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The best RV sites in Gilbert Kahele Recreation Area (Mauna Kea State Recreation Area), HI

Name: Gilbert Kahele Recreation Area (Mauna Kea State Recreation Area)
Address: Camping

Discover the most magical spots to pitch your tent or park your rig on your next Gilbert Kahele Recreation Area (Mauna Kea State Recreation Area) adventure.

Top-rated campsites near Gilbert Kahele Recreation Area (Mauna Kea State Recreation Area)

Hakalau Springs Campground

1. Hakalau Springs Campground

99%

(61)

26mi from Gilbert Kahele Recreation Area (Mauna Kea State Recreation Area) · 3 sites · Tents, RVs

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.

Moon Garden Getaway

2. Moon Garden Getaway

99%

(345)

30mi from Gilbert Kahele Recreation Area (Mauna Kea State Recreation Area) · 2 sites · Tents, RVs

STAR HOST ⭐️ Welcome to Moon Garden Getaway—Your Hidden Oasis in Mountain View, Hawaii! Located just a short drive from Hawai‘i Volcanoes National Park home to Kilauea Volcano 🌋 the most active volcano in the world. 15 miles from the charming quaint town of Hilo, and the eclectic town of Pahoa. Moon Garden Getaway gives the ultimate place to unwind and reconnect with nature. A Unique Outdoor Experience Moon Garden is not your typical getaway. I recently added a glamping bungalow This one-of-a-kind Hipcamp experience offers the perfect blend of adventure, relaxation, and outdoor fun. Surrounded by fragrant citrus, banana, and abundant jaboticaba trees. And if the season is right, feel free to pick fresh fruits to elevate your meals and drinks during your stay! Whether you're playing volleyball, enjoying a round of frisbee golf, testing your skills at tetherball, scooping tadpoles from our natural ponds, or simply relaxing and soaking in the peaceful surroundings—there’s something for everyone. Meet Our Friendly Farm Family Get to know our charming farm animals, including Nobs McGee our friendly dog, and sheep. Families especially love our farm, with kids having a blast with activities created by your hostess, Mae, giving parents the opportunity to truly relax and enjoy the experience. A Place to Gather, Explore, and Breathe Whether you're here for a short stay or a longer adventure, Moon Garden Getaway is a place to come together, enjoy nature, and bask in the simple joys of life. Large groups are always welcome. Why Moon Garden Getaway? Moon Garden Farm is proud to be a Star Host, ranked as one of the top 4 in all of Hawaii. Our guests consistently rave about the warm hospitality, the unforgettable natural setting, and the wide range of experiences available. Come for the adventure, stay for the connections you’ll make with nature, the land, and our welcoming farm family. Discover for yourself why we’re consistently a guest favorite—book your stay today!

Pets

Arnott's Lodge

3. Arnott's Lodge

97%

(98)

32mi from Gilbert Kahele Recreation Area (Mauna Kea State Recreation Area) · 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.

Yip Camp and Eco-Retreat Center

4. Yip Camp and Eco-Retreat Center

97%

(161)

33mi from Gilbert Kahele Recreation Area (Mauna Kea State Recreation Area) · 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.

Pets

Hibiscus Oasis

5. Hibiscus Oasis

93%

(14)

34mi from Gilbert Kahele Recreation Area (Mauna Kea State Recreation Area) · 1 site · Tent, RV

Welcome to our sanctuary nestled in the mountains of an ohia rainforest. Our goal is to develop a peaceful, healing place with organic, local farm to table food that we can enjoy ourselves and with our loved ones as well as share the experience with visitors coming to the island. As we develop we are happy to be able to offer a small piece of our Oasis with you to enjoy! Come stay with us and return to see all our progress. Learn more about this land: Pitch your tent or pull up on our serene, lush courtyard. A hidden gem located in Mountain View on Big Island. Mountain View is centrally located between Hilo, Pahoa and Volcano. Our property is in a secluded neighborhood, a 4.2 mile drive in from the main road (Highway 11). The drive in or out should take about 10-15 minutes. Volcano National Park is 19 miles from our home and will take about 30 minutes to drive. We are 18 miles from Hilo Farmers Market/downtown Hilo and again should take about 30 minutes. Pahoa area is 20 miles from us and just past a 30 minute drive. Tour the island during the day and come back to a spacious, private courtyard campsite where you can experience the beauty and sounds of our forest sanctuary.

