We don’t know when we’ll make it to Hawaii, but I’m hoping it won’t take too long to get us there! We are planning to visit every US national park while living in our Airstream.
I would love to ship our RV to the Hawaii islands so we can explore these serene islands and RV parks in our home, but we will see if that is possible for us.
From my initial research it can cost around $6,000 for an average sized RV (20 ft motorhome), and can take around 5 days.
So we may be camping on the island a little differently when the time does come. But until then, we hope you find the perfect RV park in Hawaii for your adventures!
Malaekahana State Recreation Area
Address: 56-020 Kamehameha Hwy, Laie, HI 96762
Phone Number: (808) 587-0300
Website: dlnr.hawaii.gov/dsp/parks/oahu/malaekahana-state-recreation-area/
Malaekahana State Recreation Area on Oahu’s North Shore is the ideal setting for some renowned surfing. They provide some of Hawaii’s best camping facilities, extras, and activities. This can be the ideal location for you if you want to do the most of your camping in the water.
Whether you choose to spend the night in your RV, tent, or under the stars, Malakahana has something to offer everyone. Here, there are 74 campsites that provide a variety of open spaces with fire pits, water spouts, and picnic tables. Showers are available, but there are no utilities or RV hookups. You need a permit if you want to camp overnight, and remember that the campground is closed on Wednesdays and Thursdays. You might be wondering what activities are available in Malaekahana State Recreation Area besides surfing. Kayak, swim, and SUP are all permitted here.
Swanzy Beach Park
Address: Kaaawa, HI 96730
Phone Number: (808) 233-7314
Website: camping.honolulu.gov/campsites/
On the northeastern coast of Oahu is Swanzy Beach Park. This campground is located just off Kamehameha Highway and has a few spots where you can set up a tent or an RV. Swanzy Beach Park is just across the street from a local restaurant called Uncle Bobo’s.
Swanzy Beach Park faces east, so each morning you’ll be treated to a breathtaking sunrise while you’re there. Road camping is possible on the weekends, and you can park in the campsite proper from Monday through Friday. The Swanzy Beach Park encourages beach fishing, which is the best part.
Keaiwa Heiau State Recreation Area
Address: 99-1849 Aiea Heights Dr, Aiea, HI 96701
Phone Number: (808) 483-2511
Website: dlnr.hawaii.gov/dsp/parks/oahu/keaiwa-heiau-state-recreation-area
On the southern tip of Oahu, Keaiwa Heiau State Reservation Area is roughly 12 miles from Waikiki. A healing heiau, or temple, in which the priest “kahuna” healed ailments and wounds using herbs, fasting, and prayers, is whence the building gets its name.
You can take advantage of the pine and eucalyptus forest while you’re here. The ‘Aiea Loop Trail, a nearly 5-mile trail that begins and finishes in the park, is available in the vicinity. During your journey, you can take in a variety of sights, including sights of Pearl Harbor. There are showers and facilities, a picnic area with tables and grills, drinking water, a pay phone, and nature walks among the amenities.
Namakanipaio Campground
Address: Volcano, HI 96785
Phone Number: (808) 985-6011
Namakanipaio Campground at Volcano, Hawaii Volcanoes National Park, offers a basic camping experience at 4,000 feet above sea level. It’s nice that you can drive way up to the campgrounds, like at many other RV parks in Hawaii. There is a one-time entrance fee to the Hawaii Volcanoes National Park in order to stay here.
You are only permitted to stay for a total of 7 consecutive days at a time. There are 16 unhooked RV spaces. There are only restrooms and running water available at this campsite; no showers. There are picnic tables and BBQ pits available at each campsite, and you are welcome to bring your pets along with you. Additionally, the area has good cellular reception.
Sand Island State Recreation Area
Address: Sand Island Parkway, Honolulu, HI 96819
Phone Number: (808) 587-0300
The State of Hawaii manages Sand Island State Recreation Area. It is less than a mile from Honolulu, unlike other campgrounds on Oahu, and is a well-liked fishing location. ATVs and dirt bikes are excellent vehicles to bring to Sand Island State Recreation Area.
You can relax knowing that all of Honolulu’s facilities are close by when you camp at Sand Island State Recreation Area. There are several garbage cans located throughout the park, and this campground is an excellent area to go surfing. Additionally, the neighborhood has a few walking paths.
