Kauai Camping and Campsites
Camping is a popular activity on Kauai and this is not surprising considering the island's spectacular beaches, rainforests, mountains and breathtaking vistas. There are 13 State and County campgrounds on Kauai, ranging from beach front campsites to mountain settings. Six of them are state campsites and the remaining seven are county campsites. If you plan to camp on Kauai, no matter if at a state or county site, you will need to obtain a camping permit. If you are unable to purchase a permit in advance, it is possible to purchase the permits at the actual campsite. Our recommended campgrounds for our guests are identified with an asterisk(*) . These are the most scenic and best campgrounds in our opinion. There are also 2 additional non-designated campgrounds that we recommend that do not require permits. One on the south side of the island and the second is on the west side of the island. These non-designated campsite locations are described in detail in our Guest Information Binder included with the vehicle both with written directions and google maps to assist you with locating them. So you are never too far away from an amazing campsite to stay at for the night. Along with all of the supplied camping equipment we provide we include an easy to set up pop up ground tent that you may use if you choose to camp at any of the state or county campgrounds that do not accommodate vehicle camping.
Camping at a Hawaii State Park on Kauai
All state camping areas are administered by the Hawaii DLNR, State Parks. They prefer that all reservations are made on their online portal, which is located at: www.hawaiistateparks.org/camping/kauai.cfm. You can make your reservation up to one year in advance.
Here is a list of all State Campsites on Kauai
Na Pali Coast Wilderness Park (has four camp sites: Hanakapiai, Hanakoa, Kalalau, Milolii)
*Kokee State Park
*Polihale State Park
Here is an overview of the State Campsite fees:
All state parks (except Na Pali Coast):
Hawaii residents: $12 per campsite per night for up to 6 persons; $2 per night for each additional person*. Maximum fee per site: $20/night.
Non-residents: $18 per campsite per night for up to 6 persons; $3 per night for each additional person*. Maximum fee per site: $30/night.
*Children 2 and under free.
Na Pali Coast State Wilderness Park:
Hawaii Residents: $15 per person per night.
Non-residents: $20 per person per night.
It is a good idea to make your reservation well in advance, at least a few months, because space is limited. If you plan to hike the Na Pali Coast and would like to camp there, make your reservation at least six months in advance. Camping permits for the Na Pali Coast are very much in demand.
Camping at Kauai County Campsites
To get a camping permit for one of the county campsites, contact the County of Kauai Parks & Recreation. On their website you can download and print a camping permit request form and mail it in. The form is located here: http://www.kauai.gov/government/departments/
parksrecreation/campinginformation/tabid/176/default.aspx
Here is a list of all Kauai County Campsites
*Anahola Beach Park: closed every Thursday from 10 am to 12 pm on Friday for maintenance
*Anini Beach Park: closed every Tuesday from 10 am to 12 pm on Wednesday for maintenance
*Haena Beach Park: closed every Monday from 10 am to 12 noon on Tuesday for maintenance)
Hanalei Black Pot Beach Park: open Friday & Saturday only, closed Sunday thru Thursday
Hanamaulu Beach Park: open Thursday, Friday & Saturdays only & certain school holidays, closed Sunday thru Wednesday
Lucy Wright Beach Park: closed every Monday from 10 am to 12 pm Tuesday for maintenance
Salt Pond Beach Park: closed every Tuesday from 10 am to 12 pm Wednesday for maintenance
Here is an overview of the County Campsite fees:
County camping permit fees are $3 per adult per night for non-residents and free for Hawaii residents (Hawaii ID required). Children under the age of 18 years are also free and must camp with at least one adult 18 years of age or older. For more information about county camping permits, call the County of Kauai, Department of Parks & Recreation, Parks Permit Section at (808) 241-4463.
Additional Campsites
*Kumu Camp at the Anahola Beach Retreat: Located at beautiful Anahola Bay on the island of Kauai, Kumu Camp features multiple campsites around the property for individuals or groups to pitch tents or vehicle camp with access to common area showers and bathrooms. The site includes access to out-door pavilions, various size party tents, a yurt conference room, beach volleyball, water sports, massage services and yoga classes. Permits MUST be reserved in advance through the campground website: https://www.anaholabeachretreat.org/