Pets

Papa’s Hawaiian Orchid Farm

6. Papa’s Hawaiian Orchid Farm

99%

(386)

41mi from Gilbert Kahele Recreation Area (Mauna Kea State Recreation Area) · 1 site · Tent, RV

We are a commercial orchid farm starting the homestead 8 years ago. Lava caused us to evacuate 2 years ago before it stopped a mile above the farm and Malama Market. We have a lava tube on the property you can explore. It’s so tall in some places, you can drive a school bus through. Good to bring headlamps if you're interested in this and just for walking around the farm when there is no moon! We are currently constructing a wood fired pizza oven in the place where our picnic tables and eating area are located.Pitch your tent or stay in one of our rooms or junglelows in the middle of our orchid nursery. We have outdoor kitchen, hot showers and flushing toilets. Located in the heart of Puna in the country but only 10 min walk to the village of Pahoa. This area has a lot to offer including tide pools, black sand beaches, warm spring and sauna caves.

Pets

Wild Blue Water Ranch

7. Wild Blue Water Ranch

99%

(481)

43mi from Gilbert Kahele Recreation Area (Mauna Kea State Recreation Area) · 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.

Pets

Sunrise Cabanas Panoramic Views

8. Sunrise Cabanas Panoramic Views

98%

(60)

45mi from Gilbert Kahele Recreation Area (Mauna Kea State Recreation Area) · 3 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging

Welcome to our off-grid glamping rental in beautiful Naalehu! Deep within the lush and remote agricultural landscapes of Hawaii, our food forest thrives, with its vibrant tapestry of over 100 varieties of tropical fruits, nuts, canoe plants, veggies, herbs, and medicinal plants. Surrounded on all sides by cattle fields, our secluded 8 acre property and farm is the perfect place to disconnect from the hustle and bustle of everyday life and reconnect with nature. The farm and cottages are 100% solar powered and ensuring an eco friendly stay. Throughout the farm, sustainable practices are followed and Permaculture techniques are employed to maximize natural resources and minimize waste, creating a self-sustaining ecosystem that thrives without the need for chemical pesticides or fertilizers. When it's time to unwind, step outside onto your private deck and enjoy breathtaking panoramic views of the top of Mauna Loa, the Ka'u Coastline, Kilauea Volcano, the Pacific Ocean and lush Hawaiian landscape. You'll also find a small outdoor seating area, where you can relax and soak up the sun, take in the expansive view, or gaze at the stars. The cottages are powered by solar energy and have an eco-friendly outdoor shower and washing station, and porta potty. We supply fresh and filtered spring water for drinking. Our glamping site is located on a private 8-acre property situated on the luscious east side of the Big Island. You'll be surrounded by a vibrant tropical oasis, teeming with wildlife and native flora. Take a guided edible farm tour, hike through the surrounding food forest, take a bike ride on our road with the best views on the island, or an off-road excursion to the Green Sand Beach. If you're looking for a unique and sustainable way to experience Hawaii, this is the perfect option for you. Come stay with us and escape the crowds and noise of civilization while enjoying breathtaking natural beauty. We look forward to hosting you soon! Nearby Attractions: Green Sand Beach is a unique location famous for its unusual green sand created by volcanic eruptions. It is one of the few green sand beaches in the world and is popular with tourists and locals alike. Punalu'u Beach is a beautiful black sand beach with abundant Hawaiian Green Sea Turtles. South Point - The southernmost point in the USA is a popular spot for cliff diving, off-roading, fishing and taking in the epic views. Kawa Beach - a good beach for intermediate surfers with a fresh water spring and ancient Hawaiian ruins. Kahuku Unit: A section of Volcano National Park that boasts native plants, hiking trails, and spectacular views.