Kalanianaʻole Campsite
Address: 89-269 Farrington Hwy, Waianae, HI 96792
Phone Number: (808) 668-1137
On Oahu’s western shore is Nanakuli Beach Park. The majority of these sites have back-in parking spaces, and they are available at this campsite on Oahu, Hawaii, on a first-come, first-served basis. The swimming at this sandy beach is excellent.
At Nanakuli Beach Park, the water is always warm. There is one ADA-accessible site available at this campground, and there are also outdoor showers. At Nanakuli Beach Park, the majority of the campsites are shaded by old trees, as well as pit toilets on the property.
Kea’au Beach Park
Address: 83-431 Farrington Hwy, Waianae, HI 96792
Phone Number: (808) 768-3003
Kea’au is the go-to campsite for seasoned campers. Due to the proximity to the cliffs, swimming is not recommended here. The practice of surfing is advocated, but only if you have previous surfing experience. In the park’s expansive grassy area, you can have a picnic in the warm sunshine.
Use the sports gear and balls you packed to play a variety of activities with your loved ones. The vista along the shore is breathtaking. Views of the ocean and sky, both blue, merge into one stunning panorama during the day. There is a chance that you could spot whales if you’re lucky. One can go surfing, see whales, use the toilets, and even take a shower.
Kulanaokuaiki Campground
Address: 1 Crater Rim Drive, Hawaii National Park, HI 96718
Phone Number: (808) 985 6000
Within Hawaii Volcanoes National Park, there is a drive-up camping site called Kulanaokuaiki Campground. They provide driveways big enough to accommodate Class B RVs. Only a few minutes separate this campground’s altitude of 2,700 feet from the visitor center for the National Park.
There are 9 RV sites available, however none have showers or connections. Pets are not permitted, however each campsite has a picnic table. One of the nicest spots to stay when exploring Hawaii Volcanoes National Park is reputed to be this campground. In contrast to the night’s black sky, the stars become brilliantly bright if stargazing is your thing. Due to its remote location, this park is never busy and typically calm, which campers tend to particularly enjoy.
Ho’omaluhia Botanical Gardens
Address: 45-680 Luluku Rd, Kaneohe, HI 96744
Phone Number: (808) 233-7323
Inland from Honolulu, the Ho’omaluhia Botanical Gardens are roughly 10 miles away. A collection of drive-up campsites can be found among the exotic plants. To camp in this campground, you must have a permission issued by the City and County of Honolulu.
Ho’omaluhia Botanical Gardens is located inland, in contrast to other RV sites in Oahu. There is a sizable lake on the property, and there are numerous nature hikes nearby. Visit the visitor center to find out more about the area, as well as the diverse flora that call Ho’omaluhia Botanical Gardens home.
Papalaua Wayside Park
Address: 1840 HI-30, Lahaina, HI 96761
Phone Number: (808) 661-4685
Papalaua Wayside Park on the island of Maui offers a front-row seat to some of Hawaii’s most stunning natural landscapes, including Haleakala National Park. Although there are no designated parking areas for RVs, there is plenty of room to fit larger motorhomes, such as class B or C. With the beach next to you, it can be ideal for learning to surf, teaching others, or simply improving your own talents.
You may go kayaking, boating, snorkeling, surfing, or just splash about in the ocean right on Maui’s coast. Keep in mind that the site is open 5 days a week and closed on Wednesdays and Thursdays when making travel plans. There are no restrooms, water fountains, or hookups for RVs , for RV hookups are harder to find anywhere in Hawaii. Thankfully, there are bathrooms in the park. Open picnic sites and BBQs are available at Papalaua Wayside Park for a great evening of grilling meals by the sea.
Bellows Recreation Center
Address: 220 Tinker Rd, Waimanalo, HI 96795
Phone Number: (808) 259-8080
The Bellows Air Force Station includes the Bellows Recreation Center. Only military personnel and their families are permitted to camp here, and beach access is available. On Oahu, Bellows Recreation Center is among the largest campgrounds.
On Oahu, Bellows Recreation Center has some of the largest RV sites available. There will be a spot available because the maximum stay at this campsite is 21 days. Sites at Bellows Recreation Center can be reserved up to 13 months in advance.
Lualualei Beach Park Campground
Address: 86-221 Farrington Hwy. Waianae, HI 96792
Phone Number: (808) 675-6030
On the west shore of Oahu, there is a small campground called Lualualei Beach Park Campground. The drive-up campsites in this location are big enough to fit a campervan. The Lualualei Beach Park Campground requires a camping permit, the same as the other beach parks on Oahu.
