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Akaka Falls State Park RV & Campground Guide

Hawaii

At just 65 acres, Akaka Falls State Park is relatively small when compared to other state parks. The terrain of the park is steep and rocky, and because of several steps along the hiking trail, it's not accessible for people with disabilities. The falls get their name from the legend of a famous chief named Akaka, who lived in Honomu and who died at the falls. His wife was so distraught at his passing that she turned into a pillar of stone at the top of the falls where he passed. The legend says that you can still hear her calling for him on moonless nights. The movie "Jurassic Park" featured Akaka Falls in the scene involving the helicopter's arrival at the island.

Nearby Cities:

  • Hilo, HI

  • Honomu, HI

  • Honokaa, HI

  • Pepeekeo, HI

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Weather
Spring 79-86 F
Summer 79-86 F
Fall 79-86 F
Winter 79-86 F
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RV Resorts & Campsites in Akaka Falls State Park

Camping is not available at this state park.

Akaka Falls State Park RV Park and Campground

Akaka Falls State Park RV Park is an amazing option for families to spend some quality time together and enjoy the scenic beauty of Hawaii from a different perspective. You can go on a self-guided walk through the lush green forests or enjoy the beautiful Kahuna Falls. This campground is located 3.6 miles southwest of Honomu, and it is open throughout the year. However, the weather may not be suitable for some visitors as it rains heavily during the monsoon months. Other than that, the campground offers the majority of modern amenities, and you can also hire a professional photographer to take memorable pictures for you.

  • Electricity Hookup: 20/30/50 amp

  • Water Hookup: Yes

  • Maximum Number of People: 26

  • Pets Allowed: No

  • Alcoholic Beverages: No

  • Maximum Number of Vehicles: 2

  • Open Fires: No

  • Wi-Fi: No

Hedonisia Hawaii Eco-Community

Hedonisia Hawaii Eco-Community near Akaka Falls State Park features a campground and small communal lodge for visitors. This campground is located in the depths of the Big Island’s jungle near Akaka Falls State Park. If you are looking to enjoy the true beauty of Hawaiian rainforests, this campground will be an amazing option as it offers all the modern amenities and then some. This RV Park also offers an amazing option for visitors to pay for the stay. Instead of paying with money, you can also pay by taking care of the nearby gardens or clearing the jungle. Moreover, this campground features a wide array of fun activities to enjoy.

  • Electricity Hookup: 20/30/50 amp

  • Water Hookup: Yes

  • Maximum Number of People: 8

  • Pets Allowed: No

  • Alcoholic Beverages: No

  • Maximum Number of Vehicles: 1

  • Open Fires: No

  • Wi-Fi: No

RV Rentals Near Akaka Falls State Park

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What to Do at
Akaka Falls State Park

If you marvel at the natural world, then Akaka Falls State Park, which is north of Hilo, Hawaii, is a great choice as a family-friendly destination while visiting the Big Island. The sheer number of interesting plants and animals will keep you busy with your camera. Akaka Falls itself is 442 feet high and is widely considered the most recognizable waterfall in Hawaii. The half-mile hiking trail leads right to it, and by continuing past Akaka Falls, you'll eventually come to Kahuna Falls, which is 100 feet high.

Inside Akaka Falls State Park

Are you looking to enjoy the scenic and breathtaking beauty of Hawaii? Well, Akaka Falls State Park is rich in terms of natural beauty. You can hike through the lush rainforest filled with wild orchids, or you can hike alongside the beautiful Kahuna Falls. Moreover, you can also go on a guided tour for sightseeing and hiking with a professional guide.

Hiking Hiking

The Akaka Falls State Park hiking trail is about half a mile long. The trail is fairly easy, but its steepness requires a bit of exertion. Still, it's a good choice for a fit family that includes children. Unlike the way it is in other state parks in Hawaii and elsewhere, you may not bring mountain bikes on the trail.

Flora and Fauna

The plants include hardwood trees, rare orchids, ferns the size of trees, hibiscus, and Heliconias. You'll also see giant bamboo and Ti, which has purple leaves and is called the good luck plant. These lush plants are some of the main attractions at Akaka Falls State Park. It is, after all, a tropical rainforest!

The animals are equally diverse and stunning, and the Hawaiian hoary bat might fly overhead, flanked by one or more species of butterflies and moths. Happy-face spiders spin their webs, and if you visit in the morning, the sight of dew on the web is well worth a photo. Brightly colored and odd, Hawaiian honeycreepers dart among the trees with I'iwi birds. There are many insects, too, so it's advisable to bring insect repellent that contains DEET.

Geocaching Geocaching

In Akaka Falls State Park, you are not allowed to stray from the paved trail because it could adversely affect the environment. Fortunately, you don't need to do that to log everything you need to complete the geocaching expedition in Akaka Falls State Park. It's not tough to complete, but the views while you're doing it are worth it all by themselves.

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How to Get to
Akaka Falls State Park

You drive north along Mamalahoa Highway from Hilo about 10 miles to the junction with Route 220 in Honomu. From there, drive west another 1.5 miles or so to the park. From other locations on the Big Island, it's easiest, if not the shortest route, to follow Route 19 as it circles the island and then turn onto Route 220 when you reach Honomu.

Entering Akaka Falls State Park

Out-of-state visitors pay $10 per vehicle to park in the lot. Hawaii residents don't have to pay to park.

Out-of-State Visitors Entrance Fee : $5.0

Out-of-State Visitors Parking Fee : $10.0

Hawaii Residents : $0.0

Frequently Asked Questions About Akaka Falls State Park

What is the best time of year to visit Akaka Falls State Park?

The weather in Hawaii is always mild, so any time of the year is good to visit Akaka Falls State Park. It rains all the time, so bring appropriate rain gear. Always wear sunscreen here even if it's overcast, and bring a floppy hat with a wide brim and sunglasses, too. During the summer, the park is much more popular than at other times of the year, so it's best to arrive before 11 a.m. to get both a good parking spot and a great view of Akaka Falls.

What kind of wildlife can be found in Akaka Falls State Park?

The most interesting creature in the park is a species of goby called the Hawaiian freshwater goby, which can climb vertical walls using suction cups. Many birds roost in the area, including mynas, yellow-billed cardinals, and zebra doves. On the ground, you can find skinks and mongooses along with feral pigs and goats.

Are there designated RV camping spots in Akaka Falls State Park?

In fact, there are no campsites of any kind at Akaka Falls State Park, and camping is prohibited. The closest RV campground is about half an hour's drive away. Despite the park's lack of a campground, there are restroom facilities available in the parking lot.

Do you have to reserve a camping spot at Akaka Falls State Park and what is the cost?

There are no RV campsites at Akaka Falls State Park, so reservations are irrelevant. It costs $1 to enter the park as a base cost. If you parked in the lot, then it costs $5 extra in addition to the $10 you paid to enter the parking lot. Children 3 years of age or younger get in for free, and so do all native Hawaiians. The park only accepts credit cards, but you can buy your tickets online prior to your arrival at Akaka Falls State Park.

Are pets allowed at Akaka Falls State Park?

No, you may not bring pets of any kind to Akaka Falls State Park. Service or guide animals are allowed.