The best camping near Gilbert Kahele Recreation Area (Mauna Kea State Recreation Area)

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.

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Community favorites near Gilbert Kahele Recreation Area (Mauna Kea State Recreation Area)

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

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Wild Blue Water Ranch

4 sites · RVs, Tents7 acres · Pahoa, HI

Welcome to a realm where Hawaii's raw landscapes unfold before you - Wild Blue Water invites you to discover the extraordinary. Your sanctuary awaits amidst the tropical jungle's lush embrace, where volcanic vistas add an enchanting allure. Awaken to the melodic chorus of tropical birds amidst towering palms and vibrant flora, with the wild Pacific crashing against volcanic shores. Step outside your canvas and immerse yourself in an adventure of senses - the fragrances, sounds, winds, and flavors of exotic fruits. Witness the fiery hues of sunrise against the volcanic skyline; each moment here celebrates nature's magnificence. Enjoy your camping experience with refreshing well water, a spacious hot shower, pristine restroom, an inviting pool, and a soothing jacuzzi. This is Wild Blue Waters- where your adventure begins!! **All water used on location is derived from an on site well which is refreshed daily, plenteously, from the cool mountains above as the water makes its attempt to return to the sea. **Wild Blue Water Ranch is home to 5 friendly dogs who may seem like a lot at first, but they quickly win you over with their charm, ensuring the property stays safe and welcoming for all.

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Hamakua Guesthouse

7 sites · Lodging5 acres · Pepeekeo, HI

The Hamakua Guesthouse is located on the south end of Hawaii's breathtaking Hamakua Coast. Established in 2012 we are easily accessible to all the Big Island attractions such as Volcanoes National Park (1 hour South), Waipio Valley (1 hour North), and the countless sights and adventures along the Hamakua Coast, it is the perfect location to base your Big Island adventure vacation. The legendary Akaka Falls State Park is only 4 miles away from the Hamakua House. Onomea Bay is only 4 miles away, which is the home of the Hawaii Botanical Gardens. It is an unforgettable drive to get there and the bay is a wonderful place to have a picnic. We are only 1 mile (easily walkable) from the quaint main street of Honomu, HI. This town was established in the sugar cane plantation era and remains today boasting some wonderful gift shops, two restaurants, a coffee house, and the Island's best Zip Line Tours. Guests have access to our open air full bathroom with running water and a stunning rainfall shower (located at the main house). They also have access to our covered outdoor kitchen with grills, a sink, prep space, dining area, dishes, cups, silverware, and cookware (also located at the main house).

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Hawaii Island's Best Campsites

6 sites · RVs, Tents8 acres · Naalehu, HI

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 :)

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Ohia Hale

3 sites · RVs, Tents15 acres · Captain Cook, HI

As all the land here is born of lava, many moons ago this land began to host plants and critters. Long after, it was sculpted and a number of families and farmers have contributed to what we have today. An abundance of fruit and vegetables within sight of the ocean. Peaceful breezes and warming sun make for unparalleled tranquility. Today the land still gives back to its visitors. Come recharge. As this is agricultural lands, there are many critters. Dogs, chickens, pheasants, peacock, mongoose, and many birds. Tge invasive coqui frog is annoying to some and calming to others. The micro climate here swings from warm and dry to wet quickly. Best to always prepare for rain. There is snorkeling, beaches, local food, Cafe, BBQ, poke, fish-n-chips, grocery, Sunday farmers market and hiking nearby. It is peaceful here, but also an active farming community. As an organic farm, we put alot of effort into soil building and as such, there are soft places that will be damaged by the weight of a vehicle. Staying on the driveway is best. We will guide you to where you need to go. Our road is paved, but bumpy. Any vehicle will make it without damage if driven slowly. 1 to 4mph tops. *Be sure to avoid the camper rental companies that restrict certain roads. Aloha and have a great day.

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Yip Camp and Eco-Retreat Center

7 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents3 acres · Fern Forest, HI

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.

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Captain Cooks Lava Tube Camp/cabins

24 sites · RVs, Tents4 acres · Hawaiian Ocean View, HI

Tent Sites will start at $45 a night and go up with Gazebo's $69 a night with additional tents $10 a night. Lookout Tower can be reserved first come first served. Touring the Lava Tube is free with a paid Camp reservation. All Items brought in, must be taken back out. The showers and toilets are brand new comfortable and very clean and maintained multiple times a day. The property is very well laid out for campers to have their own privacy and access to the facilities and lava tube. The star gazing here is phenomenal and the lava tube is one of the biggest on the island at 450' long with a 50' ceiling and about 50' wide.. going in on a nice staircase to a groomed path is a breeze. Leaving is just as spectacular. I call it entering a new world by maina Loas creation. The paths are lit up by hundreds of solar lights and all building have automatic lights to assist your navigation of the property.

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Keōpū Farms

2 sites · RVs, Tents1 acre · Holualoa, HI

Keopu farms is located directly north of Keopu cemetery. This sanctuary has accommodations such as Bathrooms and Shower utilities. This beautiful green acre in the small town of Holualoa is owned by a Hawaii Local, born and raised, with knowledge and advice on great places to adventure while in Hawaii. The property has a paved, steep driveway so please no sprinter vans. When RV camping, please stay in the designated parking area. Do not park on the grass. After confirming the booking, please call the number listed on the website for any further directions to Keopu Farms/Kula Manu

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Arnott's Lodge

10 sites · RVs, Tents1 acre · Hilo, HI

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.