The Lualualei Beach Park Campground is located on a rocky shoreline and is easily reached by any type of vehicle. Lualualei Beach Park Campground is directly across the street from Long’s Drugs, Burger King, and Starbucks, making it the ideal setting for photography or wildlife observation. It is accessible throughout the year.
Isaac Hale Beach Park
Address: 13-101 Kalapana – Kapoho Rd, Pāhoa, HI 96778
Phone Number: (808) 961-8311
Isaac Hale Beach Park is located close to the Pahoa neighborhood on the east side of the Big Island. It has dense forests and hot springs that are found naturally. Popular tourist destinations in this area, the hot springs are heated by underground lava flow.
Hot springs are available, but you may also cool off by immediately going into the ocean, both worlds at their best. Boating and swimming are common pastimes at Isaac Hale Beach Park. In Isaac Hale Beach Park, there are 48 RV sites without RV hookups. Pets are welcome here, and there are outdoor showers and good cell phone connection.
Punalu’u Black Sand Beach Park
Address: 96-884 Government Road, Mountain View, HI 96771
Phone Number: (808) 464-2924
On the east side of Hawaii, Punalu’u Black Sand Beach Park is renowned for being one of the popular RV sites on the Big Island. The beaches at this campground are lined with black sand, giving it its unusual name, Punalu’u Black Sand Beach Park. Whether you agree with this or not, it’s polite to abide by the campground’s rules while you’re a guest there.
Despite the lack of RV connections, you can pull your camper or RV right up to the campground to start your stay. The campground is covered in rows of coconut palms, which add to its attractiveness and offer shade. There are 12 RV campsites with restrooms, an excellent mobile service, and outdoor showers. This campground does not permit pets, so bear that in mind when making travel arrangements. This campground must be visited if you have never experienced black sand.
Kokololio Beach Park
Address: 55-017 Kamehameha Hwy, Hauula, HI 96717
Phone Number: (808) 768 6829
You can cool off in the water during the summer months or catch some waves during the colder months. There are numerous day-trippers to the beach, but not as many campsites. If you’re looking for a place to fish, head north of the beach to a cliff called Pali Kiloi’a where you may reel in o’io, papio, moi, and ulua.
Travelers are raving about the white, pristine beaches and low traffic levels. Travel towards the beginning or end of the year to increase your chances of encountering less people. Amenities include restrooms, showers, and picnic areas with tables.
Kualoa Regional Park
Address: 49-479 Kamehameha Hwy, Kaneohe, HI 96744
Phone Number: (808) 768-8974
On the east side of Oahu, Kualoa Regional Park is next to a few historic Hawaiian fish ponds. This campground has two ADA-accessible sites, and Kualoa Regional Park is palm-tree-shaded. The famous Mokoli’i geological formation is visible from this campground.
Kualoa Regional Park was recognized as a fantastic fishing location by the earliest Hawaiians, and they weren’t mistaken. You can visit Kualoa Ranch to test the zip line after you’ve had enough for the day. Additionally, Kualoa Regional Park is next to a local restaurant Waiahole Poi Factory.
Kalopa State Recreation Area
Address: 44-3480 Kalaniai Rd, Honokaa, HI 96727
Phone Number: (808) 775-8852
The Kalopa State Recreation Area is situated on the northern shore of Hawaii. Although the distance to the ocean is only approximately 2 miles, the elevation of the campground is almost 2,000 feet. All sorts of motorhomes or tents are welcome to camp in this heavily forested region.
There are no hookups and three RV spots. Pets are welcome to camp with you here, and there are showers and good mobile service. Cabins and parking are both provided for free. It is a terrific place to be cool when you need reprieve from those scorching hot days because of how heavily forested this area is. Every campsite has picnic tables where families or groups of friends can gather to eat. For large group meetings, the campground also has a pavilion.
Ahupua’a O Kahana State Park
Address: 52-222 Kamehameha Hwy, Kaaawa, HI 96730
Phone Number: (808) 237-7766
On the northern shore of Oahu, there is a 5,300-acre park called Ahupua’a O Kahana State Park. The campsites in Ahupua’a O Kahana State Park are drive-up and the park offers a variety of nature walks. On the property, there are numerous native Hawaiian monuments.
One of the few locations where you may fully engage yourself in native Hawaiian customs is Ahupua’a O Kahana State Park. This park is home to over 30 Hawaiian families, who can tell you about how Oahu used to operate in the past. Additionally, given its distant location, this campground is virtually unknown to travelers.
