Camping on the Big Island of Hawaii

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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. 

95% (2.9K) • 297 campsites

Top-rated campgrounds in Big Island

Wild Blue Water Ranch

1. Wild Blue Water Ranch

99%
(498)
Pahoa, HI · 4 sites · Tents, RVs
🌺 Wild Blue Waters – Secluded Oceanfront Paradise Perched high atop lava cliffs, Wild Blue Waters is where Hawaii’s untamed beauty greets you at every turn. This is more than a campsite—it’s a private sanctuary wrapped in jungle greens and kissed by the endless blue of the Pacific. Wake each morning to the songs of tropical birds echoing through palms, as warm trade winds carry the fragrance of wild blossoms and ripe fruit. Just beyond your tent, the ocean roars against black volcanic shores, while the sunrise paints the horizon in fiery reds and golds. Every moment here is alive with nature’s rhythm—untamed, vibrant, unforgettable. Between adventures, indulge in comfort: pure mountain well water to refresh you, a spacious hot shower, pristine restrooms, a crystal-clear pool, and a jacuzzi beneath the stars. By day, explore; by night, soak, sip, and let the waves serenade you to sleep. This is not just camping—it’s immersion. A rare blend of wilderness and ease. Wild Blue Waters is where your Hawaiian adventure begins. Note: All water is supplied daily by our cool mountain-fed well, and the land is lovingly guarded by five friendly ranch dogs—loyal companions who quickly win your heart and keep the property safe and welcoming.
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Yip Camp and Eco-Retreat Center

2. Yip Camp and Eco-Retreat Center

97%
(169)
Fern Forest, HI · 7 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging
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. Beaches are about forty five minutes and the drive to Hilo is about 25 miles.
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Arnott's Lodge

3. Arnott's Lodge

97%
(103)
Hilo, HI · 10 sites · Tents, RVs
Our campground is located by our main lodge, Arnott's Lodge, which has been in operation for 30+ years. We have been hosting campers on our lawn for a long time, and are able to offer wifi, parking spaces, charging stations, bathrooms and showers, coin-op laundry, and a small outdoor cooking area, all in a safe location. Our check-in hours are between 9:00 a.m. - 9:00 p.m.
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Kalōpā State Recreation Area

4. Kalōpā State Recreation Area

100%
(1)
State park in Hawaii · 7 sites
When you picture Hawaii, it’s likely that idyllic sandy beaches come to mind. And with miles and miles of beautiful coastline, this is definitely for good reason! But Hawaii is also home to loads of different ecosystems, including lush, tropical jungles abounding with wildlife. Get the best of both worlds at Kalōpā State Recreation Area, whose green forests sit right on the edge of Hawaii’s classic tropical beaches. A picturesque trail—the Kalōpā Nature Trail—winds through the park and showcases some of the Big Island’s incredible diversity of flora and fauna. This is also the perfect spot to be if you’re looking to escape the hot island heat, as much of the trail and the park is shaded by a gorgeous canopy of trees. Kalōpā is one awe-inspiring wilderness escape in the northeastern corner of the island of Hawaii.
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Hawai'i Volcanoes National Park

5. Hawai'i Volcanoes National Park

96%
(64)
National park in Hawaii · 34 sites
Flowing lava, crater hikes, and rainforests await campers at Hawai‘i Volcanoes National Park.
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Hamakua Guesthouse

6. Hamakua Guesthouse

95%
(337)
Pepeekeo, HI · 7 sites
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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Ohia Hale

7. Ohia Hale

89%
(385)
Captain Cook, HI · 3 sites · Tents, RVs
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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Coco Hut Glamping at Honua La'a

