Waimea Canyon State Park RV & Campground Guide
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Get your camera ready – Waimea Canyon State Park contains scenery straight out of "Jurassic Park." Wild and rugged canyons stretch as far as the eye can see, with jagged red rocks peeking out from lush green jungle foliage. One glance, and you'll understand why this park, which is located on the Hawaiian island of Kauai, is often compared to the Grand Canyon. Whether you enjoy the views from the scenic overlooks along the way or get out into the breathtaking canyons on the park's hiking trails, Waimea Canyon's beauty is sure to stay with you long after your trip comes to an end. The town of Waimea is close by, and the convenient city of Lihue is about 36 miles away.
Spring 50-65 F
Summer 55-75 F
Fall 55-70 F
Winter 50-65 F
RV Resorts & Campsites in Waimea Canyon State Park
After a day in the wilderness of Waimea Canyon State Park, an RV is a welcome place to rest. Given the remote nature of the island, an RV rental is a great way for visitors and locals to enjoy the ultimate comfortable camping trip. Keep in mind that none of the state parks on Kauai allow traditional RV camping, but campervans and smaller vehicles are fine.
Salt Pond Park Campground
Located about 18 miles from Waimea Canyon State Park, Salt Pond Park Campground is one of the most beautiful camping areas near the park. While there are no hookups, the campground offers cold showers, picnic tables, and bathrooms. Nearby, the gorgeous beach offers protected waters that are ideal for swimming, particularly for families. Campsites cost $3 per adult per night for everyone who's not a Hawaii resident. You'll need to fill out an application for a camping permit.
Haena Beach Park
Experience the north side of Hawaii when you camp at Haena Beach Park. This area is small but stunning, with views of the mountains and easy access to the beach. Enjoy the sand and the ocean for most of the year. When the waves are high, you'll see surfers carving through the water. Like Salt Pond, this spot costs $3 per adult per night and requires a permit.
What to Do at
Waimea Canyon State Park
Inside Waimea Canyon State Park
If you're interested in a relaxing experience at Waimea Canyon State Park, explore Waimea Canyon Drive. It winds through the park, offering fantastic views; be sure to stop at the overlook areas to take in the vistas of the Kauai interior. Feeling active? Bring supportive hiking boots and take the Waimea Canyon Trail. It travels deep into the canyon, taking you to rocky points, past thundering waterfalls, and through verdant valleys. For a gentler challenge, take one of the shorter trails that start near the overlook areas along the park road.
How to Get to
Waimea Canyon State Park
Waimea Canyon State Park is two hours or less from almost every point on the island of Kauai. To get there, you'll need to take Highway 50 to Waimea; from there, head north on HI-550 until you arrive at the park.
Entering Waimea Canyon State Park
Waimea Canyon State Park is open all year. There are no set hours; the park is open as long as it's daylight. Your entrance ticket is also good at Kokeʻe State Park, which is close by.
Waimea Canyon State Park Per vehicle (Hawaii resident) : $0.0
Waimea Canyon State Park Per vehicle (non-Hawaii resident) : $5.0
Whether you're coming for the scenic drive or you're planning to hike through the wilderness, Waimea Canyon State Park is well worth the trip from the mainland or another of the Hawaiian Islands. If you're visiting, let us know. Tag RVshare in your trip photos, or send your most helpful tips to us by email at [email protected].
Frequently Asked Questions About Waimea Canyon State Park
The best time to visit is during the summer months. During the summer months, Waimea Canyon State Park has less humidity in the air. A decrease in moisture helps to lessen the number of clouds that disrupt the landscape of the park.
Hawaii is an island with diverse bird species and marine life, including albatrosses, noddies, shearwaters, I’iwi, ‘apapane, and ‘elepaio. However, the only native land mammal is the Hawaiian Hoary Bat; others have been imported over time.
Waimea Canyon State Park does not offer camping sites. However, Koke’e State Park is in the uplands above Waimea Canyon. Reservations are required; the cost is $20 for residents and $30 for non-residents.
Pets are only allowed in designated areas. They are not welcome in swimming areas, pavilions, restaurants, lodges, campgrounds, or beaches. Pets must be caged, crated, in a vehicle, or on a 6-foot or shorter leash for the duration of your visit.
Waimea Canyon State Park offers a 0.2 kilometers long wheelchair-accessible loop trail that experiences moderate traffic. This trail is used primarily for walking and nature trips. In addition, the park provides accessible lookouts of the canyon and scenic drives.
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