the water makes its attempt to return to the sea.
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$49
 / night
99%
(75)

Yip Camp and Eco-Retreat Center

7 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents3 acres · Fern Forest, HI
Yip Camp provides a setting that promotes immersion in nature. The property is located on the Kilauea Volcano at about 2700 feet in elevation and in sight of the majestic Mauna Loa volcano rising at the peak at 13,680 feet. Both volcanos have been active recently. There are several trails at the National Park nearby; trails and several species of birds live on the property including Japanese Pheasants. On clear nights the skies provide excellent ambient viewing of the moon, planets and constellations. The campsites and cottage are located in the woods near a shower and flushing toilet and the property is off grid with the goal to establish an example of sustainable lifestyles and ecosystems. Camping equipment is available upon request and the cottage is furnished with a basic kitchen. The grounds also include a screen room with a grill, tables, chairs and a fire pit. Local fruits and vegetables are grown on the property and the greenhouse provides food. Solitude is available for those who seek silence and immersion in nature and a number of state and county beaches are within a forty minute drive. The focus is providing a quiet environment and an opportunity for solitude away from the distractions of urban lifestyles.
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$36
 / night
95%
(260)

Hamakua Guesthouse

7 sites · Lodging5 acres · Pepeekeo, HI
The Hamakua Guesthouse is located on the south end of Hawaii's breathtaking Hamakua Coast. Established in 2012 we are easily accessible to all the Big Island attractions such as Volcanoes National Park (1 hour South), Waipio Valley (1 hour North), and the countless sights and adventures along the Hamakua Coast, it is the perfect location to base your Big Island adventure vacation. The legendary Akaka Falls State Park is only 4 miles away from the Hamakua House. Onomea Bay is only 4 miles away, which is the home of the Hawaii Botanical Gardens. It is an unforgettable drive to get there and the bay is a wonderful place to have a picnic. We are only 1 mile (easily walkable) from the quaint main street of Honomu, HI. This town was established in the sugar cane plantation era and remains today boasting some wonderful gift shops, two restaurants, a coffee house, and the Island's best Zip Line Tours. Guests have access to our open air full bathroom with running water and a stunning rainfall shower (located at the main house). They also have access to our covered outdoor kitchen with grills, a sink, prep space, dining area, dishes, cups, silverware, and cookware (also located at the main house).
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$19.63
 / night
95%
(29)

Hamakua Christmas Tree Forest

5 sites · Lodging, Tents13 acres · Honomu, HI
Our campsites are situated on 13 acres off the Historical Hamakua Coast, and home of the Hamakua Christmas Tree Forest. Awesome ocean view of the beautiful Pacific are a guarantee. It is quiet, safe ,and private with easy access just 3/4 mile off of the Hawaii Belt Road, (Highway 19), up a paved county maintained road. At Waikaumalo Park, "roughly a half mile" walk or ride away, you can take a cool dip in the fresh water stream surrounded by tropical foliage. Papa'aloa Country Store and Cafe has a restaurant and offers a wide selection of grocery items only 5 miles away. Botanical World Adventures just 3 miles away offers the Umauma Experience with ziplining, biking tours, trails exploring tropical flora, and triple waterfall views and adventures. Akaka Falls is only 6 miles away in Honomu. Laupahoehoe Point is only 15 minutes away offering swimming, fishing, and relaxing in the lava rocks and waves. All this is just 20 miles north of Hilo!
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$25
 / night
78%
(86)

Nature Retreat Camp

9 sites · Lodging, Tents5 acres · Papaaloa, HI
We are a small 5 acre farmstead located on the beautiful Hamakua Coast. Our farm is home to a variety of animals and boasts numerous fruit trees. One of our proudest offerings is our free range chickens produce high-quality eggs. You can purchase these delicious eggs right here at the farm to enjoy for your breakfast. In addition to our chicken operation, we are also proud coffee producers. Our coffee is carefully grown and harvested on-site, ensuring a rich and flavorful cup every time. But coffee isn't the only thing we grow here. Our farm is also home to a diverse selection of fruit trees, including Jack fruit, Lychee, Longans, Avocados, Bananas, and Tangerines. When you visit our farm, you'll have the opportunity to relax and unwind in our main hangout Pavilion. This cozy space is the perfect spot to rest, soak in the peaceful surroundings, and truly appreciate the beauty of the farm. However, it's important to note that the Hamakua Coast is known for its lively rooster population. So, while you'll have a serene and tranquil environment during the day, be prepared for the sounds of roosters greeting the morning. One of the highlights of our farm is the stunning waterfall located near the property. Guests are welcome to hike down to this natural wonder and take a refreshing swim in the crystal-clear swimming holes. It's an experience you won't want to miss. For your convenience, we offer an outdoor shower and a flushing toilet for our campers. We understand that comfort and cleanliness are important, even when enjoying the great outdoors. Thank you for considering a visit to our farmstead. We are excited to have the opportunity to host you and share the beauty and bounty of our farm with you.
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$26.96
 / night
99%
(50)