Camp South Pt Green/Blacksand Beach

9. Camp South Pt Green/Blacksand Beach

99%

(37)

46mi from Gilbert Kahele Recreation Area (Mauna Kea State Recreation Area) · 5 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging

Learn more about this land: Gated parking with easy access to Southpoint, Greensand and Blacksand Beaches - located in Waiohinu, Ka'u, near Naalehu. Located near the Big (Hawaii) Island's southern tip, halfway between Hilo and Kona. Level parking for van, car, RV. Potable water and power available. Host onsite.

Hawaii Island's Best Campsites

10. Hawaii Island's Best Campsites

96%

(580)

48mi from Gilbert Kahele Recreation Area (Mauna Kea State Recreation Area) · 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 :)

Affordable Hawai'i

11. Affordable Hawai'i

100%

(10)

49mi from Gilbert Kahele Recreation Area (Mauna Kea State Recreation Area) · 5 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging

Enjoy fresh lemongrass tea from the land, while resting in one of the many hammocks. Watch the sun rise out of the ocean as you sit at the picnic table or peek out your tent. Twice a week we bake fresh breads that are sold at local markets and you are welcome to buy a loaf of your choice directly out of the oven.

The Ranch Hale Getaway

12. The Ranch Hale Getaway

20mi from Gilbert Kahele Recreation Area (Mauna Kea State Recreation Area) · 1 site · Tent, RV

This Mountain View property offers 1.5 acres of gorgeous land tucked away in one of the premier neighborhoods of Waimea on the Big Island. You are just a short 7–10 minute drive from the heart of Paniolo High Country, where you’ll find Waimea town’s local eateries and wine tastings. Wake up to quiet roads and sweeping views of Mauna Kea and the surrounding Kohala landscape. Horses and trailers are welcome, with fresh grass to graze and potable water available on-site. This is a safe, quiet resting place for commuters or travelers looking for a convenient "middle ground" between Hilo, Waikoloa, and Kona. When you're ready for the ocean, the beautiful beaches and luxurious resort life of the Kohala Coast are just a 15–20 minute drive away.

Pets

Volcano Island Farm

13. Volcano Island Farm

100%

(2)

21mi from Gilbert Kahele Recreation Area (Mauna Kea State Recreation Area) · 3 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging

Volcano Island Farm is located on the Hamakua Coast of the Big Island of Hawaiʻi. We are 10 minutes from Honokaʻa Town and 20 minutes from Waipiʻo Valley Lookout. We are a small agricultural farm with gardens, hydroponic greenhouses (coming soon), chickens for eggs, and acres of macadamia nut orchards. Most of the property is open green space with plenty of shade from trees—as long as you don’t mind the occasional falling nut. We offer two types of camping. Traditional camping is available for guests with their own tent, which can be set up anywhere near the bathhouse in the grass or under a tree. We also have tents and camping equipment available for use as needed. In addition, we offer the opportunity to stay in our restored Volkswagen van. The van sleeps a couple very comfortably with a full- to queen-size bed, a swivel chair, and interior lighting. It is cozy and comfortable and includes a picnic table and outdoor lighting in the surrounding area. The bathhouse is shared among all campers. We typically have no more than four campers at a time, so it is generally easy to share the space. The bathhouse includes a hot shower, sink with mirror, private toilet room, off-grid hot tub (heats in about 20 minutes), and an outdoor deck area for eating or relaxing. Volcano Island Farm is a calm and quiet retreat from everyday life. We look forward to hosting you and hope you enjoy your relaxing stay. Please check our website calendar or Instagram page for occasional farm events or activities that may be happening during your visit—we would love for you to join us! Mahalo and aloha.