8. Coco Hut Glamping at Honua La'a

97%
(36)
Hawaiian Ocean View, HI · 2 sites · Tents, Lodging
Enjoy the country life in Kau on the Big Island and the lovely red Lehua flowers blooming. We live on 19 acres on Road to the Sea, which has a remote green sand beach at the end of the road (4 miles down from us). We call our slice of paradise, Honua Laa (a sacred place). Straight down to the coast is a beautiful black and green sand beach and a huge tide pool. Rent a four-wheel-drive to get there, and we recommend a 4WD to get to our place, since a recent storm washed our road out. Waiting on FEMA. Go slow, the road is rough and bumpy in places.. Off the grid. Rustic, but fun. If you are a Eco tourist or seeking adventure, you will love our spot! The silence is golden and the stars are amazing. Don't expect a hotel...this is upcountry glamorous camping. It's one-of-a-kind! Most of the parcels are 20 acre parcels around… But a few smaller parcels across the road. We have nice neighbors who keep an eye on things. The nearest grocery store is about 3 miles away. The Hele-On Bus is just 1.2 miles up the road. If you want to drive to the green sand beach at the end of our road, rent a 4 wheel drive. If you are athletic, you can walk, but it is 4 miles down and 4 miles back. I recommend going early in the morning and take water. Hot water shower is propane. Bring ice for your ice chest. Bring drinking water. There is a gas grill and propane single burner. Bathroom has manual flush toilet. This is off the grid solar and there can be days without sun, or other glitches. You can charge your phone and have a lamp in your cabin. WE HAVE WIFI. Good cell coverage. The panoramic ocean view is spectacular! Very peaceful and relaxing! Our glamping cabins are in the front 2 acres. The back 17 acres is an old Ohia forest with 500 year old trees and lots of birds. You might even see a wild goat or a wild pig or the mouflon sheep. Our property backs up to the Manuka Forest Reserve.
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Hawaii Island's Best Campsites

9. Hawaii Island's Best Campsites

96%
(588)
Naalehu, HI · 5 sites · Tents, RVs
This rural and remote property is known as Hawaii Island Resort. The macadamia orchard provides a unique and comfortable way to camp in Hawaii. We have a great paved ocean view area for camper vans and many options for pitching tents or parking under the trees. We love to share our abundance with others and opening the property to travelers that love to camp seemed like a perfect addition to our current program. Please, outside pets are not allowed. We look forward to meeting you :)
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Hāpuna Beach State Recreation Area

10. Hāpuna Beach State Recreation Area

State park in Hawaii · 4 sites
It’s no secret—Hawaii’s Big Island is pretty darn beautiful. And Hāpuna Beach State Recreation Area is no exception, too. With towering palms, lush greenery and—of course—the beautiful blue Pacific Ocean, you might just literally gasp in awe when you drive up to Hāpuna. A sandy trail offers hiking along the coast with stunning ocean views, but besides that, swimming, picnicking, and good ol’ fashioned relaxing are some of the park’s most popular activities. Itching to spend the night at this beautiful spot? Hāpuna has got you covered with a selection of A-frame shelters to rest your head at after a long day of… well… relaxing!
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Manukā State Wayside

11. Manukā State Wayside

State park in Hawaii · 1 site
Manukā State Wayside is a rest stop area with an opportunity to chow down at picnic tables amongst native and introduced trees. To walk off your mean feed of spam musubi, there is a short two mile nature hike available at the adjacent Manuka Natural Area Reserve. Should you decide to camp or just have more time to explore,the reserve features 25,000 acres and a variety of natural habitats including subalpine shrublands and forests, mesic montane kipuka forests, wet montane forests, lowland mesic forests and lowland dry forests. Recent lava flows have created unsurveyed lava tubes, and it’s not unusual to spot a cloud of Hawaiian hoary bat. Please come prepared to supply your own drinking water.
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Kīholo State Park Reserve

12. Kīholo State Park Reserve

67%
(3)
State park in Hawaii · 8 sites
A lava-covered coastal park, Kīholo State Park Reserve features small bays, sparsely vegetated coastline, historic lava flows, and plenty of wide open space to roam. If you’ve never visited a black sand beach, you’ll have the chance to see it here, pressed up and contrasting against lush palm trees and shoreline. It’s a pretty decent spot for snorkeling too. While the park is still undergoing conceptual planning for future public use, visitors are able to visit during the day. Overnight camping is offered in a more remote area. Please be prepared with your own drinking water. Dehydration is so not a good look for you.
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Gingerhill Farm Retreat

