With its more than 300,000 acres and incredibly diverse geography, the park offers plenty of opportunity for adventure for those who seek it out. The main attractions in the park include the Kilauea Crater, the Puna-Ku’a Historic District, the Thurston Lava Tube, and the active flow at Pu’u O’o, but there’s plenty to explore in between. In fact, the park is open 24/7, allowing visitors to stretch their legs and embark on adventures without worry. So if you’re planning to do some exploring around the park and want to sleep under the starry night sky, read on. Campsite InformationIf you’re planning to stay within the park itself, know that there are only two campgrounds and you will have to pay the park entry fee of $25/car as well as paying the camping site fee $10 – $15 depending on the site (more if you rent a tent). Namakanipaio CampgroundHawaii Volcano House – Campground Operator808-756-9625WebsiteThe Namakanipaio campground is located within the park at around 4000 ft elevation, in a eucalyptus forest. There are three lodging options; you can rent one of 10 camper cabins, rent a tent and camp site, or bring your own tent and just rent a campsite. Campers in the cabins or rented tents can use the community bathroom with hot showers and toilets, while DIY campers have access to a restroom, but no showers. Both tent camping groups have a 7 day max stay. Barbecue grills are available in designated areas. View the Hawaii Volcano House website for pricing and additional information. Kulanaokuaiki CampgroundNational Park WebsiteThe Kulanaokuaiki Campground can be found about 5 miles down the Hilina Pali Road. It is located at 2700 ft elevation and can have night time temperatures as low as the high 40s, so pack for colder weather. There are only nine designated campsites here and they are rented on a first come basis. They have picnic tables and tent pads, but there is no running water, and pets and fires are not permitted. There is a vault-type toilet. The camping fee is $10 per night and checkout time is 11:00 am with a 7 day max stay. Pack Well, Pack WarmThe park is stunningly diverse, with altitudes spanning between near-sea level to an astonishing 13,678-foot summit at Mauna Loa. You’ll see expansive lava fields, volcanic formations, active lava flows, staggering cliff sides, apocalyptic craters, lush rainforests, and wide open deserts, so preparing for any and every climate is a wise move. If you plan to stay in the park, note that the elevation at either campground is higher and therefore more susceptible to rainfall and cooler temperatures, so throwing in a raincoat, warm clothes and tarp for your tent would be a smart decision.
Go Camping in Hawaii Volcanoes National Park
