Skip to primary navigation Skip to content Skip to footer
Back to Hawaii Vacation Blog

Camping in Hawaii

a sandy beach next to a body of water

Whether you’re an outdoor enthusiast or you are looking to save some money on lodging, consider spending some of your time camping in Hawaii. You’ll see a side of the islands that few others experience, and you’ll become intimately acquainted with the flora and fauna unique to these South Pacific islands.

What Does it Cost to go Camping in Hawaii?

Budget conscious travelers will want to know what they can expect to pay when sleeping in the great outdoors on the islands. For non-residents, camping spots are available for $30 per night.

Most areas are available for booking up to a year in advance of the trip, and since these sites frequently sell out, it’s important to make sure you know what your plans are ahead of time so you can be sure to grab the site that best meets your needs.

Cabin sites vary between $70 and $100 per night.

State Parks or Division of Forestry?

a group of palm trees next to a tree

 

There are two type of camping in Hawaii: State Parks and Division of Forestry. The difference between these two options is the level of wildness and the amenities that are provided. State Parks camp sites often provide showers and bathrooms, although not in every case. However, Division of Forestry sites are always private, remote, and difficult to access, with campers hiking in or maneuvering a 4 wheel drive vehicle to the site. This government website provides online booking for either type of camping experience.

Is Camping in Hawaii Safe?

Camping is a great way to get away from it all— especially on the Hawaiian Islands. But what if something goes wrong? There are a few ways that sensible preparation can keep campers out of harm’s way.

Check your Sleeping Bag for Centipedes

Giant Centipedes can grow up to a foot long, and they aren’t shy about attacking humans who get too close. Always check your sleeping bag for centipedes before bedding down for the night, and make sure to keep your tent zipped up at all times. A bite from a Giant Centipede stings quite badly, so if you are bitten, whack the insect off your skin if possible and seek medical treatment to lessen swelling in the affected area.

As long as you keep your eyes peeled for these crawling insects, you should be perfectly safe.

Store Away Valuables

The truth is, there are sometimes car break ins that happen when tourists go camping, so be sure to lock up your rental car and consider keeping your valuables at home. Always remain aware and thoughtful about your circumstances, and you should have a great camping vacation on Hawaii.

Camping Aloha Style

Whether you prefer beach side camping or a night on a volcano, consider camping during your trip to Hawaii. Whatever island you choose, you’ll save money and commune with nature. Enjoy your ho’omoana (camp) trip!

a boat sitting on top of a sandy beach
Pearl Harbor & USS Arizona Group Tour with Downtown Honolulu From $59

Enjoy an interesting 5-6 hour excursion to Pearl Harbor, USS Arizona and Downtown Honolulu. ONLY Pearl Harbor Tour including a guided walk through Downtown Honolulu, past Iolani Palace, King Kamehameha Statue and other Hawaiian sites. Small Group Self-Guided Pearl Harbor Tour with exclusive service.

Private Pearl Harbor USS Arizona Tour From $500

Private Pearl Harbor Tour & USS Arizona visit (Tickets Upon Availability). During this ~6-7 hour tour you have enough time to explore ALL of Pearl Harbor National Park. See Pearl Harbor, visit the USS Arizona Memorial, step on the submarine USS Bowfin, take a free guided tour on the Battleship USS Missouri and visit the Aviation Museum.