13. Gingerhill Farm Retreat

96%
(56)
Kealakekua, HI · 10 sites
Gingerhill Farm Retreat is a farm community dedicated to exploring sustainability, self-sufficiency, and stewardship of the land. To these ends, we have transformed our lush five-acre plot into a verdant botanical food forest. As you meander through our gardens and orchards, you will marvel at the incredible abundance and beauty that surrounds you. Through our various programs, we invite the community and international guests to join us in our daily routine of work and wellness. Come enjoy expansive ocean views and postcard sunsets. Eat delicious, healing farm-to-fork food. Spread some mulch; sow some seed. Get intimate with nature and find your unadulterated self. We would love to see you on the farm.
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Waipi'o Lodge

14. Waipi'o Lodge

98%
(233)
Honokaa, HI · 2 sites
Waipi'o Lodge and Campsite is located in Kukuihaele less than a mile from majestic Waipiʻo Valley. In a place where horses and wild turkeys often wander by, this is the old Hawaiʻi. A place where neighbors stop to talk and life is sweet as the smell of sugar cane grass. You'll enjoy a wonderful ocean view and the many fruit and macadamia nut trees on the property. We usually have perfect weather- sunshine, blue skies, a nice breeze, with temperatures in the high 70's. The campsite is part of the Waipi'o Lodge, which has three bedrooms and a common space living room. Our camping guests are welcome to use the outside kitchen, covered lanai, and Lodge bathroom. We also have high speed Wi-Fi. Our guests tend to be excellent company, usually visiting from Europe, the US Mainland, Australia and beyond. Many use our place as a launching point for hiking in Waipi'o Valley or backpacking trips into Waimanu Valley.  Join us!!
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Ember & Fern Retreat

15. Ember & Fern Retreat

99%
(40)
Eden Roc, HI · 3 sites
As a full-time host and tour guide, I take pride is giving people the best experiences possible while on island! Our properties are cozy and provide everything you will need being your home away from home while on vacation! Learn more about this land: The ultimate local experience while providing comforts to make your stay enjoyable. Live in traditional Hawaiian style homes! For guests unfamiliar with the Big Island, it is not like the other islands people travel to. If Oahu is more Americanized, the Big Island is still more of a Polynesian Island. Our property allows guests to enjoy a genuine local experience. The cabins have power and endless hot water. All water on property is rainwater harvested from our roof! At night your ears will be greeted by the forest with sounds of coqui frogs. Many people love them 🐸 Please search for Bathing Suits and Rain Boots on YouTube to find a video of what our property sounds like at night. Our channel also features videos of tours we offer. More to be uploaded, check back often! Our tours include off the beaten path adventures ranging from sunrises and geothermal Kings baths, to prawn hunting to hikes that lead to waterfalls! They are all local gems that you will not find online or offered by any other tour guide agency. We are updating our ig @bathingsuitsandrainboots regularly with footage from adventures as well! Beach gear such as surf boards, boogie boards and snorkel gear is also available. There is a detailed welcome packet with a variety of mostly free but some paid must see/do activities on the island! There are a total of 4 cabins on the one acre lot. The owners are on property, other guests may or may not be here as well. There is a dog Valentine, two outdoor cats named Ghost and Tomi, and chickens/ducks. Each cabin has a queen mattress. We rent both cabins out for larger groups. Jungle massages are available on site starting at $100 for the hour. Please note the main image capturing a lava cliff sunrise is not visible from the cabin. It is about a 30-40 minute drive from us 🌊 ☀️ 🌋 We are at 1880ft elevation so it can get chilly at night. Winters are also rainy season so if traveling to the Big Island in the winter, I suggest some light layers for warmth, a raincoat and rain boots.
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Waipio Farm To Table