Pets

Roadside Fruit Stand Exotic Orchard

14. Roadside Fruit Stand Exotic Orchard

84%

(44)

24mi from Gilbert Kahele Recreation Area (Mauna Kea State Recreation Area) · 2 sites · Tents, RVs

We have a hidden exotic fruit orchard tucked away through rolling green hills, perched over the Hamakua cliffs, overlooking the pacific. We sell our fruits ripe and cut ready to eat at our roadside fruit stand, open 11-6 daily including holidays! We serve local fresh juices and machete open coconuts to drink ice cold. We grow mango, durian, lilikoi, star fruit, chocolate sapote, buddhas hand citrus, finger limes, tangerines and tangelos, jackfruit, tree grapes, mangosteen, white pineapples, mountain apples, berries, spices and much more. We are home to dozens of rescue animals, many who came from Puna during the 2018 lava flow. We have peaceful sheep, lambs, chickens, ducks, turkeys, geese and a lovable pet pig. Not to mention our friendly farm cats. Our current camp sites are not in the fruit orchard, but in a rolling hills open pasture land near the fruit stand. It is rustic and pastoral. We are a community of a few passionate farmers and fruit lovers. There’s a family- myself Rose, my partner Matthew and our daughter Mela, plus several awesome guys and girls who help out in different areas to grow our lives together!

Pets

Green Acres

15. Green Acres

27mi from Gilbert Kahele Recreation Area (Mauna Kea State Recreation Area) · 1 site · Tent, RV

Explore lush rainforest and towering cascades at Akaka Falls State Park, stroll the scenic ocean-fringed Onomea Bay Trail, unwind among greenery at Kolekole Gulch Park, or catch the misty glow of Rainbow Falls—all just a short drive from your campsite.

Sirens Cove 🌋

16. Sirens Cove 🌋

30mi from Gilbert Kahele Recreation Area (Mauna Kea State Recreation Area) · 1 site · Tent, RV

Escape to Sirens Cove, a tropical retreat where lush island scenery, peaceful surroundings, and the spirit of aloha create the perfect Hawaiian getaway. Whether you're looking for a relaxing escape or an adventure-filled vacation, this tranquil campsite offers an ideal base for experiencing the natural beauty of Hawaii. Spend your days exploring nearby beaches, snorkeling in crystal-clear waters, hiking scenic coastal trails, discovering waterfalls, or simply relaxing beneath swaying palms. As the sun sets, return to camp to enjoy warm island breezes, the sounds of nature, and unforgettable stargazing. Whether you're traveling solo, as a couple, or with family and friends, Sirens Cove is the perfect place to slow down, reconnect with nature, and experience the magic of Hawaii.

Pets

Camp Pua Loke

17. Camp Pua Loke

50%

(3)

30mi from Gilbert Kahele Recreation Area (Mauna Kea State Recreation Area) · 8 sites · Tents, RVs

The coordinates are (19.49746° N, 155.14574° W) Update: someone dumped some trash on my property and I need to remove it. I’m happy to give a free night of camping for every contractor bag that someone fills with trash and takes away. You just have to tell me that that’s what you wanna do and take a before and after photo. Thank you! Please wear gloves.

Pets

8 Minutes To Volcanos National Park

18. 8 Minutes To Volcanos National Park

30mi from Gilbert Kahele Recreation Area (Mauna Kea State Recreation Area) · 1 site

1/2-acre property with approximately 3,000 sq ft cleared. Features a private driveway and a forested back section for added privacy. This is a pack-in/pack-out site—no running water or facilities are available. Located just 8 minutes from Hawaiʻi Volcanoes National Park. Only 6–10 minutes from restaurants and a grocery store in Volcano. Beaches with showers are 40–45 minutes away, either in Hilo (Carlsmith or Richardson’s) or at Punaluʻu Black Sand Beach. Approximately 2 hours from Kona International Airport and 42 minutes from Hilo International Airport. Security cameras are in place for safety.

