Our Recommended Campgrounds

Looking for great places to camp around the Big Island? We’ve put together a list of recommended campgrounds based on accessibility, amenities, and overall experience. Whether you’re after oceanfront views, forested retreats, or quiet, off-the-grid spots, these locations offer a range of options to suit your adventure. Be sure to check for permit requirements and availability before you.

Ho'okena

Beachfront camping with amenities including showers and restrooms. Known for calm waters and easy access. Great for snorkeling and is realtively close to Kailua-Kona. View on Google Maps and reserve here.

Laupahoehoe

Eastside oceanfront park with dramatic ocean views, grassy camping areas, restrooms, and ocean exposure; ideal launchpad for exploration into the Hamakua coast. View on Google Maps and reserve here.

Nāmakanipaio

A forested campground within Hawai‘i Volcanoes National Park offering nice pull in campsites among large eucalyptus trees and great access to Volcanoes National Park. Reservations must be made by calling Volcano House. View on Google Maps and reservation information here.

Kohanaiki Beach Park

Oceanfront beach park just north of Kona with shady trees, picnic tables, restrooms, and showers. Gate closes nightly. Great place to start or end a trip due to proximity to KOA Airport. View on Google Maps and reserve here.

Punalu'u Beach Park

Iconic black‑sand beach camping with restroom and picnic facilities. Known for sea turtle sightings and shoreline access. View on Google Maps and reservation infomation here.

Kulanaokuaiki

Another campground within the Volcanoes National Park, Kulanaokuaiki is a quiet and serene campground great for ground tents. Campgrounds are first-come-first-served. View on Google Maps and offical campground infomation here.

Whittington Beach Park

Coastal park with open grassy camping areas, tide pools, and restroom access. Usually less busy than other sites. Windswept and serene. View on Google Maps and reserve here.

Kīholo State Park Reserve

One of our favorite sites on the island. Amazing snorkeling, beautiful beach, and nice pathways for quick hikes. Available only on weekends, and in high demand, you'll need to reserve your site the minute it becomes available. View on Google Maps and reserve here.

Spencer (ʻŌhai‘ula) Beach Park

White sandy beachfront park with full facilities, showers, and picnic areas. Close to other popular beaches. View on Google Maps and reserve here.

Kapa‘a Beach Park

A small, remote ocean‑edge campground with the some of the best whale watching from shore (November through May) and scenic views; quiet and seldom crowded. View on Google Maps and reserve here.

Kalōpā State Recreation Area

A cool, forested campground near Honokaʻa at 2,000 ft elevation. Offers tent camping, cabins, restrooms, and access to native forest trails. View on Google Maps and reserve here.