16. Waipio Farm To Table

92%
(12)
Waipio , HI · 4 sites · Tents, Lodging
After arriving between 12-4 pm at the meet up location; waipio valley's lookout pavilion, connected to flush toilet bathrooms, we will meet the Waipio resource ranger and kahuna. Proceeding down Waipio road as we drive your 4x4 vehicle parking at beach or guide your hui single file on foot 2.5 miles to Waipio's KOA to set camp for your stay. Please refrain from walking or driving Waipio road prior to or after our meetup as the current road safety restrictions prohibit all non-Hawaiian island residents from entering the valley without a waipio valley resident-chauffer/sherpa. Waipio KOA is an active farm to table fruit orchard, la'au lapa au medicine garden, and po'ai ohana community center. Waipio KOA shares a mission to unify the seven star tribes from all major honua (earth) continents in po'ai (circle) formation to spread equality, peace, and harmony around our shared planet earth (honua). He aliʻi ka ʻāina, he kauwā ke kanaka the land is chiefess man is servant Now, we share together, in peaceful unified-equality, ha (breath), ka'la (sunlight), ai'na (land/earth), and wai (water). please remember, as you select this experience, not all Hawaiians are proud to be affiliated with the colonial occupation of USA military backed government presence. Vibrant Hawaiian sovereignty movement expresses these sacred islands to be ko pa wai ai'na sovereign now and forevah. Once your camp is set, you will be walking distance from a potable spring, waterfalls, a black sand beach, Waipio stream and Waimanu Valley campground 9 miles on the Muliwai wilderness reserve trail. Wild horses, birds, pigs and kalo farmers are commonly scene throughout the valley. When surf and ocean conditions allow, you may enjoy kayaking, swimming, diving, fishing, surfing and seasonal bird, whale, and dolphin watching. As camp hosts we will provide the best guidance during your stay and are available for more intimate one on one assistance with your choice of activities should you need. Please specify what your intentions for this camp experience are during our meeting at the valley lookout. Come with humility and a sense of respect for all who have journeyed before our generation of Hawaiian Kanaka Maoli and hawaiian immigrants. As active farmer/arborist/gardeners, we are seeking many hands in work-play projects and welcome long stay extensions involving a hana (workplay) trade agreement. Be sure to let us know if you are interested in this option to extend your stay. Although it may be perfectly fun and fabulous to camp in the rain, extreme rain and high flood water conditions may result in a cancelation of your reservation. In accordance with hipcamp's cancelation policy, we can refund your payment 72 hrs before your arrival date. Mahalo for your kokua and we look joyward to seeing your happy camper smile. E Komo Mai
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Off Grid Hawaii

17. Off Grid Hawaii

100%
(2)
Pahoa, HI · 4 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging
Welcome to your Off-Grid Paradise! *We're 100% off-grid, self-sustainable* Featuring 10+ acres of absolute tranquility. As you look over the jungle canopy you'll experience some of the most expansive panoramic ocean views that Puna has to offer, breathtaking green & blue as far as the eye can see! Reconnect with the earth & all the things that nature intended us to enjoy here. If you are truly looking for a place to retreat, forget about the world and just decompress this is place for you! The tropical beauty that surrounds you is endless. A small orchard includes but is not limited to avocados, multiple citrus, mango, etc. This is on acreage in the beautiful, lush country area of the island, so please note that bugs, coqui frogs, geckos, wild pigs, and other natural life are more prevalent here. Breakfast is provided at a cost, a menu will be provided in your guestbook upon arrival. Welcome to your Off-Grid Paradise. You can see the bright stars at night, the moon reflect on the ocean, and catch some of the most beautiful sunrises from this side of the island. You can explore our 11 acre property. There are wild pig trails, a small orchard, various fruiting trees, and more so that you can get in touch with nature and the serenity of the island. That being said you will hear the rustle of palm leaves, tropical birds and coqui frogs at night. The setting is truly beautiful and nurturing with a spacious lawn, fresh tropical fruits and vegetables, caressing breezes and even frequent rainbows. There is a deep sense of peace here. Our home is centrally located in lower Puna. *The rustic town of Pahoa is five miles to the north *The Pacific, tide pools, and natural hot springs are three miles to the south *There are many intentional communities a few miles from the house: e.g., Hawaiian Sanctuary (yoga, permaculture, and Hawaiian culture) *The attractions of Hilo are 40 minutes northbound *Volcano National Park is about 45 minutes northwest
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Kona comfy RV w/million dollar view