Pets

Banyan Breeze Basecamp

19. Banyan Breeze Basecamp

31mi from Gilbert Kahele Recreation Area (Mauna Kea State Recreation Area) · 8 sites · Tents, RVs

Jungle Grove Camp – An Island Retreat Fruit trees. Jungle trails. Quiet nights under the stars. 20 min from Hilo 25 min to Volcanoes National Park Welcome to our peaceful island homestead, where we’re offering a small collection of camping spaces as part of our very first season hosting. We currently offer 8 unique sites, perfect for camper vans, small RVs, or tent camping. 🏕 Site Options: 🌳Banyan Pasture Sites (2): Located near the entrance, near two majestic banyan trees and surrounded by fruit trees. These open-sky sites offer golden hour views and a wide, serene atmosphere—great for vans, small RVs, or tents. 🌴Palm Garden Sites (3): Nestled beside a massive traveler’s palm, these more central sites are closer to the main house and offer easy access to amenities while still immersed in lush greenery. Ideal for tents or camper vans 🎋🏕 Bamboo Forest Tent Sites (3): Tucked beneath a towering bamboo canopy, these tent-only spots offer a peaceful, shaded, and secluded vibe—perfect for those looking to connect with nature in a quiet corner of the property also the closest sites to the bathroom. 🛁 Amenities: All guests have access to a fully enclosed private bathroom with a flush toilet, sink, and shower—no composting toilets or makeshift setups. A communal sink and outdoor kitchen are also available just steps away. 🌿 On the Land: Feel free to wander our 10-acre jungle and take in the sounds and sights of the island’s vibrant ecosystem. To preserve the calm and to respect everyone's experience, we kindly ask all campers to observe quiet hours after 9 PM. Whether you’re stopping for a night or staying to slow down and recharge, we welcome you with aloha and look forward to sharing this special place with you.

Hammock Hideaway

20. Hammock Hideaway

78%

(9)

31mi from Gilbert Kahele Recreation Area (Mauna Kea State Recreation Area) · 1 site · Tent, RV

Hawaiian rainforest of red Ohia trees and ferns of private land, we keep the space as wild and natural as possible with great respect for the aina.Learn more about this land:Pitch your hammocks up in a covered space among Hawaiian Ohia and ferns. With a fire pit and a wooden table, you're ready for star gazing on the world's most active volcano. The wet jungle is alive with native greenery and provides complete privacy for our campers. Parking is only a few feet from site. The national volcano park is a 20 minutes drive away.

Pets

Recent reviews from the Hipcamp community

Lucie

May 2026

13 ft rooftop tent

Weekend Trip to Yip Camp and Eco-Retreat Center

Nice place and warm welcome ! Very convenient to check the volcano

Ivan

May 2026

18 ft Class B

Weekend Trip to Yip Camp and Eco-Retreat Center

Thomas was amazing provided great recommendation very accommodating and place was lovey!

Asher

March 2026

17 ft truck camper

Weekend Trip to Roadside Fruit Stand Exotic Orchard

Simple, roadside spot. Everything was as described.

Rosanne

March 2026

20 ft campervan

2 nights at Yip Camp and Eco-Retreat Center

Our 2 night stay at Yip Camp Eco Retreat was perfect. Close to Volcano Natl Park for a full day of exploring the craters, lava tubes, ocean road vistas. Site was private with toilet and shower available. Tom was a helpful, affable host. Would definitely stay again. .

John

March 2026

17 ft campervan

3 nights at Yip Camp and Eco-Retreat Center

Nice rural property. Thomas the host is a very nice accommodating guy. He kindly offered his larger tent with good rain protection to the person in my party who only had a small backpacking tent that was already wet from rain the day before. Rustic place but fine. Only a few miles from Volcano National Park.

Debrah

February 2026

17 ft campervan

1 night at Yip Camp and Eco-Retreat Center

We really enjoyed our short stay at Yip Camp after a few days in Volcano National Park. We are so grateful for Thomas's hospitality :)

Bastien

February 2026

6 ft campervan

Group trip

Weekend Trip to Yip Camp and Eco-Retreat Center

The host Tom is a very nice person, we got very well welcomed. As it was raining and we had a tent, he let us sleeping for free into one of his set. There is an outside shower and toilets with hot water. The site is very close to the Volcano National Park.

January 2026

16 ft car

1 night at Roadside Fruit Stand Exotic Orchard

We loved sleeping under the bright stars. Although we were next to the road, at night time was very quiet. Nice to have a picnic table too.

