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The lush rainforest that covers Kauai has earned it the nickname "Garden Isle" among the Hawaiian Islands. The campgrounds on Kauai, Hawaii are typically uncrowded because this island is off the popular tourist route.
Renting an RV on Kauai offers a variety of options, including a large number of easily maneuverable campervans and converted VW buses for short road travel.
This tropical island has plenty of state and county parks where you can camp in an RV and find somewhere to leave it while you explore. View this ranking of Kauai, Hawaii's top ten campgrounds for assistance in choosing your destination.
Every traveler should have a camping trip to Kauai on their bucket list. Encircled by stunning tropical vegetation, craggy shorelines, and azure ocean, it's understandable why this location is so well-liked by outdoor enthusiasts worldwide.
Fortunately, Kauai ranks among the travel spots I've enjoyed visiting the most for campers. There are public beach park campgrounds all along the coast where you may stay for as little as $3 per person per night.
In Kauai, state parks provide camping as well. However, you'll need to get these permits online many weeks in advance.
The world-famous Kalalau Trail leads through the Napali Coast State Wilderness Park in the far northwest, and Koke'e State Park is located on the other end of the road, as far southwest as you can travel.
What is it Like to Camp in Kauai?
For your trip to Kauai, you can chose a less expensive option: a Chevy Suburban loaded with camping supplies. You can only pay $77 per night when you've booked. Now, you can expect to pay between $80 and $150 each night.
This will include all of the camping stuff you need to set up your tent. However, the queen air mattress fits wonderfully in the back of the SUV, providing a reliable sleeping choice.
The Suburban came with limitless miles; You will only have to pay for petrol. Instead of sleeping in the back, you will spend virtually every night camping in a tent, which seemed more authentic.
Furthermore, since you are paying for camping places, you can decide to use them. This SUV comes equipped with everything you could possibly need for camping and outdoor cookery.
Best Kauai Campgrounds
Camping is permitted at a number of Kauai state parks. Again, a Hawaii State Park Camping Permit is required to stay at a Kauai State Park. Now let us head straight into these best places you can go camping.
1. Anini Beach Park
Anini Beach Park appeared to be a popular snorkeling spot, despite the fact that the water was slightly murky. The water here is fairly shallow, so you can go quite far out and still stand.
As a result, I recommend this campsite for families camping on Kauai with young children. Although this is not one of my favorite locations to snorkel at in Kauai, we did see a lot of fish and coral. There is also a fallen tree with a rope swing a short distance away that is fun to climb up and leap off of.
There are two restrooms and outdoor showers with a barricade to provide privacy. Camping permits, like those for Anahola, cost $3 per night and can be acquired by mail or in person.
Anini Beach Park is closed on Tuesday nights for renovation, therefore if you're visiting the North Shore on a Tuesday, you should stay at Anahola.
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2. Koke’e State Park
If you need a change of scenery, want to get away from the heat, or are tired of sand everywhere, head up via Waimea Canyon to Kokee State Park because it is a great place to be!
Koke'e lies 3,200 to 4,200 feet above sea level, and the cool, crisp air (avg. 45-70°F) that greets you as you drive up is an excellent way to recharge for the next adventure.
And there are many adventures in these mountains! With over a dozen routes to select from, there's plenty to see, from waterfalls and tea-colored rivers to misty afternoons and spectacular vistas of the north shore from Na Pali to Polihale!
There are numerous campgrounds in Kokee State Park and Waimea Canyon. Some, such as Kokee State Park Camp, are accessible by paved roads, while others, such as Sugi Grove and Kawaikoi, need some off-roading (4x4 recommended).
There are also some hikes in exclusive locations such as Lonomea. Recommended gear: tent, sleeping pad, cold weather sleeping bag, warm clothes, hiking poles, plenty of water, stove, and chairs, or simply hire "The Works"!
3. Polihale State Park
Polihale beach, on the sunny west side of the island, is a popular camping spot for both locals and tourists. Once you drive over the uneven five miles of dirt road into the park, you'll understand why!