Māʻili Beach Park
Address: 87-21 Farrington Hwy, Waianae, HI 96792
Phone Number: (808) 768-3003
In close proximity to the beach, campers may notice Naval Radio Transmitter Facility Lualualei, that comprises two massive masts utilized for radio transmission and contact with Naval ships. The beach is next to a large park where you may have a picnic or just relax.
This 40 acre park houses popular surfing areas including Green Lanterns and Tumbleland. Strong currents can occur along the long beach during periods of heavy surf, so it’s best to be alert. The sunsets at night are spectacular, and also beach is clean and beautiful during the day. There are barbecue grills, payphones, baths, a picnic area, and facilities for bodyboarding, surfing, and fishing.
Mahukona Beach Park
Address: Waimea, HI 96743
Phone Number: (808) 961-8311
Hawaii’s northernmost point is where you may find Mahukona Beach Park. It is close to Kawaihae, a town. Here, you’ll find a rocky beach with 22 campsites close by. No RV hookups, showers, or pets are permitted.
The most breathtaking ocean views can be seen in Mahukona Beach Park, and snorkeling is highly popular because the water is always warm. You may also visit various nature trails that go along the coast. While there aren’t any showers available, there are nonetheless tidy bathrooms available for your convenience.
Whittington Beach Park
Address: HI-11, Naalehu, HI 96772
Phone Number: (808) 961-8311
Whittington Beach Park, on the south coast of Hawaii, is home to a well-liked golf course and bakery. One of Hawaii’s oldest parks features a picturesque traditional Hawaiian fishpond and little tide pools. There isn’t a beach at this campground, despite its name.
There are restrooms, outdoor showers, and picnic cottages here, but no drinking water is available, and animals are not permitted. This campsite is one of the most secluded on the Big Island, which reduces throngs of tourists. Camping is only permitted with an advance county permit. Since there are no designated campsites, you can leave your RV parked and make camp just beyond the main parking area.
Hau’ula Beach Park
Address: 54-135 Kamehameha Hwy, Hauula, HI 96717
Phone Number: (808) 768-3003
Hau’ula Beach, in comparison to Sand Island, is a favorite destination for locals. Ha’ula has a lot to offer, and for visitors it might be a perfect chance to get to know the inhabitants while avoiding the turmoil of other tourists. You can go fishing there or stay on land and have a picnic with your friends. You can go snorkeling if you have the necessary gear and the tides are calm.
Though the majority of the water is for experienced surfers, if you’re a beginner you can have the park’s northern edge, which is the ideal location for you. Hau’ula is a short distance from the park. You can buy necessities there, go shopping, or pick up some trinkets at the grocery and other shops. Bathrooms, baths, snorkeling, and surfing are available as amenities.
Kaiaka Bay Beach Park
Address: 66-449 Haleiwa Rd, Haleiwa, HI 96712
Phone Number: (808) 637-4480
Although fishing and surfing are excellent in Kaiaka, the beach is not suitable for swimming. Most of the year, the waves are just too strong for swimming, and even when you can swim, there are coral and pebbles with sharp edges from which you may gravely damage yourself. You could go swimming at the sandy beach just on eastern edge, but further exploration isn’t advised.
Nevertheless, it’s a nice place to stroll around and have fun. You can play some activities with a ball, take a stroll on the beach, or enjoy a picnic. Wonderful views of the Waianae Mountains and adjacent beaches can be seen from your campground. Picnic tables, bathrooms, fishing, and surfing are available as amenities.
Ho‘okena Beach Park
Address: 86-4322 Mamalahoa Hwy, Captain Cook, HI 96704
Phone Number: (808) 328-8450
Ho’okena Beach Park is located close to the hamlet of Captain Hook in Hawaii. Ho’okena Beach Park offers a variety of stunning views, access to the water, and a refreshment shop for when your appetite for snacks gets the better of you. If you stay at this campground on Hawaii’s west coast, you can count on seeing gorgeous sunsets, so don’t forget your camera.
There are 18 unhooked RV sites available here. Showers and pets are not permitted here, but you do get access to the beach, picnic tables, snorkeling, and the choice to rent a boat. Drive-up access is available at Ho’okena Beach Park, which is quite useful. You might come across several sea turtles lounging in the sun if you enjoy snorkeling off the coast or in the water.