Hakalau Springs Campground

3 sites · Tents11 acres · Honomu, HI
Come enjoy the magic of your own private waterfall while camping under the stars at Hakalau Springs Campground. Hakalau is located on the North-East side of the Big Island along the breathtaking Hamakua Coast. Surrounded by waterfalls and lush, green tropical flora, Hakalau is a hidden gem. It’s the perfect jumping off point for all things east side. Hilo town is 30 minutes south and Waipio Valley Lookout is 45 minutes North. The world-famous Akaka Falls is one neighborhood over in the quaint town of Honomu which hosts some wonderful gift shops, 2 restaurants, and a coffee house. Hawaii Volcanoes National Park is a little over an hour drive and the Maunakea Visitors Center is an hour and 15 minutes. Other sites and adventures include Umauma Zip lining and Botanical World Adventures (5 miles away), Onomea Bay scenic drive and Hawaii Tropical Botanic Garden (8 miles away), the historic town of Honokaa (45 mins), and the beautiful cowboy town of Waimea (1 hour). Hakalau Springs Campground sits on 11 acres with two springs bordering the property with a variety of fruit trees and farm animals to interact with. We offer basic campsites with picnic tables, drinking water, a fire pit, a composting toilet, and a pop-up tent in case it rains. You will be camping on soft grass amongst giant Ironwood and eucalyptus trees while listening to the soft sounds of the creek below. Take a swim in the spring-fed waterfall swimming hole and relax by the fire pit at night. We also offer our beautiful 2 room tent fully furnished with a queen-sized air mattress, cozy bedding, lantern, and camping lounge chairs. Cooler upon request, you provide the ice. We’re blessed to be located on the rainy side of the island because of all the abundance and greenery the rain brings. That being said, please be prepared for the weather. It can rain hard at times so having a good rain jacket is a great idea. On the other hand, people say that a sunny day on the east side of the big island is the best place to be in all of Hawaii. Come stay at Hakalau Springs Campground and discover “off the beaten path” Hawaii.
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$45
 / night

Under $50

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Happy farmer sitting in a truck in a grassy field
Happy farmer sitting in a truck in a grassy field

Camping on the Big Island of Hawaii guide

Overview

The Big Island is every bit the Hawaiian paradise you’ve seen in the movies. Azure waters and black- and white-sand beaches draw sunseekers to the coast, while rugged volcanic peaks and swathes of emerald-green rainforest tempt adventurers inland, and everywhere you go, you’ll be met with a vibrant fusion of Polynesian cultures. Hawaii’s tropical climate makes camping a four-season pastime with lots of options. Pitch a tent or rent a cabin at a state park, camp by the beachside at a county park, or park your campervan on a private farm. 

Where to go

Kailua-Kona Coast

=The Big Island’s Gold Coast stretches along the west shore, fringed with sandy beaches and colorful coral reefs. Seaside campers will find plenty of ways to get on the water, whether swimming and snorkeling at Kahalu'u Beach Park, paddling around Kealakekua Bay in a kayak, or setting sail on a whale or dolphin-watching cruise. Back on land, take a tour of a Kona coffee plantation and pay a visit to the Pu'uhonua o Honaunau National Historical Park.

Kohala

Rugged lava fields meet golden beaches and pastoral farmlands in Kohala at the island’s northwestern tip, where you’ll also find some of Hawaii’s most luxurious resorts, spas, and restaurants. Swing by the regional capital Waimea, where you can saddle up for a horseback ride with a paniolo (Hawaiian cowboy), admire the views from the Pololu Valley Lookout, then rent an A-frame at Hapuna Beach State Recreation Area.

​Hilo & Hamakua Coast

Black-sand beaches, waterfalls, and tropical fruit plantations provide plenty of photo fodder along the eastern Hamakua Coast. Drive the Hamakua Heritage Corridor from Hilo all the way to the Waipio Valley Lookout, stopping along the way to see Akaka Falls and Kahuna Falls before settling into camp.

​South Hawaii

Hawaii Volcanoes National Park is the headline act of the south, where still-smoking lava fields surround two of the world's most active volcanoes, and hikers can choose from two national park campgrounds or rent a cabin. There are more lava-sculpted landscapes in nearby Puna, where camping options include treehouses and jungle campsites. Don’t miss Lava Tree State Park, the green-colored sands at Papakolea Beach, or the black-sand Punalu’u Beach.

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