There are defined camping spaces rather than numbered sites, as is the case with most campers on Kaua'i. There are multiple restrooms with cold outdoor showers, flush toilets, and trash cans.
One of the most stunning locations on the island for amazing stargazing is Polihale! When there is no light pollution, one can see the Milky Way all year round. Waves are often calmer in the summer and more powerful in the winter.
Polihale is known for powerful waves and quick riptides, therefore exercise caution when swimming on days with high surf.
As with the rest of the island, permits must be obtained in advance because there are no pay on-site stations. Think more like vehicle camping since you can pull right up to the majority of the sites.
It's recommended to bring an umbrella or shade tent because it's hot outside, along with a tent, sleeping pad, lightweight sleeping bag, cooler (because it's hot outside!), plenty of sunscreen, beach chairs, flashlight, and stove.
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4. Haena Beach Park
When people visited in October 2019, the park was closed due to storm damage, despite being the northernmost public beach area on Kauai where camping is allowed. See whether the campground has reopened by visiting this page to check its status.
A mile or so from Ke'e Beach or the end of the road is where camping will be when it reopens. Overnight camping is allowed at Haena Dry Cave, however Monday nights are maintenance-free.
5. Hanalei Beach Park
Located near the mouth of the Hanalei River is Hanalei Beach Park. One of the most stunning beaches on Earth is Hanalei Beach, which served as the filming location for the musical "South Pacific." Hanalei Beach Park's campground is only open from Friday through Sunday.
It's astonishing how calm the seas are at Hanalei Beach Park. Because of these features, this beach is excellent for swimming, bodysurfing, and snorkeling. On-site camping is permitted anywhere on Hanalei Beach Park property, plus there's a charming pier.
Popular beach Hanalei Beach Park is well-known for its magnificent sunrises and sunsets (see above photo!).
Storm damage has forced the site to close to camping for the time being, however it is currently being renovated and should reopen soon.
It's not possible to stay there right now, however I suggest spending a night or two watching the sunset from the pier! It becomes packed around sunset, so get there early. To find out if the campground has reopened, you can check its status here.
Camping is available around a mile from Ke'e Beach or the road's terminus when it does reopen. Haena Dry Cave allows camping; however, the campsite will be closed on Monday nights for maintenance.
6. Salt Pond Beach Park
Locals love this place, which is busy during the day and may get a little rowdy at night. At night, the amiable residents can be seen grilling and spear fishing.
It didn't drag on too late and was entertaining to watch. But Salt Pond might not be the best choice if you're looking for a quiet place to crash early.
This spot costs $3 per person each night. Note that anything to the right of the first restrooms is for day use only, and that camping is only permitted to the left of those facilities. But, just as at every other place I stayed in Kauai, nobody stopped by to inquire about my permit.
Therefore, if you're looking for a quieter spot, you could definitely get away with sleeping further down the beach. This area has restrooms as well as a few outdoor showers. Tuesday nights at Salt Pond Beach Park are closed for repair.
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7. Anahola Beach Park
This was my favorite campground because it was the least busy. It is also where I elected to spend the majority of my nights on the North Shore, rather than Anini.
Whereas the other public campgrounds appeared full during the day, this one was much more relaxed. Anahola was only visited by a few local families during the day, and it was very peaceful at night. Plus, just look at those mountain views!
The Anahola permit costs $3 per night per person, and the Kapa'a Neighborhood Center is the closest site to pick them up. Kauai public camping permits cannot be purchased online, only by mail or in person.
I recommend you buy them in person when you arrive. Click here to see a list of locations where you can get camping permits.
The Anahola campground includes restrooms and two outdoor showers. If showering in the open with a swimming suit on does not appeal to you, I will limit it down for you.
Lydgate is the only public campground on Kauai that has an indoor shower. However, this is the only campsite that does not charge $3 per night per person. Instead, it will cost you a staggering $25/night per person.
Anahola is closed on Thursday nights for repairs. If you're on the North Shore on Thursday, I recommend camping at Anini Beach Park, the next closest campground. Anini is a little further north of Anahola.
