As you prepare to go on a touring or camping ride, here is some basic info!
As you ride on our beautiful island, one thing to note is that it’s called the Big Island for a reason!
You will notice that stops for food or water can have some lengthy distances in between. It is always recommended to top off on water or snacks when you can.
Another thing is that there can be some large elevation gains, so we gear our bikes for them!
Most roads have a decent shoulder to ride on.
We recommend bringing flashing lights and/or reflective gear.
County of Hawaii has been working on adding shoulders in on a lot of our roads, but it is still a work in progress. See the “Routes” page for our staff favourites!
(Photo of Mauna Loa Access Road courtesy of our staff members Dylan and Rosalind)
Hipcamp
A few of our staff have used accommodations listed by Hipcamp and gave them a good review, thus they have made it to first on our camping reccomendations.
Hipcamp is like the AirBnB of camping. Basically you can book with them, ride to the rental camp ground, pitch your tent, then pack up and leave in the morning, or whenever your reservations ends.
County of Hawaii Campgrounds
Per County of Hawaii
Please note that you must PURCHASE and be able to produce a copy of your permit either in printed or electronic form, while camping or lodging within any park. It is not possible to purchase a permit at County parks, except Spencer, where security personnel is authorized to issue a ONE NIGHT courtesy permit. ALL PERMITS REQUIRE A FEE – THERE IS NO FREE CAMPING IN HAWAII COUNTY PARKS.
Camping Fees
- Adult (18 years old and over) = $6.00* per adult per night. (Non-Residents $21.00* per adult per night)
- Junior (13 to 17 years old) = $3.00* per junior per night. (Non-Residents $21.00* per junior per night)
- Children (12 years and under) = *$1.00 per child per night. (Non-Residents $20.00 per child per night)
Kupau Tours
Kupau offers personalized tours, will help arrange housing/camping, and will do sag support. We have worked with them for some time, and they provide excellent service!
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