There is truly no better way to experience the beauty and serenity of Hawaii than being situated right in the midst of its tropical ambience. Imagine the soft sand beneath your feet, the warmth of the tropical waters, or waking to the splendor of a multicolored sunrise and drifting off to a golden sunset through the silhouette of the palms swaying in the slightest breeze. Camping in Hawaii is a unique experience, and one that will be treasured throughout a lifetime. With some well-organized planning, your camping adventure is sure to be a success.
Camping is available on most of Hawaii’s public parks and shores. While the Department of Land and Natural Resources is the authority for Hawaii State Parks, each island has an individual authority for beachside parks. Amenities, restrictions and fees do vary, so after selecting a camp location, be sure to pick up details from the correct authority’s website. The websites can be located through a visit to a favorite search engine, and entering “camping permits in Hawaii.”
There are several inland locations alongside freshwater streams. This is often overlooked as a camping adventure in Hawaii, but unrivalled for beauty and recreational opportunities. These sites open up the world of freshwater fishing among volcanic mountain ranges, waterfalls, streams and small rivers.
Most campsite locations are nearby towns that offer ocean equipment rentals, such as surfboards, body boards, kayaks, canoes, and jet skis, adding to the excitement and fun of the Hawaiian outdoor experience.
Hawaii’s State Parks are open year round under the authority of Department of Land and Natural Resources. Permits and associated fees are a requirement to camp. Traditional outdoor campsites are available throughout the state. Some State Park sites offer the convenience of screened A-frame structures.
Camping fees include the site fee, as well as a per person charge. Those interested in camping in Hawaii State Parks should visit the Hawaii State website for fee schedules and permit requirements. Few islands have online systems in place, but do accept reservations for campsites via the Internet. Please note that a nominal deposit is required when reserving A-frame units.
The island of Oahu’s, Department of Parks and Recreation sites are a bit trickier to navigate. Some parks are open five (5) days per week, while others are open to campers on weekend days. Wednesdays and Thursdays are closed to camping at all Department parks for maintenance purposes.
Camping parties must include an adult, 18 or older. Camping permits are available at no cost and are required. Each permit allows for ten campers (children included) and two family-size tents.
Reservations can be made at the Honolulu Department of Parks and Recreation in person, during regular business hours, no more than two weeks in advance.
The Department of Parks and Recreation maintains an Internet website with details on each location, including the overall number of campsites for each, the available hours, days, and open or closed seasons, and any restrictions for a particular site are also readily available.
Hawaii, by the same name as the state is also known as the “Big Island.” The County of Hawaii offers extensive information on the island’s campsite locations and availability, and maintains an online reservation and permit system. Online permit purchase and reservations can be secured online with a credit card, via regular U.S. Postal mail, and by visiting during regular business hours.
Peak camping season on the Big Island is from June to August, and camping is limited to seven nights at each location, while the rest of the year offers fourteen nights, as the maximum number of stays at each location. Reservations are accepted up to a year in advance for Big Island campsites.
As a reminder, if you plan on launching or mooring boats, landing hang gliders, parachutes, or any machinery or equipment from any of Hawaii’s campsites, additional permits and fees may be required.
As with any other U.S. campground, be sure to remove any leftover rubbish, and if campfires are allowed, make sure they are extinguished—stir the ashes to verify there are no hot coals left. Do not remove wildlife from the parks or campsites. Camping in Hawaii is a unique experience and the habitat and environment should be respected and preserved for others to enjoy in the future.
