Top 10 Campgrounds in Hawaii (And What They Don't Tell You)
Hawaii isn't just a place to stay in a resort. For those willing to sleep under the stars, the islands offer some of the most extraordinary camping experiences on earth — from lava fields and rainforests to black sand beaches and volcanic craters. Here's what the travel brochures don't always tell you.
1. Nāmakanipaio Campground, Hawaiʻi Volcanoes National Park
Nestled in a cool eucalyptus forest at 4,000 feet elevation, this is one of the few campgrounds where you can wake up and walk to an active volcanic landscape. Nights get cold — bring layers. Reservations required through the National Park Service.
2. Hāpuna Beach State Recreation Area, Big Island
One of Hawaii's most beautiful white sand beaches doubles as a campground. Sites are basic A-frame shelters, not tent sites — and they book out months in advance. The tradeoff: falling asleep to the sound of waves on one of the island's best swimming beaches.
3. Waimea Canyon State Park, Kauaʻi
Called the "Grand Canyon of the Pacific," Waimea Canyon offers dramatic red-rock vistas and cooler temperatures. The campground sits at the rim — sunrises here are genuinely unforgettable. Permits required through the Hawaii DLNR.
4. Polihale State Park, Kauaʻi
The westernmost point of Kauaʻi, accessible only by a long dirt road, rewards those who make the effort with 17 miles of remote beach and some of the best sunset views in the state. No electricity, no cell service — just stars and surf.
5. Kalalau Valley, Nā Pali Coast, Kauaʻi
The most coveted camping permit in Hawaii. Accessible only by the 11-mile Kalalau Trail or by boat, this remote valley is one of the most spectacular places on earth. Permits sell out within minutes of release. Plan months ahead.
6. Hosmer Grove, Haleakalā National Park, Maui
At 7,000 feet elevation, Hosmer Grove is the gateway to Haleakalā's summit — and one of the best places in Hawaii to stargaze. The campground is free and first-come, first-served, but the summit drive for sunrise requires a separate timed entry reservation.
7. Palikū Campground, Haleakalā Crater, Maui
Inside the crater itself, Palikū sits at the base of a 1,000-foot cliff draped in cloud forest. The contrast between the barren crater floor and the lush vegetation here is surreal. Backcountry permit required; limited to 25 people per night.
8. Bellows Field Beach Park, Oʻahu
One of Oʻahu's best-kept secrets — a military beach park open to civilians on weekends, with calm turquoise water, fine white sand, and a campground that feels nothing like the rest of the island. Permits through the City and County of Honolulu.
9. Malaekahana State Recreation Area, Oʻahu
On Oʻahu's quieter North Shore, Malaekahana offers beachfront camping with access to Goat Island (Mokuauia), a seabird sanctuary you can wade to at low tide. One of the most underrated camping spots on the island.
10. Waipio Valley, Big Island
Waipio is sacred ground — a valley of taro fields, wild horses, and a black sand beach backed by 2,000-foot cliffs. Camping here requires permission from the Office of Hawaiian Affairs and a deep respect for the land and its history. It is not a casual destination. It is an experience that stays with you.
What They Don't Tell You
Hawaii's camping permits move fast — many release exactly 30 days in advance and sell out in minutes. Set calendar reminders, have your payment info ready, and have a backup plan. The islands reward the prepared traveler.