8. Lydgate Beach Park (Lydgate Park)
Lydgate campground, located on the east side, is easily accessible from Kapaa town and Lihue Airport. This is the most expensive public campsite, costing $25 per night per person.
There are options available, with some sites right on the beach and others set back. This is Kauai's only campsite with numbered sites that you may reserve ahead of time.
Lydgate Beach Park, Kamalani Bridge, and Kamalani Playground are nearby, making this an ideal place to camp with children. However, as I already stated, it is the only public campsite with an indoor shower.
I chose to stay at the cheaper public campgrounds, but if your flight departs early the next morning or you arrive late at night, this is the best alternative because it is nearest to the airport.
9. Napali Coast State Wilderness Park
The Napali Coast is one of the world's most iconic and stunning coasts. A very special location. The pali, or cliffs, create a rugged grandeur with deep, narrow valleys that finish abruptly at the sea.
Waterfalls and fast-flowing streams continue to cut these narrow valleys while the sea sculpts cliffs at their mouths. Extensive stone-walled terraces can still be visible in the valley bottoms where Hawaiians previously resided and farmed taro.
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10. Lucy Wright Beach Park
The shadiest public campsite on the island. I don't even recommend staying here. The entire park looked like a large homeless shelter.
If you prefer to camp here, permits cost $3 per night per person, and there are facilities and outdoor showers available. Lucy Wright Park is closed on Monday nights due to repairs.
This is the island's farthest southwest beach park, although you can camp at Polihale State Park (the island's westernmost campsite) or Koke'e State Park (near Waimea Canyon and the Kalalau Lookout) if you want to be close to a route you plan to hike the next day.
11. The Kalalau Trail
Hikers travel from all over the world to complete the legendary Kalalau trek, a tough 22-mile trek that winds through five valleys to the remote Kalalau Beach.
This is exactly what I had planned for my trip to Kauai. I purchased the permits online a month in advance for three nights, but two days before leaving for Hawaii, I blew out my knee. So, regretfully, I decided not to attempt this strenuous climb this time.
However, if you plan on trekking the Kalalau path, you must first obtain camping permits. They are available here for $20 per night per guest, up to 90 days in advance. You may stay for up to five consecutive nights.
There are two approved campsites along the trail: Hanakoa (approximately 6 miles in) and Kalalau Beach (11 miles in).
I recommend staying for at least two nights, especially if you intend to climb all the way to Kalalau Beach in one day.
This way, you may spend a full day relaxing and exploring Kalalau Beach in between two full days of hiking.
If you prefer to trek slower and sleep at Hanakoa on the way in and out, or if you simply want more time to visit Kalalau Beach, allow for 3-5 nights.
12. The Lodge at Kokee in Waimea
The Grand Canyon of the Pacific, also called Waimea Canyon, is not far from the Lodge. There is a flat area with huge spaces that can easily fit an RV, however there are no RV parking spots.
The restaurant, bar, and retail store are open all day, but there won't be any hookups available. You'll be treated to vistas of the mountains and the waterfalls of Kauai.
The miles of surrounding hiking trails are ideal for both strolling and hiking. Take some time to go wildlife or birdwatching. There's lots to do in the neighborhood.
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13. Black Pot Beach Park
Black Pot Beach Park is a nice area to hang out with friends and enjoy the beach; local families swarm the park on weekends.
They picnic, camp, and cookout. The beach, pier, Kauai waterfall-lined mountains, and the Halei rivermouth are all gorgeous vistas to see.
When the waves are strong, rent a surfboard or go up the Halei River on a stand-up paddle board. Camping is allowed only on weekends, and a permit is required.
You'll have excellent surfing, with a beginner's location with moderate waves most of the summer on the west side of the pier. The beach is very accessible; you can drive up directly to it.
The mountains and waterfalls of Kauai provide a dramatic backdrop for these breathtaking sunsets. The beach and playing at the water's edge will be the youngsters' favorite places.
14. Kahili Mountain Park
When you camp at the foot of a volcano and are encircled by mountains, you can easily see why Hawaii is known as a paradise.
