Can You Camp In Hawaii Volcanoes National Park?

by | Last updated on January 24, 2024

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Lodging in the park is limited

. The historic House has 33 guest rooms and sits adjacent to Halema'uma'u Crater on the Kilauea Caldera. Rates vary depending on date and type of accommodation, but average in the $250 to $350 per night range.

What recreational activities are allowed in Hawaii Volcanoes National Park?

  • Hiking Trails.
  • Scenic Drives.
  • Nature & Wildlife Tours.
  • Other Outdoor Activities.

Can you stay at a volcano in Hawaii?


You can do so at the Volcano House

. It's the only in-park lodging in Hawaii National Park. When you stay at Volcano House you base yourself at the edge of the Kilauea volcano. From Volcano House you have the best access to exploring Hawaii Volcanoes National Park.

Can you camp on Mauna Loa?


Backcountry camping is permitted at Maunaloa

, and there are two cabins where through-hikers can bunk for up to three nights. Hikers must obtain a permit before hiking or camping on the volcano.

Can you see eruption from Volcano House?

Volcano House during the 2008-2018 summit eruption of Kīlauea (NPS Photo/J. Wei)

Many eruptions have taken place since the building's construction, allowing people to see occasional eruptive activity

and lava glows up close from the comfort of the hotel.

Is it safe to stay at Volcano House?

Visiting is one thing, but is it safe to actually live on an active volcano? It's one of the most common questions posed to kama'aina (residents) and the short answer is a resounding,

yes!

How many days do you need at Volcano National Park?

Hawaii Volcanoes National Park is a must on any Big Island itinerary. We recommend spending

at least one day

in the park. That is enough time to see the highlights, especially after the closures due to the recent volcanic activity in 2018.

Why is Volcano House closed?

Unfortunately, the hotel and restaurant have been closed

since the Kilauea eruption in May – August 2018

. While the facility is still standing, it's unknown when the Hawaii Volcanoes National Park, where Volcano House is located, will reopen.

Are there any waterfalls in Hawaii Volcanoes National Park?

Visit a Volcano Hawaii National Park to see the iconic sights of the park: steam vents, Chain of Craters Road, and multiple volcanic craters! The tour also takes you to

Rainbow Falls and Akaka Falls

, two of the most famous Big Island waterfalls in Hilo.

Can you see lava at Volcano National Park?

Hawaii Volcanoes National Park is open 24 hours a day, so

your chance to see glowing lava (from near or far) is pretty good when the volcano is actively erupting

(it's periodically erupting only at the summit in Halemaumau currently), especially when it's dark. Just look for the red glow.

How long is Crater Rim Drive?

Crater Rim Drive is an

11-mile

road that skirts the edge of the Kilauea Caldera in Hawaii Volcanoes National Park and contains several scenic views and hiking opportunities.

Can you drive to Volcano in Hawaii?


Depending on where along the Kona coast you're driving from, you can expect the drive to Hawaii Volcanoes National Park to take around 2-2.5 hours

. From the Waikoloa area, going the southern route may take around 2.5-3 hours. But that's without any stops!

Can I camp anywhere in Big Island?


Campers can pitch their tent anywhere on the large, grassy field in the park

. There are shaded areas near the ocean and picnic tables available. There are restrooms and outdoor showers available on site, as well. Permits are required in order to camp in the park and cost $20 for non-residents.

Do I need reservations for volcano National Park?

You don't need to check in,

you don't need a reservation

so you DO need to get there early, you don't need a permit, you can stay for up to 7 days each month but not for more than 30 days per year.

Can you car camp on the Big Island?

To camp here, you do NOT need a permit.


You are free to park your car, set up your tent and camp as long as you aren't blocking the road

.

Who owns the Volcano House?

The 33-room hotel is owned by

the National Park Service

, and is managed under contract by Hawai'i Volcanoes Lodge Company, LLC, who also manage Nāmakanipaio Campground and 10 A-frame cabins.

Can you see active volcanoes in Hawaii?

Over time, volcanoes have formed some of our most iconic landscapes. Today,

Hawaii Volcanoes National Park on the island of Hawaii is one of the few places in the world where visitors can come face to face with an active volcano

—a truly unforgettable experience.

Is there lava on Maui?

#1 –

Hana Lava Tube

The first secret of Maui is the Hana Lava Tube. These caves were formed as a result of fresh molten lava erupting from underground. The lava then made its way towards the ocean.

Is Hawaii volcano National Park Safe?

The park remains open 24 hours a day, and the public is reminded to stay safe by following these precautions:

Volcanic eruptions can be hazardous and change at any time

. Stay on marked trails and overlooks, and avoid earth cracks and cliff edges. Do not enter closed areas.

Is it safe to live on the Big Island of Hawaii?


The vast majority of the Big Island of Hawaii is outside of immediate danger from a volcanic eruption making it relatively safe

. There are a total of 9 Lava Zones on the island of Hawaii with Zones 1 & 2 with the highest risk of volcanic activity.

Is the Big Island of Hawaii safe to live?

The Pros: This is an island, so

if someone commits a serious crime, it can be pretty hard to disappear

. Major violent crimes such as murder and armed robbery are few. Many neighborhoods have very good Neighborhood Watch programs, and in most places it is safe to walk down the street alone at night.

How much does it cost to go to Volcano National Park?

Hawaiʻi Volcanoes National Park normally charges

$30 per vehicle, $25 per motorcycle, $15 per pedestrian or bicycle

, and the pass is good for seven days. The entrance fee waiver for the fee-free days does not cover camping or backcountry overnight permit fees.

Is it worth visiting Volcano National Park?

Best Time to Visit Hawai'i Volcanoes National Park

But even without an active volcanic eruption, this is still a great park to visit.

If you are planning to visit Hawaii, it's still worth visiting Hawai'i Volcanoes National Park, even without an active lava flow

.

What is the best time to visit Hawaii Volcanoes National Park?

The best time of year to visit Hawai'i Volcanoes National Park is

November through March

when most of the United States is cold for a warm, tropical getaway. Due to it's proximity to the equator, Hawai'i Volcanoes is relatively warm year-round.

Is volcano National Park open Covid?

NOTE: hours may differ due to COVID-19. See Current Conditions for up-to-date information. Hawaiʻi Volcanoes National Park is

open 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, as well as all holidays

. The Kīlauea Visitor Center is located on Crater Rim Drive a short distance from the entrance station on the right.

Is Halemaumau Crater open?

The park is

open 24 hours daily, year round

. Kīlauea Visitor Center is open daily from 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m..

Can you fly a drone in volcano National Park?

Our permits prohibit:

Launching, landing, or operating unmanned aircraft (including drones) from or on lands and waters administered by the National Park Service within the boundaries of Hawai'i Volcanoes National Park is prohibited except as approved in writing by the Superintendent.

Diane Mitchell
Author
Diane Mitchell
Diane Mitchell is an animal lover and trainer with over 15 years of experience working with a variety of animals, including dogs, cats, birds, and horses. She has worked with leading animal welfare organizations. Diane is passionate about promoting responsible pet ownership and educating pet owners on the best practices for training and caring for their furry friends.