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🌈 Rainbow’s End Farm & Homestead!

5 sites · Lodging1 acre · Naalehu, HI

WINNER of 2024 Hipcamp Runner-Up for Best in Hawaii! *Update 1/1/25 We are renovated! Updated photos coming soon! I bought this land 11 years ago and have slowly been hand clearing and building fancy forts ever since. Off-grid with solar power, propane hot water heater and delicious running spring water. Nurturing space for healing and communing with nature. 🌱

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Hamakua Christmas Tree Forest

5 sites · Lodging, Tents13 acres · Honomu, HI

Our campsites are situated on 13 acres off the Historical Hamakua Coast, and home of the Hamakua Christmas Tree Forest. Awesome ocean view of the beautiful Pacific are a guarantee. It is quiet, safe ,and private with easy access just 3/4 mile off of the Hawaii Belt Road, (Highway 19), up a paved county maintained road. At Waikaumalo Park, "roughly a half mile" walk or ride away, you can take a cool dip in the fresh water stream surrounded by tropical foliage. Papa'aloa Country Store and Cafe has a restaurant and offers a wide selection of grocery items only 5 miles away. Botanical World Adventures just 3 miles away offers the Umauma Experience with ziplining, biking tours, trails exploring tropical flora, and triple waterfall views and adventures. Akaka Falls is only 6 miles away in Honomu. Laupahoehoe Point is only 15 minutes away offering swimming, fishing, and relaxing in the lava rocks and waves. All this is just 20 miles north of Hilo!

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Moon Garden Farm Getaway

2 sites · RVs, Tents25 acres · Mountain View, HI

Welcome to Moon Garden Farm Getaway—Your Hidden Oasis in Mountain View, Hawaii! Escape to a tranquil retreat where lush landscapes and breathtaking views await. Nestled beneath expansive skies and rolling ranchland, enjoy panoramic vistas of the majestic Mauna Kea and Mauna Loa volcanoes. 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 Farms gives the ultimate place to unwind and reconnect with nature. A Unique Outdoor Experience Moon Garden Farm is not your typical getaway. 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 playful dogs, friendly sheep, and our star, Gwen Stefani—the pig with a personality as vibrant as her name! 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 Farm is a place to come together, enjoy nature, and bask in the simple joys of life. Large groups are always welcome. Why Moon Garden Farm? 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!

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House of Light Glamping & Bathhouse

2 sites · Lodging, RVs4 acres · Hilo, HI

We have 4 pristine acres of land on the outskirts of the town of Hilo, with 3 acres of private forest, bordering on the Mauna Kea watershed, in the foothills of Mauna Loa volcano. Located in the Highlands of Waiakea Uka, at 1000-foot elevation, we are high above the humidity of Hilo. The glamping tent is situated right between the meadow and the forest. It's mostly peaceful here and it feels like being in the country. You can walk into the woods or up the road. There are no street lights, so there is a great view of the night sky. It's a great place for a Retreat, a Writer's Retreat, a Vision Quest or a Medicine Journey. We also offer Holistic and Vibrational Healing with Joy Gardner and others, delightful outdoor bathing in the Bamboo Bath House (see also RMAMysteryschool.com) Location: 15 minutes from the Airport, 15 minutes from Target and lots of good restaurants in Hilo, 20 minutes from Rainbow Falls, 20 minutes from Richardson Beach with great snorkeling, 20 minutes from good surfing at Honoli'i Beach Park, 40 minutes from Volcano and the Caldera.

The best camping near Gilbert Kahele Recreation Area (Mauna Kea State Recreation Area) guide

Overview

About

Discover the wonders of camping at the Gilbert Kahele Recreation Area, also known as Mauna Kea State Recreation Area, on the island of Hawaii. Set up camp amidst the scenic landscapes, lush forests, and towering mountains. Immerse yourself in the natural beauty of this area, hike through the native forests, and witness breathtaking views of Mauna Kea. Nearby, you can explore the vibrant town of Hilo, known for its cultural attractions and stunning waterfalls. Gilbert Kahele Recreation Area is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts seeking adventure and connection with nature.

Nearby attractions

Discover the magic of camping on the Big Island of Hawaii. From pristine beaches to volcanic landscapes, this island offers diverse camping adventures. Embrace the spirit of aloha, explore stunning natural wonders, and create lifelong memories.

Escape to Hilo, a vibrant town on the Big Island, and enjoy camping in this lush tropical paradise. Set up camp near beautiful beaches, explore stunning waterfalls, and immerse yourself in the rich culture and history of the area.

Camp near the captivating Kaloko-Honokohau National Historical Park on the Big Island. Explore ancient Hawaiian fishponds, hike scenic trails, and witness the cultural significance of this sacred site. Connect with the island's rich heritage and natural beauty.

Embark on a unique camping journey at Puuhonua O Honaunau National Historical Park on the Big Island. Camp near this sacred place of refuge, learn about ancient Hawaiian traditions, and feel the spiritual energy that surrounds you.

Immerse yourself in the awe-inspiring beauty of camping at Hawai'i Volcanoes National Park on the Big Island. Camp near volcanic landscapes, witness the power of active volcanoes and explore unique ecosystems. Connect with the raw forces of nature in this unforgettable park.

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