The best camping near Mauna Loa

Discover the most magical spots to pitch your tent or park your rig on your next Mauna Loa adventure.

Popular ways to camp

Community favorites near Mauna Loa

Top-rated campgrounds reviewed by the Hipcamp community.

Top-rated campgrounds near Mauna Loa

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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.

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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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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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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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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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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.

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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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IO's NEST LOOKOUT on the Hamakua

1 site · Lodging15 acres · Pepeekeo, HI

The IO's Hale studio is perched high on the Pu'u overlooking sweeping ocean and countryside views. A breath of nature.... Nearby Akaka Falls, is one of Hawaii's favorite nature sites. IO's nest is a private enclosed living area with spacious open Lanai. Enjoy an opportunity to spend time in the beauty of nature. Comfortably accommodates two people with queen bed. Bathroom facilities nearby. Covered parking.

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Naalehu Hideaway Green Sands Beach

6 sites · Lodging, Tents1 acre · Naalehu, HI

Just outside downtown Naalehu by about 3 miles. Biking or walking distance. Near all the favorite places to eat in the southernmost point of the United States, such as Punalu'u Bake Shop, Hana Hou Restaurant, and Na'alehu Farmers Market. Ideal for beach goers (Punalu'u Beach, Whittington Beach Park, Green Sand Beach, etc.) and national park lovers (e.g., South Point Park, Kau Forest Reserve, Hawaii Volcanoes National Park Kahuku Unit). With a trail that has access to the famous green sands beach.

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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.

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Hakalau Springs Campground

3 sites · Tents11 acres · Honomu, HI

Come enjoy the magic of your own private waterfall while camping under the stars at Hakalau Springs Campground. Hakalau is located on the North-East side of the Big Island along the breathtaking Hamakua Coast. Surrounded by waterfalls and lush, green tropical flora, Hakalau is a hidden gem. It’s the perfect jumping off point for all things east side. Hilo town is 30 minutes south and Waipio Valley Lookout is 45 minutes North. The world-famous Akaka Falls is one neighborhood over in the quaint town of Honomu which hosts some wonderful gift shops, 2 restaurants, and a coffee house. Hawaii Volcanoes National Park is a little over an hour drive and the Maunakea Visitors Center is an hour and 15 minutes. Other sites and adventures include Umauma Zip lining and Botanical World Adventures (5 miles away), Onomea Bay scenic drive and Hawaii Tropical Botanic Garden (8 miles away), the historic town of Honokaa (45 mins), and the beautiful cowboy town of Waimea (1 hour). Hakalau Springs Campground sits on 11 acres with two springs bordering the property with a variety of fruit trees and farm animals to interact with. We offer basic campsites with picnic tables, drinking water, a fire pit, a composting toilet, and a pop-up tent in case it rains. You will be camping on soft grass amongst giant Ironwood and eucalyptus trees while listening to the soft sounds of the creek below. Take a swim in the spring-fed waterfall swimming hole and relax by the fire pit at night. We also offer our beautiful 2 room tent fully furnished with a queen-sized air mattress, cozy bedding, lantern, and camping lounge chairs. Cooler upon request, you provide the ice. We’re blessed to be located on the rainy side of the island because of all the abundance and greenery the rain brings. That being said, please be prepared for the weather. It can rain hard at times so having a good rain jacket is a great idea. On the other hand, people say that a sunny day on the east side of the big island is the best place to be in all of Hawaii. Come stay at Hakalau Springs Campground and discover “off the beaten path” Hawaii.

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The Tranquil Homestead

2 sites · Lodging5 acres · Mountain View, HI

Our "Off Grid" campsite is nestled in the midst of a mini-Rainbow Eucalyptus Rainforest, with native Ohia trees sparsely located throughout our property. Hapu'u Ferns are also within our mini-Rainbow Eucalyptus Rainforest. Enjoy the stunning 90 - 100 degree ocean views of Hawaii Island's Western Coastline, as well as the new Volcanic Vent (Known as Fissure 8) created by the 2018 Eruption of the Kileaua Volcano. The Hawaii Volcano National Park (HVNP) is a 14 mile or 20 minute drive from our campsite. HVNP has a visitor's center to get information about the park, hiking trails throughout its boundaries, steam vents and the awe-inspiring caldera, which is the location of the volcano's lava pool. At night, the glow from the lava in the caldera can be seen at the park. Our campsite is also an 18 mile or 29 minute drive from the Hilo International Airport and the town of Hilo, Hawaii.

The best camping near Mauna Loa guide

Overview

About

The largest active volcano in the world has climbed over 13,000 feet above sea level to overlook the otherworldy landscapes on the Island of Hawai'i. Known for its frequent activity and larger lava flows, Mauna Loa has produced over half of the Big Island's land mass. This mass is so substantial that it compresses the sea floor beneath it, giving the volcano a total height of 56,000 feet from the depths of the ocean to its peak.

Alongside a treasure trove of interesting facts stands the immense beauty of Mauna Loa. The glowing lava flows pour into the ocean under the backdrop of the night sky, offering a mesmerizing experience for visitors. Experienced hikers enjoy summiting Mauna Loa along a forged path that is not for the faint of heart. Alternatively, driving the Scenic Byway will wind you through the landscapes along the volcano's base. Just be sure to check for active lava flows and road closures! A must-see for anyone camping near Hawai'i Volcanoes National Park, Mauna Loa's central location makes it an easy day trip for anyone camping on the Big Island.

Nearby attractions

Located on the big island, Hawai'i Volcanoes National Park is where you go to say mahalo to Mother Nature for 70 million years of volcanism and what it has bestowed on Planet Earth. The park was created to preserve the natural settings of Kīlauea and Mauna Loa and serve as a refuge for native plants and animals.
All jungle-covered cliffs and sparkling seas, Hawaii is one of the top vacation destinations in the U.S. This tiny state packs in a staggering amount of breathtaking landscapes.
Swimming with sea turtles and exploring the sacred lands of ancient Hawaiians? With its rugged shoreline, historic sites, and adorable wildlife, Kaloko-Honokohau has something for everyone.
A lava-covered coastal park, Kīholo State Park Reserve features small bays, a sparsely vegetated coastline, historical lava flows, and plenty of wide open space to roam.
Breathtaking natural beauty with all of the amenities of a bustling city, Hilo and the surrounding area are known for their many waterfalls, lush rainforests, and blooming wildflowers.
With towering palms, lush greenery, and—of course—the beautiful blue Pacific Ocean, Hāpuna Beach State Recreation Area is home to some of the most vibrant flora and fauna on the Big Island.
Get the best of both worlds at Kalōpā State Recreation Area, whose green forests sit right on the edge of Hawaii’s classic tropical beaches. A picturesque trail—the Kalōpā Nature Trail—winds through the park and showcases some of the Big Island’s incredible diversity.
This sacred spot of Pu'uhonua O Honaunau was once a refuge for ancient lawbreakers. Today, you can explore the lava-rock beach—even if you're not on the run.
Walk in the footsteps of Hawaii's King Kamehameha I when you visit Pu’ukohola-Heiau National Historic Site. The Helau, a huge stone temple, is one of the last sacred buildings ever constructed in Hawaii before Westerners arrived.