While it frequently rains and the clouds roll back up to the top of the mountain in the winter, the beach a few miles away enjoys beautiful weather.
This is one of the few electric-hookup RV sites in Hawaii, but it's reserved for groups and Seventh-Day Adventist Church members only.
There is a lot of nature around, and the area is teeming with farm animals and wildlife. Although the Kahili Mountain Trail is extremely steep, the reward for reaching the summit is a breathtaking panorama of the island.
15. YMCA Camp Naue
One of Kauai's largest campgrounds is YMCA Camp Naue. Tunnels Beach is just a short stroll from this campground, which is located on the north side of the island. At YMCA Camp Naue, there is a spacious pavilion situated on two acres of land dedicated to camping.
When compared to other campgrounds on Kauai, YMCA Camp Naue has more amenities. At YMCA Camp Naue, visitors can use the on-site common kitchen as well as the spacious dining hall. The best thing about this campground is that it has hot showers in the bathhouses.
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16. Niumalu Beach Park
A well-liked location for camping, picnics, and kayak launches is the 3.4-acre county park known as Niumalu Beach Park.
When the weather is calm, swimming is fantastic. 50 designated campsites, a pavilion, a playground, picnic tables a boat ramp, and facilities are all present.
This place is filled with nature. To the east is Nawiliwili Beach Park, while to the west is the Huleia National Wildlife Refuge. The Menehune Fish Pond is a nearby historic fishpond with legendary origins.
In Kauai, How Much Does a Camping Necessary Permits Cost?
Avoid paying a fine! Here's how to determine if a permit is required for camping in Kauai.
You won't require a permission if you decide to camp at a private area. All you have to do is pay the nightly rate, which is usually $20.
In the event that you select a state campground, online reservations are required. State campgrounds with permits cost $30 per night and can accommodate up to 10 people.
If you decide to camp at a county park, you will have to make reservations and pick up your permit in person.
Compared to state and private campgrounds, county camping licenses are far less expensive ($3 per person, per night), while certain locations may have an additional nightly fee.
How Can I Purchase a Camping Permit?
During regular business hours, county sites can be reserved by visiting a nearby County Parks office.
The Pi'ikoi Building houses the county camping office of the Lihu'e Civic Center. From either of the exterior doors, make your way to the middle of the building, where the permission office kiosk window is located.
Tell the kiosk employee which campsites you would like to stay at and for how many nights, and they will verify the availability of sites.
Bring the names of the campers, the approximate size of the tents (one-person, two-person, etc.), and the quantity of tents for your permit paperwork. Remember that you will need to use the building's ATM or have cash in order to pay for your permit(s).
You're set once you've booked and paid! You will receive two copies of your stay permit(s) from the attendant. One will be retained by you, while the other will be placed in a plastic baggie provided by the attendant.
To prove to park rangers that you have paid for your permit, you will tie it to your tent. Having this fastened to your tent is very useful in the event that rangers visit late at night.
Plan to arrive in the middle of the morning to avoid lunch hours and early closing times at the local county campgrounds, as their offices and hours are relatively restricted and unreliable.
It is highly recommended that you reserve all of your campsites in advance for the duration of your vacation, at the Lihu'e Civic Center near the airport before you arrive.
Bottom Line
A wonderful way to take in Kauai's unparalleled natural splendor is to camp there. For about $3 per night, you can live within the landscape and wake up to a view of the ocean.
There are campgrounds in Kauai that are unlike any other in the country. There are a few factors to take into account if you still need assistance choosing between them.
Parking your camper at an RV campground in Kauai, Hawaii, such as YMCA Camp Naue, may be the ideal option if you must have hot showers during your stay.
Nevertheless, Haena Beach Park or Anini Beach Park can be a better option if you'd prefer to sleep directly next the waves.
It's simple to fall in love with RV camping on this stunning Hawaiian island, but you may find it difficult to leave Kauai behind when it's time to return home.
Undoubtedly, a hotel or an Airbnb (with walls) provides more opulent amenities than does camping. However, if you're searching for an unparalleled experience at remarkably low costs, I heartily suggest Kauai camping.