Nāmakanipaio Campground has reopened at Hawai'i Volcanoes National Park/NPS

After the removal of hazardous, non-native eucalyptus trees, the Nāmakanipaio Campground in Hawai'i Volcanoes National Park has reopened with fresh views of Mauna Loa.

The popular campground, nestled off Highway 11 near the summit of Kīlauea volcano, had been closed since September due to the large, falling trees.

“We mahalo the public for their patience while we ensure the campground is safe again,” Park Superintendent Cindy Orlando said in a release. “We are delighted to reopen ahead of summer.”

Now that the eucalyptus trees have been removed, native tree species, including ‘ōhi‘a and koa, can flourish. The campground has a fresh light, with Mauna Loa again visible, and at night, campers can enjoy a wider view of the sky, illuminated by stars and the glow from the lava lake in Halema‘uma‘u Crater. The Jaggar Museum observation deck, the closest vantage point to this eruption site, is a half-mile hike from Nāmakanipaio.

Established in the 1960s, the campground features drive-in campsites for tent camping, restrooms, showers, barbecues, and 10 rustic one-room A-frame cabins. The cabins feature bunk beds and can sleep four.

Rates for tent camping are $15 a night, and the A-frame cabins start at $80 a night ($50 per night for Hawaii residents). To make reservations for Nāmakanipaio campsites or cabins, contact Hawai'i Volcanoes Lodge Company at (808) 756-9625.