Jonathan

January 2026

18 ft campervan

2 nights at Yip Camp and Eco-Retreat Center

We had a great time at Thomas' property which had a beautiful ambiance and a relaxed vibe. Thomas treated us great and was friendly and gave us great suggestions for places to see.

Travis

December 2025

10 ft pop-up camper

1 night at Yip Camp and Eco-Retreat Center

Great star watching spot, warm showers, and fire pit to chill. Take in the energy

Travis

December 2025

15 ft pop-up camper

Weekend Trip to Yip Camp and Eco-Retreat Center

Thomas is a delight, his place has a fantastic vibe. Very close to volcano, and many beaches. Has a secluded area for star watching. We greatly enjoyed him , his place and the wonderful dogYip, be sure to ask to meet Lary ....the guardian of the lot. We made a friend and a great time spent.

Caitlin

November 2025

15 ft campervan

With kids

1 night at Roadside Fruit Stand Exotic Orchard

Loved it! Such a great little spot, perfect for van camping and waking up to the fruit stand. Swings and fun things for little ones to discover. Incredible fruits and honey!

Nina

October 2025

23 ft campervan

1 night at Roadside Fruit Stand Exotic Orchard

We camped in our campervan and it was easy parking, quiet and level. Make sure you communicate with the camp before getting there as we didn’t have cell service once there and the starlink did not show up on our phones. Also make sure you screen shot the route or download your map app.

Camilla

October 2025

16 ft car

2 nights at Yip Camp and Eco-Retreat Center

Staying at Thomas’s place was absolutely wonderful! From the moment we arrived, Thomas was incredibly kind, welcoming, and attentive, a truly wonderful host. The camp itself is quiet and peaceful, surrounded by the beauty and stillness of the Big Island. It’s definitely rustic, simple, and close to nature, but that’s exactly what makes it so special. You can really disconnect, slow down, and enjoy the essentials. Waking up to birdsong and falling asleep under the stars, accompanied by the gentle chorus of coqui frogs, felt absolutely magical.

Daniel

October 2025

19 ft Class B

With kids

1 night at Roadside Fruit Stand Exotic Orchard

A somewhat dusty but otherwise lovely spot in the middle of nowhere. Well maintained port-o-potty. Curious sheep under a spectacular milky-way night sky, shooting stars included. We got free fresh fruit in the morning. Thanks! :)

Amanda

September 2025

23 ft campervan

With kids

Weekend Trip to Roadside Fruit Stand Exotic Orchard

Loved this place! We gorged ourselves on some delicious exotic fruits. We enjoyed seeing a beautiful clear sky and even saw some shooting stars!

Jonathan

August 2025

16 ft car

1 night at Yip Camp and Eco-Retreat Center

Thomas was great to talk to and a welcoming host.

Emi

July 2025

22 ft campervan

Group trip

Weekend Trip to Yip Camp and Eco-Retreat Center

Thomas’ van site provided everything we wanted. The night we spent there was amazing! We had the best sleep for the first time in many years. Even the sound of frogs was music to our ears and the cool breeze served as the best natural blanket ever! It was cloudy but we caught a short window to see full stars and the most beautiful Milky Way. Wa ter is scarce up there in the mountain area, so our kids learned to wipe dishes before doing washing them. So glad we got to learn how to use the marine toilet, too! Living in the city, we tend to take everything for granted and kids don’t get enough chances to appreciate what they have. Experience like this is so precious, and I am certain that my family will remember the precious time we had at Thomas’ beautiful property for a long time. He was so kind, funny, and full of wisdom and knowledge! We enjoyed our conversations very much. Make sure you get there well-prepared! (Gas, water, food, batteries, towels, essential medicine, etc.) With the right mindset and preparation, your trip will be rewarding. We already want to go back! :)

Michelle

June 2025

16 ft car

Weekend Trip to Yip Camp and Eco-Retreat Center

Thomas’s place was great! We went to see the volcano and needed a place to sleep for the night. We decided to sleep in our car but the property was awesome. He has a little cottage there too and places to tent camp if needed. Thomas always responsive even when I changed our arrival time.