Kulanaokuaiki Campground

Kulanaokuaiki is a primitive, nine-site tent campground off Hilina Pali Road, on the southern side of Hawaiʻi Volcanoes. It is a quiet, no-frills overnight stop for exploring the park’s southern roads; the tradeoff is a very short amenity list.

The walk-in sites have picnic tables, and there is an accessible vault toilet. There is no drinking water, shower, camp store or trash collection, so bring water and pack out your rubbish. Campfires are prohibited; cook only on a fueled camp stove. Some sites sit farther from parking, which means carrying your gear in. Pets are prohibited to protect endangered nēnē.

From Kīlauea Visitor Center, follow Crater Rim Drive for about 3.3 miles, then Chain of Craters Road for 2.3 miles. Turn onto Hilina Pali Road and continue about four miles to the campground. The approach is narrow. Sites are first-come, first-served with no reservations, and the campground may close during dry conditions or high fire risk; check current park notices before driving out.

The open setting has little shade and can be windy, with quick shifts between sun, rain and cold. Bring rain protection and a warm layer for a more comfortable night.