18. Kona comfy RV w/million dollar view

100%
(7)
Captain Cook, HI · 1 site
Comfortable camping with a beautiful view! NOTE: There is a 4 wheel 1/3 mile driveway to the campsite. If you don’t have a 4x4 vehicle: You can park in our parking lot at the top of the driveway and: (A) Use our Nissan Frontier to drive to the rental and back to your car We have a 24-foot Class C RV, Ohana, surrounded by coconut palms and offering a 180-degree, million-dollar view! Enjoy the peace and quiet along with refreshing ocean breezes. The RV sleeps up to 4 guests, with a queen-size cab-over bed and a full-size bed. It includes a kitchen with stove and refrigerator and a bathroom with toilet and shower. There is also an outdoor shower you can use. There’s a large covered lanai for watching the sunsets each evening, as well as a fire pit for campfires. Mountain goats regularly graze on the property, and during whale season you will not only see whales—you can also hear them! We are located in South Kona, 35 miles south of Kailua-Kona, 56 miles from Hawaiʻi Volcanoes National Park, and 95 miles from Hilo. Captain Cook is 15 miles north and offers groceries, a hardware store, and several places to eat. There are two neighborhood beaches nearby: Pebble Beach is 1½ miles north, and Hōkena Beach is 7 miles north. Puʻuhonua o Hōnaunau (City of Refuge) is 8 miles north.
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Jungle Meets The Ocean

19. Jungle Meets The Ocean

93%
(7)
Pahoa, HI · 1 site · Tent, RV
Welcome to this enchanting 1/4 spot nestled amidst lush jungle foliage adorned with banana, avocado, mango, star fruit, liliquio, lime, lemon, and orange trees. Situated just 1000 feet from the ocean, guests can enjoy the nearby small tide pools for a relaxing soak. Additionally, it's only a ten-minute drive to ocean-side hot springs, offering a perfect retreat. Discover the beauty of the Big Island while staying on the most scenic road, ensuring a truly unforgettable experience. This is a quiet location and not a party spot:
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Ilona Farms

20. Ilona Farms

100%
(1)
Captain Cook, HI · 1 site
Custom Off-Grid ʻŌhiʻa Ohana in Opihihale, Big Island, Hawaii, situated on 5 acres surrounded by a beautiful ʻŌhiʻa forest. This custom-built cottage features beautiful ʻŌhiʻa and koa wood and sits at an elevation of 1,800 feet, offering warm days and cool, crisp nights and mornings. It overlooks lush green forests, enclosed fields with herds of adorable sheep, and stunning ocean sunsets. It truly feels like something out of a fairy tale. The cottage is equipped with a water catchment tank, a propane-fueled Paloma hot-water shower, a pump powered by a solar-powered power bank, and a composting toilet. It’s perfect for an authentic off-grid experience. Starlink available. A 4WD vehicle is required to access the property. The driveway is approximately 3/4 mile long, extending mauka from the highway, and is partially paved with sections of intermediate-level off-road terrain. No 2WD vehicles are permitted on the driveway. • No pets • No smoking • No drugs • No alcohol Due to issues with previous renters, these rules are strictly enforced.
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Recent reviews from the Hipcamp community

Big Island camping guide

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.

Frequently Asked Questions

Black-sand beaches, waterfalls, and tropical fruit plantations provide plenty of photo opportunities along the eastern Hamakua Coast in Big Island. 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. You can also explore different options for camping near Big Island on Hipcamp.

Rugged lava fields meet golden beaches and pastoral farmlands in Kohala at the island’s northwestern tip in Big Island, 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. You can also explore different options for camping near Big Island on Hipcamp.

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. You can also explore different options for camping near Big Island on Hipcamp.

The Big Island is every bit the Hawaiian paradise you’ve seen in the movies. 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. 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. You can also explore different options for camping near Big Island on Hipcamp.

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

Top national parks and forests in and near Big Island

Top state and regional parks in and near Big Island

Top regions near Big Island